Allied Pinnacle, Longreach Plant Breeders and The Arnotts Group have marked the success of the Soft Wheat Breeding Program with a partnership that will help secure the future of Australia’s soft wheat industry.

The newly named “Scotch” wheat, named after the much-loved Scotch Finger biscuit, is a more durable and sustainable soft wheat that has been developed for better yields and disease resistance.

Scotch Wheat is resistant to major diseases including Stripe Rust, Powdery Mildew and Yellow Leaf Spot, with the variety also expected to generate higher economic return per hectare, according to recent trial data. Meanwhile Scotch has outperformed many main season hard wheat varieties with a potential 10 per cent yield advantage over QAL2000, the current standard for irrigated soft wheat in Australia.

This success of the specialty crop has led to Scotch becoming the dominant soft wheat in the New South Wales Riverina region.

Allied Pinnacle CEO David Pitt said, “The Soft Wheat Breeding program has strengthened the relationships and scientific discussion between three industry sectors – wheat breeders, flour millers and food manufacturers to drive innovation. The program ensures access to not just the quantity, but the quality of soft wheat required to provide delicious moments to Australian consumers.”

The Arnott’s Group Chief Procurement Officer, Tom Vicars said, “Through our close collaboration with Allied Pinnacle, Longreach Plant Breeders, and our dedicated soft wheat growers, we have worked to successfully secure a sustainable supply of high-quality soft wheat.”

“This partnership not only supports the future of the soft wheat industry but also ensures that our iconic biscuits continue to delight Australian households with the perfect texture, taste and quality that our customers have come to know and love.”

Longreach Plant Breeders General Manager Neil Comben said, “Uncompetitive yields from existing soft wheat varieties have seen wheat growers focus on higher yielding hard wheat varieties, resulting in a decline in the soft wheat industry. Scotch improves yield, and is resistant to major diseases, making it a more sustainable and quality crop for Australian farmers. The program has ensured the future of soft wheats as a competitive crop.”

Allied Pinnacle, The Arnott’s Group and Longreach Plant Breeders have a 25-year strong relationship and are committed to ongoing varietal breeding, investing in a sustainable supply chain.