Hamish Millar, chairman of the Australian Cotton Growers’ Research Association, says the uptake of new innovative science, technologies and farming strategies, which have changed the industry’s landscape in the past, will be just as vital in the future.

In his opening address to the 13^th Australian Cotton Conference on the Gold Coast, Mr Millar said the need for leading edge, focused research and targetted training and adoption strategies, will continue to challenge the industry.

“The need for R&D based solutions to the industry’s challenges of profitability and sustainability is high and increasing given declining terms of trade and threats to international competitiveness.

“Collectively, we need to maximise the achievement of outcomes and return on investment from our R&D effort to create a positive industry outlook. A new committed generation of skilled professionals to support our industry is also a critical issue for the future,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of clearly differentiating Australian cotton in the marketplace.

“Our competitors are continuing to lift their performance, with countries like Brazil, USA, China and India emerging as major players. We also need to consider and apply more effort to improving the marketability of cotton’s by-products, including improved quality characteristics of cotton seed oil for human consumption.”

He said research, development and extension must play a pivotal role if the industry is to remain competitive.

“We have a limited R&D budget to invest so it’s important that we target research that will give the greater return. The new CRC has provided the industry the opportunity to leverage other investment outside our current levy based partnership with the Australian Government.

“Investment in R&D is crucial to generate innovation in the industry and the overall research effort must be maintained. However, there is always room for better coordination and collaboration between R&D investors and providers. Research priorities should reflect the needs of growers and industry, as well as consumer trends,” Hamish Millar said.

He said the Cotton Conference was made possible with the generous support of foundation sponsors CRDC and CSD, and other major sponsors ANZ, DuPont, Case IH, Monsanto, NAB, Rabobank and Suncorp.