CSIRO researcher Steve Henry will be speaking at the 1 May 2026 GPA online update. Photo: GRDC

SOUTH Australian grain producers are invited to join an online information session on Friday as mouse activity continues to build across the state.

Grain Producers Australia will host the session at 7pm SA time, bringing together leading research and on-ground insights to support growers in managing the risk.

Yorke Peninsula grower and GPA Southern Region director Mark Schilling said the second online session for SA growers comes at a critical time amid seeding and the need to bait for mice.

“Growers are seeing mouse activity consistently growing in parts of South Australia, and we know how quickly that can escalate during seeding and in early crop development stages post seeding,” Mr Schilling said.

“This session is about making sure growers have the latest information and understand what tools are available, particularly as pressure starts to build.”

The session will include an update on GPA’s work with the CSIRO and the Grains Research and Development Corporation to apply to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority APVMA for an emergency permit for ZP50.

Victorian grower and GPA research, development and extension spokesperson Andrew Weidemann will give insight into the emergency-permit process and what information is being gathered from growers to support the application.

“Access to effective control options is critical, particularly when mouse numbers rise at a time when crops are most vulnerable,” Mr Weidemann said.

“We’re continuing to work through the formal process and this session is an opportunity to explain where things are at and what we need from growers.”

CSIRO research officer Steve Henry will also join the session, providing the latest research insights on mouse populations and practical management strategies for growers heading into seeding.

Mr Schilling said bringing research and grower experience together was key.

“Having Steve join us ensures growers are hearing directly from the research side, alongside what we’re seeing on the ground and working through from a policy and access perspective,” Mr Schilling said.

“We’d encourage growers to log on, ask questions and provide information to our online survey to support our emergency permit application process.”

Those wishing to take part in the update can register online.

Source: GPA