Marketing SA's grain into the future
Monday 14 April 2008
How our State’s grain growers market and sell grain is the focus of a new research project.
Primary Industries and Resources SA’s Belinda Barr, says the State Government has joined forces with the South Australian Farmers' Federation to find out how our grain growers market and sell their grain and make crucial business decisions.
“This new project will assess grain growers' capabilities and skills to implement risk management strategies and successfully market and sell their grain,” Ms Barr said.
“It will help identify the future education and training needs of grain growers and determine what skills are needed to successfully market and sell grain in an increasing deregulated environment.”
“Many farmers in the past season faced severe drought conditions, which left some unableto deliver and meet their forward contract obligations.
“We are keen to determine the extent of the problem and what knowledge or advice gaps are required to be filled through education and training.”
More than 300 grain growers will be surveyed by the Lucas Group on their attitudes and behaviours in regards to risk management and marketing and selling grain.
“We encourage all grain growers if contacted, to take the time to talk about their learning from the 07-08 growing season, because the information they give will ultimately help shape future policy direction,” Ms Barr said.
“We need to ensure our growers have access to the right resources and training so that they can effectively manage the risks associated with selling grain in future years.”
The project is being supported by the Government of South Australia and the South Australian Farmers' Federation.
Research results will be available to growers in May 2008.
