URGENT UPDATE: Over 500 farmers, advisers, and industry representatives are currently gathering at the BCG Main Research Site on the Sunraysia Highway in Birchip for the highly anticipated 2025 Main Field Day. This major agricultural event, just underway today, promises to offer invaluable insights into the latest farming practices and technologies.
A particularly emotional moment at the event saw the Hunt family honored for their enduring contributions to agriculture. Bronwyn and Geoff Hunt have been named BCG life members, while their son, Dr. James Hunt, received the prestigious Harm Van Rees Award, presented by Harm Van Rees himself. The crowd erupted in applause, recognizing the family’s deep-rooted commitment to the Birchip Cropping Group and the local agricultural community.
As the day progresses, attendees are engaging in hands-on trial tours, spotlighting essential topics such as disease control, herbicide innovation, and yield optimization. Spencer Weir, a host farmer and agronomist, is actively sharing insights from his family’s transition from fine wool Merino sheep to continuous cropping. “It is great to see the trials and results in your own back yard,” he told the crowd, emphasizing the importance of local research.
The event also features expert presentations and discussions, alongside numerous trade stalls providing networking opportunities. Tom Jones from Nufarm and local farmer Roger Lehmann are currently exploring a 20-metre-long soil pit with BCG Research Agronomist Angus Butterfield, examining what lies beneath their crops and how it impacts production.
Attendees are enjoying a delicious hot lunch prepared by Kristy Knights and Year 9 and 10 students from Birchip P-12 School, further fostering a sense of community. The event is a testament to the collaboration and innovation within the agricultural sector, showcasing the ongoing work of BCG in research and community engagement.
Stay tuned for a full report and photographs from the day, set to feature in the Buloke Times next week. This is a developing story as the 2025 Main Field Day continues to unfold.
