INNOVATIVE METHODS TO ANALYSE AND SUMMARISE MILL DATA TO IDENTIFY SOME OF THE KEY FACTORS IMPACTING ON FARM PRODUCTIVITY IN THE HERBERT

PRODUCTION PEAKED IN the Herbert River mills in 2005 but since then productivity has declined. Analysis of mill data in the Herbert has successfully identified groups of farming enterprises with similar productivity over time and the major factors associated with these groupings. Timing of all operations, including planting, weed and nutrient management and harvesting, engagement with industry organisations and fertile soils with high CEC, were important factors that discriminated the small-farm-size-low producing farming enterprises from the small-farm-size high producing farming enterprises. This study has allowed Herbert Cane Productivity Services and SRA to design strategic adoption strategies for targeted audiences. Packages based on individual productivity drivers are being developed for growers whose business enterprise is greater than 175 ha. Small farming enterprises with productivity in the 75–85 t/ha will be involved in group extension activities. Growers in the target groups have been using QCANESelectTM to assist in planning, managing and implementing a new variety program to minimise the risk of disease and improve productivity.