Blackville cotton grower Bruce Mennie has been named a finalist in the 2026 Bayer Cotton Grower of the Year and AgriRisk High Achiever of the Year awards, recognising innovation and sustainability in Australia’s cotton industry.
Mennie, of Dalara Pastoral Operations in the Liverpool Plains, is one of five finalists selected from across NSW and Queensland. The winners will be announced at the Australian Cotton Conference on the Gold Coast in August.
Cotton Australia chief executive Adam Kay said the finalists represented the best of the industry.
“These awards recognise the best of the best in Australia’s cotton industry, and this year’s finalists are all highly deserving,” he said.
Mennie has been recognised for his use of precision technology, targeted spraying and on-farm trials aimed at improving both efficiency and sustainability.
Supported by soil testing and integrated pest management practices, his operation has achieved steady yield improvements while maintaining a focus on long-term farm performance.
Kay said this year’s finalists demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement and sustainable cotton production.
“They represent a diverse cross-section of the industry – across different business sizes and production systems – but all share a commitment to continuous improvement and producing high-quality, sustainable cotton,” he said.
“These growers are leading the way in sustainable cotton production, embracing new technologies, refining their systems and investing in their people to ensure the long-term success of the industry.”
Kay also highlighted the role of strong workplace culture and community involvement among the finalists.
“What stands out this year is not just the innovation on display, but the focus on people – building strong teams, investing in safety, and supporting their local communities,” he said.
As part of the judging process, finalists will host industry representatives and previous award winners on-farm to provide insight into their operations and management strategies.
The Bayer Cotton Grower of the Year and AgriRisk High Achiever of the Year awards will be presented at the Australian Cotton Industry Awards Dinner on Thursday, 6 August 2026.
Registrations for the 2026 Australian Cotton Conference are open at www.australiancottonconference.com.au.
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