Nominations Open for 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards

Nominations have opened for the 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Awards, with the program to be held on a biennial basis from this year.

The awards, coordinated by Cotton Australia, recognise excellence across the supply chain, celebrating growers, researchers, service providers and emerging leaders who contribute to a productive and sustainable cotton sector.

From 2026, the awards will be presented every two years at the Australian Cotton Conference on the Gold Coast, with an expanded Grower of the Year Field Day to be held in alternate years.

Goondiwindi grower and agronomist Grace Griffiths, the 2025 CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Achiever recipient, says the program offers more than recognition. She says the award opened doors to leadership development, including a CRDC-funded role through the Australian Rural Leadership Program’s TRAIL initiative.

Cotton Australia Chief Executive Officer Adam Kay says the awards highlight innovation and commitment beyond the farm gate, showcasing contributions that strengthen the broader industry.

There are five categories open for nomination, with entries closing on April 2. To submit an entry, visit cottonaustralia.com.au/awards-nominations.