More than 500 farmers, advisers and industry representatives converged on BCG’s Main Research Site on the Sunraysia Highway, Birchip, for the 2025 Main Field Day.

A highlight of the day was the acknowledgement of the Hunt family, with Bronwyn and Geoff Hunt inducted as BCG life members, and their son Dr. James Hunt presented with the prestigious Harm Van Rees Award by Harm himself.

The honours were warmly applauded by the large crowd, recognising the family’s long-standing contribution to agriculture and the Birchip Cropping Group.

The event also featured insights from host farmer and agronomist Spencer Weir, who spoke on behalf of his family in the warmth of the marquee. Spencer answered questions from BCG chairman John Ferrier on the paddock history and more generally on the Weir farming enterprise, including their decision to transition from fine wool Merino sheep to continuous cropping.

“It is great to see the trials and results in your own back yard, including the soil pit, which has provided some great insight and learnings for us,” Spencer told the crowd.

“It’s also been good to give back to BCG and support all the great work they are doing, both in research and in bringing people to the community.”

Alongside the recognition and reflections, the day showcased hands-on trial tours, expert presentations, and discussions on disease control, herbicide innovation, yield optimisation and soil management.

Attendees also enjoyed a delicious hot lunch prepared and served by Mrs. Kristy Knights and Year 9 and 10 students from Birchip P-12 School, while making the most of the many networking opportunities and the trade stalls set up around the gathering area.

A full report and photographs from the day will feature in the “Buloke Times” next week. 

This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 12 September 2025.