Initial estimates from the Grain Industry Association of Western Australia show promising signs for the state’s winter crop following recent rainfall.
The Grain Industry Association of Western Australia (GIWA) has released its initial estimate for the state’s winter crop, projecting a total of 16.3 million tonnes (Mt) from 8.7 million hectares. In its July crop report published today, author Michael Lamond highlighted the impact of early July rains across most grain-growing regions in WA, with significant falls of 15mm or more.
According to Lamond, these rains arrived just in time as many crops were on the brink due to dry conditions in June. He noted that the recent rainfall has refreshed the crops, which now exhibit reasonable grain-yield potential despite earlier signs of moisture stress.
However, Lamond cautioned that rainfall levels remain low or very low across the state, suggesting that achieving the full potential yield of 15-16Mt will depend heavily on favorable conditions for the remainder of the season.
The report indicates that cereals are generally faring better than break crops such as canola and lupins, which have been more adversely affected by the late start and patchy rainfall in June. Canola area estimates have been revised downward by 10,000 hectares from previous figures.
Despite an overall increase in crop area compared to 2023, the area dedicated to canola has decreased, with wheat replacing some of its cultivation. Oat areas have seen an increase in traditional oat-growing regions, while lupin areas continue to decline, reaching lows not seen in two decades. Pulse crops, meanwhile, maintain a minimal presence in the agricultural landscape.
GIWA’s forecast for the 2023-24 crop is notably lower compared to recent record years, reflecting the variable conditions experienced over recent seasons.
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