Kimberley Cotton Growers Achieve Record Crop Yield
Western Australia’s Kimberley region has celebrated a significant milestone with the completion of the inaugural operational season of its latest cotton gin. Located in Kununurra, approximately 3,000 kilometers northeast of Perth, the Kimberley Cotton Gin began processing cotton from the Ord Valley in August 2025.
Record Cotton Yield in the Kimberley
The farmers in the region achieved a remarkable feat by planting a record 10,000 hectares of cotton, a substantial increase from 2,200 hectares the previous year. This expansion underscores the growing potential of cotton farming in the Kimberley.
Successful Processing Season
The Kimberley Cotton Gin processed over 81,000 bales in its first season, marking a successful debut for the facility. Jim Engelke, chair of the Kimberley Cotton Company (KCC), expressed pride in the accomplishment and the teamwork that made it possible. The KCC was established in 2021 with the support of various organizations, including Kimberley Agricultural Investment and Ord River District Cooperative.
Previously, growers faced the challenge of transporting cotton up to 3,500 kilometers for processing. With the new gin operational, this significant logistical hurdle has been overcome, allowing local processing.
Local Economy Boost
Christian Bloecker, a second-generation farmer and KCC investor, emphasized the benefits of local processing. He stated that keeping operations local enhances employment opportunities and bolsters the local economy. Bloecker noted that his cotton production in 2025 was the largest area he had cultivated, which doubled previous efforts.
Future Planting Plans
Looking ahead, Bloecker plans to optimize cotton growth techniques, focusing on shorter cotton varieties. As the first fields for the upcoming season were already planted by some growers, including Kimberley Agricultural Investment, expectations remain high for continued cultivation, projected at 10,000 hectares or more.
Market Challenges
Despite the successful crop yield, challenges remain. International cotton prices are currently low, averaging around $500 per bale. Cotton Australia’s northern manager, Simone Cameron, highlighted the necessity for the industry to enhance its competitiveness against synthetic fibers, which have been marketed as more environmentally friendly.
Export Opportunities via Wyndham Port
The Port of Wyndham, located 100 kilometers northwest of Kununurra, is set to play a crucial role in the cotton export process. Although it received First Point of Entry (FPOE) status in 2022, full operational capability is contingent upon infrastructure upgrades to address biosecurity concerns. The first shipment of locally grown cotton, consisting of about 60 containers and around 104 bales each, was exported from this port in October.
The Kimberley Cotton Gin has a processing capacity exceeding 100,000 bales annually, positioning it as a pivotal facility for the region’s cotton industry and local farmers.
