One of Australia’s leading agricultural industries will gather on the Gold Coast from 6 to 8 August 2024 to network, learn and unite around the theme “Cultivating Excellence”.
With the number of participants growing each conference, organisers expect record attendance from a diverse range of delegates including cotton researchers and scientists, farmers and agronomists, marketers, industry organisations, spinners, brands and retailers.
According to conference chair Liz Stott, the challenge is to create a program that appeals to these diverse groups, ensuring the farmer voice is heard and is inclusive.
“In 2022 we had a record number of more than 2600 attendees at conference and they came to learn from more than 120 expert speakers on a wide range of topics from weeds and diseases to the drivers of our global market,“ she said.
“The committee is currently considering topics including cover cropping, renewables, carbon farming, climate forecasting, water surveillance, the performance of new cotton varieties, mental health and artificial intelligence applications for cotton.
“As conference will be held during the Summer Olympics in Paris, we will focus on how to achieve and maintain excellence in the Australian cotton industry and hear from those at the top of their game in a range of fields outside of agriculture.“
Apart from access to the latest research, updates and innovations, the Australian cotton conference is an opportunity to engage with topics away from farm life and to network with friends and peers.
The Australian Cotton Industry Awards will be a social highlight.
A free Kids’ Club will ensure families can attend, a special event will engage our NextGen, an Olympic Lounge will replay highlights from the Games, there will be opportunities for mental and physical health check-ups and a fashion parade will showcase Australian cotton brand partners on the catwalk.
“Our trade show exhibition is at capacity with more than 100 sites already booked, so delegates will also be treated to the best on offer in ag tech and innovation,“ Ms Stott said.
“All of this is made possible by the support of our sponsors and I am pleased to announce we already have major commitments from Foundation Partners CRDC and Cotton Seed Distributors as well as a host of other sponsors.“
The 2024 Australian Cotton Conference is hosted by Cotton Australia and the Australian Cotton Shippers Association and registrations are now open at www.australiancottonconference.com.au/register.
