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26/08/2026Watch the Highlights
Hear from growers, industry leaders and the Rabobank team on what a future-fit cotton industry means to them.
Innovation, global insights and industry leadership were in focus as cotton growers gathered to explore what lies ahead for Australian cotton.
The 2026 Australian Cotton Conference brought growers, researchers and industry leaders together under the theme Future-Fit Cotton.
From innovation and technology to global competitiveness, the event explored how Australian cotton can continue to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment. The strong presence of next-generation cotton growers highlighted the bright future ahead for the industry.
What Australia Can Learn from Global Cotton Leaders
A conference highlight for Rabobank was our session, Beyond Borders: Lessons from Brazil and Australia's Cotton Industries.
As agriculture becomes increasingly global, understanding developments across major cotton-producing regions is critical for growers navigating a connected and competitive marketplace.
The session explored Brazil's rapid rise as a cotton powerhouse, examining the drivers behind its growth, the challenges it faces, and what these developments may mean for the future of the global cotton industry. It also considered Australia's position within this evolving landscape, highlighting both differences and shared opportunities.
Rather than simply comparing competitors, the discussion focused on what leading cotton-producing nations can learn from one another and how collaboration may help strengthen cotton's position in an increasingly competitive global fibre market.
The session brought together global research, local expertise and practical grower perspectives through presentations, video and panel discussion.
Rabobank's Stefan Vogel, Head of RaboResearch, shared global market insights and a Brazil-Australia comparison, while Polly Saraiva, State Manager Queensland and former Regional Manager for Rabobank International in Brazil, provided firsthand perspectives on Brazil's agricultural landscape.
Joining them on stage were growers:
- Andrew Watson, Kilmarnock, Boggabri
- Jen Seigmeier, Mungindi
- Jonathan Burrell, Trafalgar, Dirranbandi
Drawing on their experiences from the Rabobank Brazilian Cotton Tour, the panel shared observations on productivity, innovation, farming systems and the opportunities and challenges shaping cotton industries in both countries.
Together, their insights offered practical and strategic considerations for growers looking to position their businesses for the future.
Celebrating Cotton Industry Excellence
The conference concluded by recognising outstanding industry achievements at the Australian Cotton Industry Awards.
Congratulations to Rabobank clients Mitch, Mariah, Linton and Melinda Brimblecombe of Moira Farming, named the 2026 Bayer Cotton Grower of the Year.
We also congratulate fellow Rabobank clients, the Whittaker family from Warren, who were finalists for this prestigious award.
Looking Ahead
After three days of knowledge sharing, innovation and industry discussion, one message was clear: Australian cotton is well positioned for the future.
Rabobank is proud to support cotton growers and the broader industry as they continue to build resilient, productive and future-fit businesses.
Watch the Highlights
Hear from growers, industry leaders and the Rabobank team on what a future-fit cotton industry means to them.