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Cotton Australia CEO visits St George Growers No images? Click here Cotton Matters Cotton Australia’s recent General Meeting brought growers and industry leaders together to discuss key priorities for the year ahead, including seed quality, input costs, water management, telecommunications and training needs. Guest speakers Andrew McConville (MDBA) and Hamish McIntyre (NFF) provided national updates, while CGAs highlighted regional issues they want progressed. Latest NewsCotton Australia is hosting a webinar on Tuesday 2 December to help growers understand the new mandatory hearing test requirements, with Associate Professor Richard Franklin explaining what the changes mean on-farm, who needs testing and the timelines for compliance. The session will run online, giving growers the chance to ask questions.
Cotton Australia recently hosted its annual dinner with the NSW Opposition, coinciding with a significant day for the NSW Nationals leadership. Cotton Australia Chair Liz Stott welcomed guests and highlighted key issues facing the industry in NSW. The Queensland Government has announced the continuation of a 15% water discount for eligible irrigators, delivered through QRIDA. The $51 million rebate provides two years of price certainty and aims to reduce input costs. Cotton Australia is encouraging all eligible growers to apply for the rebate. On Monday Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay attended the St George Cotton Growers Association AGM, where growers discussed local priorities, including the ongoing search for a Regional Manager. Adam also visited local trial sites with CottonInfo ahead of the meeting. Applications close today for the 2026 Australia Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP). Applicants from across the supply chain who want to develop their leadership knowledge, skills and experience are encouraged to apply. The Queensland Farmers’ Federation marked National Agriculture Day with its annual breakfast in Brisbane, where the cotton industry was well represented by growers and QFF board members Aaron Kiely and Georgie Krieg, alongside NFF President Hamish McIntyre and Cotton Australia’s Adam Kay and Michael Murray. Queensland Premier Hon David Crisafulli delivered the keynote address, reflecting on his first 12 months in office and outlining his vision for the future of Queensland agriculture, including opportunities linked to the Olympics. Cotton growers are aware of the risks posed by off-target pesticide movement. It’s equally important to consider the potential impact on apiarists with bee hives near cotton crops. Cotton Australia encourages all growers and consultants to take a proactive approach to prevent any unintended effects on local hives. News in brief
Preventing Spray Drift Goondiwindi contractor Henry Perry says technology gives operators enough time to plan ahead and avoid risky conditions — but the responsibility still lies with the person spraying. |