Grains research, development and innovation in Western Australia have had a major boost today with the official opening of the new $11.5 million state-of-the-art scientific research facilities in Northam.
The Northam Grains Research Facilities have been purpose-built for applied grains research to specifically address WA production challenges.
The facilities features four new and five upgraded high-tech laboratories; new storage, preparation and processing rooms; a chemical preparation area; potting area; glasshouses; screenhouses; controlled environment rooms and cool stores; along with netted, fenced and irrigated field research plots.
The new assets and equipment will boost the State’s existing regional grains research capacity, and improve the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s ability to deliver projects in association with long-time partners, the Grains Research and Development Corporation.
Researchers from the public and private sector as well as universities are encouraged to use the facilities and work together to advance the State’s valuable grains industry.