Stawell U3A members have gained insight into latest developments in the grains industry after a visit to Grains Innovation Park in Horsham.

Group members, many of whom come from farming backgrounds, listened to addresses from representatives from the world-class agricultural research facility. 

Agriculture Victoria project officer Fiona Carine and Australian Grains Genebank leader Dr Sally Norton spoke about the facility and research and innovation at the centre.Members heard how there was a tangible passion at the Australian Grains Genebank where there was a mandate to acquire, conserve and maintain stocks of seed and distribute diverse genetic material to Australian and international plant research and breeding programs. 

Dr Norton and Ms Carine spoke of plant traits, digital monitoring, selective breeding and disease management during the hour-long tour.

Members also heard about drone photography, glasshouse experiments and the non-destructive testing of plants and their wild relatives. 

U3A members then stepped into the minus 20-degree°C freezer where seed was preserved. This provided them with  insight into the shape of future agriculture genetics.

Stawell U3A reported it welcomed new members and further information was available from Karen Jenkins by calling 0400 583 066.

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