South Australian grower Brad Griffiths replaced NSW farmer and agronomist Frank McRae as chair of the association.
Mr Griffiths wants to grow the profile of the fodder industry and show its role as a useful commodity, regardless of seasonal conditions.
“As fodder growers, we don't want to be looking towards the next drought to demonstrate the value of our product,” he said.
“As an industry we are constantly working to improve the quality of our product — and well-made hay, silage and straw enhances livestock operations and helps them manage risk.”
A wet spring in most parts of the country will pose a challenge for fodder production this season, with growers and contractors keen to make the most of any dry weather windows.
Yield expectations are high, but the flush of spring growth and low national livestock numbers have halted fodder demand.
Mr Griffiths said this lack of market liquidity meant it was hard to accurately gauge fodder prices and that's why AFIA's hay report had been such an important business tool for members.
“The report is available nearly every week — distributed to all AFIA members — and it covers prices right throughout the country,” he said.
“If anything happens in the hay market, it's captured in the report as it includes price ranges, market and seasonal commentary.”
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