Crops - version 2

Our sophisticated irrigation systems ensure crops receive optimal water distribution. These include:

• drip irrigation
• gravity T-tape
• hand-shift
• hard hose boom/gun
• trickle systems.

We also offer access to a variety of water sources for experiments that require specific water quality conditions, such as:

• potable water
• fresh creek water
• bores (low to medium EC)
• NA (nutrient-added) water
• STP (sewage treatment plant) water.

We offer programmable plot planters for both summer and winter crops, allowing precise and efficient sowing.

Our equipment ensures minimal soil disturbance and accurate planting depth, including:

• cone seeders
• broadcast systems
• no-till seeders (both pasture and crops).

The CFRU is home to specialised harvesters, both equipped with GPS for precise yield measurements and data collection:

• Zurn plot harvester for grain research
• forage plot harvester.

We support research in forage production and hay making. These tools enable researchers to study different forage crops, hay quality and harvesting techniques.

• disc mower conditioners
• sickle bar mower conditioners
• baling equipment (small and large square bales).

We provide access to AgWorld apps for crop monitoring and management, making it easier to track data, analyse trends, and manage trials efficiently.

We offer the opportunity to explore a variety of specialised topics, including herbicide-resistant weeds, fire ant management, bird control, bush food studies, and the management of weedy riparian zones using solutions like stem injection of herbicide and pellets.

Our GPS-enabled sprayers ensure efficient and uniform application of fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides, essential for managing field trials and ensuring the accuracy of research results.

Sprayer configurations:

• 2 metre
• 6 metre
• 15 metre.

Our precision farming equipment offers the tools needed to gather highly accurate and actionable data in areas incuding:

• crop growth
• cropy yield,
• soil conditions

Our GPS-enabled tractors, plot harvesters and drones are designed to enhance the accuracy of your research. 

Our drone technology, including scouting and spraying drones, enables real-time monitoring and precise application of treatments across research plots.

The CFRU provides access to a range of soil types, including heavy black high CEC clays and alluvial silty loams, enabling research into how different soil conditions affect crop growth, nutrient uptake and overall productivity.

This variety allows for tailored research into:

• soil management
• crop performance
• sustainability practices.

The CFRU is staffed by specialists who provide expert consultation in areas such as agricultural governance, biosecurity, weed management, and precision agriculture.

Our team also supports trial management and can assist with complex research designs.