Farmers rejoice as 'once-in-a-lifetime' wet season follows drought

After years of successive drought, South Australian grain farmers are optimistic this year could bring bumper crops. Some properties have already received more than double their total rainfall for 2024 and 2025, with further rain at the start of August heightening the optimism for a big harvest. While frost remains a risk and several weeks of the growing season remain, the potential for a large grain crop in South Australia is now seen as massive.

On parts of the state's Eyre Peninsula, some farmers have received almost triple the rainfall they received last year. Dion Williams, a Streaky Bay farmer, said he had received over 400mm of rain this year, describing it as a staggering amount for the district. "I've been doing this for 28 years and I honestly feel like this could be a once-in-a-lifetime year."

Chris Lymn, whose farm at Wudinna grows lentils and barley, received more than 400mm of rain in 2026. He described it as a fantastic year, with conditions being perfect for crops to grow and be harvested early. "Early break, perfect conditions, crops in and up as early as you'd like to go — couldn't have asked for any better, really."

Miles Tomney from Cungena received an early break of 138mm in late February, more than his total rainfall for 2024 in one event. He said it might be a one-in-a-box event that might not be seen again. Confidence among South Australian farmers is up, with everyone hoping for a good crop despite the risk of frost.