Camp Cotton has returned to Narrabri in 2026, with Cotton Australia hosting a three-day immersive event for 50 delegates from leading international and Australian fashion brands, retailers and NGOs.
The program began with the Australian Natural Fibres Forum in Sydney before moving to the Namoi Valley, where delegates from 18 countries gained a first-hand look at how cotton is grown in Australia and the research, innovation and sustainability practices behind the industry.
On-farm visits included Breeza Station and Federation Farm at Narrabri, alongside stops at the Australian Food and Fibre gin and Cotton Seed Distributors, giving participants a broader view of the cotton supply chain.
The group included 25 international delegates and 25 Australian representatives from brands, retailers and NGOs, with companies such as Big W, Country Road, J.Crew and R.M. Williams represented.
Cotton Australia Chair Liz Stott attended Camp Cotton for the first time this year and said the event plays an important role in connecting the people who grow cotton with the brands that use it.
“Bringing brands and retailers onto farm helps build trust in how Australian cotton is produced and gives them confidence in the sustainability behind the fibre,” she said.
“It also helps drive demand by strengthening those relationships and giving people a clearer understanding of the work happening across the industry.”
Australian Natural Fibres Forum 2026
Australia’s cotton and wool industries came together for the first time to deliver the Australian Natural Fibres Forum in April, marking a significant step towards collaboration, education and alignment across the natural fibre sector.
The forum brought together growers with brands, retailers and supply‑chain partners from 18 different countries to explore how natural fibres can work together to support sustainability, performance and transparency in a global market still dominated by synthetics.
Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the event represents an important shift for the industry.
“This is more than a forum - it’s a move toward a more united approach for Australian natural fibres,” Mr Kay said.
“Cotton and wool have traditionally operated in silos, but the future of textiles isn’t about competition between fibres. It’s about collective growth and shared learning, and better outcomes for brands and consumers.”
The forum focused on education and open dialogue, providing brands and retailers with deeper insight into fibre production, traceability and on‑farm practices.
“There’s a growing appetite from brands to understand not just what they’re sourcing, but where it comes from and why it matters,” Mr Kay said.
“By bringing cotton and wool together, we’re helping the industry make more informed decisions and tell a stronger, more unified story for natural fibres.
“From breathable cotton to temperature-regulating wool, these fibres each play a role in building more considered, functional wardrobes and product ranges.”
Mr Kay said the collaboration demonstrates Australia’s leadership in supporting a more transparent and connected global textile industry.
“By standing together, we’re showing that Australian natural fibres are part of the solution for sustainability, innovation and the future of fashion.”
The Australian Natural Fibres Forum was held in Sydney on 28 April 2026.
Watch the 2026 Australian Natural Fibres Forum recap video: