Better sowing decisions supported by the Pasture Trials Network

The Pasture Trials Network (PTN) has hosted pasture variety trials across temperate Australia for more than ten years. Its provides free, independent, and reliable information about forage variety performance. This information assists advisors and producers to make informed choices about varietal performance to support sowing decisions.  

Advisors and producers can access trial results and search for varieties using the MLA PTN eTool. Performance information of over 100 pasture varieties relevant to the red meat industry can be viewed, including: 

• phalaris 

• chicory 

• cocksfoot 

• tall fescue 

• perennial and annual ryegrass 

• sub-clover 

• lucerne.  

The PTN eTool allows users to select the best-performing variety for their regional production needs. Additional tool filters, such as rainfall and soil type, can better support decision making. Varietal and seasonal performance is ranked, with tables and graphs available.  

Reports from each trial provide greater insights into: 

• geographic data 

• rainfall 

• weed and pest control 

• site-specific conditions.  

The eTool was recently redesigned to include new features and improve usability. 

Caption: Screenshots from redesigned PTN etool  

PTN has also launched a new website. It’s designed as a one-stop resource for pasture information and for staying up to date with PTN activities. 

Key updates to the website include: 

• PTN active trials list: Stay up-to-date about trials are in operation. 

• PTN events: Learn more about the program and where you can see PTN trials in action. 

• PTN members and trial operators: Learn about the PTN network and program scope. 

• Pasture resources: Easily access tools and resources to help remove guesswork from pasture variety selection. 

2025 PTN TRIALS 

PTN 2025 trials sowing has commenced and will take place across two sowing seasons.  

This year, 28 trials are scheduled, with new locations added. Regular consultations with seed company partners and industry allow identification of trial needs and sites. This process helps deliver the most relevant data for informed pasture choices. 

The 2025 trial program includes:  

• Dorrigo (NSW): Continental cocksfoot and lucerne 

• Angaston (SA): Sub clover and annual ryegrass

• Hamilton (VIC): Annual ryegrass, Italian ryegrass, and continental cocksfoot, continental tall fescue

• Wellcamp (QLD): Grazing oats

• Hamilton (TAS): Lucerne, perennial ryegrass, and Italian ryegrass.