"I'd like to hold a range of workshops locally, focusing on the introduction to growing dryland cotton in the area. And if possible, I'd really like to go and inspect rain-grown or dryland cotton farming in the States - or even China for that matter," he said.

The senior agronomist with B & W Rural at Moree was one of a handful of regional cotton representatives making the list of finalists in various categories.

Others include Gunnedah farmers Scott and Jo McCalman (Grower of the Year and High Achiever of the Year), and CSIRO Narrabri scientists Sandra Williams, Geoff Baker and Colin Tann (Researcher of the Year).

The judging panel will travel to each of the major cotton growing regions of Australia to meet and assess each of the candidates. Winners in the various categories will be announced at the Australian Cotton Industry Awards evening in Narrabri on August 5.

This is the first time Mr Dawson has been nominated for an award, despite being in his current position for the last decade.

"I'm flattered," he said.

"I was only a farm kid, brought up on a place west of here (Moree). Agriculture has always been part of my life and my interest in it led me to gaining a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at University of Queensland. And I've just completed an external Masters degree at UNE in Armidale.

"I really enjoy what I do. I love the interaction with the different growers and their farming styles. No one day is ever the same.

"And it's very rewarding when you can help a farmer produce a crop and achieve his potential."

Mr Dawson though has another love - that of family man.

"I don't get much time outside of work for anything else but my family - wife Katie and three kids Josephine (4), Violet (3) and eight months old Ned. We're actually celebrating Violet's birthday as we speak. "