The CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year Award is presented annually at the Australian Cotton Industry Awards.

The Young Achiever Award provides recognition and financial support to young people in the cotton industry who wish to further their education, develop new skills and continue contributing to the industry.
Initially funds to support the initiative were raised during a special dinner with monies further boosted by generous donations. The Chris Lehmann Trust Fund formally established in 2006 to support a young person, aged 35yrs or less, through the annual Award program.

The Trust was wound up in 2021 with the funds then transferred to Crop Consultants Australia to distribute the prize money for the Award.

The Award is named in honour of Chris Lehmann who formed the first independent cotton consultancy in the Australian cotton industry. Chris completed studies in Agriculture in 1967 before embarking on a career in cotton. He initially worked as a chemical company representative in Wee Waa before self-funding a study trip to the USA. Chris became well known for his expertise and agronomy skill, sought after by many leading cotton growers at the time. He went on to be awarded a Churchill Fellowship to further his studies. Along with his expanding crop consultancy business, Chris also purchased farms, was a representative on Boards and undertook more overseas travel and study to expand his knowledge.

Crop Consultants Australia (formally known as Cotton Consultants Australia) acknowledges Chris as being amongst the founding directors of the Association in 1986. In 2006, he was awared Life Membership recognition of his contribution not only to the Association, but the cotton industry in general.

PAST RECIPIENTS OF THE CHRIS LEHMANN AWARD