Harvest starts on SA crops that 'have not had a setback all season'

Farmers on South Australia's west coast have begun the 2026/27 grain harvest, marking the earliest start in recent years. Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) predicts 11,591,000 tonnes of grain will be harvested statewide. The season started well with recent storm rain providing a boost for regions not yet harvesting. Jesse Chandler was the first to deliver a load of Commodus barley to the silos at Thevenard on September 24, followed by his brother Harlee, father Milton, and mother Tracey.

Milton Chandler reported it was the earliest harvest they had ever experienced, with their wheat sowing taking place on April 8. The Chandler family has been farming for 36 years and considers this season's crop to be in excellent condition. PIRSA's revised crop yield forecast for South Australia remains optimistic, despite increased disease pressure due to wet conditions.

The early start to the harvest has provided a significant advantage for farmers, who are eager to compensate for low grain prices and high input costs. Bunge, a major grain handler, had anticipated an earlier harvest due to the good start and early planting, and has seen an influx of workers to support the operation. Farmers are grateful for the favorable weather and anticipate a strong yield, despite the challenges posed by the wet conditions.