23 July 2010
Dawson Valley farmer a finalist for prestigious cotton industry awards
Melbourne, 23 July 2010 – One of Dawson Valley’s most unconventional young cotton farmers, Greg Hutchinson, has been nominated, for the second year running, as one of three finalists in the prestigious Chris Lehmann Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award 2010, sponsored by Bayer CropScience, to be announced on 12th August at the Gold Coast, Queensland.
Greg was selected as a Chris Lehmann Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award 2010 finalist for his dedication to finding new cotton production methods and his focus on water issues in the Fitzroy Basin.
The Chris Lehmann Trust, established in 2006, promotes the development of young people in Australian agriculture and is awarded to those who, through their hard work and dedication, are helping to shape the future of the Australian cotton industry.
Joerg Ellmanns, Managing Director of Bayer CropScience in Australia said, “Bayer CropScience is honoured to be the sponsor of the 2010 Chris Lehmann Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award, which recognises the innovative contribution made by young people, like Greg, to the industry.”
Not prepared to follow the status quo, Greg has challenged perceived industry views by growing a large percentage of conventional cotton alongside Bollgard® II again this year as part of an overall cotton production system.
Greg commented, “The work we’ve done highlights the significant benefits to growing conventional cotton with regards to weed management, insect control and flexibility of planting windows.”
In additional to his role as a Fitzroy Basin Food and Fibre representative, Greg has been heavily involved in water issues in the Fitzroy Basin, particularly concerning the Dawson River.
“My family has been growing cotton in the Dawson Valley for 30 years, and it has never been more evident than now that our industry hinges on water sustainability,” Greg continued.
“I’m focusing a lot of energy on the Water Resource Plan Review for the Fitzroy Basin helping to ensure the irrigators are not necessarily affected by proposed changes to the plan – we need to work out how to best ensure cotton remains a viable industry for everyone, now and into the future.”
Commenting on the Chris Lehmann Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award, Greg said, “This award is important for the longevity of the cotton industry as it recognises young achievers for the important work they’re doing, and encourages others in the industry to make a difference, too.”
“We’re seeing a lot of second and third generation cotton farmers entering the industry, and it is awards such as the Chris Lehmann Trust Young Achiever of the Year Award and support from companies like Bayer CropScience that ensure the next generation feels that the industry that they’ve chosen to pursue is going to be here for the long-term.”
The recipient of the award will receive $5,000 bursary for travel and accommodation within Australia to study agricultural and agronomy related issues to develop new skills and continue contributing to the industry through their professional development.
About Bayer CropScience
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the fields of health care, nutrition and high-tech materials. Bayer CropScience AG, a subsidiary of Bayer AG with annual sales of about EUR 6.5 billion (2009), is one of the world’s leading innovative crop science companies in the areas of crop protection, non-agricultural pest control, seeds and traits. The company offers an outstanding range of products and extensive service backup for modern, sustainable agriculture and for non-agricultural applications. Bayer CropScience has a global workforce of 18,700 and is represented in more than 120 countries. The Australian head office is located in Melbourne.
Contacts
Fleur Wilkins, Communication Manager, Bayer CropScience
T +61 3 9248 6851
M +61 448 817 842
E media.australia@bayercropscience.com
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