Estimates for durum have been increased, while there have been some small adjustments to some speciality grades.

AWB general manager Australian commodities Stuart Richardson said wheat and currency markets remained relatively stable this week, but the Australian harvest remained behind average pace because of poor weather.

“Our Eastern and Western Pool values are supported by AWB’s hedging and early sales program, which was possible because of the strong support from growers for the pool’s pre-commitment contract,” Mr Richardson said.

Mr Richardson said in this first year of deregulated wheat exports many growers were warehousing their wheat and taking their time to choose their marketing options.

“AWB has worked hard to provide choices for growers, and appreciate that in the current environment of falling prices, and uncertain quality in rain affected areas it is important for growers to study their options,” he said.

“Growers can be confident that AWB's pool return is not being negatively impacted if they elect to warehouse their grain.

“AWB has many years of experience in managing wheat exports from Australia and recognised that in a year of extremely tight carry in, with new exporting arrangements, early shipping logistics could be difficult.

“We have planned our sales and execution strategy around this possibility and are well placed to deliver a good result for growers who participate in our Pools.”

Mr Richardson reminded growers that AWB’s pools could close at any time.

“While warehousing provides growers with valuable time to assess their options, they should also keep in mind that opportunities could pass them if they take too long to make their marketing decisions this harvest,” he said.