Australian Oilseeds Federation - Crop Report March 2005

Sunflowers 2004/05

Estimates have been revised downwards slightly as the anticipated Central Queensland crop has not eventuated. We are now forecasting the crop to produce just over 68,000 tonnes which is an improvement on the previous two drought affected years, but still well below the industry’s required production levels.

In Central Queensland the planting window is narrowing rapidly and we have dropped the potential area planted
considerably. It is currently estimated that around 10,000 hectares will be planted, however, this remains subject to suitable conditions.

The early crop harvest in northern NSW is complete with average yields of 1.8 t/ha. The late plant crops range from budding to petal drop and are in need of 50-75mm of rain, with the exception of a few irrigated crops west of Moree which are progressing well. Whitefly are plentiful, but do not appear to be causing economic damage.

The Liverpool Plains early crop is being harvested with good average yields. Some slow dry down has delayed harvest. The late plant crops are between flowering and budding, with the latest sown only at the 10-12 leaf stage. Recent storm rain has aided in alleviating moisture stress. Insect populations have also remained low at this stage except for whitefly populations which are quite high.

Soybeans 2004/05

Dry weather in Queensland has impacted the soybean crop and overall Australian production has been revised down by almost 10%. However, the decline, in both area and production, in Queensland is more significant. This has been partly offset by an upward revision of area planted in NSW.

Continuing dry conditions across much of Queensland has led to cutting and baling of some crops (particularly southern Queensland) and reduced yield prospects. On the coastal areas, the crops are under stress and there may be some further downside on yield in this region and across Southern Queensland. There is not expected to be much further loss of area due to crops being baled.

The NSW North Coast region is still looking good, although rain forecast for this week is needed. At this stage we have left estimates unchanged. The irrigated crops in the northern NSW regions have very good yield potential. The north west crops are relatively free of major insect worries, but may require another spray before maturity. The potential for the Liverpool Plains crop has been reduced due to crops that were sown on the late side not growing to expectations. The north-west slopes/tablelands crops are rapidly running out of moisture and the region is in need of 30-50mm to prevent yield loss.

The southern NSW and Victorian crops are in good condition and estimates remain unchanged. There has been little insect pressure.

Canola 2005/06

Canola forecasts will recommence in April/May.