In a significant development for Northern Territory agriculture, the Katherine Cotton Gin marked its official opening with a ceremony attended by over 150 people. The gin, set to start operations soon, is expected to play a key role in advancing the region's cotton industry.

The idea to reintroduce cotton farming to the territory came from an interest exchange between David and Bruce Connolly, who were inspired by cotton growing in their live export yard and the need for cotton seed as cattle feed.

The gin's opening was officiated by Alan Meyers, Chair of Tipperary Group, who thanked attendees for their support and emphasized the positive outlook for the enterprise and the local cotton industry.

The gin, capable of processing between 150,000 and 200,000 bales yearly, signifies new opportunities for the region, taking advantage of the Top End's heavy rain during the wet season to produce rain grown cotton.

David Connolly, General Manager of Tipperary, praised Myers for his commitment to the project. With 90 cotton growers planting for 2024, the gin is expected to be a hub of activity for years to come.