It is with deep respect and admiration that we remember Ralph Schulzé AM, considered one of the founding fathers of the Australian cotton industry.

Ralph’s contribution to cotton began in 1960, when he undertook the first cotton agronomy trials at the Narrabri Research Station (now the Australian Cotton Research Institute, ACRI). His pioneering work helped lay the foundation for modern cotton farming in Australia.

His efforts in research, development and extension, both domestically and internationally, over the next forty years were instrumental in shaping the industry. Ralph's vision and collaboration with global experts brought valuable knowledge and expertise to Australian shores, fostering a thriving cotton community.

As the first Executive Director of the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) from 1990 to 2004, Ralph's leadership was pivotal in advancing research and development, ensuring the industry's growth and sustainability.

He had an unwavering commitment to progress and innovation, helping to establish or working closely with the industry bodies of the day: Cotton Seed Distributors, the Australian Cotton Growers Research Association, the first Cooperative Research Centre for Cotton, the Raw Cotton Marketing Committee, the Cotton Research Committee and the Cotton Research Council (the predecessors to CRDC), and the Australian Cotton Foundation (now Cotton Australia). He was instrumental in helping to organise the first Australian Cotton Conference, then served as a committee member for the next 22 years, chairing the Conference in 2000. He was also the instigator of the first World Cotton Research Conference, held in Australian in 1994.

In 2015, Ralph’s significant service to cotton research and innovation was recognised in the Australia Day honours with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).

Beyond his professional achievements, Ralph was a dedicated community member, advocating for rural causes and supporting local organisations. He was dedicated to his family, wife Merilyn and their children David, Danielle and Sarah Jane.

Ralph legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cotton growers and researchers. We honour his memory and celebrate his remarkable contributions to Australian cotton.