During work conducted between 2003 and 2006 on the potential for genetically modified cotton to affect soil microbiota it became apparent that variety type can influence microbiology associated with the rhizosphere.

The potential for chilling conditions in many Australian cotton growing regions during early growth and development stages demonstrates the need for assessing cold tolerance of cultivars.

The Australian cotton industry has faced countless threats over the years and capitalised on many opportunities. We have a strong, resilient supply chain which is constantly evolving and adapting to change.

Cotton pickers with on-board module builders (OBMB) eliminates the need for boll buggies, module builders, the tractors, and labor needed to operate this machinery.

The Australian Cotton Industry has been actively practising insecticide resistance management for 25 years, with the introduction of the Insecticide Resistance Management Strategy (IRMS) in 1983.

Herbicide resistance is an ever increasing hurdle for sustainable agriculture, not only in Australia but worldwide.

Australian companies have approximately $500 million invested in Ginning Infrastructure in Qld and NSW.

We are now in uncharted waters as to our best way forward; are we just experiencing a dry cycle or is this, the permanent weather pattern for the foreseeable future - "Climate Change"; nobody really knows.

Data from last season was used to test the critical period for weed control approach for irrigated and dryland Roundup Ready Flex cotton crops.

High temperature stress adversely affects the growth, development and ultimately yield of cotton.

Our people resource in Australia's Agricultural industries is continuing to decline. We need to recognise that we are going to have to do more with less.

, While the cotton industry and irrigated agriculture as a whole has been battered by the continuing drought, industry leaders are looking to the future.

The purpose of this paper is twofold.

When I first received the brief from Brendon, "Young Leaders on New Beginnings for the Cotton Industry" my first thoughts were, why did I say yes.

Many cotton growers are concerned that relying too heavily on Roundup (glyphosate) will lead to future problems with weeds becoming resistant to this herbicide.

During the recent drought that affected much of Australia, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales, the volume of containerised imports through the Port of Brisbane increased significantly.

It is increasingly recognised that the future of the Australian Cotton Industry is inextricably linked to parameters of 'permissible practice' as defined by the broader community.

The results of annual disease surveys in both NSW and Queensland continue to provide useful data on the distribution, incidence and importance of diseases of cotton in Australia.

What do consumers want from Textiles & how does this relate to cotton?

Conference presentation 2008