The cotton industry has recognised five of its highest achievers at last night's gala 2009 Australian Cotton Industry Awards dinner held at the Crossing Theatre in Narrabri, NSW.
Close to 300 members of the cotton industry gathered at the awards dinner to celebrate the industry's finest researchers, growers and young achievers.
The winners were announced by corporate sponsors - AgriRisk, Bayer Crop Science, Cotton Seed Distributors and Monsanto.
Cotton Australia chief executive Adam Kay said the awards have continued to grow from strength to strength.
"The knowledge, innovation, excellent farming practices and strong personal commitment shown by each finalist and winner to our industry is outstanding," Mr Kay said.
"The number and quality of the nominees for this year’s awards demonstrates the depth of talent in our industry."
2009 Australian Cotton Industry Awards Winners:
Chris Lehmann Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award sponsored by Bayer Crop Science: Ben Stephens, Narrabri, NSW
CSD Researcher of the Year Award: Dr Michael Bange, Narrabri, NSW
Monsanto Grower of the Year Award: Andrew Pursehouse, Breeza, NSW
AgriRisk Innovative Grower of the Year Award: Jamie Grant, Jimbour, Qld
Cotton Service to Industry Award: Dick Estens, Moree, NSW