04 February 2004: Northern Downs’ producers will have the chance to see new grain sorghum and fodder varieties in the field and in their own area next week at two separate field days. The first, being held a Ray Griffith's property, 10km east of Dalby is being organised by Pacific Seeds territory manager, Maree Crawford.

"The field day begins at 4.00pm, with the trial being harvested at 4.30," she said. "Prior to harvest the public will have the opportunity to visually assess which grain sorghum variety they believe will win the trial and put an entry in."

"There will be a prize draw for those who choose correctly." Ms Crawford said among the topics addressed at the day will be how trials are conducted and how they impact on breeding programs and future hybrid releases.

"This trial included new variety Pac2404, which will give growers the chance see how it performs in their area. We will also be assessing it under a range of different plant populations to see how it performs."

Other topics will be addressed by guest speakers, Roger Henderson who will discuss the optimum time for spraying out grain sorghum. Andrew Johnston from SACOA will also be there to discuss new techniques for increasing sorghum yields, which will include IPM and biotechnology products.

The second field day will be held at 7am on February 12, and will deal with getting the best from winter feed programs using a variety of species throughout the year, as well as grain sorghum, fertilisers and an update on a trial involving planter types, fertiliser and plant populations.

"The day will start with breakfast at Dalby Rural Shed, Louden Road, and then on to a grain sorghum trial at Morrie Clark's property, just west of Satin Touch on the Warrego Highway," Ms Crawford said.

Producers interested in attending these field days should RSVP Maree Crawford or Melita Finch by the day before by phoning 0427 757 418 or 4690 2666.

Caption: One of the field days will feature a grain sorghum trial being harvested, the public will lbe invited to visually assess the trial and choose which variety will yield best.