A new integrated field and laboratory complex at Merredin in Western Australia has been launched as part of the WA Government’s $9 million contribution to the New Genes for New Environments project.


Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman said the facilities would place WA at the forefront of agricultural research and at the forefront of environmental research with the exploration of genetically modified traits to improve crop varieties to better cope with climate change.


The facilities will enable the evaluation by both public and private research organisations of genetically modified traits under Western Australian conditions, and in a contained testing environment built to regulatory standards.


The Minister said a trial by CSIRO was underway at the site to examine the characteristics and genetic potential of several lines of GM wheat and barley, with the new facilities attracting interest from both public and private organisations.


“The New Genes for New Environments facilities have attracted enquiries from organisations throughout Australia looking to develop more productive and reliable varieties for the grower and better grain quality for consumers,” he said.


A similar facility will be completed at Katanning ready for the 2012 growing season. This will provide two contrasting environments with varying rainfall, length of season and soil types from which to evaluate breeding material. Both facilities are designed to conform to the strict national standards of the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator.