Agricultural
4 February, 2026
Future Cotton Leaders Program welcomes largest cohort ever
Strong interest in the 2026 Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP) has led to the largest cohort in the program’s history, following an unprecedented number of applications including one from Lauren Roellgen at Brookstead.
As a result of this exceptional field of applicants, the selection panel expanded the intake to 17 participants, up from the program’s usual 15.
Other participants from Queensland joining Miss Roellgen in the program are Henry Perry from Goondiwindi, Alexander Stephens from MacAlister, Angus Dalgliesh from Cloncurry, Bridget Bender from Emerald, Jason Salvetti from Arriga and Liam Blackwell from Billa Billa.
Miss Roellgen grew up on her family’s 2600 hectare farm “Tyunga” at Brookstead, and has been connected to the industry in various roles, from farm hand to bug checker, while studying at university.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, she assisted her parents in leading myBMP implementation and audit preparation on their properties.
Miss Roellgen is already making great strides in the industry, having been named as Young Achiever of the Year at the Darling Downs Cotton Growers Inc. Awards in 2025.
She is actively involved in the day-to-day running of the family farm and serves as secretary on the local CGA committee.
Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the continued interest in the program reflects the strength and depth of emerging leadership across the sector.
“Each round we receive a very competitive group of applicants, and 2026 was no exception,” Mr Kay said.
“The standard was extremely high, and extending the intake was the right decision to ensure we continue building strong leadership capability across the industry.”
Held every two years, the AFCLP is delivered by Cotton Australia with funding support from the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC).
Since its establishment in 2006, the program has produced more than 130 graduates who now contribute to the industry’s performance, reputation and long-term sustainability.
Applicants for the 2026 round came from across the cotton supply chain, including growers, consultants, merchants and researchers.
CRDC Executive Director Allan Williams said the program demonstrates how leadership and innovation underpin the industry’s productivity and sustainability goals.
“Record demand for the AFCLP speaks to the passion and interest in working in our industry,” Mr Williams said.
“By expanding the intake to 17, we’re investing in leaders who will convert their ambition into tangible productivity and sustainability outcomes.
“The program is hands‑on - it builds a strong peer network and learning through practical, real‑world projects.
“In partnership with Cotton Australia, CRDC is proud to back a cohort that will lead change on farms, in businesses, and across the industry.”
Leadership is a priority for the industry and Mr Kay said the AFCLP, along with the Australian Rural Leadership Program and Nuffield Scholarships, continues to strengthen the next generation of industry decision-makers.
“The appeal of the Future Cotton Leaders Program continues to grow, and it’s encouraging to see applicants from all parts of the industry putting themselves forward,” Mr Kay said.
“This year’s group brings a wide range of experience, perspectives and ambition, which is exactly what the program aims to develop.”
In 2026, participants will take part in face-to-face forums, interactive online sessions, one-on-one coaching, and engagement with industry activities.
They will also complete an individual project aligned with their interests, gaining experience in applying leadership skills in a real-world context.
Previous AFCLP graduates have progressed into senior leadership roles within the Australian cotton industry, including positions on the boards of Cotton Australia and CRDC, and on advisory committees and industry initiatives.
The 2026 program will conclude with a graduation ceremony at the Australian Cotton Conference in August 2026.
