Kimberley Cotton Gin Concludes Inaugural Season, Eyes Future Growth
The Kimberley Cotton Gin in Kununurra, Western Australia, has successfully concluded its inaugural operational season. The facility, located approximately 3,000 kilometres north-east of Perth, began operations in August 2025.
Inaugural Season Success
Growers in the Ord Valley region cultivated a record 10,000 hectares of cotton in preparation for the gin's opening, an increase from 2,200 hectares the previous year.
The facility, located approximately 3,000 kilometres north-east of Perth, began operations in August 2025.
Kimberley Cotton Company (KCC) chair Jim Engelke stated that the gin processed over 81,000 bales during its first season. KCC, established in 2021, led the construction and operation of the gin with support from Kimberley Agricultural Investment, Ord River District Cooperative, and Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation.
Processing Milestones and Local Economic Boost
KCC chair Jim Engelke stated that the gin processed over 81,000 bales during its first season.
Previously, growers transported cotton up to 3,500km interstate for processing. The establishment of the local gin marks a significant shift for the industry in the region.
Christian Bloecker, an Ord farmer and KCC investor, highlighted the broader positive effects.
Christian Bloecker, an Ord farmer and KCC investor, noted the benefits of local processing, including job creation and economic retention within the region.
2026 Season: Navigating Weather and Maintaining Momentum
Looking ahead, planting for the new season is underway, though not without its challenges. For the upcoming 2026 season, Mr. Bloecker has delayed planting due to wet weather. Other growers commenced planting before the completion of the 2025 processing cycle.
Mr. Engelke indicated that Kimberley Agricultural Investment has planted 4,000 hectares for the current season, with the regional total expected to be around 10,000 hectares or more. This suggests a sustained commitment to cotton cultivation in the area.
Global Cotton Prices and Wyndham Port's Export Potential
Internationally, cotton prices present a cautious outlook. Internationally, cotton prices remain subdued, according to Simone Cameron, northern manager for Cotton Australia.
Prices have been approximately $500 per bale for 12-18 months, compared to a historical average of $600.
Despite these market conditions, the crop remains a strong contender locally. Despite this, Mr. Bloecker affirmed that cotton remains a viable crop in the Kimberley.
A critical development for the region's export capabilities is the Port of Wyndham.
Growers are awaiting the Port of Wyndham, located 100 kilometres north-west of Kununurra, to gain First Point of Entry (FPOE) status.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese granted FPOE status last year, but its full implementation requires essential biosecurity infrastructure upgrades. The first shipment of locally grown cotton was exported from Wyndham in October, comprising approximately 60 containers.
FPOE status will enable the port to receive empty containers for immediate export and facilitate direct international shipping for the Kimberley cotton industry. This is expected to significantly streamline the export process and further benefit the regional economy.