Bayer opens wheat, oilseed breeding centre in Australia

Bayer CropScience's $14 million wheat and oilseed breeding centre officially opened at Longerenong College, Australia.

The state-of-the-art breeding centre is the first of its kind in this country and will focus on developing wheat and oilseeds varieties with higher yields and productivity improvements specifically for Australian agriculture.

Dr Jacqueline Applegate, Managing Director Bayer CropScience, Australia and New Zealand said the breeding centre has injected inspiration and capital into the Wimmera region.

“Already we are seeing the positive impact the breeding centre is having on agriculture both locally and nationally,’’ she said.

“We believe in Science For A Better Life; already our partnerships with the Victorian State Government, Longerenong College, Workco Ltd, Wimmera Development Association and the Horsham Rural City Council are enabling this.

“Together we are developing new technologies so farmers can become even more efficient and more sustainable, and thus contribute to feeding this hungry planet.

“We are also addressing the skills shortage in Australian agriculture by enabling young people with both the technology and the opportunity to learn from our scientists at our state-of-the art facilities.’’

The opening of the breeding centre confirms Bayer’s commitment to the future of Australian farmers and a vision for a profitable, sustainable and respected agricultural industry.