The 2025 Cotton Collective in Toowoomba wrapped up with the event featured expert presentations, a trade hall with new equipment, and discussions on the future of cotton.

Speakers highlighted emerging topics such as artificial intelligence in farming. Dr Stefan Hajkowicz from CSIRO’s Data61 encouraged growers to experiment with AI, saying, “You don’t actually need coding or technical knowledge to start using these tools—just do some simple, easy things to start with.” Global perspectives also stressed the need for collaboration to compete with man-made fibres. Joe Nicosia from LDC said, “Quit competing against each other and understand who the competition really is… the alternative fibres, man-made fibres.”

For many attendees, the event was also about connecting with peers. Discussions on family farm management, culture, and planning gave growers practical ideas they could take home to support their farms.

The 2025 Cotton Awards in Toowoomba recognised the best in Australian cotton. Bayer Cotton Growers of the Year went to Merrilong Agricultural Company, represented by Hugh and Jock Brownhill. Other winners included Tyson and Rosie Armitage (AgriRisk High Achiever), Grace Griffiths (CRDC Young Cotton Achiever), Dr Murray Sharman (Researcher of the Year), and Andrew Watson (Incitec Pivot Fertiliser Service Award).