Cotton farming is a family story - and for many Australian cotton growers, that story spans generations.
In the latest episode of Australian Cotton Stories, we meet the Porter family - third-generation cotton growers on the Darling Downs in Queensland. Father Brett Porter reflects, “I was born on the farm, and there was no other career in question.” The Porter family have been farming here since 1958, with each generation valuing what it takes to progress and support both current and future generations.
Brett’s wife, Louise, encouraged her children to explore life outside the farm:
“Our five children all had the opportunity to make a few dollars helping Dad out on the farm if they wanted, getting to know what it takes to be a cotton farmer while doing so. We were keen for them all to have an off-farm experience, which they’ve done through university and careers. Three boys later decided that they believe farming can add more value to their working and family life and are now giving it their best. I’d like to hope that our grandchildren get the same opportunities.”
Returning sons Mark, Grant, and Tom feature in the episode, noting that the cohesion of the family is what they’re most proud of day to day.
“We all have our key areas, [but] there’s plenty of overlap,” Grant says, with Mark noting that family consensus usually comes naturally because the priority is what’s best for the land.
Sustainability is central to their approach. Tom says, “We’re not here to upset the land, and ruin the earth that we’re on. We need it to be sustainable for us to exist. So we’re going to do everything we can to look after it.” Mark reflects on decades of progress: “It’s incredible to think of the change, from 1977 until now,” referring to improvements in sustainability practices on their farm, including better water retention and reduced insecticide use.
Finally, Louise reflects on life with three generations on the farm:
“I love seeing our sons more involved with the parenting role and supporting their wives to achieve in their careers. At times it can be challenging when the farm work is at a critical stage, and the days are long, but trying to keep weekends free is always aimed for.”
More than 90% of Australian cotton farms are family owned, with knowledge, values, and a deep connection to the land passed down through generations. These families live and work on the farms they care for - making long-term decisions that shape not just their business, but their communities and the wider industry.
Thank you to the Porter family for sharing their experiences with us.
Other installments of Australian Cotton Stories explore themes including data, history, and more. Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube so you don’t miss an episode.
Produced by Cotton Australia
Directed by Sam Weight
March 2026