Growers in Central Queensland have provided solid feedback on key topics for the industry’s future, as the Grower’s Voice and Carbon Chat Tour kicked off this week in Emerald and Banana.

Strong attendance and engagement from growers and industry left Cotton Australia and CRDC with important early guidance on the future direction of the myBMP program, traceability, the CRDC data platform and human rights. An open mic session also allowed local issues to be raised.

There was strong support for progressing the Australian Cotton Strategic Roadmap, with key feedback around ensuring the value proposition is clear for growers, that additional administration burden is limited and that there is supply chain transparency in terms of the premiums available for sustainable, traceable cotton from Australia.

“We’re really encouraged by the feedback which will be incorporated into our plans as the Roadmap becomes operational. It’s fair to say that we’re still in a research and discovery phase as we work out the best investments and direction for the industry and we’re committed to making the process as collaborative as possible,” Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said.

“The growers involved in these first workshops were positive, engaged and had excellent insights into what may work and not work for them and their farming operations. This is just the start of the consultation process, we are determined that the Roadmap is co-developed with our growers and really appreciate those that came along to share their thoughts,” Adam said.

The next stop on the Grower’s Voice and Carbon Chat Tour will be the Macquarie and Southern Valleys.

Macquarie Valley

• Wednesday 20 August: Nevertire Hall, 9:00am–12:30pm (followed by lunch and drinks) RSVP
• Wednesday 20 August: Condobolin RSL Club, 4:00–7:30pm (followed by dinner and drinks) RSVP

Southern Valleys

• Thursday 21 August: Blighty Hotel, 9:00am–12:30pm (followed by lunch and drinks) RSVP
• Thursday 21 August: Gem Hotel, Griffith, 3:30pm–7:00pm (followed by dinner and drinks at the Area Hotel) RSVP

More dates and locations will be shared soon, for more information contact your Cotton Australia Regional Manager or CottonInfo Regional Extension Officer.