Twelve Australian government policymakers have learnt more about the Western Australian grains sector, gaining hands-on experience through the GrainGrowers Grains Innovation Tour.
The tours, which have run since 2016, are designed to provide firsthand insight into the industry supply chain – from paddock to port. Representatives from the Departments of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Industry, are attending the tour, accompanied by GrainGrowers senior staff and members of the National Policy Group.
The 2023 tour – the first time it has taken place outside of NSW - covered farm production (Knipe Farming at Spencers Brook), research and development and plant breeding (Northam Grains Research Facility), and logistics and export pathways (Kwinana CBH Grain Terminal).
GrainGrowers CEO Shona Gawel said the approach was about building relationships, exchanging views and starting discussions.
“The tour allowed policymakers to talk directly with key stakeholders and develop a deeper understanding of the issues affecting our industry.”
“It was also a great opportunity to highlight the success, and innovative approaches being adopted by growers across a major grain-growing region of Australia.”
Ms Gawel said the tour provided a practical demonstration of how Australia’s farming systems are being transformed. It also highlighted the value and need for improved infrastructure and connectivity.
“To represent the interest of our members effectively, we need to build a thorough understanding with policy and decision makers of how our industry works and the issues that are impacting future development.”
“The tour is one way to build the links we need to ensure appropriate policy settings are developed and investments put in place on behalf of the Australian grains industry,” Ms Gawel said.
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GrainGrowers Media Contact:
Chris Rowley, Media Manager
P: 0415 140 253 | chris.rowley@graingrowers.com.au