Ricegrowers : Rice industry welcomes government R&D announcement

Funded through the government's Rural R&D for Profit program, the money will contribute towards critical research into the rice varieties and agronomic practices that will underpin a sustainable northern rice industry.

Ricegrowers' Association of Australia Executive Director Andrew Bomm said that this funding will benefit rice growers across Australia.

'This is a very welcome investment in the future of the Australian rice industry.'

'Having a sustainable northern rice industry provides us with an important additional source of rice to complement what is grown in the Riverina. This funding will ensure Australian rice can maintain access to key export markets through a diversified supply base.'

'It's also great news for our pioneering growers in the north, who need access to varieties and management practices suited to the different growing conditions in the north. There is still plenty to learn, and we can make great progress with this investment.'

'This will be a real shot in the arm for rice growers across the country.'

SunRice General Manager General Manager AGS, Growers Services and Agronomic Development, Tom Howard, said the funding would complement SunRice's ongoing investment in developing the North Queensland rice industry.

'Rice is growing in popularity among North Queensland cane growers as a high-end rotational crop and this funding will provide an important boost in supporting the work we're doing in ensuring the infrastructure, agronomic, supply chain and marketing support is in place to support growth.

'With its favourable climatic conditions, water supply and reliability, North Queensland is regarded as one of the most promising rice-growing areas outside of the Riverina. We're proud to be supporting the development of North Queensland's rice industry and this funding will help to strengthen the local economy and farming communities.'

Media Contact:

Andrew Bomm, RGA Executive Director - 0408 279 006

Tom Howard, General Manager, AGS, Growers Services and Agronomic Development - 0488 779 166