Western Australia's Grain Industry Shatters Harvest Record, Eyes $10 Billion Boost

Western Australia's grain industry is set to break its previous harvest record by approximately 2 million tonnes, driven by favorable seasonal conditions and a strategic shift from livestock production. The Grain Industry Association of WA (GIWA) projects figures to exceed 27 million tonnes, with its final report anticipated next month.

Record Projections Revealed

Michael Lamond, author of the GIWA report, confirmed that the harvest is largely complete, with an estimated 27.2 million tonnes. This volume surpasses the previous record set in 2022 by about 2 million tonnes.

Lamond noted that while the outcome was significant, it was not universally anticipated by farmers at the season's start, especially given a late start in northern areas like the Geraldton zone.

He also indicated that central areas may not achieve record territory. The increase in overall yields compared to 2022 is partly attributed to a higher volume of crops sown this season. In 2022, approximately 8.96 million hectares were sown, increasing to about 9.44 million hectares this year.

Farmer Perspectives and Economic Impact

Lake Grace farmer Royce Taylor, with 37 years of experience, reported his second-largest production year. He highlighted significant barley yields in the Lake Grace area, now referred to as the 'Barley Belt.' Taylor attributed the success to factors such as reduced sheep farming, increased hectares, improved varieties, and minimal frost.

Taylor estimates the large crop will contribute over $10 billion to Western Australia's economy.

Despite the record yields, Taylor also noted a global oversupply of grain, which could exert downward pressure on prices. Cathy Cooke, a grower from Mollerin, acknowledged that some areas, such as a pocket from Goodlands through north Kalannie to east Merredin, did not experience the positive harvest conditions.

Record Grain Receivals at Key Zones

Major grain storer and handler CBH Group reported record receivals across several port zones.

• The Esperance port zone received 4.05 million tonnes, exceeding its previous record of 3.7 million tonnes by mid-December. Paul Channon, zone general manager, confirmed that receivals aligned with their 4-million-tonne planning. On-farm storage, rail transport, and in-season shipping facilitated the record intake.
• In the Albany general port zone, 5.35 million tonnes were received, surpassing the previous zone record by 700,000 tonnes. General manager Will Piercey described daily receivals exceeding 150,000 tonnes as a substantial effort.
• The Kwinana South zone also recorded strong figures, with 4.6 million tonnes received, and out-loading operations already underway.

The final crop figures from GIWA are scheduled for release on February 13.