NSW government to review Grain Harvest Management Scheme

In October 2013, the New South Wales government announced it would be trialling a Grain Harvest Management Scheme over the 2013-14 season.

It began on October 15 and will run until May 31 this year. With just two months to go, the Grain Harvest Management Scheme is now up for review.

Minister for Roads and Ports Duncan Gay said in a March 11 statement the review will look at what's working and what's not, and hopefully enable New South Wales farmers to get even more out of the program.

"Grain is one of our state's most important agricultural industries," explained Minister Gay.

"The Grain Harvest Management Scheme is our answer to the industry's calls for a practical and cost-effective program to help move grain to market more efficiently."

One of the best aspects of the program is that it gives eligible vehicles transporting grain during the summer months a "5 per cent flexibility on general mass limits".

New South Wales farmers will no doubt be aware how difficult it can be to observe weight limits when dealing with a "bulk commodity" such as grain. Minister Gay said that everything from "uneven surfaces in a paddock" to "changes in grain moisture levels" can impact how much it weighs and lead to problems.

Over 50 local councils dotted around New South Wales' grain belt are currently taking part in the Grain Harvest Management Scheme. Minister Gay is encouraging all of them to provide Transport for New South Wales with feedback so it can ensure the program is delivering "real benefits to farmers and others in the supply chain".

In order to protect your grain as it moves from "paddock to port more efficiently", you may want to consider organising crop insurance, which can cover grain that's damaged in transit.

This is just one type of farm insurance the team at Elders can provide you with. Get in touch with your local Elders Insurance agent for more information!