THE most profitable farms were those that spent more time working on their business than in their business.
That was a key message from Professor Ross Kingwell during his presentation at Birchip Cropping Group’s main field day last week.
In his 10-year profitability study of 250 Western Australian farmers, Professor Kingwell said the most profitable farmers were those who consistently looked for answers and work-life balance.
“The study highlighted that profitable farmers were those who always have their antenna up, are always curious, always questioning and they weren’t workaholics. Farming for them was a social activity, not just business activity.”
Professor Kingwell’s presentation was a highlight for many of the 400 growers and advisers who attended the event.
A reoccurring theme of the day was the importance of research funding from levies and government, investment in genetics and the affects for farm profitability.
“The unlocking hyper yielding cereals discussion with the group’s Dr Yolanda Plowman and The University of Melbourne’s Professor James Hunt drew a large crowd and highlights the importance of ongoing research. The smart disease management, NVT and long coleoptile wheats sessions further cemented the importance of research and investment in genetics,” said Birchip Cropping Group senior manager of extension and communication Grace Hosking.
More than 50 students from five schools attended the field day with a focus on education as well as highlighting career opportunities in the agricultural industry.
North Central LLEN’s agriculture education project co-ordinator Susan Gould was impressed by the student stream and engagement with students: 
“It was successful day and the enthusiasm of the students and the staff enhanced the good vibe. The careers panel was the perfect mix for the student audience,” she said. 
“I love the altruistic and community-focus of Birchip Cropping Group, breaking down some of the traditional competitive and individualistic notions of agriculture.”
The group’s chief executive officer Fiona Best said: “The Main Field Day is our way of connecting with farmers, to share the work we do for them and their surrounding communities. 
“It’s an educational event showcasing the latest research and thinking in crop production and farming more generally. Bringing together such a diverse range of quality speakers is a highlight for BCG as an organisation and we thank our attendees, presenters, collaborators and sponsors for being actively involved in the day.”
Health and wellbeing were focusses at this year’s event, with East Wimmera Health Service, Central Mallee Health, Headspace, WorkSafe and Agriculture Victoria on-site together with Northern District Community Health who provided health checks and advice.