Cotton Australia’s Board, staff and the broader cotton community are deeply saddened by the passing of our Director Bruce Connolly, following an accident last month. Bruce passed away peacefully in a hospital in Brisbane, surrounded by his family.

Bruce was more than a valued member of our Board – he was a respected industry leader, a modern pioneer for cotton in northern Australia, and a passionate advocate for regional communities. His passing is a profound loss for the cotton industry and for agriculture in the Northern Territory, where his contributions have left a lasting legacy.

With decades of experience in broadacre cropping across northern Australia, Bruce brought practical knowledge and steady leadership to every role he held. As Farm Manager at Tipperary Group of Stations, he spearheaded the introduction of cotton into the Northern Territory crop rotation helping to establish cotton as a viable and sustainable industry in the region. His work was recognised in 2022 when he was awarded the AgriRisk High Achiever of the Year Award at the Australian Cotton Industry Awards.

Bruce was also a founding member of the Northern Cotton Growers Association and served as its inaugural President, helping to lay the foundations for the industry’s growth in the region. He gave generously of his time, expertise and energy, driven by a genuine belief in the potential of northern agriculture.

At the centre of Bruce’s life was his family. Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.

Bruce leaves behind a legacy of leadership, vision and service. He will be deeply missed by all of us at Cotton Australia and across the cotton community.

Liz Stott
Chair, Cotton Australia

9 April 2026