RESEARCH & EXTEnSIOn 49

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1 RESEARCH & EXTENSION 49

2 SECTION 7 The BSES year in review From the report by Eoin Wallis, CEO BSES focuses on developing improved varieties and productive, profitable and sustainable farming systems and delivering these through its integrated program. It conducts these programs through its stations, centres and laboratories that are located in all canegrowing areas throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales. BSES strength is its scientists, engineers, field staff, officers and administrative staff who work together with industry and other stakeholders to ensure that Australian sugarcane is a valuable, viable commodity with minimal environmental impact. Their contributions are summarised below. Variety improvement and variety adoption The BSES-CSIRO conventional sugarcane breeding and selection program uses optimal genetic evaluation systems to select parents, crosses and clones, with the ultimate objective of delivering new, more productive varieties to the Australian Sugarcane Industry. The Variety Improvement and Variety Adoption programs were led by Dr Michael Cox and Dr George Piperidis, respectively. Highlights included Two to three high-yielding smut-resistant varieties released each year An average flowering season in 2009 enabled 1275 field-based crosses to be made at Meringa. Crossing is still underway in the three Meringa photoperiod facilities, but already almost 1000 crosses have been made. The Bundaberg photoperiod glasshouse produced 185 crosses. Two new projects have been partially funded by SRDC to complement plant breeding activities: Maximising the rate of parental improvement in the Australian sugarcane breeding program ($1.155 million), commenced July Developing sugarcane for production systems utilising total biomass ($1.26 m), commencing on July On-line decision-support tool for varieties released for grower use by 2010 In May 2009, QCANESelect the new webbased tool for variety information and man- agement, was launched in the Burdekin. Molecular Breeding This program aims to apply plant biotechnology and plant functional biology strategies to develop varieties that improve the productivity, sustainability and competitiveness of the Australian sugar industry. It focuses on developing and applying useful gene and crop improvement technologies to create sugarcane plants with traits such as increased CCS, early maturation, drought tolerance, water-use efficiency, nitrogen use efficiency and altered shoot growth characteristics. The program was led by Dr Prakash Lakshmanan. Highlights included Commercially relevant GM traits identified and tested by 2013 In collaboration with agribusiness partners, BSES is developing strategies and technology platforms to develop and deliver transgenic sugarcane for the Australian sugar industry. Initial efforts will address economically important pests and boosting plant growth and architecture. The BSES-CSIRO Plant Improvement Program has obtained licences for field evaluation of transgenic lines in different regions. New trials involving a large number of transgenic lines will commence in April Crosses made with GM varieties by 2013 The BSES-CSIRO Plant Improvement Program has received a licence to develop transgenic clones for commercial release through transgene breeding. This will be the first attempt to produce transgenic sugarcane via breeding in Australia, with the first transgene crossing event to begin in the 2010 crossing season. SmartSett technology Automation of SmartSett technology continues to progress. The demand for micropropagated plants in the Australian industry is growing. Micropropagated plants of new varieties are now supplied to growers for commercial planting. Development of improved varieties Considerable progress has been made in developing new tools and technologies for identifying high early CCS varieties. Significant progress has been made to understand and develop clones that are water-efficient and drought tolerant. A new collaborative project with the University of Queensland has been funded to develop nitrogen use efficient sugarcane. 50 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL 2009

3 Biosecurity Diseases and pests represent a significant threat to the continued security of cane supply for the Australian sugarcane industry. Cooperating with federal and state government departments to prevent entry of these pests and preparation for possible incursions is a high priority for this program. Assisting the Variety Improvement program to breed disease- and pest-resistant varieties and conducting quarantine programs to prevent the spread of pests and diseases within Australia is also a high priority. The program was led by Mr Barry Croft. Highlights included Varieties imported from overseas each year and released after ensuring freedom from exotic pests and diseases Forty-three foreign varieties were imported from five countries (Colombia, Guatemala, Mauritius, Philippines, and South Africa) in Varieties were exported to Colombia (8), Mauritius (9) and Philippines (5). Tissue culture methods are now being used to generate large quantities of foreign clones that enter BSES quarantine facilities. This will facilitate the rapid evaluation of foreign clones. Clones exchanged among regions within Australia each year without spreading pests and diseases The SmutBuster program shipped the first batch of over 2000 varieties to Bundaberg, Mackay and Charters Towers for propagation. These varieties are smut resistant but come from high value smut susceptible crosses. High-yielding, smut-resistant varieties available for all major soil types by 2011 Smut resistant varieties are rapidly replacing susceptible varieties in all regions and susceptible varieties will contribute less than 50 per cent of the crop in 2009 down from 80 per cent in 2006 when smut was first detected. Contingency plans updated and new plans developed for significant threats to incorporate new research results by 2011 BSES recently commenced research at Ramu in Papua New Guinea to screen Australian varieties for resistance to sesamia borers, Ramu stunt and downy mildew with funding from SRDC. BSES is conducting surveys of borers and their parasites in Indonesia. BSES entomologists have travelled to Indonesia to gain experience with these serious cane pests. This research is funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). Experiment Stations This program coordinates the management, maintenance and allocation of BSES considerable investment in resources and infrastructure associated with experiment stations. The seven stations provide support in the form of land, irrigation, machinery, offices, laboratories, workshops, sheds, crossing facilities, glasshouses and labour for all programs, particularly the Variety Improvement Program in particular. This program was led by Mr Jeff Smith. Improved Cropping Systems The Improved Cropping Systems Program comprises several sub-programs that collectively aim to develop on-farm packages and technologies to improve productivity, sustainability and supply security on-farm and at district and regional levels. This program was led by Dr Bernard Schroeder. Highlights included Develop and deliver BSES-branded packages to progress the adoption of best-management practices on-farm The Farm Economic Analysis Tool (FEAT) was used to evaluate the economics of the changing sugarcane farming system from the traditional to the current system, one that is characterised by economic, social and environmental awareness. The Improved Cropping Systems Program developed a series of four SmartCane Best Management Practice booklets in conjunction with Canrgrowers and Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management. Greyback and Childers canegrub decision-support packages in use by 2011 and developed into on-line systems by 2013 Improved monitoring and predictive capacity has shown that numbers of greyback canegrubs in the Mackay and Gordonvale districts 54s SECTION 7 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL

4 SECTION 7 w53 THE BSES YEAR IN REVIEW were generally in agreement with numbers predicted from the previous year, though accuracy could be improved. But the numbers of southern one-year and Childers canegrubs found during the current crop in the Isis and Bundaberg districts were very consistent with predictions from monitoring in the autumn to spring last year. Grub-management package for new farming systems developed by 2010 Data to support changes to existing insecticide registrations to cover new farming systems (dual rows and/or minimum tillage) were compiled as reports for the relevant insecticide companies for submission to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. An outline of a proposed booklet on grub management in new farming systems is being developed and will be published in early New insecticide for canegrubs evaluated and decision made on commercialisation by 2013 Improved protection of crops from canegrub damage with controlled-release insecticides has been demonstrated with variations to the current formulation of a one insecticide. Data is being gathered to support registration of one product for protection of ratoons against a wider range of canegrub species, and in plant cane this will provide an alternative to other products. Encouraging trial data has resulted in one agribusiness company producing a further prototype controlled-release granule with a new insecticide and engaging BSES to conduct further field trials with this product. Integrated management package for climbing rats developed by 2012 Studies are aimed at identifying critical factors that drive the migration of climbing rats into sugarcane, and how the production system can be manipulated to minimise this movement and the resultant crop damage. Easy Steps guide for integrated weed management released by 2013 A workshop course, Integrated Weed Management the Three Ps, has been developed and delivered in the Wet Tropics. The Three Ps (Plan, Prepare and Plant) will also be rolledout to other districts in coming years. Integrated on-line nutrient management support system released by 2011 BSES and partners are developing a webbased application of NutriCalc (a user-friendly nutrient requirement calculator based on the Six Easy Steps approach) to enable growers and their advisors to develop nutrient management plans, record details and identify trends for each block of cane on their farms. Six Easy Steps nutrient management workbooks and workshops developed for all regions by 2012 Soil-specific, nutrient management booklets are now available for the Herbert, Bundaberg, Johnstone and Proserpine districts. Draft booklets have been produced for the Plane Creek and Mackay districts and work has started on producing booklets for the Burdekin, Tully and Isis districts and New South Wales. Harvest best-practice manual updated by 2010 Harvesting trials to quantify linkages between harvester operation, in-field sugar losses, CCS, bin weights and overall farm profitability will contribute to the updated harvest best-practice manual. In-field sucrose loss system developed by 2012 In-field sampling methodologies and processing equipment were trialled in the Herbert and Burdekin districts. Intensive field sampling throughout the 2009 season will be followed by laboratory analysis to ground-truth the sucrose loss measurement techniques being developed. Yield monitors validated for accuracy for yield mapping by 2012 Three commercially available yield monitors are being tested in a large-scale field trial. Nutrient and water strategies optimised to make best use of inputs with minimal off-site effects by 2013 A Mackay trial showed that there is no yield response and there is still no evidence that N rates can be reduced due to green-cane trash blanketing. Trials in the Innisfail, Mackay and Bundaberg districts over three to four consecutive years have shown that there is no significant yield loss when using the recommended Six Easy Steps inputs (compared to traditional grower strategies). Partial net returns were usually in favour of the Six Easy Steps approach. 52 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL 2009

5 Appropriate varieties defined for use within new farming systems by 2011 Trials indicate that varietal selection would be largely unaffected if it was conducted on any of the three row configurations tested. Technology Support The Technology Support program is responsible for the provision of chemistry based R&D, routine chemical analysis and chemical engineering expertise across BSES. The program concentrates primarily on practical outcomes that can be adopted by the industry, but also includes elements of basic and pure research. The program was led by Dr Michael O Shea. Highlights included Factory measurement and process control solutions implemented for low glycemic-index (GI) sugar production by 2009 The first Australian installation of a Sugar Analysis System (SAS) was completed at Mossman Mill towards the end of the 2008 crushing season. This instrumentation is a key component in the monitoring and process control of LoGiCane low GI sugar production. A patent has been written in conjunction with Horizon Science to protect this intellectual property for low GI sugar applications. NIR selection methods evaluated for implementation in the breeding program by 2011 A laboratory NIR-based technology to predict varietal ratings for smut and Fiji leaf gall has now been subjected to three separate blind validation trials. The model has undergone refinement after each evaluation and it is now at a state for implementation for its use within the BSES/CSIRO variety-improvement program. Strategy developed for participation in production of biofuels, speciality chemicals and cogeneration of electricity This work will focus on efforts to define a sustainable sugarcane biomass input system for the production of second generation biofuels, and develop breeding strategies to produce specific high biomass varieties. A CRC-SIIB project examining bioactive extracts from sugarcane in collaboration with Southern Cross University has characterised compounds with bioactivities with antioxidant, glycaemic index reduction and anti-cancer potential. A provisional patent is under preparation to protect some of the IP generated. High quality service provided to factoryinstalled cane, sugar and bagasse analysis systems and provide support to achieve key commercial targets Two online NIR instruments were installed at Costa Pinto Mill in Brazil during 2008 to undergo evaluation. We are confident that this trial will provide an entry point into the Brazilian sugar industry for online NIR systems, and will lead to a considerable business opportunity in the years to come. Further work has examined the development of laboratory benchtop NIR instruments for the analysis of sugar and other factory process streams, and these systems will be available for demonstration during Technology Adoption Technology transfer/ specialists work with researchers and industry participants to increase the adoption of R&D by different customers in different regions. Extension workers have good working knowledge of all aspects of cane growing and use a variety of channels such as one-on-one contact, grower discussion groups, field days and media to facilitate change in practice for cane grower and other industry clients. Extension is embedded in BSES QCanes and QCrops and ensures that research is responsive to industry needs and research findings are communicated timely and effectively. This program was led by Mr Robert Cairns (southern) and Mr Evan Shannon and Mr Greg Shannon (northern). Highlights included Innovative delivery models developed to optimise industry-wide adoption of best management practices BSES officers had considerable input into the delivery of the Australian Government s Reef Rescue package in Northern, Burdekin and Southern districts. BSES developed Nutrient-Management workshop manuals for both the Herbert area and the Wet Tropics. BSES developed an Integrated Weed Management course to provide training in and application of herbicide technology to improve productivity, reduce chemical loss and minimise adverse impacts on downstream aquatic ecosystems. Streamlined versions of BSES Farm Productivity Assessment were developed for Northern, Burdekin and Southern districts and formed part of growers application processes for Reef Rescue funding. Extension staff have continued assisting the industry in preparing for the spread smut through development and implementation of regional plans that have reduced the economic impact, particularly through the replacement of susceptible varieties with resistant varieties. Four issues of the BSES Bulletin were distributed to industry, including one that focused on biosecurity issues. Activate breakfasts continue to be an important venue for demonstrating BSES value to stakeholders. n SECTION 7 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL

6 SECTION 7 CSIRO sugar research By Christine Painter, Executive Officer and Communications Coordinator, CSIRO Sustainable Agriculture Flagship CSIRO is working with the sugar industry to address productivity and sustainability challenges through its systems-based research into best management practices, plant breeding, climate change, irrigation and community responses to change. CSIRO scientists work collaboratively with research partners, growers, millers, marketers, advisors, agribusiness and local communities in the development of practical, profitable and sustainable solutions for the Australian sugar industry. Highlights include International collaboration to sequence the sugarcane genome CSIRO, together with the CRC for Sugar Industry Innovation through Biotechnology (SIIB), is working with international researchers to sequence the large sugarcane genome. Having a sequenced genome will give researchers new resources to study processes such as disease resistance and sucrose storage and may identify ways to improve yields through both conventional and molecular breeding. Workshops with researchers from Australia, Brazil, France, China and the US have developed a framework for collaboration and decided on the best ways to generate and share results. This work is underpinned by genetic tools that CSIRO has developed, including dense maps of the sugarcane genome and the ability to use information from closely related species like sorghum. Investigating the potential of Energycane CSIRO, together with BSES and SRDC, is currently investigating the potential of Energycane varieties that would produce high yields of both sucrose and fibre to meet emerging opportunities. Some hybrid varieties derived from crossing sugarcane with wild relatives could be particularly suitable for these production systems. Promoting an informed basis for the adoption of precision agriculture In partnership with the University of Southern Queensland/National Centre for Engineering in Agriculture, BSES and numerous industry collaborators, and with funding support from SRDC, CSIRO is engaged in Precision Agriculture (PA) research. This work is in its early stages and is currently assessing: The available technologies for sugarcane yield mapping; The development of a protocol for interpolating yield maps from yield monitor data; and, The use of high resolution soil survey (electrical conductivity using electromagnetic induction and gamma radiometry) to assist in identifying management zones on sugarcane farms. Harvest management planning tools for the maximisation of CCS CSIRO research has made valuable headway in helping the sugar industry formulate farm harvest plans that will maximise the CCS of harvested sugarcane. This will lead to increased yields and efficiencies across the sugar value chain. Many factors including crop age, variety, CCS maturity profile, crop class, cane yield, soil type, block location and harvest rotation need to be considered when selecting the best possible block/combination of blocks for harvest in each round. In the past year farmers in the Tully region have continued to collaborate with a local software company to further develop the CSIRO Sugar- Max Harvest Planning tool. The desktop prototype version has now become a web interface linking with the Tully Mill production databases. Several pilot farms used the website to develop harvest plans for the 2009 season. After further evaluation and fine-tuning, the aim is for this tool to be used throughout the region in New concepts for sustainable management of nitrogen fertiliser A new concept in nitrogen fertiliser management has been developed that may reduce nitrogen fertiliser applications by 30 per cent. The N Replacement concept will substantially reduce losses of nitrogen to the environment in water or 54 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL 2009

7 greenhouse gases, reduce input costs for farmers and improve the sustainability of sugarcane production. Testing of the concept in on-farm experiments has continued. In five experiments that have run for at least four years there was a trend for yields with N Replacement to be initially lower than those under conventional fertiliser practices in the first two crops, but then be 2.0 and 2.6 tonnes per hectare greater than those conventional practices in the third and fourth crops, respectively. As well, crop N surplus (an estimate of N potentially lost to the environment) was 55 per cent lower in the N Replacement concept compared with conventional practices. This management system continues to be tested. Better understanding emissions of nitrous oxide from sugarcane production To better understand the magnitude of nitrous oxide losses and how they might vary in response to different environmental and management conditions, we developed the capability to predict nitrous oxide emissions within the cropping system model APSIM Predictions of nitrous oxide emissions were consistent with the measurements available. Preliminary analyses showed that nitrous oxide emissions may vary considerably between regions, were higher on irrigated soils and increased when trash was retained. These simulation results support the conclusion drawn from experimental studies that emissions are higher than expected in comparison with other intensively grown crops. Further work will define the reasons for the higher emission and how they might be managed. Implementation of molecular markers in the breeding program Using a commercial DNA marker system called DArT, developed by Diversity Arrays Technology in collaboration with CSIRO and BSES through a project funded by the CRC SIIB, the parent collection of the breeding program has been genotyped for the first time. Markers related to performance of varieties for commercial cane sugar, cane yield and resistance to important diseases (including smut) have been identified. These markers may be used to select for good genes or select against bad genes in a more targeted way than in the past during the breeding process. Development and adoption of genetically modified sugarcane varieties CSIRO, with BSES and CSR in a CRC SIIB project, is conducting research to understand the ecology and reproductive biology of sugarcane in order to identify and manage potential environmental risks of GM sugarcane. The results of these studies are already starting to be used by researchers and regulators to understand and mitigate any potential risks, should GM varieties be grown commercially. Increasing sucrose content using WaterSense to manage irrigation CSIRO recently completed a four year sugarcane physiology project funded by SRDC to help understand the interactions between sugarcane genetics and the environment (including management) with respect to sugar accumulation and lodging. The research proved that at least in some soils, growers could reduce irrigation amounts considerably without significant yield loss and it also proved that lodging can be delayed by withholding irrigation to some extent before the wet season. WaterSense can be used to help growers to irrigate for maximum CCS and to reduce lodging. WaterSense delivering web based irrigation management WaterSense is a web-based sugarcane irrigation and planning tool that allows the user to optimise irrigation inputs over multiple fields and enhance potential yields while minimising offsite impacts. Whether irrigation water is limiting or not, the question to answer is always how much to apply and when? WaterSense provides sugarcane irrigators and staff with real time, daily crop water use based upon local weather supplied by the Bureau of Meteorology s SILO database. Water- Sense allows users to customise individual paddocks to take into account soil type, crop class, planting and harvesting times, rain fall and past irrigations. In each region staff and irrigators have found WaterSense to be accurate and reliable. Evaluating alternative irrigation for a greener future In the Burdekin CSIRO research is assisting the MAFIA (Mulgrave Area Framer Integrated Action) grower group to realise their vision to better manage natural resources and create financially viable farming businesses. This project will assist irrigators who are considering converting from furrow irrigation to other water application methods such as overhead low pressure systems. n SECTION 7 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL

8 SECTION 7 CRC makes strong commercial progress Despite the global financial crisis, global demand for sugar remained strong and Australian sugar prices were relatively favourable in Sugar production was down overall world wide, notably in India and the EU and because a large share of the rising Brazilian sugarcane yields was diverted to ethanol production. Thus, world sugar trade a key driver for the Australian sugar industry increased to meet shortfalls, reaching a record 50.1 million tonnes in and global sugar stocks fell. The favourable exchange rate for the Australian dollar for most of the year helped reduce the pressure on Australian farmers. But the long-term environment for the Australian industry has not changed: declining prices in real terms, a declining crop area, increasing pressure from environmentalists regarding the industry s environmental footprint (i.e. use of pesticides and fertilisers), ongoing technological challenges from major competitors and uncertain weather. Innovation and Australia s global position The need for sugar industry innovation therefore remains as strong as when the CRC SIIB was first established. Research is a key building block for innovation and our CRC is a major R&D player, positioning Australia in the front rank of countries seeking to apply biotechnology to producing sugarcane and developing new products from the sugarcane crop. It is important to be in the top ranks as countries such as Brazil continue to grow their sugar biotechnology future. Despite the economic downturn, foreign investment continued to flow into the Brazilian sugar industry and research on sugarcane biotechnology grew there during the year. Field-testing of their GM varieties is believed to be under way in eight countries. New alliances have been announced, notably between leading chemical company BASF and Brazil s CTC (Centro de Tecnologia Canavieira) to bioengineer drought-resistant varieties. Significantly, Monsanto emerged as a major sugarcane breeder following its purchase of CanaVialis (a Brazilian sugarcane breeding company) and Allelyx (a Brazilian sugarcane biotechnology company). Another significant development this year has been an international research effort to sequence the sugarcane genome. In an initiative of the long-standing International Consortium for Sugarcane Biotechnology, six countries (US, Brazil, China, Australia, France and South Africa) will work collaboratively to produce a first draft of the genome by mid The CRC SIIB is an investor in this collaboration through its new project Understanding the sugarcane genome which began in July CRC s IP delivery The CRC SIIB looks back at a successful sixth year in which the centre has again excelled in developing new Intellectual Property (IP) opportunities in botanical biotechnology as well as industrial and nutraceutical biotechnology. Our original charter focused on investing in IP creation in high-risk areas. We have now delivered Caption???????? 56 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL 2009

9 on six patent positions, four licensing positions and a wealth of understanding and data which will provide considerable focus for future work well beyond the life of this CRC. Our DArTs technology is now in the commercial marketplace and the centre s long term and significant investment in marker technology has positioned the Australian sugarcane breeding program to be able to use the technology to improve the rate of genetic gains in the current breeding program. While the payback period for this investment is definitely longer term, the work has established an opportunity to advance the breeding program through improvements to the parental populations used by the breeders. At a more strategic level our CRC s understanding of sugarcane biology is now well recognised by the Australian gene Technology regulator as critical in evaluating potential risks associated with the introduction of GM sugarcane. High value products for other industries Our centre s work in industrial biotechnology has now seen a patent and license arrangement established to manufacture high molecular weigh Hyaluronic Acid a significant body lubricant, development of Barrecote a waterproofing compound for extensive use in waterproof cardboard boxes, and GIWise a compound and extract from sugarcane which has considerable advantages over existing GI lowering extracts already in this expanding market. The CRC SIIB was established in 2003 to add value to Australian sugarcane. Our Vision: A prosperous and sustainable Australian sugarcane industry through the 21st century, generating wealth for Australia as a competitive exporter, and as a key source of biomaterials for new Australian bioindustries. For more information go to: n SECTION 7 SRDC in review By Ian Knop, Chairperson and Frikkie Botha, Executive Director SRDC Global sugar market exceeds expectations After struggling for several years, the fortunes of the sugarcane industry changed remarkably during the past twelve months. Largely ignoring turmoil in financial markets, sugar prices have risen nearly 10 per cent since mid-december 2008 on expectations that the world will face a sugar deficit of more than 11 million tonnes for Low sugar prices in previous years were attributed to excessive production growth in India and Brazil, which created surplus stocks and kept world prices under pressure. Today this situation has reversed, with India reducing production to the extent that they are once again importing sugar. It is likely that expansion in Brazil will also be constrained for the next few years as a result of the global financial crisis, and this will provide further support for sugar prices. Demand for sugarcane attracts multinationals Global demands for raw sugar and biofuels are beginning to rise at a faster pace than current production levels of sugarcane. The sugarcane industry must adopt a strategic objective to increase yields in sugarcane while reducing resources required for cultivation. Multinational companies are becoming seriously involved in genetic improvement and production of sugarcane. Greater global demand for food, fibre and biofuel resources have prompted international investors and other changes in the industry. The partnership between Syngenta and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in 2007 initiated the movement, which really gained momentum when Monsanto decided to invest in sugarcane to diversify its existing core crop portfolio. The acquisition of Aly Participacoes Uda, which operates the sugarcane breeding and technology companies CanaVialis SA and Alellyx SA in Brazil, marks the first entry of a large multinational into the sugarcane breeding environment. Aligning the industry for the Ian Knop. future The sugarcane industry has undergone significant rationalisation in the production and processing sectors over the past decade. In order to minimise production costs, several mills have been closed and some farming and harvesting operations have been amalgamated. During this period of change in the industry, the R&D sector remained largely unchanged. To strategically realign the industry, SRDC played an active role in investigating alternative R&D struc- Frikkie Botha. tures to increase efficiency and reduce overhead costs, while attaining better focus. This activity coincided with SRDC s role to support the development of the National Sugar R&D Framework, which is now in its first draft form. The relative position of sugarcane producers 60s AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL

10 SECTION 7 w59 SRDC IN REVIEW in the world has changed over the past decade. Brazil is no longer the dominating force as it was in the early and mid nineties. Brazilian production costs previously hovered around six to seven US cents per pound, while all other producers faced costs above 10c per pound. The Sugar Market Report, released in May 2009 at the Kingsman Australian Sugar and Ethanol conference, stated that Australian production costs averaged between 10 to 11 US cents per pound, placing Australia for the first time in almost two decades, in the number one position in the world. Delivery against the SRDC five-year strategic plan To ensure industry sustainability SRDC remains focussed on innovative R&D, with a commercially viable outcome. Maximum gains for the sugarcane industry can be achieved through collaboration and partnerships with other R&D funders and providers. As well as partnering with research and industry organisations to deliver R&D outcomes, SRDC has continued its partnership with the other Rural Research and Development Corporations on joint venture programs, including the Climate Change Research Strategy for Primary Industries, Natural Resource Management Collaborative Venture, Managing Climate Variability Program, Life Cycle Assessment in Rural Industries and the Science and Innovation Awards for Young People in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. In line with strategic directions outlined in the five-year R&D plan ( ), SRDC s call for research proposals for focussed on: Mitigating risks of climate change, facilitating adaptation to climate change and variability; Delivering opportunities for the sugarcane industry in energy, biomass utilisation and product diversification; Reducing production costs and/or improving the utilisation of capital and other resources for cane farming, harvesting and milling; Increasing uptake of improved technologies and improving decision-making by industry enterprises; Developing improved sugarcane varieties; and, Reducing risks of exotic biosecurity threats, and improving management of endemic pests and weeds, including risks enhanced by climate change. This year, SRDC supported several research projects that addressed issues relating to climate change, such as impacts of changes in temperature, water quality and availability, extreme weather conditions, salinity, carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. Stage one of the Managing Climate Variability Program project was completed in 2009, with SRDC supporting the next stage as a joint venture across Rural Research and Development Corporations. Biosecurity remains a high priority in the SRDC investment portfolio. The positive impact of the funded research on controlling sugarcane smut is one of the highlights presented in this report. There is a significant increase in the level of resistance within the sugarcane breeding populations. Two resistant and one intermediate resistant variety have been released, with more cane varieties expected to follow. BSES Limited and CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, supported by SRDC, conducted research in to the nitrogen needs of sugarcane crops. This SRCD funded project will help growers save money by determining the ideal rate of nitrogen to apply. Regional workshops and information transfer will mean growers are better equipped to apply the correct amount of nitrogen, thus saving money and the environment, particularly in response to considering impacts on the Great Barrier Reef. The use of legume break crops is integral to the new sugarcane farming system. SRDC funded research led by CSIRO Plant Industry announced the release of another new soybean variety, Fraser, suited to the Fraser coast region of Queensland. Further research found well-grown soybeans largely reduce the need for costly nitrogen fertiliser in the following year on cane crops. In addition, the SRDC are supporting the development of molecular markers, which could become important diagnostic tools to help growers achieve healthier soils, by understanding the desired microbial conditions for improved soil health and nutrient cycling. Innovation and industry skills are one of the crucial requirements for a prosperous future. One of the prime targets of this activity is focussed on Grower Group Innovation Projects. 58 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL 2009

11 SRDC project highlights SECTION 7 An external review of this activity indicated that the biggest industry gains from the SRDC investment were in the more rapid adoption of practices and farming systems. Individual growers who participated in this program acknowledge an increase in their confidence and skills in planning, managing and promoting on-farm research. This work also stimulates interaction between growers, researchers and staff in on-farm, farmer-driven research. As part of our people development program, we continue to fund projects which are helping women gain the skills and confidence they need to take on leadership roles within the industry. These projects connect women with mentors, providing training opportunities to give them confidence. Without young people, the industry has no future. For several years SRDC has been supporting the development of young people through its Generation Next project. In 2009, more than 40 future leaders participated in our Generation Next workshop and presented outcomes of the project to current industry leaders. This project provided participants with the opportunity to invest in personal development, team work and professional development. It is evident the industry will operate in a more hostile environment due to climate change. We will need to increase social responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint, while maintaining an ever increasing production output per unit of land. The current exceptional performance of sugar on the international market places the industry in an ideal position to continue its reform processes including R&D delivery. We remain committed to working closely with the sugarcane industry to improve its position globally. There can be no doubt that this can only be achieved through a continued and focused investment in research and development. n Life Cycle Assessment Rural primary industries use water resources and energy which emit greenhouse gases. Future Australian and international policy directions may require industries to account for their resource use and emissions. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a method to analyse resource issues across the life cycle of a product. It can systematically identify key areas to improve environmental and economic performance, and can be applied to agricultural systems. SRDC has worked collaboratively with RDCs to develop a standardised LCA methodology to improve the consistency of reporting across rural industries. The standardised LCA methodology was released as a RIRDC publication in mid (RIR001) Helping the industry manage smut Sugarcane smut was first reported in the Bundaberg/Isis, Central and Herbert regions of Queensland in This serious disease can cause productivity losses from 30 to 100 per cent in susceptible varieties. SRDC is supporting the BSES Limited/CSIRO Plant Industry breeding program to manage the threat of smut and other diseases by replacing susceptible cane varieties with resistant ones. The smut-resistant varieties identified by this project and two earlier projects have been the basis of the response to the sugarcane smut epidemic, and losses from the epidemic will be substantially reduced by the provision of highyielding, smut-resistant varieties. This project has resulted in a significant increase in resistance levels in the breeding program and the release of two new smut-resistant and one intermediate variety in The benefits of this breeding will flow through to industry in coming years as more high-yielding smut-resistant varieties are released. In addition this project created a new smut-resistant variety, Q240, released in the southern region in 2009, subject to being declared an approved sugarcane variety under the Queensland s Plant Protection (Approved Sugarcane Varieties) Declaration (BSS265) Tools to rate cane varieties against smut and Fiji leaf gall A project led by BSES Limited has developed a smut rating predictive model using near infrared technology. Using this tool will help to improve the delivery of resistant varieties in shorter timeframes and reduce the cost of varietal selection. The project, which began in mid 2007, built on 62s AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL

12 SECTION 7 w61 SRDC PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS existing research that demonstrated that varietal resistance to smut can be correlated with near infrared spectroscopic measurements. In June 2009 this project completed three blind validation trials to evaluate the model across more than 36 sugarcane clones. In researchers hope to see the tool implemented within the BSES CSIRO Plant Industry Joint Venture in Sugarcane Improvement to deliver significant efficiency gains and cost reductions over traditional screening methods. The project will also now direct its attention to developing a predictive model for Fiji leaf gall resistance ratings. (BSS307) Using the web to select suitable cane varieties to plant on-farm SRDC invested in a BSES Limited project to develop a decision-support tool for growers and advisory staff to assist them to select a balanced mix of varieties that maximises productivity while managing risks from pest and disease outbreaks. The web-based program, QCaneSelect, was official launched in May (BSS294) Precision spot spraying using image analysis and plant identification technology Dr Cheryl McCarthy and Mr Steven Rees of the National Centre for Engineering in Agriculture (NCEA) completed their project Development of a prototype precision spot spray system using image analysis and plant identification technology in Precision spray technology that targets specific weeds has the potential to revolutionise weed management by maximising production and reducing herbicide use while reinforcing minimum tillage concepts. A prototype developed by Cheryl and Steven with SRDC support can successfully discriminate between mature green grassy weeds and sugar cane, will reduce the cost of weed control, and can be combined with GPS technology to map weed infestation across a field. (NCA010) Adopting systems for water and nutrient management for Burdekin cane In the face of rising groundwater and reduced water quality in the aquifers and streams a CSIRO-led project developed a range of farm management options to provide Burdekin growers with the right information to improve water, nutrient and crop management techniques to increase profitability, control rising water tables, reduce the risk of irrigation-induced salinity and improve off-farm water quality. In addition the research team assessed the feasibility of farm management options against future water pricing and water allocation scenarios for various reference sites across the Burdekin. This cost/benefit assessment data enabled a robust economic evaluation of water and nutrient management options for growers. Growers are now equipped with the right information to make decisions on the most efficient farm management techniques to improve water and nutrient levels. (CSE012) Promoting on-farm water quality testing by growers SRDC supports grower led programs as part of an active learning strategy. One such program involved a project group of 12 growers in the Herbert region developing simple tools to monitor farm water quality. The success of this project has inspired other grower groups in Babinda, Innisfail, Burdekin and the Mackay Whitsunday regions to initiate water quality monitoring projects. (GC013) Building on this investment in people development and environmental monitoring, SRDC supported a Canegrowers water quality testing workshop held in the Herbert region in The workshop provided an opportunity for approximately 50 growers to share knowledge about on-farm water quality testing and exchange ideas. As part of the workshop, a 20 page field guide titled Water quality monitoring in the Australian sugar industry was published to provide information on the findings of the initial Herbert research project. The workshop and field guide 60 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL 2009

13 provided just one step towards achieving large numbers of growers conducting their own water quality monitoring using simple techniques and low cost equipment. (CG020) Improving harvest and transport efficiency in the Mossman central mill area Transport schedules can be difficult to arrange, as there are many interdependent factors to consider. A change in one part of the system will usually have a follow-on effect to other parts of the supply chain, causing logistical challenges. To address these issues, SRDC invested in research led by CSIRO to consider factors including: Optimal sugarcane quantities for mill operation; Transport infrastructure and labour; delays and their subsequent effects; and, Varied geographical distribution and times of operation. Results found if recommendations are applied to the harvesting and transport sectors, the outcomes have the potential to create industry savings of more than A$30 million each year. The first stage of the project established ways to improve the overall efficiency of the harvest and transport sector of the Mossman sugar industry in In 2008, efficiency improvements were developed through an industry consultation group, which looked at a range of payment and harvest management issues. The project assessed three payment options, with a number of growers and harvest contractors changing to a flat-rate, plus fuel system in In addition a group of six sugarcane harvesters had data-loggers fitted to monitor in-field progress and performance. Analysis of this data showed that most in the group were operating within harvest bestpractice guidelines for a number of performance indicators. (MAS002) Evaluation of membrane technology for clarification of sugarcane juice A collaborative project by James Cook University, Mossman Central Mill, Resis Australia, and the Asian Institute of Technology embarked on an evaluation of membrane technology for clarification of sugarcane juice. In late 2008, lab and pilot-scale membrane units were installed at Mossman Mill to test the efficiency of technology used to remove nonsugar impurities as well as producing high quality juice for manufacture of improved quality raw sugar. The relationship among the operating parameters such as trans-membrane pressure, cross-flow velocity and flux were also tested. A cost-benefit analysis was conducted for the implementation of a full-scale membrane system for clarification and concentration. Results found the membrane surface areas of lab and pilot-scale membranes were 0.11 and 9.0 m 2. Analysis indicates the application of membrane to purify limed and coagulated sugar cane juice in a mill would cost $4.3 million in capital to process 500 tonnes of sugar cane per hour. The annual saving would be in the order of $3.56 million which will correspond to a pay back period of two years. It is anticipated final results in 2010, will prove membrane technology is of benefit to the industry in ensuring efficient clarification of sugarcane juice quality, reducing energy consumption, eliminating chemical usage and improving overall sugar production performance. (JCU029) Investing in the industry s future Many of Australia s sugar growing regions are seeing younger generations moving away from the cane industry, but one SRDC-funded project invested in the industry s leaders of tomorrow. In 2009 over 40 participants joined in a Generation Next workshop held in Lucinda to present outcomes at a forum attended by industry leaders. This project provided participants with the opportunity to invest in personal development, team work and professional development. Graduates represented production, milling, research and and each completed a project which will contribute to the efficiency, professionalism and sustainability of the industry. (SRD025) n SECTION 7 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL

14 SRDC current projects listing Project Title ( For more information on any of SRDC investments in R&D visit 62 AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE ANNUAL 2009 Research contact address Funds ( ) Regional Futures Value Chain Integration CGH002 Enhancing efficiency and integration from field to factory in the Herbert Peter Sheedy Peter_Sheedy@hbr.canegrowers.com.au $17,000 CGT001 Development and implementation of harvest management planning tools for the maximisation of CCS in the Tully district Trent Stainlay tulprod@westnet.com.au $41,623 CHC002 Development of a real time information system for Clarence harvesters Peter Rose pjrose@westnet.com.au $37,450 CRC005 Understanding the reproductive biology and ecology of sugarcane to manage the safe release of genetically modified cultivars Dr Graham Bonnett graham.bonnett@csiro.au $160,177 CSR033 Benchmarking harvest group practices in the Burdekin Ian Haigh idhaigh@bigpond.com $10,823 CSR038 Increasing in-mill NIR effectiveness and communicating data to all sectors for improved decision making in the sugarcane value chain John Markley j.markley@mkysugar.com.au $135,620 CVA003 Managing Climate Variability Program Phase 2 Dr Diana Saunders dsaunders@srdc.gov.au $90,000 GTG002 Implementation of the communication plan for the Sugarcane Gene Technology Group Warren Males warren.males@qldsugar.com $10,000 JCU027 Defeating the Autumn Predictability Barrier Dr Yvette Everingham Yvette.everingham@jcu.edu.au $30,000 LWA003 Climate Change Research Strategy for Primary Industries Phase 2 Dr Diana Saunders dsaunders@srdc.gov.au $12,000 MAS001 A regional partnership approach to developing a sustainable sugarcane system Alan Rudd armossag@bigpond.net.au $40,000 MAS002 Improving harvest efficiency in the Mossman Central Mill area Darryl Parker dpmossag@bigpond.net.au $16,763 NSC005 Implementing an integrated sugar system in NSW Rick Beattie rbeattie@nswsugar.com.au $25,000 OHS003 Farm Health and Safety Joint Venture Phase 3 Bianca Cairns bcairns@srdc.gov.au $20,000 RIR001 Life Cycle Assessment in Rural Industries Simon Winter simonwinter@bigpond.com $0 WS009 Assessment of regional R&D needs and opportunities Carolyn Martin cmartin@srdc.gov.au $181 Farming and Harvesting Systems BBF001 Pilot area-wide natural resource management group Building grower capacity to understand and better manage groundwater Enrico Mio miofarm@tpg.com.au $65,092 BPS001 Identifying management zones within cane paddocks: An essential foundation for precision sugarcane agriculture Dr Ross Coventry ross@soilhorizons.com.au $206,094 BSS257 GrubPlan 2: Developing improved risk assessment and decision-support systems for managing greyback canegrub Dr Peter Samson psamson@bses.org.au $50,000 BSS265 Smut-proofing the Australian industry ensuring a reliable cane supply through reduced genetic vulnerability to sugarcane smut Barry Croft bcroft@bses.org.au $60,963 BSS266 Optimum canegrub management within new sustainable cropping systems Dr Peter Samson psamson@bses.org.au $90,000 BSS268 Accelerated adoption of best-practice nutrient management Dr Bernard Schroeder bschroeder@bses.org.au $112,238 BSS269 A new cropping system for the Central District Bradley Hussey bhussey@bses.org.au $23,877 BSS286 Improved sugarcane farming systems Dr Barry Salter BSalter@bses.org.au $219,813 BSS294 Whole-farm planning for management of varieties to maximise productivity and reduce losses from diseases Barry Croft bcroft@bses.org.au $246,591 BSS296 Evaluation of genotypes for a controlled-traffic farming system Dr Barry Salter BSalter@bses.org.au $168,188 BSS297 Delivering web-based irrigation management Trevor Willcox twillcox@bses.org.au $142,526 BSS302 Epidemiology studies into sugarcane smut Dr Robert Magarey RMagarey@bses.org.au $200,000 BSS303 Sugarcane biosecurity integrated plan Dr Mohamed Sallam msallam@bses.org.au $92752 BSS304 Cane-grower implemented drying-off irrigation scheduling on the Tableland David Donald ddonald@bses.org.au $54,111 BSS306 Establishing the second crop cycle into permanent beds Bradley Hussey bhussey@bses.org.au $35,000 BSS318 Measurement of in-field sucrose loss by mobile refractometry Cam Whiteing cwhiteing@bses.org.au $20,000 CG018 A review of institutional arrangements in the Burdekin Irrigation Area with a view to managing sustainable farming practices in the region Eric Danzi eric_danzi@canegrowers.com.au $35,000 CG013 Growers working together to improve water quality in the Herbert Sugar Industry Eric Danzi eric_danzi@canegrowers.com.au $29,937 CPI009 New soybean varieties for fallow cropping of sugarcane fields Dr Andrew James Andrew.James@csiro.au $15,376 CSE011 Improved environmental outcomes and profitability through innovative management of nitrogen Dr Peter Thorburn peter.thorburn@csiro.au $213,077 CSE012 Adopting systems approaches to water and nutrient management for future cane Dr Peter Thorburn production in the Burdekin peter.thorburn@csiro.au $131,826 CSE020 Ecosystem services in sugar lands: Where are we now and how can they be enhanced? Dr Peter Thorburn peter.thorburn@csiro.au $25,598 CSE022 A collaborative approach to Precision Agriculture R,D&E for the Australian Sugar Industry Dr Robert Bramley rob.bramley@csiro.au $109,724 DPI015 Enhancing an economic way of doing business in the cane industry Mark Poggio mark.poggio@dpi.qld.edu.au $16,000