A NEW trial site at Raywood evaluating canola, wheat, vetch and oaten hay has hosted a field day for 100 district farmers.
“Days like this are all about connecting with farmers, sharing ideas, and showing how different crop solutions can make a real difference on-farm,” said Elders Bendigo branch manager Craig Sharam.
“At this trial site we’ve been evaluating canola, wheat, vetch and oaten hay, looking at all facets of agronomy, from herbicide applications and fungicide programs through to nitrogen use and overall crop nutrition.”  
Planning for the site begins well ahead of the season, with Elders working closely alongside supply partners and trial cooperators to ensure the program aligns with grower needs. 
“Planning usually starts in the previous spring, working closely with our crop protection, fertiliser and seed distribution partners,” Mr Sharam said. 
This year’s trials reflected that collaboration, and featured:
side-by-side evaluations of early and main-season wheat and barley varieties;
fungicide and herbicide comparisons in canola;
nitrogen response trials in hay; and
a strong focus on emerging crops like lentils and vetch.
“Attendees were able to walk through a diverse range of trial plots, comparing the performance of different varieties under real conditions,” he said.
“From broadacre cereals and canola to lentils, the day profiled practical examples of how crop protection technology can work together to drive yields and resilience.”
Elders Bendigo senior Agronomist Anton Mannes provided an in-depth seasonal overview, highlighting the agronomic setup and evolving weather conditions across the region.
“Last year this paddock was in barley, which we cut for hay because we didn’t think the spring would hold enough moisture to finish the crop,” Mr Mannes said.
“This year, we started sowing in mid-April and got 35mm of rain on Anzac Day, which really helped early establishment.” 
Despite that strong start, a six-week dry spell followed, with only 7mm of rain recorded through May and early June. Fortunately, solid rainfall in July helped recharge soils and support crop development.
“Demonstrating these products in the field gives growers the confidence to make informed decisions that can deliver stronger, more sustainable results on their farms,” he said.
The day wrapped up with dinner where guest speaker Warren Davies – The Unbreakable Farmer shared a powerful message about mental health and resilience in agriculture.
Elders chief agronomist Alex Greetham  said: “This is where new technologies meet local knowledge and that’s what delivers real impact on-farm,” he said. “Thank you to the growers, supply partners, and the team in the pink shirts for delivering such a great day.”
The new four-hectare site was donated by Justin and Jane Crapper.