Chris Warrick and Sudhan Shah walk through every on-farm storage option (bags, bunkers, pits, rings, sheds and silos), what each one suits, how to keep pests out, and what they actually cost per tonne.
Speaking at the 2026 Australian Grain Storage and Protection Conference, NSW grain grower and GRDC Northern Panel member Mark Swift emphasised the importance of due diligence when investing in grain storage.
Grain storage specialist Ben White demonstrates how to select and maintain oil in pressure relief valves on sealable grain silos.
The stored grain extension team have put together some key resources on setting up and storing grain in bunkers. Rather than re-invent the wheel, useful information resources from commercial suppliers of bunker tarps and equipment has been included.
As silos age, growers face a crucial decision: repair, retrofit, or replace. The first step is always safety. Grain Storage Specialist Chris Warrick advises that growers begin by checking whether the silo is structurally sound. Cracked or tilted bases, rust on critical joints, or weakened bolts and sheets can all compromise safety and increase the risk of collapse. Faulty hatches, ladders, and access points also need to be addressed to protect workers.
Australian growers are steadily lifting the standard of on-farm grain storage. In the past 15 years, average capacity has almost tripled – from about 850 tonnes in 2009 to more than 2450 tonnes in 2024. This growth reflects the importance of storage as part of the farming business model: capturing market premiums, smoothing harvest logistics, and safeguarding grain quality.
The latest Kondinin Group sealable storage report is here! Building on the 2022 review of grain silos, this updated report provides fresh insights, performance comparisons, and practical guidance for growers considering on-farm storage options.
The new findings highlight key changes in silo performance, sealing effectiveness, and best-practice recommendations to help growers make informed decisions when investing in grain storage infrastructure.
On-farm grain storage is playing an increasingly important role in cropping and other grain-related businesses. Q&A with Growers Tristan Nitschke, Andy Tucker and Brewer Drew Hennessy.
The journey from grain paddock to a pint of beer involves careful management at every stage to maintain quality and meet brewing standards. GRDC’s article, From Paddock to Pint, explores the critical steps in the grain supply chain that ensure high-quality barley for brewing. From optimal growing practices to specialized storage and handling, each phase is essential in delivering a premium product for the beer industry. This article highlights the close collaboration between grain growers and brewers, emphasizing how quality control from farm to brewery impacts the final product.
Discover the process that brings barley from the paddock to your pint.