The Australian cotton industry has undergone remarkable change over the past three decades. In the latest episode of Australian Cotton Stories, growers and industry leaders reflect on the evolution of the industry and what they think the future will look like.
From advances in irrigation and water management to new technologies that support on-farm decision-making, the way cotton is grown today looks very different to the early days of the industry. Grower Frank Deshon recalls those early years simply as "hectic" - a stark contrast to the systems and tools available to growers today.
Technology has been a major driver of that transformation. As grower Craig Saunders explains, innovations such as mobile phone irrigation and self-steering machinery have changed the way farms operate, helping growers make more informed and efficient decisions.
Research and development have also played a critical role. From improved irrigation design and monitoring technologies to advances in integrated pest management, decades of industry collaboration have helped growers continually improve productivity while reducing environmental impacts. The results can be significant, with Craig noting that some seasons on his farm now require no insecticide applications at all.
But while the technology has changed, the people and culture behind Australian cotton remain central to its success.
Throughout the episode, speakers reflect on the industry's willingness to share knowledge, learn from one another and work together to solve challenges. Whether it's growers, researchers, industry organisations or service providers, there is a shared belief that progress is achieved by bringing people along on the journey.
That collaborative spirit has helped shape the industry over the past three decades and continues to fuel excitement about what comes next. As Janelle Montgomery from CRDC says, "Some of those changes we're going to see in the next 10 years are going to blow our minds."
Watch the latest episode of Australian Cotton Stories to hear firsthand how innovation, collaboration and a commitment to continuous improvement have helped shape the Australian cotton industry - and where that journey may lead next.
Previous instalments of Australian Cotton Stories explore themes including sustainability, farming families, biodiversity and more. Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube so you don’t miss an episode.
Australian Cotton Stories is produced by Cotton Australia
Directed by Sam Weight
26 June 2026