THE Australian cotton industry and the Northern Territory farming community has lost a significant member with the passing of Bruce Connolly.

As farm manager at Tipperary Group of Stations, and as a director of both Cotton Australia and the NT Farmers Association, Mr Connolly’s broad range of skills were instrumental in turning cotton from an experimental to a commercial crop in the NT.

He was the founding member of the NT Cotton Growers Association, and its inaugural president.

Cotton Australia’s Board, staff and the broader cotton community are deeply saddened by the passing of our Director Bruce Connolly, following an accident last month.

“Bruce was more than a valued member of our Board – he was a respected industry leader, a modern pioneer for cotton in northern Australia, and a passionate advocate for regional communities,” Cotton Australia chair Liz Stott said.

“His passing is a profound loss for the cotton industry and for agriculture in the Northern Territory, where his contributions have left a lasting legacy.

“With decades of experience in broadacre cropping across northern Australia, Bruce brought practical knowledge and steady leadership to every role he held.”

“He gave generously of his time, expertise and energy, driven by a genuine belief in the potential of northern agriculture.

“At the centre of Bruce’s life was his family. Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.

“He will be deeply missed by all of us at Cotton Australia and across the cotton community.

NT Farmers has also expressed its sadness at the passing of Mr Connolly.

“NT Farmers joins the broader agricultural community in recognising the lasting contribution Bruce made to the industry, particularly across broadacre sectors,” the organisation said in a statement.

“Bruce was a longstanding and exceptional member of the Northern Territory Farmers Association board, serving for six years as a director and the last four on the executive.

“Through his work and advocacy, Bruce made an enormous contribution not only to our organisation, but to the people and industries he cared deeply about.

“He was a tireless advocate for producers, guided always by a strong sense of purpose and commitment.

“Bruce understood the complexities surrounding the social licence for farming in the Northern Territory and was a fierce advocate for best-practice farm management.

“He was a man of strong principles, clear vision and a generous mentor, always willing to share his knowledge and encourage others to step forward.

“Everyone at NT Farmers will miss having Bruce’s knowledge and kindness around us. Our thoughts are with Bruce’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

Following an accident last month, Mr Connolly died peacefully on April 3 in a Brisbane hospital.

His family includes David Connolly, who was sworn in as NT Administrator on February 27.

Source: NT Farmers, Cotton Australia