The future of Australian cotton is in capable hands. Cotton Australia has announced the three outstanding finalists for the 2025 CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year Award, with the winner to be revealed at the upcoming Cotton Collective in Toowoomba this August.
This prestigious award, supported by the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), recognises young professionals who are driving progress and innovation across the industry - on farm, in research, and throughout the value chain.
Meet the 2025 Finalists:
Jacob Booby – Senior Account Manager, LDC, Narrabri
A graduate of the Future Cotton Leaders program, Jacob brings deep experience in agronomy, ginning, and marketing. He holds leadership roles across three Cotton Grower Associations (CGAs), helping to foster collaboration and regional connection.
Grace Griffiths – Grower, Agronomist & GIS Specialist, Digital Ag Technologies, Goondiwindi
Grace began her cotton journey at 16 and now plays an influential role across community, industry, and education. She founded 101 Ag Pathways to promote careers in agriculture and was Goondiwindi’s Young Citizen of the Year in 2024. Grace will also be a part of this year’s Australian Cotton Forum, sharing her story.
Blake Palmer – Soil Health Technical Lead & Regional Extension Officer, CottonInfo, Narrabri
A dedicated soil scientist and PhD candidate, Blake has contributed to several CRDC-supported research projects. His work focuses on translating science into improved soil health outcomes for growers across the Namoi region and beyond.
CRDC Executive Director Allan Williams added that the award is named in honour of one of the industry’s early agronomists, the late Chris Lehmann, and continues his legacy by celebrating the passion and potential of the next generation.
The recipient will be announced during the Cotton Collective Gala Dinner on 6 August, alongside the Bayer Cotton Grower of the Year.
June 2025