GIWA crop report predicts strong grain season for Mid West, grain total could exceed three million tonnes
The Mid West is predicted to have a strong harvest season, with the Grain Industry Association of WA’s crop report estimating the region could exceed three million tonnes of grain production this year.
If that 3Mt projection eventuates, it would be double the haul that was delivered the previous season.
While there were concerns about a “last quarter choke”, report author Michael Lamond said the area had been able to benefit from the weather conditions.
“The Geraldton port zone has had an incredible run since the rain started in mid-June,” he said.
“The first half of October saw most of the region receiving 20mm which, combined with above-average rainfall in July and August, has set the region up for a strong harvest.
“Total tonnage is going to be limited only by the lateness of the start, problems getting fertiliser on and problems controlling weeds when the ground became untrafficable.”
Wheat looks set to form a big part of the grain harvest in the Mid West, with the report saying there was just under 1.1 million hectares in the region.
Canola, lupins and barley numbers are expected to be lower due to the late start, with many farmers opting to swap these crops for wheat.
In terms of yield, Mr Lamond said parts of the Mid West may have different results than on average.
“Much of the increase has been in the low rainfall eastern and northeastern regions that were fallowed during 2023,” he said.
“These areas are having ‘the best year ever’ and grain yields will be well above historical averages.
“The remainder of the zone is expected to result in average to below-average yields, with the exception of some isolated pockets around Mingenew.”
Mr Lamond said late rainfall had come too late for finishing crops, but those still filling grain would see the rewards.
The prediction comes after a poor harvest season last year, with a number of factors including hot and dry weather causing the region to rpoduce nearly 1.5Mt of grain.
However, the 2022-23 harvest for Geraldton and surrounds was a record-breaker, with a 4Mt haul.
Across the State, it was predicted total grain production for 2024-25 would be between 17 and 18Mt.
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