By Dillon Shelley
BLOSSOMING as spring graces the Goulburn Valley, vibrant swaths of bright yellow adorn the rolling hills of Dookie. As these fields burst into life, they not only contribute extensively to the agricultural sector, a backbone of our local and national economy, but also provide a breathtaking spectacle for locals and tourists alike.
Despite the beauty, canola farming in this region is confronting a challenging season ahead. Tony Kelly, Senior Agronomist at Advanced Ag, remains optimistic despite market predictions. “Hopefully, canola production remains stable,” he suggests. “It’s been a wet year, but scenarios have been looking better in the last month.”
According to statistics, Australia is set to see the gross value of canola production drop to $3.4 billion in 2023-24 after record highs. The potential downturn is attributed to a growing global oilseed supply that is outpacing demand.
Forecasters also predict a 9% dip in national canola prices for the same period, with an average price per tonne of $655. Kelly adds, “We’re hoping to avoid frost. The yield should be reasonable and it’s likely to be a profitable year despite June setbacks due to double the usual rainfall.”
Whilst the fiscal figures are paramount for those within the business sphere, on the other hand, the striking yellow blossoms of canola herald the arrival of spring. Locals and tourists are drawn to this blooming landscape, which offers unprecedented scenic beauty. A sea of canola against the undulating hills around Dookie provides nature-lovers with an unforgettable feast for the eyes.
