Raising the bar for barley production

Reaper CL combines Clearfield Intervix herbicide tolerance with outstanding yield potential, delivering around 8- 10 per cent higher yield than Maximus CL, Australia's most widely grown barley variety.

AGT-Reaper CL features a compact plant type and offers a quicker maturity and broader adaptation than Neo CL, making it well suited to all major barley-growing environments across Australia. The variety also provides useful resistance to both spot form and net form net blotch, adding to its strong agronomic package.

According to AGT barley breeders Dr Paul Telfer and Stewart Coventry, AGT-Reaper CL has quickly established itself as the most exciting new barley release in recent years.

"Barley growers looking to maximise yield need look no further than Reaper CL. In its first year of national variety trials testing in 2025, it immediately demonstrated its potential by winning more than a quarter of all barley trials conducted across Australia," Paul said.

The breeders said Reaper CL builds on the strengths of the highly successful Hindmarsh barley family (which has resulted in Latrobe, Spartacus CL and Maximus CL), known for its wide adaptation, high yield potential and compact plant type.

"Maximus CL has been an outstanding performer and has become Australia's most widely grown barley variety.

“Reaper CL delivers the same compact plant stature, Clearfield herbicide tolerance and broad adaptation that growers value, but with a remarkable 10 per cent yield advantage," said Stewart Coventry.

While both Reaper CL and Neo CL offer strong yield potential, trial data indicates Reaper CL delivers greater consistency across a range of seasonal conditions.

"What really sets Reaper CL apart is its yield stability. It has consistently performed across environments, particularly in lower rainfall districts and more challenging seasons, giving growers greater confidence regardless of seasonal conditions," the breeders said.

The variety's disease package compares favourably with current commercial options and further enhances its suitability across diverse production systems.

Reaper CL has been entered into the Grains Australia malt accreditation program and is currently deliverable as barley/feed, providing growers with immediate market opportunities while the accreditation process progresses.

With its combination of market-leading yield, broad adaptation, Clearfield flexibility and strong agronomic performance, Reaper CL is poised to become the leading choice for barley growers seeking to maximise productivity and profitability.

Seed of Reaper CL barley is now available from retailers and AGT affiliates.