Cotton growers call for Gundaline Station’s myBMP accreditation to be stripped

By Krista Schade

Allegations of wrongdoings continue to plague Gundaline Station, an irrigation farm covering more than 14,000 hectares east of Hay.

At the recent national Cotton Conference held on the Gold Coast in early August, rumours circulated of a group of disgruntled fellow growers, unhappy with Gundaline’s continuing myBMP certification.

myBMP (Best Management Practice) is Cotton Australia’s national accreditation system, aimed at ensuring that Australian cotton is produced according to best practice.

“myBMP is a voluntary farm and environmental management system which provides self-assessment mechanisms, practical tools and auditing processes to ensure that Australian cotton is produced according to best practice,” the myBMP website states.

The Riverine Grazier reached out to Cotton Australia’s CEO Adam Kay to discuss the rumoured grower discontent however no reply or statement was received.

Communications Manager – Engagement for Cotton Australia Darrin Davies did provide information about the certification process.

“myBMP certifications are for a five-year period,” Mr Davies said.

“Once a grower has their certification, they have two years before they are subject to a possible random audit. Every year a number of growers are selected for a random audit to ensure they remain compliant.

“If a grower is not subject to a random audit their certification will expire in five years and they have to undergo recertification.

“There is a Code of Conduct that growers must adhere to, and anyone found not to be compliant with that code can face consequences including the possibility of having their certification removed.”

The code of conduct Mr Davies referred to was not provided, but growers say the number of issues surrounding the operation and management of Gundaline Station makes a joke of the certification system.

It is believed growers are considering raising a petition to have Cotton Australia remove Gundaline’s myBMP certification.

The Riverine Grazier has previously reported on allegations of undisclosed fuel spills, biosecurity breaches and safety concerns raised by the Australian Workers Union.