NSW Agriculture Minister, Tara Moriarty, opens the centre in Narrabri.
“The International Centre of Crop and Digital Agriculture in Narrabri cements NSW’s reputation as a regional, national and international agricultural research hub for ground-breaking grain research,” Ms Moriarty said.
“Using the high-tech facilities, researchers will focus on adapting crops for drought-tolerance, providing food security solutions and boosting the productivity of farmers.
“This facility also enhances collaboration between researchers and growers to progress our knowledge and practical implementation of robotic farming and data-driven agriculture.”
The University of Sydney Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Emma Johnston said the mission of the centre is bold: to help transform global food security, environmental sustainability and economic resilience.
“The research undertaken at the International Centre of Crop and Digital Agriculture will focus on adapting crops for drought and heat tolerance, providing sustainable food security solutions and boosting the productivity of farmers,” Professor Johnston said.
“We have been leading agricultural innovation at Narrabri for 60 years and we are focused on delivering for the next 60 years and beyond.”
The expanded research and teaching facilities will also benefit students who enrol in the updated Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree.
Dean of Science Professor Marcel Dinger said: “The facilities at this centre will help propel our researchers and students into the bright future of agricultural science.
“Our collaboration with industry in Australia and worldwide is critical for future global food security,” he said.
“The establishment of this centre is a real testament to the strength of our partnerships with the local community and with the agricultural industry,” Professor Dinger said.
“It is fair to take a moment to feel proud of what we’ve achieved here. This is only the beginning. We have big aspirations for this building and how it will support our research.”
