- Published:
- Tuesday 19 January 2016
Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford today officially opened the new Plant Phenomics Victoria facility at the Grains Innovation Park in Horsham.
The Andrews Labor Government is investing $7 million in the facility which has been specifically designed to conduct advanced plant research with the purpose of driving productivity for the grains industry.
It includes a modern glasshouse and headhouse containing laboratory space, growth chambers, and an automated plant phenomics system, as well as a state-of-the-art imaging capability which is the only one of its kind in Australia.
This capability is used to quickly and efficiently measure plant growth, development and function which is critical to discovering and characterising traits such as drought tolerance and will help to underpin the development of new and improved grain varieties performing in a changed climate.
By characterising plant genetic resources and applying new genetic technologies, the Plant Phenomics Victoria facility will accelerate precision breeding of cereals, oilseeds and pulses and help build a more productive and profitable grains industry.
The Grains Innovation Park in Horsham is the major site of research and development for the grains industry.
The new technology will also help scientists prepare for, detect, respond to and manage plant pest and disease outbreaks, helping Victoria’s agricultural exports reach new markets.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford
“Our investment in this leading technology will boost the grain industry and drive productivity.”
“Enhancing, growing and safeguarding our food production is vital to improving our market access.”