23 May 2013
Field day gives sugarcane industry new ideas as the harvesting season approaches
Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS) and BSES Limited (BSES) the principal provider of sugarcane research and development are holding a field day on Thursday June 6 2013 to showcase the latest innovative trends in harvesting technology.
Mr Brad Hussey, Development Officer – Cropping Systems, Professional Extension and Communication Unit, BSES said that a series of informative seminars by some of the industry’s leading harvesting experts as well as a range of practical demonstrations will be held at the MAPS clean seed distribution farm.
“Harvesting is a critical step in the sugarcane production cycle. It can impact on raw sugar quality and crop yields, and ultimately the productivity and profitability of individual crops and the entire sugarcane industry,” said Mr Hussey.
“With harvesting season starting soon, this day is a must for growers and advisers who are looking to improve their current harvesting and farming practices.
“Chris Norris from NorrisECT will present information on cane loss at harvest and discuss the newly developed post-harvest cleaning technology. This technology allows harvesters to operate with a lower fan speed reducing cane loss, and then undertake further cleaning of the cane at the siding or mill.
“Steve Hegarty from Vanderfield Pty Ltd will talk on John Deere control systems such as GPS and Machine SyncTM technology. And lastly, Neville Toft from John Deere will present the next generation harvest equipment.”
While on the MAPS farm attendees can visit a number of sites showcasing the latest variety releases in the Central region and a fallow herbicide demonstration.
Cultivation machinery will also be shown as will a demonstration on canegrub control to highlight the importance of accurate insecticide placement.
Attendees can see first-hand the results of one of BSES’s recently completed harvesting projects – a mobile harvesting-loss measurement system which can accurately measure sugar loss in the field and provide results immediately.
“Projects like this are delivering outstanding results to industry by improving efficiencies,” said Mr Hussey.
“It’s important for growers and advisers to understand the new technologies that are available to them so that they can then start using them on-farm for better results.”
Event details:
Where: MAPS Distribution Farm, Off Nielsen Drive, via Peak Downs Highway,
Victoria Plains
Time: 7.30am – 12.30pm
The morning will start at 7.30am sharp with breakfast.
Attendees will divided into two groups and attend the seminars and demonstrations on a rotational basis.
Cost: Free
RVSP: By 29 May 2013 to Vicki Royal, 0400 593 153, vroyal@maps.org.au
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