BASF team hosts Elders graduate cohort in Tamworth

As a global leader in innovative solutions, BASF annually invests $3.5 billion Australian dollars across its large pipeline of research and development.

Russell Ison, research agronomist and Ag Solutions Farm Manager for BASF, explained that the company is focussed on finding new solutions for agronomic issues.

"We prioritise investing in new products and technologies, however, also recognise the place of existing chemistry and generics in agronomic science," Russell said.

"Our mission is to ensure our products remain efficacious and protected through responsible stewardship."

Last month, BASF demonstrated this focus to a cohort of Elders graduate agronomists, taking a group through their Crop Solutions Research Farm in Tamworth.

"Our sustainability goals align very closely with Elders; we are always considering and measuring the benefits and potential impact on the whole cropping cycle," Russell said.

"It's vital that as agronomists we not only consider the immediate effect of the crop protection products we are using, but also the integrated pest management practises we recommend to growers, which is why we were very pleased to host a group of Elders' newest agronomists at our farm."

Russell also took the group on a crop tour through cereals, legumes and oilseeds, all at various stages of growth.

The session covered vital topics from weed management to yield assessments, encouraging proactive discussions and knowledge sharing between graduates and seasoned members of the industry.

Grace McDonald, who is a graduate agronomist based at Elders Miles in Queensland, said she found the day to be a very valuable experience.

"A key takeaway for me is how the BASF team have reiterated the importance of careful decision-making in the field," she said.

Graham Page, Head of Elders' Agronomy and Technical Services, in his role places a strong focus on developing the next generation of leading agronomist.

"Working with global research companies, like BASF, is critical to the learning and development of our agronomists," he said."It provides them with the opportunity to have latest technology developments in their toolbelt, enabling them to contribute towards next level improvement in farm productivity and solve several key problems associated with growing crops."

Graham describes the relationship between Elders and BASF as symbiotic, with mutual benefits in working with farming communities to bring global research local.

"Having the expertise of BASF staff and the extensive network of Elders agronomist provides a vehicle to deliver and extend solutions that have a real impact on productivity," he said.

"We both provide our clients with sustainable solutions for long-term productivity, with a focus on financial, environmental and social benefits for regional communities."

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