More than 900 leading researchers, policymakers and industry professionals from 52 countries are in Perth to present and participate in the 3rd International Wheat Congress 2024 (IWC).

Hosted by Murdoch University, the five-day gathering presents a unique opportunity for global leaders working in wheat to come together and share pioneering research approaches, exchange ideas and spark future collaborative opportunities that will advance wheat research and production.

Featuring more than 280 poster presentations, breakout workshops and 70 selected speakers from the world’s largest wheat-producing nations, the event is showcasing vitally important themes, including:

• Achieving global food and nutrition security
• Driving sustainability in agriculture
• Research breakthroughs into climate adaptability
• Enhancing farmer profitability
• Breeding wheat varieties that are resilient to hostile environmental conditions
• Tackling diseases and pests
• The global wheat market and international trade

The IWC started on Sunday, 22 September at the Perth Exhibition and Convention Centre, and the inaugural session provided a platform to some of the global wheat community’s most impactful and influential leaders, who shared their unique insights and industry perspectives on the Australian grain market; WA’s agricultural landscape; the international wheat market; international research collaboration and its impact on R&D; as well international research approaches and advancements.

Murdoch University Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks, who spoke at the opening session, said the IWC will be closely watched by Western Australian wheat farmers, the local wheat industry and governments, with the staple crop making up 65% of the State’s annual grain production – generating $2-5 billion annually.

“Wheat has been the world’s principal cereal crop since the 18^th century,” Professor Deeks said. “So the viability, sustainability, and protection of the world’s wheat crops is of vital importance to all mankind.

“Murdoch University, through the Centre for Crop and Food Innovation and the State Agricultural Biotechnology Centre – both led by Professor Rajeev Varshney – is at the forefront of wheat research and innovation here in Western Australia.

“So we are delighted to bring this major congress here to Perth, bringing the best minds together to collaborate and innovate to ensure the future of the wheat industry both here in WA and globally.”  

Professor Varshney said the University was delighted to host so many key policymakers, industry shapers and research pioneers in Perth.

As challenges such as climate change and geopolitical instability threaten wheat production and disrupt global supply chains, it is essential to provide an avenue for global wheat producers to unite, to share their insights and to work together to achieve an international wheat industry that is more sustainable, more resilient, more adaptable and more equitable,” Professor Varshney said.

“IWC highlights some of the most important issues affecting wheat research and production. From sessions discussing the advancement of wheat genomics and innovative approaches leading to the development of climate-smart wheat, to environmentally sustainable wheat production and enhancing wheat’s resistance to pests or diseases, the Congress explores translational research approaches from around the world that provide tangible, positive impacts on farmers, producers, consumers and our environment.  

“I would like to extend my thanks to the national and local organising committees, which consist of senior leaders from the public, private and tertiary sectors across Australia, for their efforts in bringing this Congress to Perth. I would also like to thank our event sponsors for their ongoing support and for making this event possible.”

The inaugural session included presentations from Grains Research and Development Corporation Managing Director Mr Nigel Hart; Department of Primary Industries and Development Director General Ms Heather Brayford; International Maize and Wheat Improvement Director General Dr Bram Govaerts; Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research Professor Wendy Umberger, and Chair of the Scientific Board of the Wheat Initiative, Professor Peter Langridge.

For more information about the congress program, including sessions and speakers, is available via the IWC website.

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