A grain grower in north-west Victoria has taken drastic action to salvage unusable fertiliser, toppling six silos worth an estimated $150,000 after the product inside became rock-solid.
Terry Kiley, based in the Mallee region, had stored hundreds of tonnes of fertiliser in preparation for the winter cropping season. But when the time came to use it, the product had solidified inside the silos.
“We just couldn’t get it out,” Mr Kiley said. “We tried vibrating the silos and drilling into the cones, but nothing worked. So we’ve pushed three over and are still deciding what to do with the other three. It’s desperate — but what else can you do?”
Growing Reports of Fertiliser Issues
Grain Producers Australia (GPA) has received numerous complaints this season regarding fertiliser quality. CEO Colin Bettles said the organisation is exploring possible actions and is in discussions with Fertilizer Australia.
“Our members have raised concerns about product quality,” he said. “We’re advising farmers to document everything — take photos, note the problems, and speak directly to their suppliers.”
While fertiliser manufacturers recommend storing the product in sheds due to its tendency to harden, many farmers continue using fertiliser-specific silos, which are more practical and affordable. These are still actively marketed by manufacturers.
Mr Kiley said his fertiliser, supplied by Koch Fertiliser Australia, had been the same blend he’s used for 25 years without issue. He believes the problem stems from a quality issue.
“They just cover themselves by saying not to use silos,” he said, frustrated by the company’s response.
Widespread Impacts Reported
NSW Central West grain grower Jarrod Amery has also faced significant challenges this season.
“One load in particular was terrible,” Mr Amery said. “We had to hire professionals from 500 kilometres away to try and vibrate the fertiliser loose from the silo.”
He noted that high moisture levels and excessive fine particles in the fertiliser likely contributed to the problem. His silo has buckled under the weight of the compacted material, and the fertiliser is now clogging his seeding equipment.
“We’re getting through just a few hectares before the rollers block up again — it’s been incredibly difficult.”
Mr Amery also sourced his fertiliser from Koch Fertiliser Australia and was initially told his case was an isolated incident.
“I pushed back on that,” he said, highlighting that others were experiencing similar problems.
Supplier Response
Koch Fertiliser Australia declined an interview with ABC Rural but acknowledged receiving complaints. In a written statement, Managing Director Ross York reiterated the company’s advice against storing fertiliser in silos.
“As stated on our labels and website, we advise against using silos or field bins for bulk fertiliser,” he said. “Due to its hygroscopic properties, the product can harden and lead to bin or silo failure.”
Industry Body Supports Warning
Stephen Annells, Executive Manager of Fertilizer Australia, echoed the warning, stressing that farmers store fertiliser in silos at their own risk.
“We’ve always maintained a strong stance — fertiliser should not be stored in silos. Growers take that risk themselves,” he said.
Australia uses around 5.4 million tonnes of fertiliser annually, sourced both domestically and internationally from countries including China, Morocco, the Middle East, and South America.
