Bayer Cotton Growers of the Year the Brimblecombe family with Cotton Australia chair Liz Stott and Bayer’s Mark Dawson at right.

• Cotton industry award winners
• Scholz named GRDC Northern Panel chair
• Rice industry awards announced
• Davey to lead Ricegrowers’
• Baker named Neil Fettell Award recipient
• Tay joins Grains Australia
• Hudson moves to Syensqo APAC
• New CEO for FFN
• Draper joins CBH
• Aus Seed Federation AGM
• New Cotton Aus directors
• McKenzie joins AgBiTech
• LAWD strengthens SA property footprint

Cotton industry award winners

The Brimblecombe family from Moira Farming in Queensland’s Lockyer Valley has taken out the cotton industry’s highest honour, being named the 2026 Bayer Cotton Grower of the Year at the Australian Cotton Industry Awards dinner held on August 6.

CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year – Alexandria Doyle with outgoing CRDC Executive Director Allan Williams and Deb Lehmann.

Growing cotton in rotation with vegetable crops, the Brimblecombes combine a long farming history with a focus on continuous improvement, people and workplace culture.

The Brimblecombes are actively involved in cotton and vegetable research and trials, working with organisations including Cotton Seed Distributors, CSIRO, the Queensland DPI and Griffith University, while also running their own on-farm trials to support innovation and better decision-making.

The AgriRisk High Achiever of the Year Award went to Rhys Herbert and Trish Carroll from Pastoral Properties (Cropping), Warra Warra, on the Darling Downs, where their irrigated and dryland operation has lifted yields by around 2 bales/ha over the past five years and improved fibre quality through better planting timing and careful variety selection.

Cotton Seed Distributors Researcher of the Year – Dr Katie Broughton with CSD CEO Dr Ian Taylor and Cotton Australia Chair Liz Stott.

Their integrated weed management strategy includes camera spraying to improve accuracy and reduce chemical use.

Louis Dreyfus Company Emerald-based grower services representative Alexandria Doyle was named the CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year.

Ms Doyle is president of the Central Highlands Cotton Growers and Irrigators Association and has contributed to agronomy, grower engagement, and community leadership.

Cotton Seed Distributors Researcher of the Year went to Katie Broughton for her groundbreaking work on how cotton systems respond to climate variability and environmental stress, helping growers better manage seasonal risk in a changing climate.

Over 19 years, Dr Broughton’s field-based research has improved industry understanding of water-use efficiency, crop management and yield stability, with current work on novel plant growth regulators offering new tools for both irrigated and rainfed cotton systems.

AgriRisk High Achiever of the Year – Rhys Herbert and Trish Carroll (centre) with Cotton Australia chair Liz Stott (left) and AgriRisk’s Heidi Flanagan.

Scholz to chair GRDC Northern Panel chair

The Grains Research and Development Corporation has appointed eastern Riverina grower and agribusiness leader Murray Scholz as chair of its Northern Panel for a three-year term.

Murray Scholz.

Mr Scholz succeeds outgoing chair Arthur Gearon, whose term concludes on August 31 following more than 10 years of service on the Northern Panel, including the past four as chair.

“Murray is a highly respected grain grower and industry leader who brings a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Australian grain growers,” GRDC Board chair Sharon Starick said.

“His experience in agricultural innovation, combined with his commitment to grower-focused outcomes, makes him very well placed to lead the Northern Panel over the next three years.”

Since joining the Northern Panel in 2023, Mr Scholz has contributed valuable insights on grower priorities and the role of research, development and extension in driving productivity and profitability.

A grain grower for more than 40 years, he has also been actively involved in industry organisations including Riverine Plains, the Southern NSW Cropping Solutions Network, the Graham Centre Industry Advisory Panel and Nuffield Australia.

“The Northern Panel is a great team that is committed to delivering for growers, and I am honoured to have been appointed chair,” Mr Scholz said.

SunRice Grower of the Year Award winners Chris and Kate Morshead of Amberley Pastoral Co.

Rice industry awards announced

Australia’s leading rice growers, researchers and industry partners gathered in Barham to celebrate excellence across the sector at the 2026 Rice Industry Awards, presented as part of Rice Connect 2026.

The CY26 SunRice Grower of the Year Award was presented to Chris and Kate Morshead of Amberley Pastoral Co near Yenda, recognising their innovation, commitment to sustainable rice production and leadership within the Australian rice industry.

Amberley Pastoral Co is a diversified 1200ha irrigated farming enterprise built on continuous improvement, long-term planning and a willingness to embrace change.

This year, the Morsheads transitioned their entire rice program to aerobic production, demonstrating the potential to improve water productivity while maintaining strong yields and profitability.

The CY26 Highest Grain Yield Overall was awarded to the Andrew and Leanne Cameron of Kiloran Farming for a yield of 15.4t/ha over 42ha, 3.15t or 26 percent above the regional average.

The Organic Crop Acknowledgement Award was received by Bill and Liz Barnhill of WR & EC Barnhill, yielding 10.3t/ha on 32ha.

Graeme Kruger and Laurie Arthur

The Yenda Producers Specialist Grain Yield Awards recognised the highest-performing rice crops across each variety category:

• The Topaz Highest Grain Yield was awarded to the Cauduro Family of Carlisle Park, yielding 11.06t/ha on 31ha. This was 1.19T or 12pc above variety average;
• The Langi Highest Grain Yield was awarded to the Badoco Family of J & G Badoco Family Trust, yielding 12.59t/ha on 110ha. This was 2.12t or 20pc above variety average;
• The Koshihikari Highest Grain Yield was awarded to Kevin and Mary Warren of KJ & MT Warren, yielding 10.10t/ha on 74ha, 1.52t or 18pc above variety average.

Receiving the Grower Contribution to Industry Award was highly respected Western Murray Valley grower Laurie Arthur, an industry leader and advocate who has dedicated more than 30 years to advancing the Australian rice industry.

His contribution has spanned leadership roles within the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia, including as RGA president, as well as influential positions across national water policy, agricultural advocacy, and industry governance.

Mr Arthur also played a pivotal role in the growth and success of SunRice, serving as a director and later chair of its board for more than a decade, helping guide the grower-owned company through a period of significant expansion and international growth.

The Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia Honorary Councillor Award was presented to Graeme Kruger in recognition of his significant and longstanding service to the Australian rice industry and his outstanding contribution to the RGA.

During more than a decade as executive director of the RGA, Mr Kruger led the organisation through a period of significant transformation and growth, overseeing constitutional reforms, a major rebrand, strategic reviews and the strengthening of the Association’s governance and advocacy capabilities.

Davey to lead Ricegrowers’

The Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia (RGA) has appointed Perin Davey as its new executive director, bringing extensive experience in agriculture, water policy, stakeholder engagement and national leadership to the organisation.

Perin Davey.

Ms Davey is well known across regional Australia through her service as a Senator for New South Wales between 2019 and 2025 and as Deputy Leader of The Nationals from 2022 to 2025.

Prior to her parliamentary career, she built a strong reputation in the agricultural sector, holding senior roles with Murray Irrigation and serving on the board of the NSW Irrigators’ Council as well as previous work in communications, public relations, agribusiness and natural resource management.

“Perin brings a wealth of experience across agriculture, water policy and regional Australia, along with a genuine understanding of the communities we serve,” RGA executive director Graeme Kruger said.

RGA President Peter Herrmann said Ms Davey’s appointment reflected the Board’s commitment to ensuring growers remain at the centre of the organisation.

“Perin understands that effective advocacy starts with listening to growers and understanding the challenges and opportunities facing farming families and regional communities,” Mr Herrmann said.

“We are delighted to welcome Perin and look forward to working with her as we continue building a strong future for the Australian rice industry.”

Charles Sturt University’s Dr Felicity Harris, Agronomy Australia president and Charles Darwin University Adjunct Professor Muhammad Sohail Mazhar, 2026 Neil Fettell Award recipient Dr Ian Baker and Agronomy Australia executive officer Dr Sue Knights.

Baker named Neil Fettell Award recipient

Agronomy Australia has awarded Ian Baker the prestigious 2026 Neil Fettell Award at the 22nd Australian Agronomy Conference in Darwin, recognising his outstanding contribution to agriculture and his enduring commitment to developing the next generation of agronomists.

The award was presented by Dr Felicity Harris from Charles Sturt University, a long-time colleague of the late Dr Neil Fettell, at the Conference Welcome Reception at Northern Territory’s Parliament House.

“The Neil Fettell Award recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to the advancement of agronomy and, importantly, reflect the values demonstrated throughout Neil Fettell’s career, including a commitment to knowledge sharing, professional development and supporting emerging agronomists,” Dr Harris said.

“Ian’s career demonstrates the same commitment to ensuring that knowledge and experience are passed on to others, helping build the capability and confidence of those who will shape the future of Australian agriculture.”

Dr Baker’s career has spanned research, extension, industry development, agribusiness and consulting in Australia and internationally, including roles with the NT Department of Primary Industry, the NT Horticultural Association, Jabiru Tropical Orchards and North Australian Agribusiness Management.

Tay joins Grains Australia

Experienced technical research and commercialisation leader Guan Tay has been appointed Grains Australia general manager – technical market solutions.

Dr Guan Tay.

Dr Tay brings extensive leadership, research and commercialisation experience gained across industry, academia and international organisations.

Throughout his career, Dr Tay has translated complex scientific and technical concepts into practical, market-focused outcomes and has led multidisciplinary teams and large-scale research and innovation programs.

His background includes establishing and leading laboratory and genomics facilities, delivering industry-led innovation projects, and working closely with government, industry and academic stakeholders across Australia, the Middle East and Asia.

He also has experience supervising research programs and contributing to .the higher education sector through honorary adjunct appointments with several universities.

Technical market solutions is a core function of Grains Australia, providing technical expertise and outcomes that address market risks, support market competitiveness and ensure customers can confidently utilise Australian grain.

Dale Hudson.

Hudson moves to Syensqo APAC

Dale Hudson has been appointed to manage Syensqo’s fumigation accounts for customers across Australia.

Based in Sydney, Mr Hudson takes over from Mathew Murphy who had been acting in the role for some time.

Mr Hudson brings extensive experience in the sales and marketing of insect and rodent control solutions to the role.

He has a science degree majoring in chemistry and has worked in the agricultural chemical industry for over 10 years for the FMC, where he was most recently APAC general manager for specialty solutions, and Syngenta.

New CEO for FFN

Future Farmers Network (FFN) has appointed Leah Dennis as chief executive officer, following a nationwide search for the organisation’s next leader.

Leah Dennis

Ms Dennis joins FFN with extensive leadership experience across agriculture and the not-for-profit sector, most recently serving as CEO of the Australian Mushroom Growers’ Association, where she led significant organisational growth, secured substantial funding and expanded its national RD&E portfolio from two to more than 20 projects.

With a background spanning organisations including Cancer Council Queensland and the Sunshine Coast Hospital Foundation, Ms Dennis brings expertise in strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and organisational growth, along with a strong commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

FFN chair Lauren Roellgen said Ms Dennis’ appointment marks an important milestone for the organisation as it continues to expand its reach and impact across the agricultural sector.

“Leah brings extensive leadership experience, a strong understanding of Australian agriculture and a genuine passion for supporting the next generation,” Ms Roellgen said.

Mrs Dennis said the FFN played a “vital role in connecting, developing and empowering the next generation of industry leaders”.

“I am thrilled to be joining Future Farmers Network and working alongside such a passionate community of young people who are shaping the future of Australian agriculture,” Ms Dennis said.

Courtney Draper.

Draper joins CBH

Courtney Draper has been appointed head of market insights and sustainability at CBH Group.

Ms Draper has extensive experience in the grains industry, with both domestic and international focus.

Most recently, she has been leading the Australian Oilseeds Federation and the development of the oilseeds industry strategic plan with a focus on market access and market development, sustainability and industry capability and coordination.

Prior to this Ms Draper held the role of executive general manager of the Australian Export Grain Innovation Centre, which recently rolled into Grains Australia, and led the team in its delivery of strategic and operating plans for market insights and education, technical solutions and stakeholder engagement activities.

Ms Draper has also held roles at WA DPIRD, and is a lawyer by profession.

Aus Seed Federation AGM

At the Australian Seed Federation Annual General Meeting, the organisation welcomed its newly elected Board.

Ken Cunliffe

AgEtal’s Ken Cunliffe has been appointed president taking over from Tim March from Rijk Zwaan Australia.

The two vice presidents are Craig Myall, Synergy Seeds Australia, and Jason Agars, DLF Seeds Australia.

Georgina Fitzgerald of South Pacific Seeds AU and Charlotte Sutherland of UMS fill the director roles.

ASF has extended its thanks to Mr March for his leadership as president, as well as recognising Rowena Petrie and Dale Skepper as they conclude their time on the ASF Board, recognising the time, expertise and commitment they have generously contributed to ASF and the Australian seed industry.

New Cotton Aus directors

Andrew Coulton and Scott Balsillie have been elected to Cotton Australia’s board, while April Cavanagh has been re-elected at the organisation’s annual general meeting, held during the Australian Cotton Conference on the Gold Coast.

Scott Balsillie and Andrew Coulton.

Cotton Australia chair Liz Stott thanked retiring grower directors Bernie Bierhoff and Matt McVeigh for their dedicated service and contribution to the Australian cotton industry, acknowledging the significant commitment of both directors, with Mr Bierhoff serving for eight years and Mr McVeigh for nine.

She also paid tribute to Board member Bruce Connolly, who died earlier this year.

Mr Coulton is a third-generation cotton grower from Toobeah in the Macintyre Valley, and Mr Balsillie is the chief operations officer for Eastern Australia Agriculture in Dirranbandi.

Mr Coulton’s family has a long history in agriculture, and he brings a strong commitment to representing growers and the regional communities that support the industry.

Mr Balsillie, the 2024 Bayer Cotton Grower of the Year, also brings extensive industry experience and a strong record of grower representation, having previously served as president of the Dirranbandi Cotton Growers Association and as a grower representative at Cotton Australia general meetings.

McKenzie joins AgBiTech

Kerry McKenzie has recently joined AgBiTech as its senior technical and marketing manager.

Kerry McKenzie

He has over 30 years in experience in a broad range of roles including research and extension, providing advice to farmers across the northern grains region.

He is highly regarded for his pulse research and extensions roles with Queensland DPI and his own business PulseAg Consulting.

AgBiTech is a global leader in science based biological insect protection with the well-known products ViVUS Max, Fawligen and Magnet.

“I look forward to my role that will continue the long-held view of AgBiTech that the farmer comes first,” Mr McKenzie said.

Mr McKenzie will provide technical advice and support to farmers and agronomists to get maximum benefit from reliable and cost effective insect control products.

LAWD strengthens SA property footprint

National rural property, agribusiness and advisory firm LAWD has expanded its South Australian footprint, reinforcing its commitment to delivering specialist agribusiness property sales, valuation and advisory services across the state.

LAWD’s SA sales team is led by sales director Nigel Gosse, who has extensive experience across agricultural property transactions and longstanding relationships throughout SA’s agricultural sector.

The team has been further strengthened by the relocation of associate director Nathan Cleeland from LAWD’s Melbourne office to Adelaide.

Mr Cleeland brings experience across agricultural property sales, valuations and advisory services throughout Victoria and SA, having worked across a range of asset classes including grazing, irrigated agriculture, horticulture and institutional-scale farmland.

LAWD’s SA valuation practice is led by director Michael McNamara, a respected specialist in rural and agribusiness property valuations; supported by valuer Braden West and assistant valuer Jack Grundy.

“South Australia is one of Australia’s most important agricultural regions, with a diverse and highly productive farming sector that continues to attract strong interest from producers, investors and institutions alike,” LAWD chief executive Enda Foley said.

Got some People on the Move news to share? Send submissions to:

[email protected]

Grain Central: Get our free news straight to your inbox – Click here