With the design and production of an innovative mobile seed treatment machine and an exclusive pilot partnership with Elders in Western Australia, Bayer CropScience's commitment to the Australian seed treatment industry is clear.

The mobile seed treatment machine has been designed specifically for the Australian grain market to ensure that Bayer CropScience seed treatment products are applied in a correct, consistent and optimal way. Correct application is essential for highly technical seed treatments such as Gaucho® , Hombre® and Zorro®, to ensure that the farmer receives the best value for money.

Bayer CropScience's exclusive partnership with Elders allows this progressive agribusiness to operate the machinery and offer an exclusive seed treatment facility to their customers within the Western Australian market.

With only in pilot stage, the partnership is a win for Bayer CropScience and a win for Elders. Bayer can be confident that grain growers are receiving the optimum benefits and results from their seed treatment products whilst Elders has an opportunity to differantiate itself in the seed applied fungicide market in Western Australia and improve market share and margin.

According to Jim Forward, Elders Broadacre Category Manager, the pilot project has been a success. "Feedback received from the growers already indicates that this innovative project is a winner and that they are reaping the benefits. Every day, grower demand for the applicator increases. Bayer CropScience is to be congratulated, not only for introducing this concept to us, but in their work to make it happen.

Bayer CropScience Seed Treatment Business Manager, Peter Herold, said it is essential the seed industry has consistent standards in application quality. "We are the leaders in seed treatment, both in the area of actual product development and in setting standards for application and use. These are critical to the success of this industry. In addition, we supported the development of the current accreditation system for seed treaters, to ensure they are operating to an industry standard as well as guaranteeing that growers receive full benefits of our seed treatment products."