BCG’s Trials Review Day
More than 160 farmers, agronomists and researchers gathered at the Birchip Leisure Centre last week to hear the latest findings from Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) research.
The strong turnout highlighted the appetite among growers for practical, evidence-based local research to support decision making in an increasingly complex production and market environment.
From cost of production to export hay quality, nitrogen systems and volatile commodity markets, the program challenged attendees to rethink assumptions and refine decisions heading into 2026.
The day opened with a thought provoking presentation from Bill Malcolm, economist at the University of Melbourne, who reinforced the hard reality, understanding the costs associated with your farm business was no longer optional. With rising input costs and tighter margins, marginal decisions can quickly become costly ones.
Carbon and its future implications for agriculture generated strong discussion during a session delivered by Richard Echard. Growers acknowledged that the carbon space is “not going away,” particularly as major grain buyers work to reduce their emissions footprints. The session explored what this shift could mean for farmers in the years ahead and the potential changes required at the farm level. The takeaway was clear, the carbon conversation has moved from theory to commercial reality.
BCG Senior Researcher Angus Butterfield shared insights to the legacy effects of vetch, reminding growers that timing is everything. The findings reinforced a central message of the day: whether the goal is hay production, nitrogen fixation or soil moisture conservation, management decisions matter and systems thinking drives outcomes.
The program continued with a series of BCG research updates covering nitrogen use efficiency, biostimulants, oaten hay, durum wheat and the ever popular variety discussion, with growers keen to know which varieties are likely to be top performers heading into the 2026 season.
With significant market volatility experienced this year, particularly in lentil prices, attendees also heard from former Birchip local Joe Boyle of Bendigo Bank Agribusiness.
His outlook provided insight to what farmers might expect over the next 12 months across wheat, barley, canola, lentil and livestock markets, highlighting the importance of informed marketing strategies in uncertain conditions.
BCG Senior Manager Extension and Communications, Alicia Gault said the turnout reflected the value growers place on independent, locally generated research.
“Growers don’t have the luxury of making decisions in hindsight,” she said.
“Events like Trials Review Day allow growers to pressure test ideas, ask direct questions and walk away with information that can be used immediately.”
BCG continues to play a critical role in delivering independent, locally relevant research to support informed decision making across north west Victoria.
For more information about upcoming BCG research events, visit https://www.bcg. org.au/events
