Research boosts growing industry

SARDI pathologist Jenny Davidson, with Yorke Peninsula farmer Kyle Holman and SARDI research scientist Larn McMurray.

Above: SARDI research scientist Larn McMurray, left, with SARDI pathologist Jenny Davidson and Yorke Peninsula farmer Kyle Holman.
Photo: Gabrielle Hall

Media Release - 25 February 2011

Research by SARDI scientists in collaboration with Pulse Breeding Australia has been instrumental in developing new varieties of lentils, beans and peas.

The development of sound management guidelines in disease and agronomics to make the most of the new varieties has also contributed to successful and profitable production in the Yorke Peninsula and Mid North regions.

This has helped growers to produce regular and reliable pulse crops in these regions.

SARDI research scientist Larn McMurray and SARDI pulse pathologist Jenny Davidson have been key members of Pulse Breeding Australia‘s program which has delivered new superior varieties such as PBA Blitz lentils and PBA Gunyah field peas, and key disease management strategies to control the major diseases, such as ascochyta blight and botrytis grey mould in lentils.

Following on from the success of the development program the South Australian Government has allocated up to $390,000 through its Regional Development Infrastructure Fund (RDIF) towards a new storage and processing plant for pulses near Port Wakefield.

Regional Development Minister Gail Gago said the Australian Milling Group is building a major facility at Bowmans between Balaklava and Port Wakefield.

The Australian Milling Group’s primary business is the acquisition, processing, packaging and distribution of peas, beans and lentils.
“The RDIF grant will contribute to the cost of installing transport, power, telecommunications and water infrastructure needed to support the new facility,” Ms Gago said.

“The total project cost is $8 million, with additional investment likely as the business develops.

“This project will provide a real shot in the arm to the regional economy, creating 25 new jobs within four years of operation, and doubling production from a projected 40,000 tonnes in 2011 to 80,000 tonnes in 2013.

“The RDIF plays an important role in the implementation of South Australia’s Strategic Plan by helping to meet a number of targets for regional jobs, investment and export earnings.”

Ms Gago said the Government recognised that pulses were increasing in importance as a valuable crop in the state’s Mid North.
“Lentils currently earn South Australian farmers between $55-75 million at the farm gate,” she said.

“The export of South Australian-grown lentils is going from strength to strength.

“The development of this processing and storage facility will add value for growers, and deliver social and economic benefits for the region.”
Australian Milling Group spokesman Roger McQuire welcomed the government’s support.

“We appreciate the South Australian Government’s assistance in developing infrastructure for this project,” Mr McQuire said.
“Work will commence immediately.

“What it means is that we’re value adding to pulses that are grown in South Australia.

“Instead of bulk shipping peas, beans and lentils overseas for sorting and packing, we’ll colour-sort them and package them here.

“That translates to more local jobs.”