SA GRAIN FORECAST REACHES 11.6 MILLION TONNES

By Jessica Dempster

South Australia’s grain production forecast has risen to 11.6 million tonnes, with PIRSA predicting one of the state’s strongest seasons on record.

The latest Crop and Pasture Report puts production 32% above the five-year average and 2.6% higher than the September ABARES forecast.

Above-average rainfall and improved soil moisture have supported strong crop growth, while livestock producers are also reporting abundant pasture, secure water supplies and spring feed surpluses.

Grain Producers SA chief executive Brad Perry says growers are optimistic, but there is still a considerable distance to go before the crop reaches storage.

He says frost, disease and locusts remain risks, while higher diesel prices could add significantly to harvest costs, given the volumes of fuel required for headers, trucks and other machinery.

The report also warns of hotter and drier conditions as El Niño strengthens, with an increased likelihood of below-average rainfall and above-average maximum temperatures across parts of southern Australia during spring.