CENTRAL Queensland’s newly recruited Grains BMP (Best Management Practice) development extension officer Hayley Eames has wasted no time getting into the field since her appointment on January 18.
An agricultural science graduate from Latrobe University, Ms Eames spent the first week on the job attending spray technology workshops at Clermont, Capella, Springsure, Moura and Biloela.
Listed among her sporting interests is competitive open water swimming so Ms Eames has been unfazed after literally being thrown in the deep end to launch her career with the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI).
The position is funded by AgForce and Fitzroy Basin Association Inc (FBA) based on a three year contract to deliver Grains BMP project productivity and profitability goals.
Ms Eames will team with Central Queensland Grains BMP project leader Rod Collins in Biloela and will use her specialist expertise in crop water use efficiency to work with regional grain growers to implement improved farming practices.
During the initial 12 months of the Grains BMP project, 87 Central Queensland farming businesses undertook the Grains BMP self-assessment modules to address pesticide application; making the most of rainfall; property design and layout; integrated pest management; crop nutrition and soil fertility management.
Ms Eames will be liaising with FBA affiliated field officers Sara Cue and Kim Stringer from the Callide Dawson Catchment Association; and Vicki Horstman, a Central Highands Regional Resource Planning Group specialist Grains BMP officer in the delivery of the program throughout Central Queensland.
“The 2010 second round of Grains BMP workshop modules is open to all interested growers where the focus is on generating more money while demonstrating an on-farm contribution toward regional natural resource management,” Ms Eames said.
“I will be assisting growers to undertake the five voluntary Grains BMP modules and plan ways to incorporate improved farming practices. Some of the improved practices are eligible for cost-sharing funding made available through FBA and the Australia Government’s Caring for Our Country.”
Ms Eames said all regional grain growers were encouraged to take part in the Grains BMP on-line assessment modules on www.grainsbmp.com.au.
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