June 8, 2011

Biggest Australian rapeseed crop in a decade planted in Victoria

Australia's Victorian grain growers have planted Australia's biggest rapeseed crop in a decade.

A boost in subsoil moisture from a wet summer has given farmers the confidence to plant the oilseed crop, which is expensive to grow.

Department of Primary Industries grains branch acting director Chris Sounness says Victorian farmers will plant 100,000 hectares more rapeseed this year than last year.

"The main area that has actually increased is the Mallee. It's where a lot of rapeseed is going in, and that just reflects how adaptable the Mallee is," he said.

"In dry years, they tend to focus on cereals, and as soon as there's subsoil moisture, opportunities open up, particularly in rapeseed and some pulses."