Since its inception in late 2020, TurfRND’s primary function has been to establish a leading turf research facility where the latest in turf genetics, technology and product innovation can be developed.
The journey to establish a leading research program from the ground up is a long one, but TurfRND is proud to share its progress and highlight how far its work has come in a relatively short period of time.
Stage 1 of the TurfRND program was to establish a controlled environment research glasshouse, which was achieved in late 2021.
This facility gives TurfRND a strong starting place to begin small scale experiments and glasshouse trials where controlling environmental conditions is essential.
It also has proved critical in the rapid expansion of newly imported varieties, such as IronCutter, from a single sample received in late October 2021, to having several hundred meters planted across 10 sites in Queensland (QLD), New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia by late January 2022.
Stage 2 of the TurfRND program will see the establishment of large-scale field trials at a dedicated research station.
This research station will house a substantial grass collection and form the basis of TurfRND’s expanding research operation.
The station will also have the capacity for small research projects in collaboration with TurfRND’s research partners, such as the University of Queensland and Syngenta. This is as well as any other third parties that engage TurfRND for their own independent turf research.
Stage 2 is currently underway and is expected to be up and running before winter 2022.
Stage 3 is a long-term plan to continue expanding the TurfRND Research Facility on an as-needs basis.
Having secured a 20,000 square metre block of land, TurfRND is well positioned to continue growing TurfBreed’s capabilities as breeding programs grow and more industry partners come on board.
For any questions on TurfRnD contact Dr Andrew Fletcher M: 0455 559 665 E: afletcher@turfbreed.com.au
TurfBreed’s Senior Research Scientist