Bayer Australia: Crop Innovation at Locharba Field Day 2025

More than 100 growers, agronomists, and industry experts gathered at Locharba Research Station in Narrabri for the Bayer Crop Science Field Day to discuss the latest in crop research.

Field day attendees obtained an exclusive look at the latest advancements in crop protection and digital agriculture. The event highlighted Bayer’s commitment to supporting Australian farmers with innovative solutions to enhance productivity and sustainability.

One of the standout innovations was Thryvon^®, a groundbreaking insect-protected trait in cotton designed to reduce damage from sucking pests like thrips.

Dr. Kristen Knight, Bayer’s Insect Resistance Management Scientist, led discussions on the research behind this new technology. ″We’ve been evaluating this trait for the past seven years, and it’s a significant step forward for cotton protection,″ says Knight.

″An application has now been submitted for regulatory approval, with a commercial launch anticipated in the 2028/2029 season,″ Knight says.

Image: Thryvon update

Other key highlights from the field day included:

• Plenexos Speed^® Insecticide – A soon-to-be-registered multi-action insecticide targeting mirids, silverleaf whitefly, cotton aphids, and mealybugs.

• Alion^® Herbicide – A long-term (6-10 months) pre-emergent weed control solution ideal for agricultural fence lines.

• XtendiMax 2^® Herbicide with VapourGrip^® Technology – A low-volatility dicamba formulation designed for safer application in XtendFlex^® cotton.

• FieldView™ Digital Solutions – A data-driven approach to farm management, helping growers make informed agronomic decisions.

• John Deere ExactShot™ Planter Technology – A precision fertiliser dosing system that reduces waste and improves efficiency.

Image: Richard Jackman discussing Vayego Forte on FAW in Corn and Sorghum

Attendees also observed trials on plant growth regulators in XtendFlex cotton, herbicide drift simulations, and integrated pest management strategies for fall armyworm in maize and sorghum.

Bayer’s Locharba Field Day reinforced the company’s dedication to research-driven solutions that empower Australian growers to optimise yield, protect their crops, and drive sustainable farming practices.