Impressive harvest results propel Croppers to first place in NSW wheat competition

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Greenhills Pastoral in Willow Tree near Quirindi, New South Wales, has emerged as the winner of the 26th annual Dryland and Field Wheat competition, claiming the top prize for wheat growers in the state. The winning crop, cultivated by Rob Cropper of Greenhills Pastoral, stood out among a competitive field of entries following a highly successful winter grain harvest across all regions. The harvest season saw exceptional yields, with receival figures indicating one of the best seasons in recent memory for many producers.

The victorious crop achieved an impressive yield of 9.5 tonnes per hectare and received high praise from the judges, according to AgShows NSW Wheat Committee chair, Stephen Hatty. Mr. Hatty highlighted the varying results experienced by grain growers across the state in the 2024 season, with some exceptional crops in favorable areas.

Judging for the competition spanned hundreds of kilometers from Crooble to Cootamundra, with stops at various locations including Gilgandra, Walgett, Hillston, Peak Hill, Barmedman, Cowra, Canowindra, Temora, Young, Gunnedah, and Moree to assess the crops. Organized by AgShows NSW, the state’s peak body representing 192 agricultural shows, this annual competition celebrates excellence in wheat farming across four regions before culminating in a state final.

In the Central region where Greenhills Pastoral was judged, Illinois Farms from Cowra and Anthony Harrison from Canowindra secured second and third place, respectively. The competition also featured the presentation of the TJ Dwyer Farming Excellence Award to Derrick Farming Co, honoring the late Tom Dwyer’s commitment by recognizing a farming operation that demonstrates similar dedication, attention to detail, and passion within its operations.

Stephen Derrick’s crop in Temora claimed the top spot in the southern region, with John and Derek Ingold from Cootamundra and Sam Gordon of Manton Pastoral at Young following closely behind. In the western region, G Hutchison & Son from Hillston emerged as the winner, with Greg Diener from Peak Hill and the Minogue family from Barmedman securing second and third place, respectively.

The northern region saw Crooble farmers David and Grace Quast take the lead, surpassing Ardmona Farming’s Roger and Sandra Pagan from Gilgandra and Walgett producer Peter Ricardo. Gunnedah’s Lambrook Pastoral Co retained its title as the state champion in the durum wheat category for the second consecutive year, with Merrilong Agriculture from Quirindi and Graeme McPherson from Moree claiming second and third place.

Suncorp Bank senior relationship manager Ben Graystone commented on the contrasting results of the season, noting the challenges posed by a lack of moisture and frost in the southern regions. The competition showcased the dedication and innovation of wheat farmers across New South Wales, highlighting their ability to maximize resources and produce exceptional yields.

Overall, the 26th annual Dryland and Field Wheat competition underscored the resilience and expertise of wheat growers in New South Wales, celebrating their achievements and contributions to the agricultural industry. Source: AgShows NSW.