Production of high-quality seed continued into December in support of dryland growers taking advantage of the recent rainfall. In terms of the rest of the production area, the delinter is undergoing its annual maintenance, and a thorough inspection of the hydrochloric acid distillation plant has been conducted to ensure it continues to operate reliably as required. 

CSD has made an investment of colour sorters for the production plant. These colour sorters will help CSD reduce the levels of mechanical damage, by identifying and separating the smallest of colour and shade differences from almost any bulk material. This can help pick up any damaged seed and remove it from seed being treated. Work has commenced to install the colour sorters, and is due to be completed prior to production season next year.  

In terms of the laboratory, in the lead up to the current season 430 samples of grower carry-over seed were analysed. Effort is now focussed on supporting the Seed Increase Team by completing transgenic purity testing (ensuring the presence of the relevant GM traits in the seed produced for next season), which is being conducted on an estimated 33,792 leaves!