Benefits of adopting innovative nature and data-driven systems headlined the Bayer Grower of the Year field day held last month on Johannes and Scarlett Roellgen’s Darling Downs property.
Some 220 cotton industry enthusiasts toured Tyunga Farms, Brookstead at the Cotton Australia-hosted event, which showcased the achievements of the Roellgens, the 2023 Bayer Cotton Growers of the Year.
Mr Roellgen said the field day provided an opportunity to share knowledge gained from 30 years of innovation and testing new operating systems.
He told Cotton Australia’s Darrin Davies winning the 2023 Bayer Cotton Growers of the Year was a “humbling experience”.
“And, it can be a tricky thing to accept because you know that many of our neighbours are also very much on top of their game dealing with insects, dealing with nutrition, water use, efficiency and all those things.
“So, it’s quite humbling.”
The Roellgens assume a whole-farming system approach to boost efficiencies on all aspects of the operation, including water use, soil health and crop growth.
This work has enabled the family to maximise yields while cutting chemical applications and maintaining water usage.
The field day also showcased the work of 2023 AgriRisk High Achievers of the Year, the Skerman family.
Still surprised their Dalby operation was recognised, Ross and Daniel Skerman explained how data had driven their decision making.
“I think winning this award has come from just having an open mind and learning from everyone,” Ross Skerman said.
Daniel Skerman added: “There are a few things we do that I probably took for granted that everybody does such as the data collecting stuff or the way we’ve set up the business.”
Other speakers at the field day included environmental scientist Majella Mumford of Carbon Friendly, Cotton Australia’s supply chain consultant Brooke Summers and Kim Bowman from farm business management consultancy company, Agripath.
Mr Davies said the aim of field days was to learn, share knowledge and catch up with friends, which is something cotton growers value “immensely”.
He said all attendees engaged with interest, with the skill of listening instilled in the next generation of both the Roellgen and Skerman families.
“The biggest secret to success is having a talkative parent!” Lauren Roellgen said.
“Dad definitely likes to chat all things ag and cotton and the business, which really helps a lot in sort of transferring that knowledge.”
