AS we roll into the winter months, I hope this finds everyone in good spirits. The countryside in the Marybrook/ Busselton district looks good now with decent rains throughout the region during late April, but the month of May has been relatively dry. Conversations with a few merchants have indicated that the southern region is close to completion and the Busselton region is starting to come online. Crops in this area seem to be good. Quality and yields are probably above average after a soft summer without too many heat extremities.

Having just travelled to Perth recently, I would say crops through the Myalup region looked healthy. Conditions have been perfect with little frontal winds and warm weather. Albany seed growers have indicated conditions have been favourable, and volumes are where they like them.

Craig Ryan gave a good report on the northern growing region, saying the season has seen good germination with very little breakdown and temperatures haven’t spiked like it can do through late February and March. It was great to hear growers from this region organised a get-together to see how the district was travelling, share a few ideas and have a social beer to conclude. This is a great concept that has been tried and proven over time and is fantastic for communities such as this one. A shout out to Brad Ryan for coordinating this.

At industry level, there has been a fair bit going on with several biosecurity issues being managed. PGA has been keeping abreast of the outcomes and reporting on developments.

I would like to bring to growers’ attention the structure of the PGA. We are extremely fortunate to have probably one of the youngest and most dynamic PGA boards for quite some time. We have the likes of Bronwyn Fox from Dandaragan, who has had various leadership roles with other organisations, to Brad Ryan and Chris de Haan – two growers showing great commitment and leadership.

Please encourage those around you who would do well with the opportunity to represent your region and consider nominating for a position at PGA. It really is a great experience. The organisation is vital for growers to have the best representation and support for industry development, export opportunities, biosecurity and marketing. Connecting with people who are industry minded is a great way to expand your knowledge and skillset, too.