Strong interest in the 2026 Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP) has led to the largest cohort in the program’s history, following an unprecedented number of applications for the industry’s flagship leadership initiative.

This year exceeded the previous record, with organisers receiving an exceptional field of applicants. As a result, the selection panel expanded the intake to 17 participants, up from the program’s usual 15 (Meet the 2026 Australian Future Cotton Leaders).

Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the continued demand reflects the strength and depth of emerging leadership across the sector.

“Each round we receive a very competitive group of applicants, and 2026 was no exception. The standard was extremely high, and extending the intake was the right decision to ensure we continue building strong leadership capability across the industry,” Mr Kay said.

Held every two years, the AFCLP is delivered by Cotton Australia with funding support from the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC). Since its establishment in 2006, the program has produced more than 130 graduates who now contribute to the industry’s performance, reputation, and long-term sustainability.

Applicants for the 2026 round came from across the cotton supply chain, including growers, consultants, merchants and researchers. CRDC Executive Director Allan Williams said the program demonstrates how leadership and innovation underpin the industry’s productivity and sustainability goals.

“Record demand for the AFCLP speaks to the passion and interest in working in our industry. By expanding the intake to 17, we’re investing in leaders who will convert their ambition into tangible productivity and sustainability outcomes,” Allan said.

“The program is hands‑on — it builds a strong peer network and learning through practical, real‑world projects. In partnership with Cotton Australia, CRDC is proud to back a cohort that will lead change on farms, in businesses, and across the industry.”

Leadership is a priority for the industry and Mr Kay said the AFCLP, along with the Australian Rural Leadership Program and Nuffield Scholarships, continues to strengthen the next generation of industry decision-makers.

“The appeal of the Future Cotton Leaders Program continues to grow, and it’s encouraging to see applicants from all parts of the industry putting themselves forward. This year’s group brings a wide range of experience, perspectives and ambition, which is exactly what the program aims to develop,” Mr Kay said.

In 2026, participants will take part in face-to-face forums, interactive online sessions, one-on-one coaching, and engagement with industry activities. They will also complete an individual project aligned with their interests, gaining experience in applying leadership skills in a real-world context.

Previous AFCLP graduates have progressed into senior leadership roles within the Australian cotton industry, including positions on the boards of Cotton Australia and CRDC, and on advisory committees and industry initiatives.

The 2026 program will conclude with a graduation ceremony at the Australian Cotton Conference in August 2026.

Meet the 2026 Australian Future Cotton Leaders

Full participant list:

• Emily O'Shannessy, CGS, Kununurra, WA
• Alexander Stephens, McVeigh Partnership Pty Ltd, MacAlister, LD
• Angus Dalgliesh, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Cloncurry, QLD
• Bridget Bender, AGnVET, Emerald, QLD
• Henry Perry, Perry Farming, Goondiwindi, QLD
• Jason Salvetti, Salvetti Farming Co, Arriga, QLD
• Lauren Roellgen, Tyunga Farms, Brookstead, QLD
• Liam Blackwell, Clark Farming Group, Billa Billa, QLD
• Ashley Hollis, Cotton Australia, Sydney, NSW
• Georgia Carrigan, Australian Food and Fibre, Warren, NSW
• Georgina Rowlands, Australian Food and Fibre, Ashley, NSW
• Hugh Lennon, Hancock Agriculture, Merah North, NSW
• Lachie Holz, B&W Rural Walgett, Walgett, NSW
• Jessie Schwager, Priag Marketing, Narrabri, NSW
• Megan Baker, CRDC, Narrabri, NSW
• Natalie Aquilina, Cotton Seed Distributors, Narrabri, NSW
• Sam Ryan, Wingbadge Pty ltd, Murrami, NSW