05/06/2025
🌾 Day 2 Plenary Recap –
This morning’s plenary explored the intersection of genetic resources, grower needs, and cutting-edge analytics in plant breeding.
🌱 Dr Sally Norton (Australian Grains Genebank)
Presented the transformation of AGG into a bio-digital resource centre, showcasing its vital role in conserving crop biodiversity and equipping breeders with genomic and digital tools to unlock trait potential. A standout example of how strategic partnerships and innovation are shaping climate-resilient agriculture.
👨🌾 Grower Panel: Connor Baker, Rob Bell & Shane Kay
A grounded and insightful discussion from three industry leaders, sharing their perspectives on variety selection, trait priorities, and the balance between grower needs and consumer demand. Key challenges included disease pressure, salinity, and genetic diversity—underscoring the need for continued collaboration with breeders.
📊 Dr Daniel Tolhurst (Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh)
Introduced a novel framework for disentangling genotype × environment interactions, helping breeders better select for stability vs performance across diverse environments. His new R package, GEtools, provides a valuable tool for capturing complex G×E dynamics and optimising both broad and specific adaptation strategies.
An inspiring session bridging data, application, and the voice of end-users.
