The impact of Telstra's shutdown of the 3G Network and the seasonal spray drift risk were key points of discussion when St George district cotton growers met for their Annual General and General Meeting this week.

The well-attended meeting saw the re-election of Lucas Wuersching as Chair, Tessa Dimond transitioning from the role of Secretary to becoming a committee member, and the election of Elindre Lamprecht as Secretary. All other office bearers were returned.

Growers received comprehensive updates from CottonInfo REO Andrew McKay, Cotton Australia Regional Manager Sally Rigney, Cotton Australia General Manager Michael Murray, and Queensland DPI representative Sarah Rossiter, who explained how the Department will take a more visible role in managing and mitigating spray drift risks.

The President’s and Regional Manager’s reports highlighted the fantastic work the CGA has been doing in education, which has been paying dividends, with graduating students seeking work on district cotton farms.

Another long-term initiative of the CGA is its regular cotton farm tours, which not only allow visitors to St George to gain a first-hand understanding of the cotton industry but also raise significant funds for local organisations.

Cotton Australia updated the meeting on its efforts on behalf of growers, particularly in the areas of water, telecommunications, and spray drift mitigation. The St George district's fantastic levy contribution rate of 91% was acknowledged.