The latest 2010 Cotton Conference News.

Tuesday, 27th July 2010

GROSS MARGIN DATA TO CHALLENGE INDUSTRY THINKING

Namoi Valley cotton grower and Cotton Australia Director Andrew Watson will be an important speaker at the upcoming Australian Cotton Conference, with a set of data that may challenge current industry thinking.

Cotton growers generally chase the highest yields possible as a key to profitability, but Andrew instead focuses on minimising input costs and this has provided the best gross margins by far in his irrigated cotton system.

Andrew’s crops generally yield about 10.7 bales per hectare, below the golden mark of 14 bales per hectare, but his profitability is far higher with this new approach.

“The biggest change in our farming system has been that we don’t spray for pests, at all, and haven’t for three years. We grow transgenic varieties and have found that the populations of beneficial insects in our crops are doing the work of controlling pests for us, enough to make spraying not worthwhile from a financial perspective.

“We have less passes with the equipment so operator costs are also reduced and we’re not paying for expensive pesticides,” he said.

Andrew’s innovative approach to cotton production also sees less fertiliser and wider gear used and less water applied more often – all with the aim of bringing input costs down.

“We use less fertilisers, defoliants and growth regulants than the industry averages, and the bit we sacrifice in yield we well and truly gain in dollars,” he said.

Andrew is part of a comparative analysis group with nine growers involved from the Namoi Valley, from Breeza to Walgett. Two years of data has been collected, which Andrew will share at the Australian Cotton Conference in his presentation on Day One in the Farming Systems for the Future session.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 15th July 2010

GET CRACKING – THIS CONFERENCE HAS THE LOT

INFORMATION, experts and trade displays. This year’s cotton conference has the lot. Who knows, you might even be able to find a nice cold beer.

In total, 99 presenters will cover 78 topics – so if you’ve got an interest in cotton, it will be covered.

Leading researchers and experts from our own doorstop and around the world will be in attendance, and the trade hall will be brimming with exhibitors who want your business.

It will be massive – don’t miss out.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 15th July 2010

FAMILY FRIENDLY CONFERENCE

SPECIAL spousal delegate rates and a FREE kids club will ensure the 2010 Australian Cotton Conference is a family friendly affair.

At $200, the spousal rate is less than half the full conference delegate rate – and is available to spouses of ALL conference delegates, including those registered by other business entities and third parties.

 And to make conference planning easier for parents with small children, the Conference is offering a free Kids Club for the children of conference delegates - sponsored by Du Pont.

“This year the Du Pont Kids Club will engage children with a full program bursting with variety, choice and a mix of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for 0 to 14 year olds.

Activities will include face painting, body balance, hip hop dancing, indoor soccer and outdoor sports, jewellery making, DVDs, gift making, play dough, craft, role playing, bubble machine, dress ups, story time and colouring in. 

Du Pont Kids Club will be staffed by Busybodies. All staff are Blue Card accredited, first-aid certified, have experience with special needs children, are reliable, accommodating and flexible and most of all are fun, fabulous, energetic and full of smiles.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 15th July 2010

UNDER A MONTH TO GO – REGISTER NOW TO SECURE ACCOMMODATION

WITH JUST under a month to go until the Australian Cotton Conference, delegates are being urged to register now to avoid missing out on their preferred choice of accommodation.

The conference committee has secured a large number of rooms at Conrad Jupiters, Sofitel Broadbeach and the Meriton Apartments – but strong “early bird” registrations meant accommodation options were now becoming limited.

 These hotels and apartments were chosen for their close proximity to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and nearby facilities – and registered delegates had been taking advantage of the specially negotiated rates according to Conference Chairman, Cleave Rogan.

“It’s great that we’ve had such a strong rate of early bird registrations for the conference – but it does mean that the accommodation vacancies are filling up. This is particularly the case at Conrad Jupiters.”

“It really is a case of first in best dressed with regards the available rooms – and while there are plenty of other options in and around Broadbeach, the options we have chosen are very suitable for conference delegates,” Mr Rogan said. 

Conrad Jupiters is a 5 star casino hotel and is connected to the conference venue by a footbridge and walkway. The hotel features several bars and restaurants and full business facilities.

Also in the 5 star category is the Sofitel Broadbeach – located within easy walking distance to the conference centre and connected to Jupiters by a monorail. All rooms have either ocean or hinterland views.

The Meriton Serviced Apartments offer luxury self catering rooms – with full kitchen and laundry - in the heart of Broadbeach. The two high rise towers offer a choice of studio, or one, two and three bedroom apartments.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 15th July 2010

WOMEN IN COTTON COVERED AT CONFERENCE

According to WinCott Chair and cotton grower Barb Grey, Day Three of the Australian Cotton Conference will be especially interesting to all women in the cotton industry.

A line up of talented and interesting speakers and topics such as business ethics, leadership, the future of education and the health of farm families are sure to encourage the large number of women involved in cotton to attend.

 “The position of Australia’s women in executive decision-making positions is very much the hot topic, especially given the recent rise of women in to prominent leadership positions. Wincott’s focus is on the personal and professional development of women in the industry, and we want to encourage & support the many switched-on women who care about the industry and their communities to actively participate,” Barb said.

“The Conference is a three day feast of opportunity, with the final day particularly catering to topics that women might be interested in,” she said. Jane Walton, a skilled lawyer, ethicist, teacher, presenter, and an expert in corporate governance, board performance and organizational culture (and also a founding director of the St James Ethics Centre), will present a fascinating insight into business ethics and leadership. Clinical Associate Professor Sue Brumby from the National Centre for Farmer Health will look at the health of cotton families.

“Inspirational Jo Eady will lead a panel session with selected Future Cotton Leaders & industry identities, to provoke us in our thinking about the essence of leadership. Liz Alexander from Blue Dog AgriBusiness has just completed comprehensive grass-roots research, & will present her perspectives on what motivates and inhibits community people to engage with their local groups,” Barb said. 

“WinCott is also really keen to spread the word that while still male-dominated, the cotton industry is very female-friendly, offering great encouragement and opportunity for women who are prepared to have a go. Many women are nervous that their knowledge isn’t up to scratch, but women have a lot to offer and will be well supported if they want to get involved,” she said.

Senior year 10 and 11 agriculture students from Calrossy Anglican Girls High School in Tamworth will be providing in-kind support at the Conference, and WinCott’s AGM luncheon has invited Jane Walton as special guest speaker. Hear also from participants of the ‘Voices in Agriculture’ Leadership Program share their stories. All welcome.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 15th July 2010

MINING AND AGRICULTURE CAN COEXIST – CONFERENCE TO HEAR HOW

MINING could add long term benefits to rural communities if the agricultural sector “stopped feeling sorry for itself” and embraced the infrastructure and human capacity opportunities mining could bring to its doorstep.

That’s the view of Dennis Hoiberg, a consultant to Rimfire Resources who will be addressing the Australian Cotton Conference on the Gold Coast this August.

 Mr Hoiberg, who acted as project manager for the Australian Regional Agricultural and Mining Skills Project (ARAMS), said the rural sector should start selling the benefits of its communities to ensure people would stay after the “mining experience” had finished.

“In the short term, agriculture will not ‘win’ against mining. But if the regions get their act together and start thinking as a business, a more collaborative approach should deliver them a range of immediate and long term benefits.”

Mr Hoiberg said mining can bring strong economic support to rural communities and regional business, and could clearly aid with infrastructure development such as roads and community resources. 

“I am not talking about the fly in and fly out situations – which provide limited benefits to local communities.

“But, when done properly, mining provides a range of advantages by bringing work to the community – which can keep agricultural business economically viable in difficult times by providing alternative avenues of employment to rural employees and sometimes employers.”

“What the regional communities must focus on is its ‘social capital’ – building a community where people – especially school leavers - don’t want to leave and where people want to live. Building this “capital” required a joint effort from all stakeholders within the community.”

Mr Hoiberg said the contribution to this ‘social capital” of regional mining ventures generally came down to the commitment of individual mining companies to community development and sustainability.

He said problems were more often encountered where mining companies did not have the infrastructure for them to add any real value.

“And there is the risk that – in the event of an economic or commodity slowdown – it may not take much for some mining companies to withdraw at short notice, leaving employers in rural communities to survive by themselves.

“It really is the genuinely collaborative – long term approach that will achieve the most success for both the mining companies and the regional communities involved – and there are some excellent examples of this around Australia – where both parties took their responsibility for this long term relationship seriously.” Mr Hoiberg said.

ARAMS was a joint initiative between the National Farmers Federation and the Mining Council of Australia, and is funded by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.

Its objective was to develop strategies to attract, develop and retain a skilled workforce pool for both the agricultural and mining sectors.

Pilot exercises were conducted in the Upper Spencer Gulf, Townsville-Mount Isa Corridor and Central Plains of NSW.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 15th July 2010

RABO BANKS ON COTTON CONFERENCE

A sharp turnaround in seasonal and market fortunes has cemented corporate interest in this year’s Australian Cotton Conference – with strong sponsorship commitments, and a trade display area that will be “full to overflowing”.

Rabobank is one of the key long term conference sponsors who will be returning this year, and they say above average seasonal conditions and solid international pricing have increased optimism in the Australian cotton sector in 2010.

 “We expect cotton plantings in 2010/11 to increase by around 40 per cent – to almost 300,000ha,” said Rabobank General Manager, Country Banking Australia, Peter Knoblanche.

“This is more than four times the most recent drought-affected low of 2007/08. However, risks continue to remain as it is still early on in the season, and for expectations to be realised, rainfall is still required in the second half of 2010,” Mr Knoblanche said.

He believed an association with the Australian Cotton Conference helped the bank maintain a close working relationship with clients and cotton industry associations – and said there was great value in both attending and sponsoring the event. 

“Rabobank has a strong focus on knowledge based sponsorships. This helps us gain a further understanding of the key issues currently facing producers and the industry as a whole,” Mr Knoblanche said.

Rabobank has a long-term involvement with the Australian cotton industry and has sponsored the Australian Cotton Conference since 2006 – and previously the Australian Cotton Shippers Association national conference.

Mr Knoblanche said Rabobank had been a long tern supporter of the cotton industry

on both a farm and corporate level since the early days of the industry’s inception into Australian agriculture.

“As the cotton industry has grown, Rabobank has grown with it. The cotton industry is a leader in Australian agriculture as it has continued to proactively adapt and show flexibility towards key environmental and water issues facing its stakeholders.

“Rabobank will continue to support the cotton industry along the entire chain at all levels - growers, suppliers, merchants, and mills,” Mr Knoblanche said.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 24th June 2010

Fly in and Save - Early bird closes July 1

WITH JUST days left before “Early Bird” registrations close for the Australian Cotton Conference, organisers are reporting a rapid rise in delegate numbers – from a broad cross-section of industry.

The Early Bird discount provides savings of up to 12.5 per cent for conference delegates, and falls immediately prior to the end of the 2009/10 financial year.

 Conference chairman, Cleave Rogan, said this year’s early bird registrations provided all the indications that this year’s conference would be a roaring success – and he encouraged all potential delegates to take advantage of the savings on offer.

“The combination of strong cotton prices, and better seasonal conditions in many growing regions suggest we are going to see a swing back to cotton production this year, and this air of confidence appears to be rubbing off on potential conference delegates,” Mr Rogan said.

“We have already seen strong interest from a very wide cross section of industry.  Chemical and fertiliser companies, bankers, resellers, agronomists, farmers – you name it. 

“And we are also seeing keen inquiry and registrations from the post farm gate sector, including merchants, shipping lines, warehouse operators, international manufacturers and local brandowners,” Mr Rogan said.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL REGISTRATION INFORMATION<<back to top

 

Thursday, 24th June 2010

Dwayne twitters the Early Bird Discount!

Early Bird Poem!

Now there’s a well known cotton farmer

Who’s been absent since ‘0-8,

So when Cleave insisted “Bring Back Dwayne”

I had to go and find my mate.

It was a difficult assignment,

I looked every-bloody-where.

Seemed he’d ambled off in wetsuit boots

And just vanished in thin air.

But with Sherlock like persistence,

That’d left me tonguing for a bitter,

I finally tracked old Dwayno down -

He was posting blogs on Twitter.

As I read his pointed postings

I felt more and more amazed,

By the things my mate had seen and done

In the years he’d been away.

He’d been one busy cotton farmer

He’d been to all the world events,

So I wagered that he wouldn’t miss

The Aussie cotton conference.

He’d been with Kev at Copenhagen,

Then dodged Molotovs in Athens,

He’d seen eruptions up in Iceland,

He was right there when it happened.

He’d rocked out with ACCA DACCA,

At their concert in Des Moines,

He’d even cheered on Jessie Watson,

As she sailed around Cape Horn.

So I sent a simple message

Through the fabled “Twitter-verse”

To Dwayne – who was in Jo-berg -

Watching Socceroos rehearse.

It said “Dwayne I know your busy,

But there’s a gig you cannot miss

It’s called ‘Fashioning the Future’,

You’ve gotta put it on your list.”

“There’ll be a heap of ripper speakers

From Oz, America and such,

And in the fashion show on Thursday

They won’t be wearing very much.”

“And there’s something else you’d better know,

That’s bound to get you back.

The cotton market’s going nuts

So get your suitcase mate – and pack!”

Well Dwayne’s reply was simple

And the message very clear,

“That’s the gig that I’ve been waiting

For the last two bloody years!!”

So he twittered like a sparrow

To gain savings quite absurd,

And registered his interest

As Dwayne the “earlybird”.

SEE YOU AT THE COTTON CONFERENCE!!!”

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 24th June 2010

New/Dryland Growers well catered for at conference

COTTON prices at the magic A$500/bale mark have enticed dryland farmers from Northern NSW through Central Queensland to revisit the concept of moving at least a portion of their acreage away from grain production this summer.

Even with conservative yield estimates, Gross Margin models are returning more than A$500 per hectare for dryland cotton – which is well above the line-ball profitability available from sorghum production at current grain prices.

And with new seed varieties and agronomic techniques, the risk associated with dryland cotton production had decreased markedly in recent years.

According to Australian Cotton Conference chairman, Cleave Rogan, this was attracting a large number of new growers to the cotton industry.

“The Conference committee has recognised this interest, and have included a range of relevant topics for new and returning growers in our programme this year,” Mr Rogan said.

CSIRO cotton breeder  Dr Warwick Stiller will deliver a presentation on “Cotton Varieties for Limited Water Situations”, and he believed returning growers would find it much less stressful to grow dryland cotton in the current production environment.

“It’s fair to say there will be far fewer cost blow outs and less night work!” Dr Stiller said.

He said the key changes had revolved around the massive uptake in transgenic varieties in the last 10 years, and the wide variety of row configurations now being used in dryland farming systems.

“Ten to fifteen years ago, many dryland crops were grown in single skip and even solid configurations. In recent years, growers have moved to wider configurations, predominantly double skip but even out to super singles and wider to stabilise yields and minimize the technology licence fees and staple length discounts.”

“And as far as varieties go, many of the growers who tried dryland cotton back in the mid 90’s would have probably been growing Siokra V-16 – but we have come an awfully long way since then.”

“The massive uptake in transgenics has delivered a large suite of varieties that perform well in dryland systems.  Although not directly comparable, all of these varieties have yield, quality and disease resistance traits superior to Siokra V-16.”  (See Table)

Dr Stiller said the CSIRO was developing varieties with high yield potential, excellent fibre properties – particularly staple length – and enhanced ability to handle water stress.

They use both normal and okra leaf traits, generally coupled with full season maturity and a reasonable level of indeterminacy to give the plant the ability to take maximum advantage of in-season rainfall without cutting out prematurely.

A large amount of CSIRO’s effort has been directed at packaging the varieties with Bollgard II (BGII) and Roundup Ready Flex (RRF) in order to give the varieties both insect and herbicide resistant transgenic traits.

“It is therefore important that growers are aware of both the benefits and limitations of these transgenics. RRF is good for most weeds but not all, while BGII generally controls helicoverpa very well, but other sucking insects can be a problem.”

Other challenges include the potentially determinate nature of BGII cotton caused by high early fruit load.

Dr Stiller has been a member of the CSIRO cotton breeding team since 1995, delivering new varieties for all production regions with higher yield, better disease resistance and with fibre properties sought by spinners. 

He has developed a range of varieties specifically for dryland production systems, irrigated central regions and for disease resistance. 

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 24th June 2010

Value chain forum combines local expertise with international clout

LOCAL textile industry expertise will combine with International know-how during the “Branding Australia” forum at this year’s Australian Cotton Conference at the Gold Coast.

Peter Kreitals from Kreitals Consulting Group and Emer Diviney from Ethical Clothing Australia will share their views on strategies to shorten and ensure ethical supply chains and the growing role of Corporate Social Responsibility and the Environment in the textile sector.

They will join a strong line-up of international speakers including Bob Antoshak from FC Stone in the USA, who will discuss global textile sector performance and  John Cheh from Esquel Enterprises in Hong Kong, who will share his experience on the quality and environmental performance of Australian cotton.

Esquel has been involved in the development of branded 100% Australian cotton product, and is one of the world’s leading premium shirt manufacturers, with production facilities in China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Mauritius and Sri Lanka.

Given more than 95 per cent of raw Australian cotton is exported, one of the key challenges involved in branding “Australia” to the textile and retail sector involves supply chain management.

Mr Kreitals presentation will address some of these issues, drawing from his broad domestic and international textile and policy experience.

Mr Kreitals managed the Textile Clothing and Footwear (TCF) Council of Australia / Textiles & Fashion Industries of Australia during the 1990’s and the Australian TCF Technology Network from 2005 to 2009.

Internationally, Kreitals Consulting Group has represented the Fiji garment industry in its dealings with Australian industry, and has advised the Vietnamese textile and clothing industry (through VINATEX) on global trade issues.

“It is extremely encouraging to see the production end of the Australian Cotton Industry engaging with local TCF stakeholders in this way.  We see genuine benefits for all sectors through this sort of initiative, and I am looking forward to being involved in the process,” Mr Kreitals said.

Emer Diviney, the national coordinator of Ethical Clothing Australia - the joint business-union accreditation body for Australian-made textile, clothing and footwear products, believes consumer and buyers are responding increasingly well  to brands that go the extra yards on ethical and sustainable considerations.

"For a best practice approach, it's very important for brands to consider their entire supply chain, from the field to the shelf and take practical steps to ensure compliance down the whole line. In some cases, this will involve brands embracing a combination of accreditation and certification systems. "

Ms Diviney has a decade of experience in sustainable and environmental research, and combines a background within the fashion industry with her experience in the corporate social responsibility sector.

" Consumers are also responding favourably to our label because they can easily identify Australian- made products in the marketplace and use their purchasing power to support local production," Ms Diviney said.

The forum will also launch the Australian Cotton Industry’s new brand, which will coincide with product launches from a number of iconic Australian textile brands.

<<back to top

 

Thursday, 24th June 2010

Sydney Ports Cotton Conference Commitment ongoing

AN OPTIMISTIC outlook for the Australian Cotton Industry, and the synergies this presents for container trade are part and parcel of Sydney Ports Corporation’s ongoing commitment to the Australian Cotton Conference.

Sydney Ports have been sponsoring the Australian Cotton Shippers Association Conference, and now the combined Australian Cotton Conference since 2001, and according to Sydney Ports Senior Manager, Marketing, Jason McGregor, the event provides an unrivalled networking opportunity for industry.

“From our perspective, we see this event as an opportunity to provide direct support to the cotton industry, and also – it is obviously a great place to raise Sydney Ports’ profile.” 

“Containerised cotton exported out of Port Botany YTD May 2010 has increased 125% when compared to the same period last year with more than 80% of this growth generated from Thailand, Indonesia and Korea,” Mr McGregor said.

Mr McGregor said that this proven trade growth was being accounted for in the planning and investment in infrastructure that Sydney Ports was undertaking.

“Sydney Ports is investing in new infrastructure that will facilitate increased efficiencies in the supply chain- all of which will benefit businesses in rural and regional NSW who are exporting out of Sydney.

“The development of the $1 billion Third Container Terminal, once operational, will significantly boost capacity for exporters and importers.

“A new Intermodal Logistics Centre at Enfield will act as a hub for regional freight movement, and the building of the Southern Sydney Freight Line by Australian Rail Track Corporation will enable faster port access to support long-term trade growth,” Mr McGregor said.

Mr McGregor said Sydney Ports was concentrating on improving the supply chain as part of its paddock to port focus which will create enormous opportunities for businesses in regional NSW.

<<back to top

 

Friday, 28th May 2010

Conference sponsors see valuable opportunities for industry

Organisers are pleased to announce that 16 sponsors have already signed up to support the 15th Australian Cotton Conference, to be held on the Gold Coast from 10-12 August 2010.

The Conference would not be possible without this support, which contributes to keeping the registration price down so that the conference is affordable for everyone.

Australian Cotton Conference Committee Chairman Cleave Rogan, says that the support of all the sponsors is even more appreciated as we come out of the worst drought in living memory.

“We fully understand the pressures that these businesses have been under over the last six years, and know how difficult it is to chase the sponsorship dollar at these times.  Our conference is held at a state of the art facility, with costs to delegates kept to a minimum due to the support of our sponsors,” Mr Rogan said.

Foundation sponsors Cotton Seed Distributors (CSD) and the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) have been supporting the Conference since the very beginning, and see great benefits in the industry-wide event that’s in its 30th year.

According to Executive Director of the CRDC, Mr Bruce Finney, the organisation has been proud to be involved in supporting three decades of successful conferences.

“The Australian Cotton Conference above all gives the industry a sense of identity and unity of purpose through fostering connections between people, industry sectors and businesses.  This is just as important as sharing the latest research information and outcomes,” Mr Finney said.

“The sense of identity that the conference provides is empowering.  It supports a “can do” attitude that then allows the adoption of research and industry issues to be addressed,” he said.

According to General Manager of Cotton Seed Distributors (CSD), Mr Steve Ainsworth, the Conference provides an opportunity to have quality conversations with growers about the products and services that CSD is providing to the industry.

“The Australian Cotton Conference is focussed on one crop and, importantly, covers the production chain from seed to shirt. There is great value in this in that we get to understand the requirements and issues for those downstream of the grower, who’s needs we believe we know well,” Mr Ainsworth said.

“There is a strong commitment from the Board and Management of CSD to support the conference as we have done since the beginning. It’s a really worthwhile event that showcases the best of our industry,” he said.  

The Committee would like to recognise the following sponsors who’ve signed up so far:

Cotton Research and Development Corporation
A partnership between the Australian cotton industry and the Australian Government, to identify and fund cotton research and development for the benefit of the whole industry.
Foundation Sponsor

Cotton Seed Distributors
Australia’s largest supplier of cotton seed.
Foundation Sponsor

ANZ Banking Corporation
Awarded Australia’s best value agribusiness bank by CANSTAR CANNEX, ANZ has dedicated agribusiness and industry specialists through every regional brand. 
Major Sponsor and dinner sponsor of the 2010 Australian Cotton Industry Awards

DuPont
Supplier of agricultural products in Australia for over 50 years
Sponsor of the Kids Club, a free child minding service for conference delegates

• AWH Pty Ltd
• Cotton Catchment Communities CRC
• FC Stone Australia
• Hamburg Sud
• Logic Advisors/SFO Commodities
• Port of Brisbane
• Rekerdres & Sons
• Sunrise Resources

<<back to top

 

Friday, 28th May 2010

Chair of the Murray Darling Basin Authority to address conference

Chair of the Murray Darling Basin Authority, Mr Mike Taylor has been confirmed as a key note speaker for the conference session on Water Sharing for the Future: Industry, Environment, Communities, to be held on the first day.

Mr Taylor was appointed to be the inaugural Chair of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority in May 2009.  His Cotton Conference address will cover the development of the Basin Plan’s historical and legislative frameworks.

At Conference time the Basin Plan will be in its final stages of consultation and so it will be an extremely timely address for industry.

Q. What will your topic be at the Australian Cotton Conference?

A. The Challenges for Irrigation in the Murray-Darling Basin

Q.  Why do you think it’s important to address the cotton industry on this topic? 

A.  The Basin Plan will be a critical input to the Cotton Industry’s future planning

Q.    What do you hope to achieve by addressing the Conference? 

A.    Better information exchange and understanding of the Cotton Industry’s issues

Q.    Where is the Basin Plan development likely to be up to at Conference time and will there be any further opportunity for the cotton industry to provide input during the Conference?

A.    Once the Basin Plan has been released, there will be a 16 week consultation period for regions to provide feedback

The following provides a brief run-down on Mr Taylor’s address to the conference.

The Murray-Darling Basin is front page news on a regular basis as the extended drought over the past decade has highlighted many major challenges confronting the Australian community if it is to effectively and properly manage this critical national resource for the future.

Mr Taylor will comment on how the Authority is moving to ensure the Basin is better managed so as to ensure that the environment is improved significantly from its current state, while addressing critical human water needs and the economic and social wellbeing of people and communities dependant on the Basin for their livelihoods.

Scientific, technical and engineering expertise and initiatives will be fundamental to improving the environmental management of the Basin, and the address will specifically address these matters.

<<back to top

 

Friday, 28th May 2010

Conference aims to shorten supply chains

SHORTENING the supply chain will be a key aim of the Australian Cotton Shippers Association (ACSA) at this year’s conference, according to Chairman Mr Arthur Spellson.

Mr Spellson – who also acts as vice chair of the conference committee – said the industry was taking active steps to capitalise on the opportunity presented to bring growers, spinners and local brand-owners together under one roof.

“ACSA will again be encouraging strong representation from our direct spinning mill customers via the Export Market Development Programme. 

“Given this EMD incentive, plus the likelihood of a major rebound in Australian production next year, we are expecting very strong attendance from the Thai, Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Indian textile sectors.

“This not only provides us with an outstanding opportunity to showcase all that Australian cotton has to offer direct to our customers, but also provides local textile brand-owners an opportunity to meet with their immediate suppliers of yarn and fabric on home soil. As such, the conference committee has commenced marketing the conference to local brand-owners and we are expecting a strong response,” he said.

The CRDC is working closely with the conference committee to help co-ordinate a “Value Chain Forum” to cater specifically for the local Textile and Fashion industry.

Mr Spellson said this would dovetail nicely with some of the work that has been undertaken via the Premium Cotton Initiative. This has seen 2008 and 2009 crop Sicala 350B cotton had been used to manufacture quality yarns and fabrics, which are now being trialled by selected local and international brand-owners for use in 100% Australian cotton retail products.

“And we shouldn’t forget the successes we have already achieved with the Japanese Izumiya initiative and their Good-i brand for BMP cotton.  Izumiya will again be in attendance at the conference, which should provide networking and information sharing opportunities for local brand-owners to see how they can do it too.”

“Ultimately, these are the steps we need to take to develop ‘demand pull’ for Australian cotton – to help maintain our competitive advantage,” Mr Spellson said.

<<back to top

 

Friday, 28th May 2010

Who’s who of the Australian Cotton Conference

HERE’S THE MILLION dollar question....which current cotton industry identity attended and presented at the first official Cotton Conference in Goondiwindi in 1982 and has attended every one since?

The answer should be clear – Dr Greg Constable, Leader of the Plant Breeding Program, CSIRO and Stream Leader, CSIRO Cotton is a part of the very fabric of our industry.

With almost 40 years experience as first a research agronomist with the NSW Department of Agriculture, and then a plant breeder with CSIRO Plant Industry, Greg has seen many challenges in the industry come and go.

Currently involved in the coordination of about 20 cotton scientists in Canberra, Narrabri and Geelong, Greg also manages his own plant breeding program for fibre quality and yield, particularly for full season regions.  He’s seen the cotton breeding program almost treble in size and resources over the last 20 years.

“I was first based in Tamworth in 1970 because the Department of Agriculture were uncertain about the future cotton industry. I’ve been based at the ACRI in Narrabri since 1972, apart from three years in Canberra from 1978 to 1981. My role currently embraces plant breeding, biotechnology, agronomy, cropmanagement and processing,” he said.

Greg’s memories of the first Cotton Conference were of a drafty venue in Goondiwindi with most presentations focussed on agronomy and pest management.

“The Conference was held in the CWA Hall, a bit less salubrious than today’s conference venues, and was attended by lots of growers who were hungry for information as the industry was under rapid growth at that time.

“There were lots of presentations on entomology and pest management and my talk was on crop agronomy.  The Conference was a very constructive exercise in reviewing the research and technology available at the time.

“Conference technology was a little less advanced. I well remember John Barber, now a cotton consultant in St George, using his lunch wrapper, still with butter all over it, as an overhead during his presentation!

Greg’s current research is focussed on fibre quality, maximising yield and breeding varieties suitable for longer seasons.

“We also spend a lot of time matching new biotech traits with varieties and how to get the best fit in different cotton growing regions.

“After eight years of research and trial work, with CSD we should be launching two new high yielding varieties for the 2010-11 season, both Bollgard II/RRFlex varieties. It’ll be great to see all that work come to fruition,” he said.

As for the industry’s present challenges, Greg sees many of these stemming from the public’s misconceptions about cotton production.

“Our greatest resource challenge is water, and the reductions in water availability we’ve seen over the last decade are a result of drought and new policy,” he said.

“This means that one aspect of our research is to develop high value cotton that may maintain producer viability with less water, at the same time making sure that our cotton varieties are disease and insect resistant,” Greg said.

<<back to top

 

Friday, 23rd April 2010

Fashioning the Future – Glamour on the Gold Coast

The 15th Australian Cotton Conference to be held from August 10 – 12, 2010 will cater for the entire cotton supply chain, from the farm to the catwalk.

The comprehensive speaker program will include in-depth agronomy and on-farm research sessions, economic and textile market presentations from international experts and the always popular Sunrise Resources Fashion Show.

And as the cotton industry’s flagship event, the Trade Hall will offer exhibitors the opportunity to communicate their latest technology, innovation and services to an unrivalled suite of potential customers.

According to Conference Chairman Cleave Rogan, the proposed sessions and topics are the result of wide consultation with peak industry groups, cotton growers, researchers, shippers and the broader textile market.

“Over the years the Conference program has evolved from being mainly research-based to now hearing from growers and consultants themselves, marketers and consumers of our product,” Mr Rogan said.

“At the farm level, the number one issue this year is undoubtedly water sharing policy and how impending changes will affect the industry on the ground. We’ll be devoting a session to water management and the impact of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and buy backs on individuals and our communities. This will be paired up with lots of presentations from growers and consultants as to how they’re managing water at the farm level, with a good geographical spread and irrigated and dryland examples.

“Importantly, we’ll also hear from international guests about commodity and futures prices, which will be highly topical ahead of the 2010-11 season. Our spinning and retail customers will focus our minds on the world cotton market and what we need to produce to meet our customer’s needs,” Mr Rogan said.

<<back to top

 

Friday, 23rd April 2010

Changing Market Dynamics Bode Well for Conference Attendance

Market conditions point to strong interest from downstream cotton sectors in the Australian Cotton Conference again this year according to Australian Cotton Shippers Association Chairman, Arthur Spellson.

Just as cotton farmers have been benefiting from a bull run on the raw cotton market over the last 18 months, spinners have been able to pass on rising costs with similar increases in the yarn market, Mr Spellson said.

“It is one of those rare occasions where everything appears to be moving in the right direction simultaneously – and is a key reason why our cotton market has been supported on dips in price this year.

“Given these changing conditions, we are expecting very strong interest from throughout the textile supply chain in the conference’s market and economic sessions, and are in the process of lining up key local and international presenters,” Mr Spellson said.

The conference has already attracted international support, with Hong Kong based agency, Sunrise Resources committing to sponsorship.

Sunrise president, Urs Riederer said the conference provided a fantastic opportunity for growers, traders, spinning mills and the downstream textile industry to share market information and concerns in a diverse forum.

“Spinning mills have generally been able to do well in the last year, passing on higher cotton prices to their yarn buyers largely because cotton consumption world-wide contracted below actual needs due to tight credit during the 2008/09 bust resulting in a reduction in yarn inventories,” Mr Riederer said.

“When credit conditions eased with Government stimulus in many countries, these yarn stocks had to be replenished, resulting in a run on yarn in several countries and hence price increases in cotton could be passed on,” he said.

Mr Riederer said markets for ring spun yarns – which were used in woven and knitted fabrics - were generally doing better than the open end market, largely due to the declining global production of cotton with sufficient discounts to make open end feasible.

And while he was confident yarn prices would hold in the short to medium term, Mr Riederer was concerned the profitability of downstream industries was lagging the spinning sector.

“In terms of textile segments, spinning is doing by far better than let's say weaving, dying or finishing. Importantly, the retail sector is still reluctant to pass on any price hikes in cotton and cotton yarns, so it is just a matter of time until something has to give. At this stage, we expect it to be the cotton yarn price.”

In terms of raw cotton, Mr Riederer said there was good demand from spinners for Australian SM 1-1/8” Australian cotton at about 87.00 US c/lb CIF Far East markets – a level that was about five per cent below the market.

“There is also good demand for West African SM 1.1/8 in the 82.00 cents area. Indian and West African cotton have eaten away at Australian market share over the drought period – even though they do have contamination issues,” he said.

Mr Riederer said Brazilian cotton was now probably the major competitor with Australia outside of the USA – largely due to its very competitive pricing, which was currently pitched about 10.00 US c/lb below Australian.

ACSA will continue to work with Sunrise Resources and other corporate partners both in Australian and abroad to ensure a relevant and highly interesting program for all conference delegates.

<<back to top

 

Wednesday, 21st April 2010

Delegates to hear from Market Experts – Ed Jernigan confirmed as speaker

RECENT cotton price volatility is symptomatic of a new world order on global cotton markets according to FC Stone Australia managing director, Ed Jernigan, who will be addressing the 2010 Australian Cotton Conference in August.

Between February and April this year, the nearby cotton futures contract on the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) has traded a range between 78 US c/lb and 83.50 US c/lb – almost double the values achieved over the same period in 2009.

Mr Jernigan felt prices should be relatively well supported for the next 12 months, with strong raw cotton demand from Asian consumers and a lack of a carryover “cushion” in raw cotton stocks from the USA keeping the market buoyant.

He said these factors were behind the current market “inversion” – creating an unusual situation where prices for delivery of 2010 crop raw cotton were between 5 and 10pc higher than 2011 crop.

“Chinese Mills as well as most spinners around the world allowed their cotton inventories to be drawn down to minimal levels during the global financial crisis. As conditions improved, this stimulated a surge in imports by China and others.

“At the same time this was occurring the Global market was being influenced by a draw down in US ending stocks.

“The US - as the largest cotton exporter in the world - has for the past century held an extraordinary volume of ending stocks which provided a cushion to any supply issues. These stocks were ready to move into the world market any time prices advanced.”

Mr Jernigan said that at the end of 2007/08 the US held carryover stocks of 10.04 million bales, or about 26pc of world trade. By the end of 2009/10 US ending stocks are likely to fall to just 3.0-3.2 million bales.

“The supply cushion is gone. 35.6% of the projected world carryover is now in China, and there is a big question mark over whether or not the figures we are getting out of China are accurate.

“When the USA held the large block of stocks the market always felt that they had a cushion against any panic in supply. That has now changed,” Mr Jernigan said.

By the time he speaks at the cotton conference, Mr Jernigan said the unusual inverted price dynamic would almost certainly have changed – but felt the market would remain supported by strong global demand.

“Global consumption of fibres was hit hard by the Global Financial Crisis, but demand has since rebounded strongly – led by Asia. For example Retail Sales in Hong Kong in January soared 35.8% from year ago levels.

“This has benefited Asian Apparel Manufactures and has had a big impact on China. The China Keqiao Textile Index on April 5 reached the highest level in 17 months. Chinese Cotton Fabric Exports in February soared 58.2% from the depressed levels of a year ago.”

Going forward, Mr Jernigan expected increased cotton production in the Northern Hemisphere could start to impact markets later this year.

The USA looks likely to increase cotton acreage by around 15pc, with growers switching away from corn which has experienced sharp price falls in recent months.

<<back to top

 

Tuesday, 20th April 2010

Social Events

The Cotton Conference is not only a platform for the cotton industry to exchange knowledge, but also an opportunity to network with peers, friends and their families in a social setting.

The Gold Coast offers a multitude of opportunities for business and individuals to dine out, share a few drinks and take time out from a busy conference schedule.

• Welcome drinks, 6-8pm, Tuesday 10^th August in the Trade Hall (cost included in registration)
• Australian Cotton Industry Awards Presentation and Dinner, 6.30pm for pre-dinner drinks, Thursday 11th August

<<back to top

 

Tuesday, 20th April 2010

Reminder – Entries Closing for the 2010 Australian Cotton Industry Awards

Entries for the 2010 Australian Cotton Industry Awards close on the 30 April, so hurry and get your nomination in to Cotton Australia before the closing date.

According to the peak grower body there has been a renewed interest in the Awards this year, possibly due to a more positive outlook for next season.

"All of our sponsors have signed up again – Monsanto, AgriRisk, Cotton Seed Distributors and Bayer CropScience – this is a great sign of positivity in the industry and we are very grateful for the ongoing support,” Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said.

“These corporate partners have stuck with us during the drought and it really shows a high level of commitment to our industry to have such great support during what has been a tough time for everyone.

The 2010 Australian Cotton Industry Awards are open in five categories, with entry forms and criteria available at www.cottonaustralia.com.au.

• Monsanto Grower of the Year Award
• CSD Researcher of the Year Award
• AgriRisk Innovative Grower of the Year Award
• Cotton Australia Service to Industry Award
• Chris Lehmann Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award, sponsored by Bayer CropScience

For further information, contact Cotton Australia on (02) 9669 5222.

<<back to top

 

Tuesday, 20th April 2010

2010 Du Pont® Kids Club

To make conference planning easier for parents with small children, the Conference is offering a FREE Kids Club for the children of conference delegates. Sponsored by Du Pont®, this has proved a very popular service during past conferences, and allows all partners to participate.

This year the Du Pont® Kids Club will engage children with a full program bursting with variety, choice and a mix of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for 0 to 14 year olds.

Activities will include face painting, body balance, hip hop dancing, indoor soccer and outdoor sports, jewellery making, DVDs, gift making, play dough, craft, role playing, bubble machine, dress ups, story time and colouring in.

Du Pont® Kids Club will be staffed by Busybodies. All staff are Blue Card accredited, first-aid certified, have experience with special needs children, are reliable, accommodating and flexible and most of all are fun, fabulous, energetic and full of smiles.

Our website details the full program of activities and information on how to register.

<<back to top