8. The Untold Farming Revolution with Dr David Bowran

Dr David Bowran has spent a lifetime at the forefront of agricultural science, from early herbicide trials in the jungles of Sabah to leading Western Australia’s research into weed management, chemistry, and crop tolerance. In this episode, Bill dives deep with David into the real science behind herbicides, the myths that refuse to die, and the innovations that transformed broadacre farming. David shares candid stories from his decades in the field, including the rise of selective herbicides, the origins of IMI-tolerant crops, the controversy around glyphosate, and why understanding natural resistance is critical for the future. He also unpacks emerging risks in global agriculture, from biosecurity threats to the coming wave of autonomous and drone-driven farming systems. This conversation offers rare clarity and grounded scientific insight into one of the most misunderstood areas of modern agriculture. In this episode: • How selective chemistry reshaped Australian farming • The truth about glyphosate, DDT, and toxicity • The creation of IMI-tolerant wheats and why it mattered A must-listen for growers, agronomists, researchers, and anyone who wants to understand the real science driving Australian agriculture.