The Cotton export market is highly competitive and when it comes to quality Australia needs to be the world's best. To realise this goal, the whole of the Australian Cotton supply chain must continuously improve its supply of premium upland cotton. Cotton spinning mills already recognise that Australian cotton has desirable fibre characteristics and low contamination. These attributes increase efficiency for spinners and they actively seek Australian cotton and are sometimes prepared to pay a premium. To maintain this reputation continuous improvement across the whole supply chain is essential. The Australian cotton industry and CSIRO have expanded investment in post-harvest cotton processing research. The aim is to discover ways of maintaining and enhancing the quality of cotton produced by Australian growers. Field to Fabric is a formal three day course run in Geelong, Victoria and has been attended by participants from the length and breadth of the supply chain. They have included Agronomists, Growers, Researchers, Ginners and even students studying design. The course provided participants with an opportunity to see firsthand how cotton is processed from a bale into fabric. At Geelong they have both full scale and miniature versions of the equipment used in cotton processing factories used overseas including drawing and carding machines, spinning frame, weaving machines, and dyeing facilities. Understanding how these processes occur helps participants understand the importance quality standards and how our actions impact on the chain. The Australian cotton industry will benefit from a focus on its customer's needs and a desire to exceed their expectations. . Participants receive the opportunity to interact with leading researchers on all aspects of the cotton production pipeline including global perspective, fibre properties, agronomy, picking, ginning, classing, marketing, yarn formation, fabric formation and dyeing and finishing. A strong emphasis is placed on the impacts of fibre quality on textile processing. Information is

presented by way of lectures and practical demonstrations using the modem commercial cotton spinning and processing equipment available at Geelong Facility. The course is constantly updated with all practical suggestions considered, to ensure that the course stays relevant and current.The' field to fabric 'course is one activity that the industry is undertaking to increase knowledge of cotton quality. It comes highly recommended by all who have participated.