PDF - Australian Wool Innovation

ISSUE 63 JUNE 2015
PROFIT FROM WOOL INNOVATION
www.wool.com
MERINOS
ON THE
MCG
10
INTERNATIONAL
WOOLMARK PRIZE
28
NATIONAL
MERINO CHALLENGE
46
TRAINING
NOVICE SHEARERS
06 CAMPAIGN
38 NATIONAL MERINO
FOR WOOL
CHALLENGE
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Richard Smith
E [email protected]
A AWI Marketing and Communications
L30, 580 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
GPO Box 4177, Sydney NSW 2001
P 02 8295 3100 F 02 8295 4100
E [email protected] W www.wool.com
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OFF-FARM
ON-FARM
04 Campaign for Wool Australia
28 National Merino Challenge
08 Fibre of Football
30 Wild dog control in far east Gippsland
10 International Woolmark Prize
31
Wild dog control benefits native wildlife
Rahul Mishra’s love for wool
33 WormBoss reaches a milestone
14 Demand for Cool Wool heats up
34 Eradicating lice with LiceBoss
16
Eve promotion in China
36 Condition scoring for profit
17
Kynttan puts customers in charge
37 Lifetime Ewe Management app
13
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ISSN
1447-9680
FRONT COVER
Fibre of Football campaign: Celebrity
Merino rams Fred and Truffle on the MCG
– “the paddock that grew” – showcasing
to the media the 100 per cent Australian
Merino wool retro football jumper
and scarf that are now available for
AFL clubs from club shops as well as
www.shop.afl.com.au – see page 8.
18 Sportscraft: Naomi Watts on wool
38 Nuffield: James Walker
20 Mountain Designs scales new heights
39 Australian Rural Leadership Program
21
40 NSW Merino ewe competition results
Woolgrower runs in Merino
22 Performance power of wool
42 Scanning for success
23 I/O Merino’s mountain marathon
44 Shearing legend Kevin Gellatly
24 Breathability of wool
45 Shed safety signage kit
25 Learn About Wool website
45 Harvesting videos feature top tips
26 Wool’s environmental footprint
46 Shearer training at Boorowa
47 Trans-Tasman test
49 Placement of mineral supplements
Beyond the Bale is published by Australian Wool
Innovation Limited (AWI), a company funded by
Australian woolgrowers and the Australian Government.
AWI’s goal is to help increase the demand for wool
by actively selling Merino wool and its attributes
through investments in marketing, innovation and R&D –
from farm to fashion and interiors.
AWI INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
On-Farm R&D
Off-Farm R&D
Marketing
Global Business Services
50 Young judges championships
51
Corriedales look forward and back
52 Market Intelligence
54 Market insights from Peter Ackroyd
55 Readers’ photos
WOOL.COM
WOOLMARK.COM
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GD1606
UPFRONT
GETTING ON WITH
BUSINESS
We are continuing with initiatives to help increase the
demand for wool through investments in marketing
and R&D – from farm to fashion.
WOOLPOLL 2015
Later this year, woolgrowers Australiawide will once again have the opportunity
to choose at WoolPoll what percentage of
their clip proceeds are used to fund AWI –
their research, development and marketing
company – for the next three years. In
September, woolgrowers will be provided
with a Voter Information Memorandum,
which will outline information about
WoolPoll and how AWI proposes to invest
levy funds at each levy rate option.
An independent Review of Performance will
be published in August on the AWI website;
a summary will be sent to wool levy payers
with their Voter Information Memorandum
and ballot paper. Voting will take place over
a six-week period between 14 September
and 30 October. The results of WoolPoll will
be announced at the AWI Annual General
Meeting on 20 November in Sydney, and
take effect from 1 July 2016. I encourage all
wool levy payers to cast their votes when
the poll opens.
AWI ROADSHOWS
During September and October, AWI will
be on the road hosting seminars in key
wool-growing regions across all states
of Australia. I invite you to join me to
discuss how AWI has performed over the
past three years and our plans for the
future. We’ll be visiting about 25 locations,
from Longreach in the north to Campbell
Town in the south, from Katanning in the
west to Walcha in the east. Locations will
be advertised in the local press, on our
website Wool.com and via the monthly AWI
e-newsletter to woolgrowers (to which you
can subscribe at www.wool.com/subscribe).
WOOL SELLING
SYSTEMS REVIEW
The Wool Selling Systems Review (WSSR)
panel will look to release a discussion paper
by early July this year. Following this, a one
day stakeholder workshop will be held in
Melbourne in the latter half of July. The
workshop will provide industry participants
with the opportunity to debate the panel
discussion paper and provide input into the
review and its direction. There will be a call
for final submissions to the panel following
the workshop and before the panel releases
the final document to AWI and industry
towards the end of this year.
FACILITATOR TO
COMBAT WILD DOGS
I am pleased to announce the appointment
of David Worsley as Wild Dog Facilitator
for the north-east region of NSW, based at
Armidale. The position is funded by AWI and
managed by the Invasive Animals CRC in
partnership with AWI, NSW Department of
Primary Industries, NSW Farmers, Northern
Tablelands Local Land Services and local
Landcare. David, who is well known in
the area, has extensive knowledge of wild
dogs and pest control, and experience in
coordination, facilitation and mediation
with farmers and stakeholder groups. David
can be contacted on 0429 638 078 and dave.
[email protected]. This position
complements the AWI-funded wild dog
coordinators currently operating in western
NSW, Victoria and Queensland.
AWI is also currently advertising for a
wild dog coordinator in WA. A position
description and further information for
applications are available on the AWI
website at www.wool.com/wilddogs.
Applications close on 22 June 2015. The
purpose of wild dog control coordinators
is to work with woolgrowers and other
livestock producers, public land managers,
industry bodies, government departments
and other stakeholders in reducing the
impact of wild dog predation on livestock.
NATIONAL MERINO
CHALLENGE
Last month’s National Merino Challenge
was a huge success, with 98 students
– double the number from two years
Stuart McCullough
Chief Executive Officer
Australian Wool Innovation
ago – travelling from across Australia to
Adelaide to compete in this educational
initiative. The two-day AWI event involved
presentations and demonstrations from
a wide range of industry professionals
to enable young people to develop their
industry knowledge and networks. It was
encouraging to see the students so involved
and enthusiastic – they really enjoyed
themselves. Our funding in programs like
this aims to help improve the engagement
of young people interested in the wool
industry, thereby developing and retaining
the skills the wool industry needs to be
innovative in response to new challenges.
CAMPAIGN FOR WOOL
Australian retailers came together for the
Campaign for Wool’s Wool Week which was
held in May to coincide with the start of
the Australian mid-winter retail season. It
was pleasing to see so many shop fronts
and online stores promoting wool and the
Woolmark brand. The Campaign for Wool
continues to be a success internationally too.
During 2014, the campaign was celebrated on
an unprecedented scale across international
consumer markets, generating global editorial
coverage worth more than AU$71 million, up
from AU$40 million in 2013.
INTERNATIONAL WOOL
TEXTILE ORGANISATION
(IWTO)
Australia and AWI in particular were well
represented at this year’s IWTO Congress
held in May in Zhangjiagang, China. The
environmental credentials of wool were once
again at the forefront of discussions – the
content of many of the presentations at
the Congress echoed this theme. IWTO in
partnership with AWI also created a Wool
Retail Forum with the theme ‘Provenance and
Performance’, two key elements that set wool
apart from other fibres, and which Australian
Merino wool in particular has in abundance.
3
4
UPFRONT
As well as decorative in-store displays
of its latest wool offering from its winter
collection, luxury womenswear retailer
Jigsaw had a visit from the farm.
CAMPAIGN
FOR WOOL AUSTRALIA
Australia recently hosted its fifth annual Wool Week, timed to coincide with the start of the
mid-winter retail season. The initiative was part of the Campaign for Wool, which aims to
educate consumers about the natural benefits of wool and increase sales of wool product.
More than 30 major Australian retailers threw their support behind Wool Week Australia.
F
or the fifth consecutive year, Australia
has celebrated Wool Week in style,
as part of the global Campaign for Wool
which urges consumers to ‘Live Naturally...
Choose Wool’.
Scheduled to coincide with the start of the
mid-winter retail season, Wool Week – held in
May – played host to a series of events, which
involved the campaign’s retail partners
across the country helping to educate
consumers about the natural benefits of
wool and increase sales of wool product.
Following the success from previous Wool
Weeks, Australian Campaign for Wool retail
supporters created some beautiful in-store
installations and window displays to help
sell more wool – see page 6. Major brands
such as Jigsaw, Kookai, Koskela, M.J. Bale
and Sportscraft also proudly championed
the natural benefits of wool by setting up
online wool shops and crafting blog posts
dedicated to Australian Merino wool.
A special shopping night was also held at
Sydney’s newest premium shopping hub,
Macquarie Centre. A major partner for Wool
Week Australia, Macquarie Centre invited
the public to come and shop in the name
of wool as it played host to 40 uniquely
crafted sheep sculptures, a magnificent
giant wool installation and special offers
during its distinctive shopping night. It also
welcomed Merino rams Fred and Truffle to
help showcase the complete farm to fashion
journey as shoppers were reminded to live
naturally and choose wool.
With Australian designers having access to
the world’s best Merino wool, influential
fashion brands bassike, Camilla and Marc
and hip new womenswear label Être Cécile
adopted the alluring message and slogan
‘I wool if you wool’ to design and produce
limited edition T-shirts to celebrate Wool
Week. Sourcing premium fabrics from
Charles Parsons’ Merino State collection,
Camilla and Marc and Être Cécile opted for
a 100 per cent Merino wool single jersey
while bassike selected a Merino-silk jersey
fabric made from 85 per cent superfine
Merino wool. Available until sold out, these
Tees are another way for consumers to wear
their heart on their sleeve and support
Australian woolgrowers.
Iconic Australian designer Jenny Kee and
fashion boutique Parlour X partnered
with the Campaign for Wool to celebrate
the launch of Jenny Kee’s new 100 per
cent Australian Merino wool collection,
A New Beginning. Known for her fusion
of fashion and art, Jenny Kee has been
adored the world over for her iconic
knitwear inspired by the flora and fauna
of Australia. Collaborating with AWI, Kee’s
new Woolmark-certified collection uses
Zegna Baruffa yarn and is available online
at www.jennykee.com.
“The global campaign for Wool was initiated
in 2010 by HRH the Prince of Wales,
and since then has gone from strength
to strength both here in Australia and
across the world,” explained AWI CEO
Stuart McCullough.
“AWI continues to partner with the global
campaign, encouraging consumers to
discover the natural benefits of wool and
make conscious purchasing decisions. At a
retail level, we applaud all of the Australian
brands who continue to support the
campaign and champion wool.”
Whilst the Campaign for Wool has a strong
focus on retailers pushing their wool and
wool-rich product with the ultimate aim
to sell more wool, celebrations bridging
the gap between farm and fashion were
also welcomed in the town of Armidale.
Fusing fashion with art, the New England
Regional Art Museum (NERAM), has been
working alongside AWI to present The Art
of Wool exhibition in support of the
Campaign for Wool.
Woolgrowers and fashion lovers were
united at the exhibition’s official opening
on 2 May, which sees NERAM’s extensive
collection of Australian art paired with
stunning garments from the coveted
International Woolmark Prize. The Art of
Wool exhibition, which runs until 2 August,
illustrates not only the significance the
Australian wool industry has had in shaping
the nation, but also the true versatility of
the premium and natural fibre.
MORE INFORMATION
www.campaignforwool.org
OFF
FARM
Merino rams Fred and Truffle helped showcase
the complete farm to fashion journey to
shoppers at Sydney’s Macquarie Centre.
A giant wool installation at Sydney's
newest premium shopping hub
Macquarie Centre generated interest
in wool amongst all generations.
An entry into the ‘surround yourself
with wool’ social media competition.
This entry was by Mila Randall.
Fashion designers Camilla Freeman Topper and Marc
Freeman of retailer Camilla and Marc were interviewed
on Channel 7’s The Morning Show with Larry Emdur
and Kylie Gillies. They talked style, success and
collaborating with AWI as part of Wool Week.
A new exhibition pairs fashion from designers
like Dion Lee, Kym Ellery, Rahul Mishra and
Christopher Esber with seminal Australian art.
The Art of Wool exhibition is being held at the
New England Regional Art Museum at Armidale.
A 100 per cent Australian Merino wool jumper
from iconic Australian designer Jenny Kee’s new
collection launched in partnership with fashion
boutique Parlour X and AWI.
Être Cécile, bassike and Camilla and Marc limited edition
Merino wool T-shirts that were released in collaboration
with AWI as part of Wool Week.
5
6
OFF
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RETAILERS BACK
CAMPAIGN FOR WOOL
Sambag had displays across all its stores.
Leading tailor M.J. Bale stylised its windows. “The aim of the windows was to create a strong
visual impact through the iconic WOOL wording, with the use of surprising bold colours during
autumn to demonstrate the fantastic possibilities available when using wool,” says M.J. Bale
Brand Manager Drew Hoare. “The woollen outfits have been deliberately placed to be framed by
the letters to ensure that the focus remains on the finished wool product, in this case our latest
tailoring, knitwear and coat styles.”
The storefront of women’s and men’s fashion
brand Trenery displaying wool apparel.
With stores at airports across the country, Purely Merino held
a competition for its staff to design the best storefront for Wool
Week – pictured here is the Adelaide Airport store.
The shop windows of Rodd & Gunn
featured a full display of wool.
The showroom of furniture company
Koskela stocked up with great wool yarns,
blankets and rugs.
OFF
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SURROUND YOURSELF IN WOOL
SOCIAL MEDIA
COMPETITION
No matter where in Australia you were, Australians had the chance to
win a $1000 voucher to be spent at their favourite Campaign for Wool
retail partner, by taking a photo with the theme ‘surround yourself in
wool’ and sharing it on their Facebook or Instagram account and tagging
#WoolWeek. Here is a selection of the more than 250 submitted entries.
A Jac+ Jack boutique showcasing
Merino wool as ‘the most
beautiful wool in the world’.
Amanda Michael
Dusty Jones
Grace Murray
Mira Randall
The website of Australian owned
women’s fashion label KOOKAÏ had
a special section ‘Our favourite fibre’
on its website highlighting the brand’s
wool apparel on its online store.
Scott Colvin
Spud Davies
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OFF
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FIBRE OF
FOOTBALL
GETS FANS TALKING
commuters on their way to and from work.
Opening the Fox Footy AFL 360 program was
also a highlight, as was the live shearing later
during the show.
Melbourne midfielder Bernie Vince shearing a
sheep on the MCG in front of the media.
Woolgrowers enjoyed free entry to the
Melbourne vs Fremantle game, an offer
taken up by more than 2000 people via the
AWI monthly e-newsletter to woolgrowers.
Many fans also called in on a Fibre of Football
exhibition outside the ground where lambs,
shearing, wool spinning and knitting were on
show before the game.
Three bales of wool have been placed in the
foyer at AFL House. ‘Springfield #26’ stands
behind a Geelong wool jumper to represent
Tom Hawkins, ‘Pine Hill #22’ is behind a
Hawthorn jumper to represent Luke Breust’s
family property at Temora, and ‘Tico Vale’ – the
name of the farm on which Bernie Vince grew
up on South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula – is
behind a woollen Melbourne jumper.
AWI’s Fibre of Football campaign continues to grow, with
huge demand for the Merino wool football jumpers and
supporter apparel. The campaign has the backing from many
past and present footballers and sporting pundits.
F
rom a basic concept, the Fibre of
Football campaign has grown to capture
the attention and the imagination of the
Australian football public.
With the help of a growing list of keen AFL
stars keen to celebrate their country roots,
the Fibre of Football campaign simply aims
to remind people of the importance of
woolgrowing to Australia, linking our natural
fibre to our native game.
Round 5 of the AFL season saw the
culmination of a lot of campaign work with a
flurry of activity.
Melbourne midfielder Bernie Vince, son of
a Yorke Peninsula woolgrower and former
shearer Tim Vince displayed his shearing skills
in front of the football media on the MCG.
As a shearer trainer with AWI’s predecessor,
the Australian Wool Corporation, Tim was
confident Bernie would give a good account of
himself. By shearing the first sheep shorn on
the ‘paddock that grew’ for the best part of 200
years, he certainly did.
Melbourne’s top rating radio breakfast
program, 3AW’s Ross and John dedicated
their Friday morning program to the Fibre of
Football, officially launching the woollen range
of AFL jumpers, beanies, scarves, gloves and
Learn to Knit Kits.
Melbourne's popular radio show 3AW Breakfast with
Ross and John broadcast a special Fibre of Football
show from the Duke of Wellington pub to officially
launch the range of woollen supporter gear and Knit
Kits. John Burns (left) and Ross Stevenson (right),
joined by 3AW football commentators Tony Leonard
and Tim Lane.
As part of their Friday Night Football
presentation, Channel 7 was the first to air the
Nat Fyfe Fibre of Football video. Produced in
house at AWI, the video was seen by more than
half a million people that night and has since
been viewed 600,000 times via Facebook. The
Tom Hawkins video, also available on YouTube,
has more than 250,000 views.
Celebrity Merino rams Fred and Truffle took
to the streets of Melbourne and gained the
attention of many thousands of stunned
Channel 7’s Friday Night Football show team
after airing the AWI-produced Nat Fyfe video
and highlighting the availability of woollen AFL
supporter gear: Cameron Ling, Wayne Carey and
Hamish McLachlan.
OFF
FARM
Wool in the supporter apparel
was traced to several woolgrowing properties, including
that of Fraser and Penny Barry
from Swifts Creek in East
Gippsland.
AFL WOOLLEN JUMPERS
MAKING THEIR MARK
The locally grown, locally made woollen AFL
jumpers have proven much more popular
than many expected with jumpers selling as
fast as they can be knitted.
Kurt Tippet of the Sydney Swans in a promotion of the supporter gear on the online shop of the Sydney Swans.
Whilst a long sleeve jumper is in the pipeline,
AFL clubs have created their own woollen
photo shoots to boost the profile of the
iconic jumpers.
100 per cent Australian Merino wool retro
football jumpers and scarves, gloves and
beanies for AFL clubs are available from club
shops as well as www.shop.afl.com.au.
Also offered are Knit Kits in AFL club colours
for child and adult beanies and scarves.
The kits contain balls of 100% Australian
wool 14ply yarn, 7mm knitting needles, wool
needle, instruction leaflet, AFL fabric badge
and club fabric badge.
BACK TO THE SOURCE
Tweets from Bernie Vince (Melbourne), Luke Breust (Hawthorn) and Tom Hawkins (Geelong) praising and
promoting the Fibre of Football’s installation at AFL House.
THE ULTIMATE
WOOL TEAM:
STATE SQUADS
ANNOUNCED
Having collected wool stories,
nominations and facilitated the
discussion from across the country,
the Footy Almanac is now compiling
wool teams from various states.
John Harms from the Almanac has
been amazed by the response to the
call for nominations for the wool team.
“Having travelled to the South
Australian Merino Field Day at Burra,
spoken with people from Western
Australia, Victoria and New South
Wales it is clear that we have to put
squads and then teams together from
each state before we finalise a national
team. We really don’t want to miss out
on anyone.”
For the full state squads,
commentary and the chance to
nominate someone overlooked, head
to www.footyalmanac.com.au, but to
whet your appetite here is one player
from each state:
Western Australia: Mark Bairstow:
Lake Grace woolgrower, South
Fremantle Sandover medalist,
Geelong midfielder and captain.
South Australia: John Mossop:
Lucindale sheep producer, Geelong
and North Melbourne ruckman.
Victoria/Tasmania: Hugh Delahunty:
Murtoa woolgrower, former state
Agriculture Minister, Essendon.
New South Wales: Ricky Quade,
Ariah Park sheep producer, South
Melbourne and Sydney player
and coach.
Alongside the players and coaches wearing
the jumpers, AWI has traced the wool in the
jumpers back to the farms where the wool
was grown.
Fine wool producers Fraser and Penny Barry,
of ‘Bindi’ near Swifts Creek are one of 20
wool-growing businesses in Australia linked
to the program. Having battled wild dogs,
drought and floods on their property in East
Gippsland, they were thrilled to hear their
wool had been involved.
AWI visited the Barry’s property and put
together a short video that was played
during the Round 5 Melbourne vs Fremantle
clash at the MCG.
“It was just amazing to see ourselves up
there on the big screen at the MCG. The
Fibre of Football has been a great thrill for us
and we can only hope that Melbourne itself
gives us a few more thrills,” Penny added
with a laugh.
As dedicated Merino producers, the Barry’s
have been running their renowned 21-22
micron flock of fine/medium Merinos for
many decades.
MORE INFORMATION
www.fibreoffootball.com.au
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OFF
FARM
New York-based Marcia Patmos of M.PATMOS with her winning collection.
INTERNATIONAL WOOLMARK PRIZE
WOMENSWEAR AWARD
New York label M.PATMOS was chosen as the winner of the coveted International Woolmark
Prize for womenswear by a judging panel including fashion designer Victoria Beckham.
The International Woolmark Prize is designed to generate long term incremental demand for
Australian Merino wool by connecting emerging designers, emerging markets and consumers.
T
his year’s International Woolmark Prize
finals marked a double win for the USA,
with New York-based label M.PATMOS
winning the womenswear final following on
from PUBLIC SCHOOL’s success earlier in the
year at the menswear final.
Praised by judges including fashion designer
Victoria Beckham, Vogue Italia editor-inchief Franca Sozzani and Vogue China editorat-large Angelica Cheung for presenting a
well-executed collection mixing elegance
with youthful spirit, M.PATMOS was
awarded the 2015 International Woolmark
Prize in Beijing at the March awards.
Also vying for the coveted award were
Australia’s STRATEAS.CARLUCCI, VMAJOR
(Asia), AUGUSTIN TEBOUL (Europe), and
Bird on a Wire (India & Middle East), each one
representing the best emerging design talent
from their region.
“The International Woolmark Prize gives
emerging talent from wherever they are
an incredible opportunity,” explained
Victoria Beckham.
“I am really excited to be here in Beijing to be
part of this event. I felt that Patmos embodied
best what the IWP stands for. The collection
was well executed and the concept interesting.”
Headed up by namesake Marcia Patmos, the
emerging design talent showcased a travel
collection made from 95 per cent Merino wool
which highlighted the natural versatility of
the premium fibre. M.PATMOS was recognised
for her utilitarian collection which fuses
streetwear with function and style. Playing
with a neutral colour palette of earthy tones
and charcoals, M.PATMOS presented long
coats with knitted leggings, boxy pants and
knitted shawls. Dressed in wool from head to
toe, models also sported wool-covered Nike
shoes along with wool beanies.
“Merino wool is a perfect match for a travelfocused wardrobe for so many reasons,” said
Patmos. “The International Woolmark Prize
inspired me to envision expanding my brand to
include luxury travel and lifestyle items - and
to think of the global business opportunities
for M.PATMOS.
“As I researched for the collection, I found
new discoveries in Merino wool including
Merino elastic, tulle and batting. I created yarn
by hand-spinning from upcycled fabric left
over from manufacturing one of the coats in
the collection – this was then hand knitted.
I also used a warp painting technique using
vegetable dyes.
“I hope to expand my reach into the global
market as well as into categories such
as luxury travel and home/lifestyle. The
Woolmark symbol will reinforce to customers
and retailers the quality of the materials I use.”
OFF
FARM
M.PATMOS received AU$100,000 but more
importantly the opportunity to have the
collection stocked in the world’s most
significant stores including Sydney city’s David
Jones store, Harvey Nichols in Britain, Italy’s
10 Corso Como, Saks Fifth Avenue in the USA
and Joyce in Hong Kong, as well as online at
mytheresa.com.
International Woolmark Prize judge
Victoria Beckham examines one of
the entries during the judging.
A documentary on the International
Woolmark Prize womenswear finalists will
be available for viewing on The Woolmark
Company’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.
com/WoolmarkOnline this month and will also
run on Qantas inflight channels from July to
January. This poignant short film – directed by
Anthony Lau – travels to Berlin, New York City,
London, Shanghai, Melbourne and Beijing to
trace the journey of these talented finalists on
the path to global recognition.
MORE INFORMATION
www.woolmarkprize.com
AUGUSTIN TEBOUL (Germany)
representing Europe.
Bird on a Wire (Lebanon) representing the
India & Middle East region.
STRATEAS.CARLUCCI (Melbourne)
representing Australia.
VMAJOR (China) representing Asia.
A winning design of M.PATMOS (USA).
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OFF
FARM
INTERNATIONAL WOOLMARK PRIZE
CONTINUES TO
MAKE ITS MARK
Since its launch in 2012, the International Woolmark Prize
has become AWI’s most successful marketing strategy,
increasing the global demand for Australian Merino wool
by promoting the versatility of the fibre and aligning young
talent with commercial opportunities.
New demand is coming from the creation of increased
knowledge of and loyalty to wool amongst designers, along
with the immediate presence of Woolmark-branded Merino
wool collections in the top boutiques and retailers across
the globe.
INTERNATIONAL WOOLMARK PRIZE GLOBAL REACH 2014/15
TWITTER IMPRESSIONS
INSTAGRAM IMPRESSIONS
FACEBOOK IMPRESSIONS
410.0
(Dec 2014 – March 2015):
23.6
(June 2014 to March 2015):
(June 2014 to March 2015):
MILLION
T
o achieve its mission of increasing the
global demand for Australian wool, it
is vital for AWI to reinforce the presence of
Australian Merino wool in the international
fashion industry.
The involvement of the world’s leading
fashion designers with Australian Merino
wool is extremely important because of their
enormous influence in setting global trends
for the mainstream retail brands.
What we see on the world’s catwalks this
year quickly makes it into the mainstream
fashion sector. The broader fashion industry
looks to designers for the latest trends. Their
work with fabrics like Australian Merino
wool has a ‘trickle down’ effect which cannot
be underestimated.
The International Woolmark Prize is
the ‘jewel’ in AWI’s fashion promotion
activities. It is designed to generate long
term incremental demand by connecting
emerging designers, emerging markets and
consumers.
It is an award for the next generation,
shifting the focus from glamour to true
talent as a way to highlight the beauty of
Merino wool fibre at the hands of the future
leaders of the industry.
MILLION
9.7
MILLION
The initiative has proven to be AWI’s most
successful marketing strategy, based on
global media exposure measured by AC
Nielsen tracking surveys.
It is not only about finding the next big
design talent, it is about profiling the
Australian fibre and Woolmark brand
to the world, building consumption and
increasing the price that woolgrowers get for
their fibre.
The recent expansion of the global
initiative into a menswear category
signifies its strength and its impact on the
fashion industry.
This program has given and continues to give
AWI the opportunity to work at a number of
levels in the fashion apparel segment:
• At the jury level, there is the engagement
with an alumnus of the world’s leading
influencers of fashion, such as Victoria
Beckham, Sir Paul Smith and Donatella
Versace – who donate their time at no cost
– and all of whom not only have a shared
and stated interest in the development
of new talent and new markets, but also
help attract enormous media attention
worldwide to expose the innovative nature
and versatility of Australian wool.
EDITORIAL VALUE
(June 2014 to March 2015):
39.6
$
MILLION
• At the participant (and winner) levels,
AWI imbues them with knowledge of wool
fibre at an early stage in the commercial
development and works with them to
create a connection to wool which will
stay with them throughout their careers
– for example see the article on the page
opposite about 2014 winner Rahul Mishra.
• At the trade level, the competition has
attracted a high calibre of supporters from
nominating bodies including the British
Fashion Council, the Council of Fashion
Designers of America and Vogue China, to
retailers such as David Jones, Saks Fifth
Avenue and 10 Corso Como. The new Trade
Partnership Program, which connects
promising designers with the best spinners
and weavers specialising in wool, expands
this further.
• At a broader global fashion apparel
audience level, through the creation of
‘documentary’ style content distributed
through digital and broadcast media – see
www.woolmarkprize.com and
www.merino.com
MORE INFORMATION
www.woolmarkprize.com
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MISHRA’S
CONTINUED
LOVE FOR
MERINO
• Since winning the 2014 International
Woolmark Prize, designer Rahul
Mishra has launched two collections,
both showcasing Australian
Merino wool.
• His latest autumn/winter collection,
which was launched at Paris Fashion
Week, was directly inspired by his visit
last year to a wool-growing property
in Australia.
• The wool-rich collection has aspects
of the property’s landscape, including
sheep, visually represented on it.
T
o help increase the demand for Australian
Merino wool, one of the objectives of
the International Woolmark Prize is to help
imbue participants and winners with a longterm connection to wool that will continue
throughout their fashion design careers.
2014 International Woolmark Prize winner
Rahul Mishra is a perfect example of this
intent coming to fruition.
Mishra’s first collection after winning the
award was his Spring/Summer 2015 collection
which he launched at the prestigious Paris
Fashion Week last year in front of the world’s
fashion media. The collection highlighted the
versatility of Australian Merino wool as a
lightweight and trans-seasonal fibre.
An item from Mishra’s newly launched Autumn/
Winter 2015 collection. Made from Merino wool, it
features rolling hills, wind turbines and sheep (see
inset) reminiscent of Alan McCormack’s property.
dresses, coats and skirts. Even sheep have
been included on certain items, reminiscent of
the natural Australian landscape.
Combining his trip to ‘Walwa’ with memories
from remote Indian villages he knew from his
childhood, Mishra has presented a delicate
wool-rich collection with a colour palette of
white, beige and blush through to midnight
blue and black.
Now stocked in some of the world’s most
important retailers, global consumers are not
only falling in love with Mishra’s unique style,
but his entire design philosophy as well.
“The collection encapsulates the balanced
existence of nature and mankind, traditional
and modern, and brings to life finest fibres,
weaves and craft techniques, practiced in
villages across the world,” Mishra explains of
his collection.
Best known for his sustainable design
philosophy and contribution to the Indian
handlooms and craft community, Mishra
continues to collect stories and tells them
through his fashion.
“Craftsmanship is not like any profession, it’s
not just about making money, it gives you
passion and that is the magic of fashion.”
MORE INFORMATION
www.merino.com
His new collection, for Autumn/Winter 2015,
which was also launched at Paris Fashion
Week, once again showcases Australian
Merino wool and, notably, was directly
inspired by his visit in October last year to
Australia to visit a wool-growing property.
Travelling to this country for the first time,
Mishra connected with fifth-generation
woolgrower Alan McCormack and most
importantly saw, felt and experienced Merino
sheep for the first time at Alan’s property
‘Walwa’ at Gurrundah, NSW.
The rolling hills of Alan’s farm, with wind
turbines sitting up high, are represented on a
selection of Mishra’s clothes in his Autumn/
Winter 2015 collection through his signature
intricate hand embroidery dotting sweaters,
2014 International Woolmark Prize winner Rahul
Mishra on his visit last year to Alan McCormack’s
property at Gurrundah, NSW.
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DEMAND FOR COOL WOOL
HEATS UP
Leading designers, manufacturers
and retailers across the world have
introduced Cool Wool into their
spring/summer collections, with a
variety of lightweight fabric pieces
and superfine knits.
TURKEY
The aim of AWI’s Cool Wool initiative
is to raise awareness of the transseasonal nature of Merino wool and
extend the retail season for wool
apparel, thereby increasing the
demand for Australian Merino wool.
Turkish actress and model Tuğba Ünsal
was one of the bloggers that visited
Sarar headquarters to further their
knowledge of Merino wool.
The concept of Cool Wool is not
new. First launched in the 1980s,
it was given a breath of new life by
AWI in 2012, modifying the original
specifications of Cool Wool fabrics
and yarns to make them even
lighter and more relevant to today’s
market needs.
For more information about Cool
Wool, view www.merino.com/
coolwool
Influential bloggers are spreading the word online about Cool Wool following
a visit to Turkish Cool Wool manufacturer and retailer Sarar.
F
our influential Turkish bloggers
were treated to a behind-the-scenes
look at Sarar’s flagship store and factory
to celebrate the retail giant’s Spring/
Summer 2015 Cool Wool collection.
and DJ Oben Budak; and columnist
and business manager Mert Vidinli
discovered first-hand the natural beauty
of Merino wool, beautifully highlighted
by Cool Wool textiles.
Turkish actress, fashion designer,
founding partner of ceyms.com and
Grazia magazine writer Tuğba Ünsal;
fashion director for digital magazine
adamintown.com and styling consultant
Alexander Koko; columnist, writer
For Spring/Summer 2015, Sarar has
released a 20-piece Cool Wool collection,
comprising both menswear and
womenswear, with suits, jackets and
trousers remaining true to Sarar’s
refined tailoring.
Model and actress Byun Jung Soo
(centre) at the Paul Smith event.
KOREA
INDIA
Prominent Indian textile manufacturer
and retailer, Raymond, has launched its
latest collection of Cool Wool fabrics..
I
ndia’s leading manufacturer, marketer
and retailer of worsted suiting fabrics,
Raymond, has once again worked
alongside AWI to launch its latest
Spring/Summer collection of Cool
Wool fabrics.
Fashion designers Timothy Everest,
Rajesh Pratap Singh and Suket
Dhir designed garments made from
Raymond’s Cool Wool fabrics for an
exclusive fashion show held in April
at the Australian High Commission in
New Delhi.
Australian Foreign Minister
Julie Bishop displaying the
natural drape of a Cool Wool
scarf to guests and media at
the launch event.
More than 350 guests including 36 media
houses and 50 journalists from print,
online and broadcast outlets attended
the event. Also in attendance was
Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop,
who encouraged Indian women to wear
more Merino wool as she displayed the
natural drape of a Cool Wool scarf on
stage in front of guests.
Cool Wool media events have been
held across Korea highlighting
the trans-seasonal properties of
Merino wool.
C
ool Wool was the hero of a Paul
Smith styling class, attended
by important Paul Smith customers
and key media representatives. Top
Korean fashion model and celebrity
Byun Jung Soo delivered the benefits
of trans-seasonal Cool Wool fabrics,
along with styling tips centred on a
Paul Smith Cool Wool suit.
A special Cool Wool media event
was also held at major department
store Lotte in collaboration
with traditional menswear
brand Cambridge Members. The
special display zone showcased a
gentlemen’s room with Cool Wool
fabrics. The event was part of Lotte’s
Cool Wool Festival which was held
for two weeks.
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CHINA
Retailers viewing new Cool Wool samples
from leading Chinese manufacturers.
Chinese manufacturers have
showcased their Cool Wool collections
to leading Chinese brands and
international retailers.
JAPAN
P
remium Chinese manufacturers –
including Challenge, Diyang, Natsun,
Ruyi, Sudewolle Group, Sunshine and
Xinao – have joined the Cool Wool supply
chain in the past year.
Their latest Spring/Summer 2016 Cool
Wool collections were showcased at a
high-profile trade and retailer event held
by AWI in May at Design Republic – a
part gallery, retail and event space in
Shanghai. The event was attended by
15 leading Chinese brands – including
JNBY, ICICLE, Croquis, HUI, Saint
Angelo, Zuczug and Goodbaby – as
well as the buying offices of some
international retailers.
With key media representatives present,
the event also doubled as an educational
platform, with visitors learning about
the science behind Cool Wool, and the
benefits of Merino wool and Cool Wool
fabrics and products.
UNITED KINGDOM
Cool Wool ready to wear suits
on display in the Takashimaya
department store in Nagoya.
Cool Wool is being featured
by Japan’s major retailers and
brands during the Spring/Summer
selling season.
L
Some of the Cool Wool looks on show in
London for the press.
The UK trade and consumer press have been briefed about Cool Wool at a
showcase event in London.
L
ondon played host to a Cool Wool
press day to highlight the transseasonal properties of wool and raise
the profile of Cool Wool amongst the UK
press. Ten select members of the press
were invited to an intimate breakfast
that included an ‘in conversation’ panel
with designers Holly Fulton and Lou
Dalton and Sales Director for Holland
& Sherry, Lindsay Taylor. Chaired by
fashion commentator Colin McDowell,
the panel explored the versatility of
wool and common misconceptions of
the fibre.
Thirty-eight key members of trade and
consumer media attended an open house
in the afternoon. Eleven Merino wool
outfits – spanning high street retailers
including Marks & Spencer, performance
brand Armadillo Merino and designers
including Victoria Beckham and Vivienne
Westwood – were displayed for this year’s
Spring/Summer season. The Spring/
Summer 2016 edition AWI’s The Wool
Lab sourcing guide was also on display,
along with a film loop that carried The
Woolmark Company, Cool Wool and
designer collaboration messaging.
eading department store JR Nagoya
Takashimaya introduced Cool Wool
into its recent ready to wear range.
AWI hosted a wool appreciation class
for Takashimaya sales staff to increase
wool sales during the campaign. In
addition, JR Nagoya Takashimaya also
ran a social media campaign, under
the tagline ‘Dress in suits in summer;
the new standard of business style,
Cool Wool’. The campaign featured
Cool Wool suits from brands including
Takeo Kikuchi, D’URBAN, Orobianco,
Gotairiku and J.PRESS.
Premium retailer Isetan Men’s in Tokyo
also featured a collection of Cool Wool
fabrics for their bespoke tailored suits
and developed a special Cool Wool
fabric with manufacturer Nakaden
Keori. Men’s apparel retailer J.PRESS
also launched a Cool Wool collection
featuring NIKKE’s Cool Wool fabric.
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16
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EVE PROMOTION
IN CHINA
F
ollowing the signing in December of
a marketing collaboration agreement
between AWI and China’s leading purveyor
of luxury menswear, the Eve Group, the
Chinese company’s premium men’s clothing
brand Kevin Kelly has sourced Woolmark
Gold certified fabric for its suits and used the
Woolmark Gold branding.
The fabric in the suits has been supplied
by a number of Woolmark Gold exclusively
licensed weavers in Europe – including Reda,
Vitale Barberis Canonico and Dormeuil – and
is made from Australian Merino wool with a
fibre diameter of 19.5 microns or less.
It is estimated around 12,000 metres of
Woolmark Gold fabrics have been purchased
so far to make the suits for the Kevin
Kelly stores.
The signing of the collaboration agreement
during the Australia China Business Council's
‘Thinking Big’ Australia China Entrepreneur
dialogue forum held in Sydney, a week
after the finalisation of the China-Australia
Free Trade Agreement, drew a lot of media
attention. The Eve Group has more than 500
premium stores throughout China.
“Over the past 20 years we have seen Chinese
companies enter and begin to develop the
market for luxury apparel in China,” AWI’s
Woolmark Gold marketing
collateral with the Eve
Group’s imagery has
been placed along with
Woolmark Gold bespoke
fabrics and garments in
the Kevin Kelly stores.
The Eve Group, which has more than 500
premium stores throughout China, has undertaken
a Woolmark Gold promotion for suits and garments
made from Australian superfine Merino wool.
Chief Strategy and Marketing Office Rob
Langtry said.
Style, China Daily, Xinhua News, YokaMen.cn,
Global Times and the BTV Beijing channel.
“The Eve Group was founded in 1994 and
owns high-ranking men’s fashion brands
such as Kevin Kelly, and is the agent for
Versace, Kenzo, Fendi and other famous
international brands. This collaborative
effort has accelerated the understanding,
acceptance and sale of high quality fashion
made from Australian Merino wool to high
end consumers through Eve's very strong
network of 535 boutiques and bespoke
businesses across China.”
Eve Group CEO Zhang Ting said Woolmark
Gold is a symbol of quality that guarantees
the quality of a product for the consumer.
“It means a lot to us to be associated with the
brand and it gives us a marketing edge over
our competitors,” he said. “Since we launched
the branded product in our stores in January
we have had lots of inquiry.”
Retail training was presented by AWI to Kevin
Kelly’s top sales managers in February at
Eve’s fashion and cultural center in Beijing.
The training included an introduction to
Woolmark and Woolmark Gold branding, the
benefits of Merino wool and why the fibre
is the best choice for making the suits. The
sales managers then trained their shop floor
staff so that they can directly influence their
customers’ purchasing decisions.
Also in February, AWI in partnership with
the Eve group launched a special Woolmark
Gold promotional event in Beijing at Kevin
Kelly’s flagship store in the luxury Huamao
Centre. It was attended by Eve Group CEO
Zhang Ting, VIP guests, and trade and fashion
media including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar Men’s
Woolmark Gold tickets are being used by the Eve
Group’s Kevin Kelly brand on its Woolmark Gold suits
and garments during the autumn/winter 2014/15 and
spring/summer 2015 seasons.
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KNYTTAN
Three UK fashion students have
won an AWI-supported jumper
design competition. Pictured
left to right are: AWI’s business
development coordinator in
the UK, Marta Amat; Knyttan
co-founder and creative director,
Ben Alun-Jones; fashion
student at Kingston University,
Nathalie McCubbin (winner
of the People’s Choice award),
fashion student at the University
of Brighton, Martina Simeonova
(winner of the Knyttan Prize);
fashion student at the Arts
University Bournemouth, Holly
Halkes (winner of the Industry
Prize); and Knyttan co-founder,
Kirsty Emery. The three winning
jumpers, made from 100 per cent
Merino wool, are displayed on
the wall behind.
PUTS CUSTOMERS IN CHARGE
• London-based company Knyttan
enables customers to easily design
their own 100 per cent Merino jumper
or scarf – and have the product made
by the company within just a matter
of hours!
• With support from AWI, Knyttan
recently gave UK fashion students a
chance to create their own design for
a Knyttan jumper, with the winners’
designs made and sold at Knyttan’s
shop during London Fashion Week.
L
ondon-based fashion design and bespoke
manufacturing company Knyttan is
revolutionising the way apparel is made, one
stitch at a time.
Knyttan offers consumers the chance to
customise the design of a 100 per cent
Merino classic crew-neck jumper or scarf via
a web app, and have the item produced to
order at the company’s factory and shop in
London. Using a standard industrial knitting
machine, the key to the customisation lies in
the software.
Using Italian-spun yarn from the finest
Australian Merino wool, Knyttan aims to
bring production back to central London
by removing the layers between customers,
designers and manufacturing – giving
everyone more choice for quality clothing.
By using templates for each garment, the
customer ultimately gets individual stitch
control whilst ensuring the expertise of
Knyttan’s fashion team is hard-coded into
every garment, ensuring the highest level of
quality and fit is achieved.
Customers become the designer, and can
choose from a perfect-fitting jumper, classic
scarf or a must-have blanket scarf. Every item
has your name in the label and an individual
number that dates from Knyttan’s first ever
garment, making your choice unique.
“Knyttan is a young company changing how
the fashion industry works,” explains Knyttan
creative director Ben Alun-Jones. “We’ve
modified the way manufacturing happens
and now what we’re trying to do is change the
way how people design their clothes as well.
“We started Knyttan to remove the layers
between designers and customers – and by
doing so, give everyone a better choice.”
Working alongside AWI’s London office,
Knyttan recently held a competition for
UK fashion design students during London
Fashion Week to design a pattern to then
be knitted onto a jumper. Using the Spring/
Summer 2016 edition of AWI’s The Wool Lab
as a source of inspiration, students took the
seasonal themes as a guide and came up with
an original design.
Three lucky winners were chosen to not
only see their design turned into reality, but
the jumpers then went on sale in Knyttan’s
London store.
"With knyttanOS, we can take a designer’s
sketch and turn that directly into the code to
control our factory in minutes. This means
you can go from a sketch to wearing a jumper
with your design in a couple of hours,” Mr
Alun Jones said.
Mr Alun-Jones was also a guest speaker
at AWI’s ‘Naturally Inspiring’ seminar for
students in London earlier this year, helping
educate the next generation about the
exciting and innovative opportunities within
the wool industry.
MORE INFORMATION
www.knyttan.com
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18
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Sportscraft has unveiled a
woolmark-certified Winter
2015 collection.
Actress Naomi Watts has been
signed as Sportscraft’s brand
amabassador to promote the
wool-rich collection.
Billboards, point-of-sale material,
a website overhaul and a short film
were also made to champion the
collection and promote wool.
SPORTSCRAFT:
WATTS ON WOOL
More than 50 years after Sportscraft won the Australian Wool Board’s first ‘Pure New Wool’
licence, the Australian fashion brand continues to have a love affair with wool, unveiling
stunning, sophisticated clothing which highlights the fibre’s natural beauty.
Actress Naomi Watts is the brand ambassador in Sportscraft’s latest campaign. Here she wears a 100 per cent
Merino wool cable knit with a wool blend luxe wrap long sleeve coat from Sportscraft’s autumn/winter collection.
OFF
FARM
I
n time for winter 2015, Sportscraft has
launched a collection of Woolmark-certified
clothing for both men and women available
in-store and online. The collection includes
modern knit jumpers, chunky turtlenecks
and cardigans, coats and luxurious dresses
in warm camels, greys, taupe, cream and
winter whites.
Helping to champion Sportscraft’s winter
wool collection is actress and newly signed
brand ambassador Naomi Watts, whose love
for luxurious soft wool pieces made her a
perfect fit for the striking winter campaign,
which showcases the brand’s classic-yetmodern approach to style.
“I’m drawn to Sportscraft's modern simplicity
and classic style, in particular their beautiful
wools and textures,” says Watts. “It triggers
fond memories of growing up in Australia.”
Point of sale collateral featured collateral from the marketing campaign alongside the wool apparel for sale.
To celebrate the collection’s launch,
Sportscraft has released a short film featuring
Watts wearing key pieces from the winter
collection. “It’s more than just a feeling; it’s a
simple, honest way of being; it’s nature in all
her splendours,” explains the film.
To complement the film, 45 Sportscraft stores
across the country installed special Watts
on Wool windows, with David Jones city
stores in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth also
featuring window displays and promoting
the campaign via their social media channels.
Throughtout April and May six billboards
featuring Naomi Watts were also erected at
major venues including Sydney Airport and
Melbourne Emporium.
Sportscraft’s website was also taken over by
wool, with its home page promoting the wool
products and purchase via its online shop, the
collaboration with The Woolmark Company,
the benefits of the fibre and how to care
for it.
MORE INFORMATION
www.sportscraft.com.au
Sportscraft’s website not only highlighlights
marketing collateral related to wool, it also shows
a direct path to the company’s online shop where
consumers can buy wool apparel.
The Woolmark-certified clothing included Woolmark
swing tags that provides consumers with an
assurance of quality.
The window displays of Sportscraft stores featured ‘Watts on wool” imagery along with Sportscraft’s ‘We love wool’ promotional collateral,
Woolmark branding and the all important wool apparel.
19
20
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MERINO
WOOL
SCALING NEW
HEIGHTS
Mountain Designs produces Merino
apparel for a range of outdoor activities
such as hiking to mountain summits in
Tasmania – as pictured here.
With support from AWI, Australian outdoor brand and retailer Mountain Designs has released a range
of Woolmark-certified apparel made from 100 per cent Australian Merino wool.
I
n 1975, long before it was a well-known
brand, Mountain Designs was just one man
creating mountaineering gear and clothing
in his Brisbane garage and selling it out of
his suitcase.
Rick White had a dream: to provide high
quality gear to outdoor adventurers like
himself – the type of high quality multifunctional gear that at the time was only
available overseas. As a mountain climber,
he knew that it was in a climber’s best
interest to not take short cuts with quality.
The company recently launched a new
range of Woolmark-certified Merino wool
garments, following collaboration with AWI
which was involved in the marketing, and
two other Australian companies: ABMT
that knitted the fabrics, and OCC that
manufactured the garments.
Starting as a specialist climbing retailer,
his business boomed and soon Rick had
customers from all walks of outdoor life.
“We are very excited about our new range
of 100 per cent Australian Merino 150g,
200g and 270g+ tops and pants, winter
coats and stylish travel gear,” Ms Machado
Campos said. “This new range extends our
current range that includes blended Merino
baselayers and our stylish 100 per cent
Merino men’s and women’s Aoraki jackets
which have proved very popular.
Forty years later, the business has grown to
having 42 stores across Australia and also
a strong retail presence through its online
store. The company is still following in Rick’s
footsteps, striving every day to provide
quality, technical, multi-functional gear for
Australians of all levels of outdoor expertise.
“The inherent properties of wool make
it the perfect fabric for playing in
the outdoors. Breathability, natural
wicking, anti-odour, anti-static, natural
fire resistance and the fact that it is a
renewable, natural source of fabric makes it
perfect for Mountain Designs clothing.”
Wool has always been a very important
fabric for Mountain Designs’ apparel.
The company is one of the most exciting
and innovative premium outdoor brands
in Australia, developing quality gear for a
wide range of end use such as hiking and
trekking, backpacking, travelling, camping,
for outdoor active wear and of course
mountain climbing.
“It is perfect for the outdoors, and with all
the different applications now available
what we can produce using wool will only
be limited by our imaginations,” General
Manager of Mountain Designs' Caroline
Machado Campos says.
Ms Machado Campos says being an
Australian company using Merino wool
grown in Australia is important to
Mountain Designs.
“Our 100 per cent Australian heritage is
fundamental to who we are as a brand and
it helps set us apart from our competitors.
As a home grown company, we feel it is
important to support Australian wool
as much as possible. Keeping it local has
environmental and economic advantages
plus there is the feel good factor.
“From a product innovation perspective,
we are constantly developing a product
range that will not only serve people well
in overseas conditions but are effective for
all types of Australian outdoor conditions
as well. This is very important to us – that
people have the gear to get out and enjoy
this beautiful country of ours as much as
any overseas destination.”
MORE INFORMATION
Want a deal on Mountain Designs gear?
Join its Alliance Club for membership
benefits including everyday discounts and
to be emailed their latest specials – it’s
fast to join and FREE!
www.mountaindesigns.com
OFF
FARM
FROM BACK PADDOCKS TO BOSTON:
A MARATHON WIN FOR WOOL
After training on the
hills surrounding her
Glenthompson property,
woolgrower Sally Beggs
completed the Boston
Marathon in April in a
personal best time wearing
Merino wool sports gear.
W
oolgrower Sally Beggs completed
the 119th Boston Marathon earlier
this year wearing the fibre she grows at
the family’s ‘Nareeb Nareeb’ property near
Glenthompson in Victoria.
Crossing the finish line in a personal
best time was a triumph for Sally and the
industry she represents. Helping her get
through the 42.195 kilometres was a range
of Merino activewear from Vie Active
and Smitten – a great addition given the
very cold and wet conditions on the day.
Some of the competitors less well dressed
sadly became hypothermic and 36 were
hospitalized with hypothermia.
“I can’t control the weather but I can control
what I wear and various layers of Merino
wool kept me warm and very comfortable
throughout the race. I know that from
running in wool in all conditions around
the farm. I am sure the sheep approve given
they have been wearing it for much longer
than I have!” Sally laughs.
The Boston Marathon is described as the
pinnacle for many runners and it was
after the tragic bombing of the race in
2013 that Sally decided to have a go at
it. Starting amongst the Merinos on the
Sally Beggs
training in her
Merino wool
workout gear
amongst the
Merino sheep
on her family’s
property near
Glenthompson
in Victoria.
family property, up and over the countless
hills around Glenthompson, Dunkeld and
Penshurst she quickly realized she loved
it. Being fiercely competitive she has
now completed six marathons and seven
half marathons, inspired by people such
as Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to
officially run and complete the Boston
Marathon in 1967 at just 20.
Running non-stop for 3 hours, 35 minutes
and 37 seconds gives you a lot of time to
think. As someone who doesn’t listen to
music during a race, Sally often thinks
about what she is wearing and the
significance of it to her.
“Starting with the Merino beanie from
Smitten, I think of Tasmania and its rugged
beauty; I then go through everything else
I wear including the Vie Active top that
AWI sourced for me and the people and the
sheep that grow the fibre. Naturally I think
about our farm, Richard and our three boys.
I eventually work all the way to my socks
that come from Geelong in Victoria. It’s a
great mental exercise to distract you from
wanting to stop.”
Sally Beggs in the 2015 Boston Marathon wearing the
Merino wool apparel.
Vie Active is one of Australia's premium
high-performance fitness fashion labels.
Merino wool used in their range can easily
handle the intensity of a tough workout.
Flat seams, layered pieces, eye-catching
prints, breathability, quick dry, moisturewicking and antimicrobial performance are
some of the features of these Australian
Merino garments Sally loves.
"I love the high-performance functionality
of wool, not only for running but for
everyday wear, no matter what the weather.
It’s soft, breathes, doesn't smell, it’s natural
and best of all it is home-grown," Sally adds.
After many years of trade show exhibitions
and other marketing by AWI and industry
participants, wool is no longer a novelty in
sports and active-outdoor wear. Wool can
be seen in the ranges of most large brands
in the market. Merino wool for next to skin
wear and broader wool in wadding is now
seen in the ranges of companies such as
Nike, The North Face, Kathmandu, Adidas,
Ortovox, Under Armour, I/O Merino and
Mountain Designs.
This market may only represent about five
per cent of the global apparel market but
it continues to grow and as a natural fibre,
wool is being increasingly sought after.
21
22
OFF
FARM
PERFORMANCE POWER OF WOOL
Merino wool and wool-rich garments from major brands were put to the test in the Californian
desert by high profile US sports and lifestyle blogger Lindsey Calla, who shared her findings
with her 60,000 readers. Commercially available wool-rich apparel from adidas, Vie Active,
Theory + and Smartwool allowed Calla to champion the fibre’s benefits.
Lindsey Calla of the ‘Calla in Motion’ blog
trialling Merino wool apparel in the Californian
desert. Calla is pictured wearing a Merino wool
adidas t-shirt and Merino wool shorts from Vie
Active. PHOTO: Marianna Massey
H
ighlighting the versatility of wool, US
television host and style expert Lindsey
Calla has showcased the performance power
of Merino wool on her high profile ‘Calla in
Motion’ blog.
Sporting Merino wool and wool-rich apparel
from adidas, Vie Active, Theory + and
Smartwool, the fitness-fashion blogger went
to Joshua Tree in the California desert to put
Merino wool to the ultimate test in one of the
most extreme environments, as the mercury
dipped and rose with the sun.
Working alongside AWI, Calla trialled
a mix of commercially available sports
luxe apparel, describing it as “refreshing
and uncomplicated”.
“When it comes to fabric technology one of
the oldest, natural, and most versatile fibres
in the world still reigns supreme: wool. How
refreshing and uncomplicated,” she writes for
Calla In Motion, which has a readership of
more than 60,000 people per month.
“Merino wool has lots of natural stretch and
recovers extremely well. This shape retention
is another reason you can work out in wool
and look good doing it, thus blending fashion
and fitness together perfectly.”
The Woolmark Company’s Facebook page
posted a photo album of Calla trialling
each of the garments at Joshua Tree,
which reached more than 190,000 sports
enthusiasts. Collaborating with bloggers
and utilising social media is an important
way of showcasing the benefits of wool
to an increasingly tech savvy audience
of consumers.
MORE INFORMATION
www.callainmotion.com/calla-in-motion/
merinowool
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OFF
FARM
23
MERINO’S
MOUNTAIN
MARATHON
Kyle Williams wearing his I/O Merino gear on top of the 2061m
Mount Jagungal in the Kosciuszko National Park in NSW.
Australian adventurer Kyle Williams is a convert to Merino wool and backs its high
performance properties. He always kits himself out in gear from Adelaide based
brand I/O Merino when heading out into the wild.
38
year old Australian adventurer and
former Army medic Kyle Williams is
someone who knows about performing at
his limits.
In November last year, he became the first
person to run an 82km ultra-marathon across
the 21 highest mountains in the Snowy
Mountains. It was run in one go, together
with Kyle’s Victorian ultra-marathon running
buddy Jamie Smith, in a time of just 19 hours.
The alpine challenge, which was largely offtrail, had a total elevation gain of 4193m.
The previous year, Kyle was the first person
on record to climb non-stop all 26 of mainland
Australia’s 2000m mountains. It took 48 hours
to complete the 130km trek through the
Snowy Mountains with a total gain in altitude
of 5850m – which is about the height of Mount
Kilimanjaro or two thirds the height of Mount
Everest. He battled wind, rain and snow, with
temperatures ranging from minus 6°c to 18°c.
To help him perform at these limits of
endurance, Kyle only uses gear that performs
just as hard as he does.
“If it isn’t the very best, then I won’t use it,”
he says. “I need gear that enables my body to
operate at its optimum, in all types of weather,
temperatures, and conditions.”
So Kyle wears apparel made from Merino
wool. But it wasn’t always the case. He was
introduced to Merino wool apparel in 2011
when he was lent a top to wear for a workout.
“Initially I was sceptical about wearing a
wool garment, thinking it would be too hot
and scratchy,” Kyle says. “But it was very
comfortable to wear and its breathability
helped regulate my temperature in the
hot conditions.
“Now I’m a complete convert. I use Merino
wool garments almost exclusively for my
outdoor and fitness activties. In fact even
when I’m not exercising, I more often than not
wear Merino wool as casual wear. You could
say that ‘I live the Merino lifestyle!’”
In early 2014, Kyle heard about I/O Merino
– an Australian company and brand selling
exclusively Merino active wear. The company
uses 18.5 micron Australian Merino wool and
has the mission to make the best quality, most
comfortable, high-performance Merino active
wear available. Based in Adelaide, I/O Merino
is owned by David Michell, whose family has
been involved in the Australian wool industry
for more than 140 years.
Kyle points out there are now many brands
on the market selling Merino wool activewear,
but he says they are not all the same – the
quality varies.
“I find I/O Merino gear to be very well made
and comes in a broad range. They have all the
usual tops and tights, but they also do 100 per
cent Merino track suits pants, which I love,
and a neck tube that covers exposed gaps
above my top or jacket, and is versatile enough
to be worn as a headband.
“On my ultra-marathon across the Snowy
Mountains last year, to keep my pack weight
down, I only took minimal gear, which was
pretty much made up of all I/O Merino!
Layering is a really important in those
conditions with temperatures ranging from
10°c down to minus 2°c – and Merino is great
for that.
“I wore a lightweight I/O Merino T-shirt and
long-sleeve as my base layers, layered with
a mid-weight I/O Merino jacket when it got
cold. My absolute go to piece though was the
I/O Merino neck tube which I wore all day in
various forms; it’s an awesome piece of kit.
“Merino was fantastic for regulating my
temperature – which can be very tricky
to do when exercising and sweating in a
cold environment. It kept me warm even
when it got damp – which is so important
in freezing conditions and so unlike what
cotton and synthetic fabrics deliver.
Another big difference with Merino
compared to synthetics is that Merino
doesn’t stink after exercise!
“If people try Merino gear for exercise, I’m 100
per cent confident they will love it and never
go back to wearing anything else.”
Kyle’s plans for the future include climbing
the highest peak in each of Australia’s
mainland states and territories in less
than six days, and also a winter traverse of
Federation Peak in Tasmania.
Will he be taking Merino on these trips? “You
bet,” he says.
MORE INFORMATION
I/O Merino is sold exclusively online at
www.iomerino.com
24
OFF
FARM
One of the attributes of Merino wool that
is breathing new life into the outdoor
apparel market is its ability to absorb
and transfer large quantities of moisture
vapour away from the body, meaning
wearers of wool garments are less
prone to clamminess.
A BREATH OF
FRESH AIR
Merino wool’s breathability and odour resistance have opened the way for a natural alternative to synthetic-based outdoor performance gear.
W
WOOL’S EXCELLENT
MOISTURE MANAGEMENT
What does breathability mean? When
someone says a garment ‘breathes’ they are
referring to its ability to dissipate moisture
vapour so that the wearer doesn’t feel
clammy or uncomfortable.
Compared to clothing made from other
fibres, Merino wool garments are very
efficient at transferring moisture vapour
away from the body. Wool fibre can absorb
up to 35 per cent of its dry weight in
moisture vapour, and still feel dry to touch,
which is far more than synthetic fibres
(that have usually been manufactured using
petrochemicals) and even other natural
fibres such as cotton – see figure 1.
ith a majority of the world’s
leading outdoor brands now
incorporating Merino wool base-layers into
their collections, one of the most talked
about natural attributes and benefits of
Merino wool clothing in this market is
its breathability.
During exercise or in hot climates the
evaporation of moisture from the skin’s
surface produces a very efficient cooling
effect. However, clothing can obstruct this
process, resulting in the microclimate above
the skin becoming saturated with vapour,
which will make the individual clammy
unless their clothing can transport this
moisture away from the skin.
Compared to clothing made from other
fibres, Merino wool’s process of vapour
transfer results in cooler muscles that are
able to work at higher intensity levels.
ODOUR MANAGEMENT
Merino wool’s breathability also helps in
minimising body odour. Without the fibre’s
effective dispersal system, the vapour is
more likely to condense to form sweat
droplets on the skin’s surface which can
cause unpleasant body odour when the
sweat degrades.
The chemical bonding within a Merino fibre
has the effect of allowing the fibres to pull
moisture vapour into them. This causes the
micro-climate above the skin to become less
saturated with vapour, thereby making the
wearer less clammy and less likely for the
vapour to form sweat droplets on the skin’s
surface. The Merino wool fabric will release
the moisture into the atmosphere which has
lower humidity – see figure 2.
Furthermore, the complex chemical
structure of Merino wool actually locks
away any unpleasant odour molecules
from degraded sweat, to be released when
the garment is washed. So Merino wool
clothes will remain fresher for longer than
cotton or synthetic garments.
MORE INFORMATION
www.merino.com/sport
Merino Breathability
Microclimate
MerinoPerform™
Merino
wool basebase
layerlayer
Water Vapour Uptake (%)
Moisture uptake
35
Moisture vapour
Wool
Cotton
25
Polyamide/Polyester
Polyacrylic
15
Skin
Heat transfer occurs
via mass transfer
of vapour
Efficient dispersal
into atmosphere
5
-5
0
50
100
Relative Humidity (%)
Figure 1
Moisture uptake: Wool absorbs more moisture vapour than other fibres.
Chemical attraction
quickly draws vapour
molecules through fabric
thus reducing possibility
of condensation
Moisture vapour is
contained
contained
in in
the side chain reservoirs within
wool fibres (before being
released into the atmosphere),
thus keeping fabric dry
Figure 2
Merino breathability: A Merino wool garment close to the skin
actively transfers moisture vapour molecules away from the body
so you feel less clammy.
OFF
FARM
25
WEBSITE HELPS STUDENTS
LEARN ABOUT WOOL
• AWI has launched a ‘Learn About Wool’
website, aligned to the new Australian
Curriculum, to foster the education of
both primary and high school students.
• Teachers can search by subject and year
group to find fact sheets and additional
resources to use in the classroom.
• The initiative is an extension of AWI’s
Wool4SchoolTM competition, for which
submissions for 2015 are now open for
students in years 7-11.
A
s an extension of AWI’s successful
Wool4SchoolTM fashion design
competition, AWI has launched its ‘Learn
About Wool’ website tailored to both primary
and high school teachers and students.
Both initiatives reinforce AWI’s commitment
to fostering education and continue to help
teach the next generation about the unique
and natural benefits of Australian wool.
Working with Education Services Australia
(ESA), AWI has established the Learn
About Wool website in line with the
Australian Curriculum. As a national,
not-for-profit company owned by all
Australian education ministers, ESA
supports the delivery of national
priorities and initiatives in education.
Offering a flexible and interactive range of
resources, the website www.learnaboutwool.
com can easily be incorporated into
everyday classroom activities. It supports
the development of students in line with
curriculum guidelines across key subject areas
including science, history, geography, design
and technologies, and business and economics.
Primary school teacher Vicky McNaughton
from Wurruk Primary School near Sale,
Victoria, said: “The wool package is a
fantastic resource for teachers and I have
been trying to spread the word. Kids had no
idea of the process of wool, and the materials
are engaging and interesting. I highly rate it
and recommend it for all schools.”
“Just as we work with textile specialists,
manufacturers and designers around the
world explaining the endless possibilities
of our natural fibre, we are delighted to also
offer Australian students many resources
associated with the farm to fashion story as
well,” explains AWI Group Manager for Trade
Education Julie Davies.
Extensive digital resources associated
with the Wool4SchoolTM program and
Learn About Wool can also be found on
Scootle, the online gateway to high-quality,
searchable teaching resources aligned to the
Australian Curriculum.
The website has been designed so teachers
can search for resources by year level and
subject area, with AWI receiving positive
feedback from teachers using the site.
Agriculture, maths and science teacher Janet
Cleary from Corinda State High School in
Brisbane, Queensland, said: “The Year 9/10
Agricultural Technologies section of the
Learn About Wool website has been a great
resource for our Year 9 Ag Technology class,
with clear and easy to read fact sheets. The
selection of video clips offered is also a
great resource, as is the teachers’ kit full of
samples of fleeces and fabrics.”
Students from Scotch Oakburn College, Launceston, with their teacher (and wool
producer) Madeleine Scott using resources from AWI’s ‘Learn about Wool’ initiative.
MORE INFORMATION
Woolgrowers and parents: Contact
your local school and encourage them
to incorporate the Learn About Wool
resources into their lessons. Hard copy
Learn About Wool fact sheets, posters,
fibre, yarn and fabric samples are also
available – for schools only (one kit per
school). Contact [email protected].
• www.learnaboutwool.com
• www.wool4school.com
• www.scootle.edu.au
WOOL4SCHOOLTM
SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN
High school students across Australia
have been busy getting their submissions
ready for this year’s Wool4SchoolTM
design competition.
The 2015 Wool4SchoolTM theme is Live
Life, Love Wool and sets the task to
design the perfect winter outfit suitable
for a student exchange to New York City,
Tokyo, Paris, Moscow or New Delhi. The
competition is designed to make learning
about Merino wool fun and exciting.
Students have just over one month to
enter their wool designs to be in the
running for some fantastic prizes and
learning opportunities.
Submissions close:
Years 7 & 8: 16 July 2015
Years 9 & 10: 23 July 2015
Years 11 & teachers: 30 July 2015
26
OFF
FARM
RESEARCH BOOSTS ASSESSMENT OF
WOOL’S ENVIRONM
• AWI funds scientific research to enable
the industry to market Australian wool
to consumers as the ‘planet-friendly’
fibre of choice.
• The research aims to improve the
current body of life cycle assessment
(LCA) studies and provide a
more accurate analysis of wool’s
environmental benefits.
• A recently published scientific study
proposes a new set of methods for
use in LCAs where wool is produced
alongside meat, which gives a
more positive assessment of wool’s
environmental credentials.
• Another new study has shown
that, compared to other fibres,
wool products have longer lives
and recycling potential – an aspect
that current LCA studies have not
previously considered.
W
ool is natural, renewable, recyclable
and biodegradable – and therefore
well placed to take advantage of the
increasing consumer demand for more
earth-friendly products.
However, environmental ratings agencies,
such as Made-By, have rated wool poorly
against competing fibres. This puts wool at
a disadvantage, particularly as these ratings
are used by brands to help choose raw
materials to include in their products.
AWI has consequently been strongly
focussed on generating scientific evidence
of wool’s true environmental credentials
and communicating this information to
the environmental agencies such as the
United Nation’s Food and Agricultural
Organisation. It is only by undertaking
and publishing technically sound scientific
studies that wool’s true environmental
credentials will be established, leading to
improved environmental ratings for wool.
This is a prime example of where AWI’s R&D
and marketing are aligned and working
hand in glove for a better future, not just for
woolgrowers and regional Australia, but for
the planet.
LIFE CYCLE
ASSESSMENT
“LCA is a tool that attempts to tell in
technical terms the environmental story
of wool,” explained Dr Paul Swan, General
Manager Research at AWI and Chair of the
International Wool Textile Organisation’s
(IWTO) Sustainable Practices Working Group.
“But as a tool, LCA studies have limitations
because information from all parts of the
wool pipeline is often not available, so
assumptions must be made and many of
the assumptions currently used for LCA
are very unhelpful for wool.”
DISTRIBUTION
Distribution of
wool products
uses energy
and fuels for
transport.
AWI-funded research is progressively
exposing and correcting the weaknesses
in the system. This process began with
the formation of the Wool LCA Technical
Advisory Group in 2013. It brought together
leading technical experts in LCA and the
science of environmental assessment from
the UK, New Zealand and Australia and is
chaired by Associate Professor Beverley
Henry from Queensland University
of Technology. Three of their recent
achievements are discussed below.
SHARING THE
FOOTPRINT ACROSS
WOOL AND MEAT
A recently published scientific study paves
the way for better reporting of wool’s
environmental performance, proposing a
new set of methods for use in LCAs of wool
where wool is produced alongside meat.
Many sheep farms produce both meat and
wool. Previous LCA studies have produced
widely different results when dividing the
environmental impact across these two
products. Consequently AWI’s Technical
Advisory Group conducted a research study
to identify a more accurate and consistent
method of dividing the impact across meat
and wool.
USAGE AND RECYCLING
The use phase of wool products
requires detergent and water for
laundry and dry cleaning chemicals;
many wool products are re-cycled.
OFF
FARM
MENTAL FOOTPRINT
WOOL’S LONGER
LIFE REDUCES ITS
FOOTPRINT
PRODUCTION
Wool production begins on farms
where sheep graze pastures or
consume imported feed. Other
inputs may include farm machinery,
fertilisers, veterinary chemicals,
housing and bedding. On-farm
environmental impacts include use
of land, water and energy, emissions
of GHGs and management of carbon
stored in vegetation and soils.
PROCESSING
Wool processing uses chemicals, energy,
water and uses fuels for transport.
Until now the apportionment of weightings
to meat and wool has been based on the
economic value of each product but it
can easily be seen that this method is not
robust. To explain, Green House Gas (GHG)
emissions from sheep are predominantly
driven by their digestive system and
manure production, varying by perhaps 25%
between breeds. By contrast, the value of
ultrafine Merino wool and broad wool from
breeds such as Cheviot varies by more than
1000%. So, even though the Merino and
Cheviot sheep have similar GHG emissions,
allocating economic burden by wool’s value
would result in the Merinos being assessed
as having a much heavier (more harmful)
environmental footprint.
The solution lies, the researchers
say, in using a method that allocates
environmental impact on the basis of the
protein requirements for production. Both
meat and wool are protein-based products,
so this method generates results that
are causally related to production. It also
produced much more stable GHG estimates
across the different farming systems than
other allocation methods.
END-OF-LIFE
Disposal of wool products
such as apparel or carpets
may be to land-fill or as
input for products such as
fire retardants.
“We should see this study influence
the international standards applied to
benchmarking, such as the guidelines
developed by the UN’s Livestock
Environmental Assessment and
Performance program," Dr Swan noted.
“Over time this will result in more consistent
reporting of the positive environmental
performance of wool, and provide assurance
to the retailers, brands and marketers that
have an interest in wool that they have
the most accurate data set, and thus the
most accurate understanding of the true
environmental footprint of wool.”
Long-lived products have a ‘lighter’ carbon
footprint because they are replaced less
often. However wool LCA studies to date
have assumed that at the end of a garment’s
life it is immediately disposed to landfill,
ignoring the level of reuse and recycling of
wool garments.
A new study of recycling and reuse of
wool by Professor Stephen Russell of the
University of Leeds, a member of the Wool
LCA Technical Advisory Group, has revealed
findings suggesting a smaller LCA footprint
than used in LCA studies undertaken to date.
The study identified:
• A high donation rate of wool garments of
about 5% in UK and USA surveys towards a
second life, which is far higher than wool’s
share of the virgin fibre supply of about 1.5%.
• More recycling options for wool. Unlike
many textiles, wool clothing has long
been compatible with both ‘open loop’ and
‘closed loop’ recycling processes.
• A long second (and potentially third) life:
For example the active life of automotive
sound insulation is about 15 years, while a
mattress insulator pad is about 7 years.
IMPROVING
CONSISTENCY
AND ACCURACY
OF WOOL LCA
The Wool LCA Technical Advisory Group
has recently contributed a chapter on wool
LCA for inclusion in the Handbook of Life
Cycle Assessment of textiles and clothing.
This invitation from the editors, Woodhead
Publishing, was an acknowledgement of the
status of the Group and their achievements
for wool LCA.
The Handbook will communicate recent
technical developments in wool LCA to a
wider audience and will generate awareness
of the unique features of the life cycle of
wool and the rationale for including them
in LCA. It will result in more wool LCA
practitioners using consistent allocation
methods and consider the use and end-oflife phases in wool LCA studies. It will also
mitigate the risk of a proliferation of poor
LCA studies that could potentially damage
the reputation of wool.
27
28
ON
FARM
HANDS ON AT THE
NATIONAL MERINO
CHALLENGE
• AWI’s recently held National Merino
Challenge (NMC) was a success, with
98 students from across Australia
heading to Adelaide to compete in the
educational initiative.
• The NMC connected the future of
the wool industry with industry
professionals, highlighting an array
of careers which involve working
with wool.
• Cummins Area School was the
Champion Team in the secondary
school division, whilst Charles
Sturt University Wagga Wagga was
the Champion Team in the tertiary
division.
N
early 100 students from 14 schools,
colleges, universities and TAFEs from
across Australia last month came together
for the National Merino Challenge (NMC)
in Adelaide, South Australia.
An AWI initiative, the NMC involves
presentations and demonstrations from
industry professionals to enable young people
to develop their industry knowledge, skills
and networks. Students participated in seven
‘mini-challenges’ across two days, testing their
knowledge of Merino fleece, production and
breeding and selection principles.
The mini challenges were:
1. AWEX typing
2. Wool valuing
3. Visual score assessment
4. Condition scoring
5. Nutrition and feed budgeting
6. Ewe selection
7. Ram selection
Techniques from several well-known industry
initiatives, such as MERINOSELECT, Lifetime
Ewe Management and Visual Sheep Scores,
were used throughout the NMC, giving
students a realistic and practical insight into
the tools available to growers to make more
informed decisions.
Other highlights of the NMC program
included a shearing demonstration from
world champion shearer Shannon Warnest, a
presentation by Deanne Irwin of Australian
Condition scoring was one of the seven activities in the National Merino Challenge competition.
Wool Network on the importance of effective
woolhandling techniques for good clip
preparation, and a careers session in which
students were provided with advice on
entering the agricultural sector from a panel of
young professionals already in the industry.
The NMC Industry Dinner was attended by
more than 190 people. Students enjoyed the
keynote speech from Shannon Warnest and
said they relished the opportunity to spend
the evening with a range of wool industry
participants, from woolgrowers to wool
brokers and researchers.
Belinda Amess from La Trobe University in
Melbourne, who won the tertiary division,
said she found the two-day event to be a
valuable experience.
“I come from a superfine Merino property at
Caramut in the Western District of Victoria
and I’ve always had a keen interest in wool,
so one of my favourite activities was the
AWEX typing. It was a great feeling to win the
competition – the La Trobe team prepared for
the competition with the help of our trainer
Hannah White who was a great motivator.
“I’m in my first year at uni, studying a joint
Commerce and Ag Science degree, so it was
really useful to meet the industry experts here
and see the extent of career opportunities there
are in the wool industry. Although it’s early
days for me, areas I’m interested in include
agribusiness, research and wool brokering.”
For the second year running, the individual
winner of the secondary school division
was from Cummins Area School on the Eyre
Peninsula of South Australia. This year it was
Daniel Puckridge who reigned supreme.
“I really enjoyed doing all the activities and
meeting so many students from all across
Australia. To win the event was a great surprise,
but it really topped off a great weekend.
“We had done a fair bit of preparation, with
the help of our trainer James Pedler, and been
out to Joe Dahlitz’s property, Roemahkita,
near Cummins where Syd Lawrie and Joe
demonstrated to us some hands on skills with
sheep such as condition scoring and visual
classing – which all proved very useful here in
the competition at Adelaide.
“I come from a sheep, cattle and cropping
property, and am interested in doing an Ag
Science degree at uni. The event was a good
opportunity to talk to all the industry people
and hear the plans of the other students;
it was a great networking event as well
as being a competition.”
Cummins Area School also won the team
event in the secondary school division, whilst
Charles Sturt University Wagga Wagga came
out on top in the tertiary division.
Participating schools, TAFEs and
universities were:
• Burra Community School, SA
• Cleve Area School, SA
• Cummins Area School, SA
• Charles Sturt University,
Wagga Wagga, NSW
ON
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29
• Hay War Memorial High School, NSW
• La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic
• Lucindale Area School, SA
• Meningie Area School, SA
• TAFE New England, Armidale, NSW
• TAFE Riverina, Wagga Wagga, NSW
• University of Melbourne, Vic
• University of Adelaide, SA
• WA College of Agriculture, Harvey, WA
• Waikerie High School, SA
AWI thanks the 2015 NMC sponsors – Royal
Agricultural & Horticultural Society of SA,
Elders, Future Farmers Network, Landmark,
Australian Wool Network, Primary Industries
and Regions SA, AuctionsPlus, BankSA, The
Mutooroo Pastoral Company, Aglive, Allflex,
Tru-Test – for making this event possible,
as well as the dedicated volunteers for their
time and expertise and the woolgrowers who
provided their sheep: Leahcim Poll Merino
Stud, Lines Gum Hill Poll Merino Stud and
Old Ashrose Merino & Poll Merino Stud.
Winning team in the secondary school division was
Cummins Area School: Alex Mahoney, Daniel Puckridge,
Alex Boehm, Shenaia Palmer. Daniel was also the winner
of the individual award in the secondary school division.
Zoe Lynch from Charles Sturt University gets tips on wool handling from ‘master classer’ Deanne Irwin.
Belinda Amess from La Trobe
University won the individual
award in the tertiary division.
Winning team in the tertiary division was
Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga:
Nyssa Belton-Liddy, Brooke Cowan,
Kayla Kopp, Zoe Lynch.
SECONDARY SCHOOL DIVISION AWARDS
Champion
Daniel Puckridge, Cummins Area School
Second Place
Alex Boehm, Cummins Area School
Third Place
Angus Wiech, Burra Community School
Champion Team
Cummins Area School
Top Performer in Wool Section
Daniel Puckridge, Cummins Area School
Top Performer in Breeding Section
Sammy Adams, WA College of Agriculture, Harvey
Top Performer in Production Section
Mary Williams, Lucindale Area School
Students being shown what to look
for when selecting rams and ewes.
TERTIARY DIVISION AWARDS
Champion
Belinda Amess, La Trobe University
Second Place
Edmond Lyon, La Trobe University
Third Place
Nyssa Belton-Liddy, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga
Champion Team
Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga
Top Performer in Wool Section
Nyssa Belton-Liddy, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga
Top Performer in Breeding Section
Caitlin Berry, University of Adelaide
Top Performer in Production Section
Edmond Lyon, La Trobe University
Students taking part in the
visual score assessment activity.
30
ON
FARM
DOG
CONTROL
SUCCESS WITH TRAPS AND BAITS
providing training and advice, with everyone
working cooperatively together.”
The district historically used to carry a
much larger number of sheep but over
the years these numbers have dropped
significantly. In 2012, the group applied
for and started receiving some funds from
AWI to help with community baiting and
trapping. The AWI funding complements
the community’s own contributions and
activities by DELWP.
Alan Neven and his wife Helen laying traps, purchased with funds provided by AWI. The Nevens have been
very successful at catching wild dogs with the traps.
AWI funding for on-ground activities
in the rugged High Country of far
east Gippsland in Victoria is helping
communities to successfully tackle wild
dog and fox attacks on sheep flocks.
Park. The Nevens currently run 1400 Merinos
with 120 cattle.
unding by AWI to local wild dog control
groups for on-ground activities to
combat wild dogs is providing real results for
woolgrowers across the country.
The funds provided by AWI enabled the
purchase of baits for a community baiting
program. The group also bought traps, and
Alan was delighted to recently catch the first
wild dog with one of the traps, followed up
during the short time this article was being
prepared by three more on his property! The
number of dogs caught by traps on private
and crown land is steadily increasing.
Woolgrower Alan Neven of Tubbut in East
Gippsland, Victoria, is a member of his local
community wild dog control group, run by
the Deddick River Landcare Group, which
covers about 44,000 hectares of the Deddick
Valley, Tubbut, Bendoc, Delegate River and
Bonang areas.
“While baiting is the primary method of
killing dogs on private land in the area,
trapping can be useful for getting the dogs
that are cunning enough to avoid the baits,”
Alan said. “The funding for trap kits by
AWI has proved itself to be effective on our
property – which is very pleasing.
He works on the 1200 hectare family farm,
now run by his son Phillip, on undulating
country close to the Snowy River National
“The Department of Environment, Land,
Water and Planning (DELWP Vic) wild dog
controller Tom Kimber has helped us by
F
“The AWI funding has provided a significant
boost to the whole community,” said Alan’s
son Philip, who is the president
of the local control group. “Around Tubbut,
we’ve virtually cleared up the foxes, resulting
in increased lambing percentages, and we are
starting to get the wild dogs under control. In
Bendoc, over the past six months they’ve had
some good results in reducing dogs.
“This is great sheep country and there is
genuine interest in increasing numbers in the
area. The wild dogs have been holding us back,
but with continued control efforts by producers
and government agencies, on our property I
plan to soon be able to get back up to about
2000 sheep and reduce our cattle to about 60.”
With assistance from the AWI-funded
community wild dog control coordinator
David Krajca, landholder involvement in the
community baiting programs is expanding
the use of 1080 baiting on private land by
linking many properties in coordinated
autumn and spring baiting programs.
“The coordinator David Krajca does a
tremendous job encouraging the whole
community to work together, building their
confidence up to tackle the dog problem,”
Alan said.
David works closely with the group in
planning and delivering integrated control
activities in conjunction with DELWP’s wild
dog control activities.
Images from a Night Cam on Alan Neven’s property at Tubbut in East Gippsland, Victoria, in early 2012 showing wild dogs amongst his flock. Since 2012 the local
community wild dog control group of which Alan is a member started receiving funds from AWI for on-ground wild dog control.
ON
FARM
BENEFITS FOR
NATIVE WILDLIFE
Woolgrowers are reporting greater wildlife activity in areas where community wild dog control
has been carried out.
W
hile on-ground initiatives such as
baiting and traps are helping to
reduce stock losses from wild dog attacks,
landholders involved in community wild dog
control programs are also noticing an increase
in native wildlife and a sense of ‘balance’ that
this brings both on-farm and in the bush.
Reports provided by woolgrowers to AWI
consistently state that wild dog control results
in increased native wildlife – from quolls to
bandicoots, lyrebirds to echidnas – in all areas,
from the High Country to the pastoral zone.
Brendan Cullen manages ‘Avenel Station’,
a sheep and cattle enterprise in the far
western parts of NSW, 145km north-west
of Broken Hill on the South Australian
wild dog fence. He has recently written to
AWI about the increased numbers he has
witnessed of one particular iconic species
of Australian wildlife.
“I put this increase down to our baiting
program. We have been baiting on Avenel
Station over the past seven years using
the product 1080. This can be quite a costly
exercise if you bait on a quarterly basis but
a very beneficial one. It has become one of
our major management tools for wild dog
and fox control and is working well. You
can see it has a major effect on the increase
of our native fauna.”
“If you live inside the wild dog fence you
will incur a problem with the dogs, some
more than others, but the inevitable will
catch up with you if action isn't taken on
the front line.”
Brendan has recently been working with
the AWI-funded wild dog coordinator
for the Western Division of NSW, Bruce
Duncan of NSW Farmers. Bruce liaises
with woolgrowers, livestock producers
and other key stakeholders to help them
achieve long term on-ground control of
wild dogs.
“In the past twelve months there has been
quite a few sightings of these terrific birds;
I alone have seen at least twenty or more
birds, even a chick which is quite uncommon.
Collaboration between local landholders is
vital when dealing with wild dog issues but
can be challenging without external help,
especially in western NSW where distances
DELWP has intensified its baiting and
trapping programs on adjoining public land to
complement the community control program.
These programs are now coordinated with all
the landholders on a large scale.
“There was a time a few years ago – when the
dogs were killing a lot of sheep – and that felt
very depressing. As individual farmers, we felt
alone and powerless against them,” Philip said.
The area’s devastating bushfires in summer
2014 have increased the risk of reinvasion
by wild dogs. Extensive fencing (including wild
dog exclusion fencing) has been destroyed and
the absence of vegetation has provided wild
dogs with easier access to the grazing lands.
However, with a proactive and coordinated
approach from landholders, and financial
assistance from AWI, the Nevens feel
optimistic for the future.
“Bruce’s work takes him to most parts of
western NSW,” Brendan said. “The area he
covers is enormous. He would never be
able to achieve what he does without the
funding from AWI.”
Brendan says his neighbours are involved
in a community baiting program and are
encouraged to maintain the program on an
annual basis. He says they know the benefit
of such an effective management tool.
“Recently I have noticed in our area an
increase in numbers of the Australian
bustard, commonly known as the ‘plains
turkey’. These animals mainly live on the
plains country and use the grasses for
camouflage. They are very susceptible to
wild dogs and foxes when these predator
numbers increase,” Brendan said.
As well as community baiting and trapping,
the Nevens use wild dog exclusion fencing
and Maremma guardian dogs which Philip
says are very effective.
to travel are greater and there are a larger
number of absentee landowners.
“But now that the community and agencies
have collectively come together with
resources to address the issue, we have a
greater sense of wellbeing and less stress.
We feel a great sense of relief simply by the
act of coming together and doing something
to address the dog problem.”
Brendan Cullen of ‘Avenel Station’, 145km north-west
of Broken Hill, reports an increase in native wildlife
following a baiting program to combat wild dogs.
AWI COMMUNITY WILD
DOG CONTROL INITIATIVE
- FUNDING AVAILABLE
Funding is available to groups under AWI’s
‘Community Wild Dog Control Initiative’.
Applications are open to new groups
as well as those groups that have
previously received funding from AWI. If
you would like to apply, please complete
the Community Wild Dog Control
Initiative application form available at
www.wool.com/wilddogs and submit it
along with a plan, a map and a project
budget to [email protected].
If you need clarification or assistance
please contact Ian Evans at AWI on
0427 773 005.
31
32
ON
FARM
DEAD FAST.
DEAD EASY.
UNIQUE KNOCKDOWN
CHEMISTRY
OFF-SHEARS, UNSHORN LAMBS
& LONG WOOL SHEEP
NIL WOOL WHP &
MINIMAL ESI
Extinosad® Pour-On delivers four important benefits for Australian sheep and wool producers. Its unique knockdown
chemistry is ideal for rotation programs. It can be used off-shears, on unshorn lambs and long wool sheep. It has
no wool withholding period and minimal ESI. And best of all, it’s a convenient water-based formulation. For more
information about why Extinosad Pour-On is the dead fast, dead easy way to control sheep lice, contact your local
rural store, call Elanco Animal Health on 1800 226 324 or visit extinosad.com.au
*Elanco®, Extinosad® and the diagonal colour bar are trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. EAH13438A4
WATER-BASED
FORMULATION
ON
FARM
33
THE ORIGINAL “BOSS”
RETIRES AFTER 51 YEARS
WormBoss creator Arthur Le Feuvre is retiring after 51 years serving the sheep industry, but he leaves
behind an impressive legacy with the WormBoss program a stand out achievement of his career.
A
s WormBoss this year marks its ten-year
anniversary, its creator Arthur Le Feuvre
has decided to retire after 51 years serving the
sheep industry.
Arthur was instrumental in the creation
of the WormBoss program, which was
developed and launched by AWI and the
Sheep CRC in March 2005.
He spent more than 40 years of his career as
a Sheep Extension Officer with Queensland
DPI, working the country from Charleville,
Cunnamulla and Warwick. Realising the
importance of being able to communicate the
benefits of new technology to sheep producers,
he completed a Graduate Diploma in Rural
Extension at Hawkesbury Agricultural College
and became renowned for being an effective,
and at times unconventional, communicator
using his special combination of throaty growl
and angelic smile.
While at Warwick, Arthur developed and
managed the Queensland DPI Wormbuster
program to help Queensland sheep producers
sustainably manage internal parasites. When
the Sheep CRC started, it was a logical step to
enlist Arthur, with his dynamic personality,
to drive the creation of the national worm
control program WormBoss.
In the early years of WormBoss, Arthur
used his experience getting the best from
Australia’s leading parasitologists who
provided content, guiding web developers
to present the information in a way – as
Arthur would say – “that would make sense
to a cocky”, and working with a marketing
company to develop strategies to take the
information to sheep producers. He was
also successful in recruiting the veterinary
pharmaceutical companies and retailers to
support WormBoss, which is one of the key
factors in its success today.
Arthur also composed and recorded the
infamous WormBoss song – which can be
downloaded from the WormBoss home page
– which includes lyrics like "The Boss says
test resistance, to be sure which drenches
kill; It’s much more cost effective, than
guessing like a dill!"
WORMBOSS
Over 10 years, Arthur and the WormBoss
team have created a resource that is the envy
of many other sheep-producing countries
across the world. Indeed 25 per cent of the
website traffic is international. It has also
led to the development of its sister web sites:
FlyBoss and LiceBoss, which today are all
managed under the ParaBoss umbrella, with
funding from AWI and MLA.
The WormBoss foundations are not forgotten,
with years of research and experience from
state programs, CSIRO, universities and many
dedicated individuals included.
Today, WormBoss has a wealth of content
including regional worm control programs
and drench decision guides, a drench
database, an online learning program, and
The original worm ‘Boss’
Arthur Le Feuvre. During his
career, he was renowned for
going to colourful lengths to
grab producers’ attention to
encourage practice change.
a worm control workshop. Students across
Australia are WormBoss-trained.
PARABOSS NEWS
Each month the email bulletin ParaBoss News
is sent to about 3500 subscribers. Written by
regional experts, it includes monthly state
and regional outlooks on worms, flies and
lice. It also includes feature articles as well as
a quick 3-question quiz to let you test your
knowledge of sheep parasites.
To celebrate WormBoss’s ten-year
anniversary, a prize draw is being held to
encourage producers to subscribe (free) to
ParaBoss News. Current subscribers will
not be left out from the draw – they should
check and update their existing subscription.
Subscribe or update your subscription at
www.paraboss.com.au in June or July 2015
to enter the prize draw and keep up-to-date
with sheep parasite management.
WIN WITH
PARABOSS NEWS!
With a ParaBoss News subscription,
you’re already a winner when it comes
to parasite control.
Subscribe or update your subscription at
www.paraboss.com.au in June or July 2015
to enter the prize draw*
Riverina Pasture Supplements
1 x $850 prize
Allflex products
4 x $220 prizes
Mouseoff® BD Rodent Block 9 kg pail
4 x $220 prizes
* All prize values are GST inclusive; some conditions
apply: see www.paraboss.com.au/news/competition
WormBoss is an online tool developed by
AWI and the Sheep CRC to help producers
optimise the timing and effectiveness of
drenching and other worm management
practices. The aim of the website is to
reduce drenching and minimise the onset of
drench resistance while increasing animal
productivity, profitability and welfare.
34
ON
FARM
ERADICATING LICE:
THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL
Woolgrowers should be vigilant against lice infestations, which can affect an enterprise’s
bottom line by downgrading wool quality and reducing fleece weight. While eradication of lice
is quite achievable, it requires attention to detail.
I
s yours one of the 25 per cent of Australian
properties whose sheep have lice, or do you
still apply a lice treatment routinely each
year? If so, it could be time to review your
approach with the aim of getting rid of lice
for good, resulting in saved treatment costs
and labour, and improved fleece value.
LiceBoss calculations show that a lice
infestation can lower fleece value by
between $3 and $9 per head*, mainly by
decreasing fleece weight and yield, and
affecting colour (*2012 wool prices for 18–20
micron wool). While there may be a lower
economic impact in the first year of an
infestation, if left untreated, lice numbers
can build to levels where a 30 per cent to
40 per cent reduction in fleece value may
be experienced.
While high quality fencing goes a long way to
maintaining a lice-free property, it may not
be the answer to your problem.
Firstly, ask yourself, where have this year’s
lice come from? There are only three
possible answers, and the first is very
common, especially if you’ve had lice in
your flock for a number of years:
• Lice were on the sheep last shearing and
treatment was not effective.
• Lice have come in on other sheep: those that
have been purchased; your sheep that have
strayed into a lousy flock and returned; or
other lousy sheep that have strayed into
your flock.
• Lice have been transferred to your sheep
in some other way, such as on shearer’s
moccasins or clothing or your sheep have
been shorn in a shed that very recently
had lousy sheep. While these options are
possible, non-sheep transmission of lice is
extremely rare.
Eradicating lice is very simple, yet
extremely difficult. Numerous products
and application methods are 100 per cent
effective, and all the lice are there on the
sheep; not on pastures or flying around like
worms and flies. However, because there
are many things to consider and treatment
has to be right on every one of the hundreds
or thousands of sheep on the property,
eradication requires attention to detail.
So, this year, where can you focus your
attention, so that lice can be eradicated?
IN THE LEAD
UP TO SHEARING
CHECK WHETHER
LICE ARE PRESENT
If there are no lice, ‘just-in-case’ treatments
are rarely warranted, except when sheep have
been introduced to the property in the past
six months, when an infestation may not yet
be detectable.
Lousy sheep will show rubbed wool and will scratch. PHOTO: Deb Maxwell
To check for lice, catch sheep that have the
most ‘rubbed’ appearance, lay them in the
sunlight and part the wool on the sides.
Make 10 vertical partings on each side of the
sheep from the neck to the tail, each 10cm
long, and expose the skin. Use glasses or a
magnifying glass and look for movement of
the tiny yellowy-brown lice close to the skin.
PLAN TO KEEP LICE OUT
ONCE YOU’VE ERADICATED
THOSE THAT ARE PRESENT
The cost to upgrade all of your boundary
fences to ‘stockproof’ condition is often
prohibitive, so identify sections of the
boundary where lousy sheep are most likely
to come in and make these a priority to
repair or upgrade.
While it might be obvious, it’s impossible
to get lice from the neighbour’s flock if
they don’t have lice. Therefore, it’s in your
interest to help your neighbours, and their
neighbours, to eradicate lice. Sometimes,
seeking help from a sheep extension officer,
stock inspector or animal health advisor can
be the easiest way to start communications
about lice with neighbours.
DECIDE HOW
YOU’LL MANAGE
INTRODUCED SHEEP
Ask the neighbour to hold strays for
collection rather than dropping them back
ON
FARM
over the fence. The most rigorous option
of ‘shear and treat’ might be best for small
numbers of introductions, such as rams.
However, managing the lice risk when
purchasing a bigger mob or bringing
sheep back from agistment can be more
complex. Consult the LiceBoss Treatment
Guide for recommendations.
REVIEW TREATMENT
OPTIONS EARLY
Application method: Is your equipment
up to the job? Many existing plunge and
shower dips are not able to completely wet
all sheep, so eradication is impossible. On
LiceBoss, you can review the requirements
of the different application methods to
decide whether upgrading or replacing
equipment is warranted, or whether you
hire a contractor.
Chemical group: Are you using an effective
chemical? Resistance in lice is known to be
widespread to synthetic pyrethroid (SP)
compounds and resistance to insect growth
regulators (IGRs) has been identified in
most Australian states. Consider using one
of the more recently introduced chemical
groups (see LiceBoss Treatment) if you think
resistance could be an issue.
Operator: Are treatments applied correctly to
every sheep? When most field breakdowns
of lice treatments are closely investigated,
they are found to be due to poor product
application, some sheep missing treatment or
a new infestation. Take the time to learn and
practice good application.
Product: Finally, choose a product that suits
the method of application and the chemical
group chosen. The LiceBoss Products Tool
shows commercial products by application
and group and provides other information
about the product.
If neighbours’ sheep also have lice, where
possible, plan to shear and treat about
the same time as each other to limit the
opportunity for re-infection from one flock
to the other, and give each other some help
to get the job done properly.
AT SHEARING
Your aim is to have every sheep present, shorn
cleanly and treated effectively. Double muster,
so that no sheep are missed and let shearers
know that you are trying to eradicate lice, and
that clean shearing is important.
Choose the person/s likely to be the most
thorough for the job of treating each sheep,
and ensure they know the importance of
treating every sheep effectively. Applying
backliners requires skill and practice: lay a
44-gallon drum down and practice backlining
it with water before the sheep arrive
(alternatively, don’t be afraid to waste some
chemical practicing before starting on the
first sheep).
Follow the directions on the label. These
vary across products, especially the need
to recharge dips or the types of application
guns and patterns for backliners. Labels also
outline protective gear and practices you
should use to keep yourself and others safe.
AFTER SHEARING
AND TREATMENT
Even poorly applied or resistant chemicals
will suppress lice. If eradication has not been
achieved, lice may take some months to breed
up to detectable numbers. Wait for three
months then conduct monthly checks for lice
until next shearing, or until lice are found.
Continue to work with neighbours to keep lice
out, and follow your ‘introduced sheep’ policy
to deal with strays and purchases. See the
LiceBoss page on biosecurity for more tips.
Remember that failure of eradication won’t
be from the 4,999 sheep that were treated
correctly, but from the one that missed
treatment or was incorrectly treated.
Attention to detail is the secret to success
when eradicating lice.
The LiceBoss website provides
information and tools that can help
woolgrowers control lice more
effectively, minimise pesticide
residues and reduce the cost of
lice control. It provides guidance on
identifying, treating and preventing
lice infestations.
35
36
ON
FARM
CONDITION SCORING
AND FEED ON OFFER PROVIDE A COMMON
LANGUAGE FOR DECISION-MAKING
Objective assessment of stock and pastures allows for more rational decision-making about
feed budgeting and allocation and cost-benefit calculations, which can all be learnt as part of
the Lifetime Ewe Management course. The new Scoring for profit infographic distils key Lifetime
Wool messages into an easy-to-understand one-page reference tool.
F
or producer Simon Foster of Fosterville
in Tasmania, condition scoring offers
benefits that extend far beyond increased
weaning rates.
got the key bits of information: we've got
the liveweight targets, we’ve got the pasture
measurements and we can all sit down and
run the numbers.”
“The beauty of all this is that everyone in
our business is talking a common language,”
Simon said.
Simon, his wife Penny and most staff
members have been through the Lifetime
Ewe Management (LTEM) course where
condition scoring and pasture assessment
skills are honed. Engaging his team in
programs such as LTEM benefits the whole
business according to Simon.
“My father always told the story of when he
came here in the 1960s, he had two staff – one
was optimist and one a pessimist. He used to
get them to check the feed in the bush runs.
He sent one up to the bush one week and
he came back saying: ‘oh boss we’ll have to
move the sheep they’re running out of feed’.
When the other bloke went up the next week
he came back saying: ‘oh they’re fine they’ve
got another couple of weeks, they’re fine’.
Somewhere in the middle was the truth.
“Objective measurements, such as
condition scoring and pasture dry matter
assessments, provide a common language
for everyone in the business. They allow
me to engage my staff, because we’ve all
“I believe if you understand why you are
doing something, then you’ll do it better, be
more engaged with the process and gain more
satisfaction at the same time,” Simon explained.
“The most important question for any of us
is ‘why’, isn’t it?
“When we are condition scoring, if our staff
understand why we are doing it, or why we
want stock at target weights or pastures
at a certain stage, not only is it more likely
it will happen, it also makes it far more
interesting for them.”
FEED ALLOCATION
Simon and his team first condition score (CS)
at weaning, when they are starting to think
about feed allocation leading up to joining
(mid-April).
“Mostly likely we have our hands on them
again before joining, usually during February,
which often coincides with a second summer
drench,” Simon said.
“During pregnancy we will condition score
again (in June) aiming for 2.5 – 3.0CS.”
The condition scoring is coupled with
pasture assessments.
“I go out and do dry matter assessments
monthly for feed budgeting purposes,”
Simon said.
“We have also been doing a little bit of pasture
quality assessment, particularly during
summer, because quality during summer can
be highly variable. So if you are budgeting
and wanting to manage livestock to achieve
target weights (or condition scores) you have
to have a handle on quality as well.
“I think pasture quality is not objectified
enough. We do a pretty good job of
estimating dry matter (using MLA’s pasture
ruler and AWI’s Feed On Offer Library), but
every now and then we are surprised with
animal performance (both better and worse
than anticipated) and I suspect that relates
to pasture quality.”
The pastures on the Fosters’ property are
mainly a phalaris, cocksfoot and sub-clover
mix, which are the species that will persist
under their tough conditions.
“We used to sow a bit of a cocktail of species,
but in the end we always ended up with
phalaris and sub-clover.”
This season is particularly dry for the Central
Midlands region of Tasmania, so timely
and accurate information is critical to both
maintaining livestock and pasture condition.
AWI’s new Scoring for profit infographic
couldn’t have come at a better time for Simon.
Measure and monitor: Simon Foster regularly monitors dry matter availability to ensure feed budgeting
calculations keep pace with seasonal conditions.
“This is a great tool that distils all the
key points about livestock and grazing
management into a single page that covers
what is really important in our operation,”
Simon said.
ON
FARM
Lambs born
(per 100 ewes)
po
800kg DM/ha
100
minimum green FOO to
maintain ewe condition*
80
60
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
Ewe condition score at joining
Single
* target condition score for ewes
bearing single lambs is 3.0
4 Lambing (day 150)
Ewe nutrition during
late pregnancy has
a greater impact on
lamb birth weight (up
to 0.45kg), than early
pregnancy nutrition.
70%
of lamb survival is
driven by birth weight.
4.0–6.0kg
Single
Twin
Lamb survival (%)
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
5 Lactation (day 150–240)
condition score target
during lactation
6 Weaning (day 240)
2.5–2.7
ewe condition score
target at weaning
Lamb liveweight
at weaning is
important for
weaner survival.
Feed on offer (FOO) and
pasture quality during
lactation (particularly legume
content) is the major driver of
lamb growth rates.
100
60
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
Single
Twin
10
15 20 25 30 35 40
Liveweight at weaning (kg)
ewe condition score
target post weaning
to pre joining
2000kg DM/ha
* draft off and preferentially feed lightweight
weaners until critical liveweights are achieved
Maximum age for
weaning lambs
The more time on high-quality
green feed post weaning, the
lower the cost of achieving
condition targets prior to
joining. Give priority to lighter
condition score ewes.
Condition score (CS) is an assessment of the amount of soft tissue (fat and meat) over the short ribs and
backbone on a scale of 1.0 to 5.0. This assessment is independent of body weight. For more information
go to www.lifetimewool.com.au/conditionscore.aspx
Feed on offer (FOO), also known as pasture mass or herbage mass, is the amount of pasture available
for sheep consumption expressed in kilograms of dry matter per hectare (e.g. 1100 kg DM/ha). For
more information go to www.feedonofferlibrary.com
$
“The app helps speed up the condition scoring
process a little, as you can condition score
with one hand and record the condition score
with the other hand on the iPhone.
green FOO minimum pasture
target for single-bearing ewes
1000
2000
3000
Feed on offer (kg DM/ha)
Stocking rate
vs profitability
green FOO minimum pasture
target for single-bearing ewes
1400kg DM/ha
green FOO minimum pasture
target for twin-bearing ewes
1100kg DM/ha
minimum green FOO to
maintain ewe condition*
weaning liveweight target*
20
1200kg DM/ha
green FOO minimum pasture
target for twin-bearing ewes
bodyweight
40
green FOO minimum pasture
target for twin-bearing ewes
The availability of a Lifetime Ewe Management app gives
producers a mobile decision making tool to optimise the
energy requirements of their flock. Whilst not a replacement
for the on-farm course, the app is a digital extension of it.
1800kg DM/ha
0
7 Post weaning – pre joining (day 240–365)
3.0+
8
45%
adult
80
0
2
4
6
Birth weight (kg)
LIFETIME EWE
MANAGEMENT APP
of lamb mortalities from birth
to weaning occur during the
first 48 hours of life.
twin lambs
FOO
Improved ewe nutrition
through lactation means
bigger weaners and
better weaner survival.
Weaner survival
(%)
2.7–3.0
0
70%
3.7kg
2
3
4
5
Ewe condition score at lambing
1200kg DM/ha
20
single lamb
1000kg DM/ha
green FOO minimum pasture
target for single-bearing ewes
40
r
4.9kg
increase in
lamb survival
1
Single
Twin
60
Ewes in condition score
4.0 or higher (particularly
single ewes) may be at
increased risk of having
lambing difficulties (dystocia).
average birth
weight
15%
green FOO minimum pasture
target by day 90 of pregnancy
80
0
the optimum birthweight
for lamb survival.
Lifting the condition score of twin-bearing
ewes from 2.5 to 3.5 at lambing can increase
lamb survival by about 15–20%, delivering an
extra 30 lambs born for every 100 ewes joined.
3.0+
900kg DM/ha
100
Lamb survival
(%)
condition score
target for twin-bearing
ewes by lambing*
Twin
green FOO minimum pasture
target at break of season
Lambs from ewes fed to
maintain condition score
during pregnancy produce
0.2kg/hd more wool and up
to 0.2 micron finer wool than
lambs from ewes allowed to
lose a condition score.
Lamb growth rate
(g/day)
Clean fleece weight
(kg)
Lose 0.5 CS
Maintain CS
350,000
Profit
($/farm/year)
3.0+
* Supplementary feed as required
500kg DM/ha
3.4
3.3
3.2
3.1
3.0
2.9
2.8
3 Late pregnancy (day 90–150)
The condition score of the ewe at
lambing influences birth weight and
lamb survival.
p
g
weanin
Feed on offer (FOO) targets^
120
for each increase in
condition score.
Ewe condition score during early to mid
pregnancy affects placental development,
which drives primary follicle development and
can have a lifetime impact on fibre diameter
and fleece weight.
* target condition score for ewes bearing
single lambs is 3.0
56
ion
tat
lac
140
2 Early to mid pregnancy (day 1–90)
condition score target
for twin-bearing ewes
at lambing*
4
20 extra
lambs
per 100
ewes
Ewes in condition score 3.0
have full eye muscle and no
excess fat but the short ribs
and spine are well covered.
Ewe condition
score on the day of
conception is the
major predictor of
reproductive rate.
condition score
target at joining
recommended
maximum loss of
condition score
lambing
160
3.0
0.3
join
ing
71
y
nc
1 Joining (day 0)
ning
w ea
st joining
re
23
This infographic describes seven important phases in the reproductive cycle of Merino ewes. Managing ewe condition during
each step of the cycle affects: conception success, reproductive rate, placental development, udder development and colostrum
production of the ewe, foetal growth of the lamb, including wool follicle development which influences wool production in the
progeny and ewe milk production which influences lamb growth after birth.
ly to mid
ear gnancy pre late
g na
pre
Scoring for profit
300,000
150,000
100,000
“More and more farmers are using
smartphones in their everyday farming
operations, and this app is a great tool to assist
with management of ewes and pastures.”
* Supplementary feed as required
lifetimewool guidelines
(better condition at lambing)
250,000
200,000
37
Previous recommendations
(thinner at lambing)
7.5 10.0 12.5 15.0 17.5
Stocking rate (DSE/ha)
20.0
Increasing utilisation of pasture
1000+kg DM/ha
green FOO minimum pasture target
800kg DM/ha
target to preserve groundcover*
* Supplementary feed as required
^
FOO targets are for high-quality (75%
digestibility) green feed
lifetimewool
more lambs, better wool, healthy ewes
This infographic has been produced by Hot Tin Roof Communications and Redtail Graphic Design for Sheep Connect Tasmania from information
contained in the Ewe Management Handbook produced by lifetimewool. For more information about managing ewes for optimal reproductive
performance or to find out about participating in a Lifetime Ewe Management course go to: www.lifetimewool.com.au
SCORING
FOR PROFIT
POSTER
Supplied with this copy of Beyond the Bale
is the Scoring for profit A3-sized poster
that was originally produced by AWI’s
Sheep Connect Tasmania network using
information from Lifetime Wool. The
poster describes seven important phases
in the reproductive cycle of Merino ewes.
Managing ewe condition during each step
of the cycle affects:
• conception success
• reproductive rate
• placental development
• udder development and colostrum
production of the ewe
• foetal growth of the lamb, and wool
follicle development that influences
wool production
• ewe milk production that influences
lamb growth after birth.
If you would like further copies of the
poster, please call the AWI Helpline on
1800 070 099.
“We will refer to this poster and use it as a
focal point for discussion as a team as we
juggle our feed availability, supplementary
feeding program and our target livestock
weights and condition scores throughout
the production cycle.
“Rather than seeing the information in
isolation, it allows our staff to put it all
together so they can see why we are doing
what we are doing.”
MORE INFORMATION
www.wool.com/LTEM
Megan says monitoring condition score of
breeding ewes is an essential part of running
a productive sheep operation, and any way to
assist in the collection and interpretation of
this vital information is a positive.
A
WI’s free Lifetime Ewe Management
(LTEM) app for the iPhone is proving
popular with more than 830 downloads
to date.
The app is a digital extension (but not a
substitute) for the LTEM course which
educates producers on the best management
practices for ewe nutrition through the
reproduction cycle. The LTEM course is
offered by Rural Industries Skill Training
(RIST) and funded through AWI.
The availability of the app means users can
now carry with them millions of dollars of
research and extension in their pocket and
make day-to-day decisions to optimize flock
management.
Megan Rogers, Principal Consultant of
SheepSMART Solutions, from Forbes in
NSW is a Lifetime Ewe Management course
facilitator, and was one of the Condition
Scoring activity leaders at last month’s
National Merino Challenge – see page 28.
Megan says she particularly likes to use
the LTEM app when working with groups,
as it assists producers gain confidence in
condition scoring breeding ewes, as well as
feed budgeting.
“Part of my role as an LTEM trainer is
to assist producers in gaining skills and
confidence in condition scoring, and in
doing so encouraging them to incorporate
condition scoring into routine management.
I don’t like to think of condition scoring
as a stand-alone operation or exercise, it is
incorporated into whatever is taking place in
the yards at the time,” Megan said.
“Quite often at the start of the LTEM
course, participants are cautious about the
technique, and how accurate they will be
with condition scoring, and I like to spend
time assisting them build that confidence
in the technique. I tend to find that it takes
very little time to see their confidence
grow and discussion around very accurate
increments within each condition score
taking place.
“One of the stand out features of the LTEM
course, and the app, is that a lot of the
more detailed calculations have been done,
and the process is more focused on the
understanding of key concepts, and knowing
where the information that relates to these
concepts is contained in the course material,
including the app. The LTEM course has
made the concept of routine feed budgeting,
condition scoring and sheep management
much easier through the development of
tools to make the process simpler, and less
time consuming.
“A key observation regarding productivity
in sheep management is consistency of
performance, and the LTEM course and app
are valuable tools in assisting producers gain
that consistency of performance in their
operation. By achieving consistent conception
and weaning rates, producers have the
capacity to increase sheep sales, genetic gain,
and forecast production more accurately, and
this is a positive thing for them.”
MORE INFORMATION
www.wool.com/LTEM
An iPhone version of the app is available
free through the Apple App store.
An android version of the app and
an upgrade of the iPhone version are
currently in development.
38
ON
FARM
MONITORING SHEEP
TO INCREASE PERFORMANCE
• From learning how elite athletes
are managed on-field to how zoos
benchmark their gorillas, 2012
Nuffield Scholarship recipient
James Walker looked in some
illuminating places to guide new
ways of monitoring sheep to
increase their performance.
• James encourages woolgrowers
to apply for the 2016 Nuffield
Scholarship, saying the scholarship
is a great opportunity for producers
to look at farming’s opportunities and
challenges from a new perspective.
James Walker from Longreach has been researching better ways of managing livestock through
boom and bust years caused by highly variable rainfall.
T
hree years ago, fifth generation
woolgrower James Walker from
Longreach in Queensland, was more than
15,000km from home, in a baseball stadium in
New York – all as part of a quest to improve
the productive performance of his sheep.
James farms 15,000 Merinos on a mixed
enterprise pastoral property with highly
variable rainfall year to year. He had serious
concerns about the viability of creating a
repeatable production model in his part of
the world; so with the assistance of an AWIsupported Nuffield Scholarship, he set about
researching better ways of managing livestock
through the variances of seasons.
“Getting a suite of data in real-time on, for
instance, weights and condition score, would
allow us to manage our enterprise without
subjective management,” he said.
“In a 5000-head flock at $120 per head per
lamb, if you are able to increase lambing
percentages from 40 per cent to 100 per cent,
you could increase your gross income by
$360,000, from $240,000 to $600,000 annually,
so there’s plenty of opportunity if we
research aggressively.”
So how did James end up in a baseball
stadium in New York?
Interestingly, with his Nuffield Scholarship,
James didn’t simply identify sheep industry
hotspots around the world to visit and learn
from – his was a much broader process.
“Usually if an innovation is found in the sheep
industry around the world it has already
been communicated, so I decided to have a
look outside the industry to research how
they manage ‘organisms’ in the sporting,
medical and military fraternities and also the
zoological fraternity, just to try and bring in
some new ideas.”
James at the New York Mets baseball stadium with the scoreboard behind
him showing all the physiological data for one of the athletes in real-time.
James was particularly struck by methods
in the sporting fraternity for managing elite
athletes, which involved measuring what’s
known as ‘terminal fatigue’.
“Particularly what is fairly well known is ‘walkover weighing’, and the algorithm between
that and condition scores, but there’s a whole
heap of other things that we can research.”
It’s a management technique which ensures
athletes are taken off the field prior to
reaching a fatigue level from which they can’t
recover, meaning when they re-enter the
event, they can have a high impact and be
more likely to affect the course of the game.
Since completing his Nuffield Scholarship,
James has been using the technology
developed for monitoring the performance
of elite athletes to develop ‘Paddock Pulse’ –
to electronically monitor animal physiology
in real-time to improve profitability,
sustainability and animal welfare in the
wool industry.
“You’ll notice these days that athletes come
off relatively fresh onto the sideline, whereas
in years gone past they were absolutely
spent and left everything out on the field.
Money of course is also very important to
sporting teams, so high level management of
their athletes’ ‘organisms’ gives them a better
chance to advance through their competition
and also attract more sponsorship.”
Having seen how sporting teams manage their
systems, James pondered how the techniques
could be applied to animals to allow them to
realise their biological potential.
“This data could provide an insight into
flock dynamics and rank individuals on their
feeding efficiencies; it could also identify
weak or lame sheep, sheep that have a lamb
and high performers,” James said.
He also plans to fit sheep with
accelerometers (like pedometers) to track the
number of steps they take, a proxy for how
much energy the animals are using and how
far they travel to find food. Portable scales
and condition scoring will complement the
ON
FARM
APPLICATIONS
FOR 2016
CLOSE SOON
AWI invites people from the wool
industry across Australia to apply
for the 2016 AWI Nuffield Wool
Scholarship. Applications close on
30 June 2015.
The scholarship, worth $30,000,
will enable the successful recipient
to travel overseas and study an
agricultural topic of his/her choice.
The scholarship is a unique
opportunity to study a particular
subject of interest, and increase
practical knowledge and management
skills and techniques in the Australian
wool industry.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about previous
recipients of the AWI Nuffield Wool
Scholarship, visit www.wool.com/
nuffield. To apply for the scholarship,
or to access Nuffield students’
reports, visit www.nuffield.com.au
new technology and allow producers
to expertly assess feed requirements
and availability to optimise both animal
welfare and productivity.
One of the most compelling findings
from his studies was that the main
inhibiting factor to sheep businesses
around the world was not production
but cash accounting systems which
give distorted business metrics, so
he attended an Accrual Accounting
Business Course in Austin, Texas, hosted
by the ‘rich father’ from the book Rich
Dad Poor Dad as part of the scholarship.
To showcase this, James has set up an
organisation called agrihive.com to
increase forecasting, business metrics
and training for livestock industries
worldwide to support production
through case studies and digital tools.
“Remote real-time individual
physiological monitoring and
forecasting and business metrics for
animal management is on the verge of a
revolution. When the revolution occurs
it will transform agriculture and animal
management – socially, environmentally
and financially. With this scholarship
I will be at the forefront. I encourage
woolgrowers to take this opportunity
and shift their industry!”
39
Chris Mirams (second left)
delivering Lifetime Ewe
Management training at
Holbrook, NSW.
AUSTRALIAN RURAL
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Now is your chance to join a network of leaders working collaboratively
to advance the interests of rural industries and communities.
I
f you have ambitions of being a leader in the
rural community, then the Australian Rural
Leadership Program (ARLP) can provide you
with the experience and skills to help fast
track you towards your goal.
“The course effectively condenses into 15
months what most community leaders
would learn from 15 years of experience,
and provides a unique experience that is
hard to find outside such a program,” says
Chris Mirams from Albury in NSW, who was
the AWI-sponsored participant in the 2008
edition of the course.
“It’s a big commitment for everyone
involved – the families, businesses and
organisations who are prepared to let these
people invest their time by participating in
the course.”
Applications for Course 23 of the ARLP,
which runs from August 2016 to October
2017, close on 31 August 2015.
Chris encourages people in the wool
industry to apply for the course, saying the
intensive training program is designed to
produce a group of people from regional
Australia with a shared vision and a
commitment to lead change.
“I completed the ARLP with greater
motivation and with the confidence to take
on greater responsibility. More than 650
people have gone through the program, and
a large number have ended up in influential
roles in their communities and industries,”
Chris says.
“It’s so important for the wool industry,
other rural industries and regional Australia
to have a base of trained people with the
capacity to put forward a professional voice
to build a resilient rural Australia.
The Course 23 program begins with a
fortnight in the Kimberley during August
2016, with other sessions planned in
Melbourne, regional Queensland, Indonesia
and Canberra.
Much of the course is spent developing
skills and exposing participants to a range
of issues and perspectives, as well as
encouraging ongoing discussions on values
and beliefs.
“The whole exercise during the program
has been to get us to think differently and
work through issues which affect regional
communities,” Chris says. “The Kimberley
session in particular is extraordinary and was
a life-changing experience for many of us.”
The 34 program participants in Chris’s
2008 course were aged 26 to 56 years
and included indigenous Australians,
primary producers, community-based
workers, employees of rurally oriented
service providers, staff from government
departments, and individuals from
research and development organisations.
Chris is currently partner in Chris Mirams
& Associates, and board member of Meat
& Livestock Australia and Holbrook
Landcare Network.
His past positions include manager of
the 2,700 hectare property Woomargama
Station, south of Holbrook, where he ran
10,000 fine-wool Merinos and 1,000 cattle,
and for which he was finalist in the NSW
Farmer of the Year awards. He was also
chair of the EverGraze National Advisory
Committee, on the boards of Alpine Valleys
Community Leadership Program and the
Scots School Albury, chair of the Eastern
Murray Landcare & Producer Group,
and member of AWI’s Wool Production
Advisory Committee.
MORE INFORMATION
www.wool.com/ARLP
www.rural-leaders.com.au
40 ON
FARM
NSW
MERINO EWE
COMPETITION
RESULTS 2015
ANZ Perpetual Trophy
Crookwell Flock Ewe
Competition.
16 JANUARY
18-19 FEBRUARY
WEST WYALONG DISTRICT SHEEP BREEDERS EWE COMPETITION
THE CHRIS NAAKE MEMORIAL FLOCK EWE COMPETITION (Mudgee)
1
T Cattle, ‘Avalon’, Mildil
2
R & M Hardie, ‘Currawong’, Tallimba
3
L Allison, ‘Greendale’, Wyrra
Most
Productive Flock
B Stewart, ‘Fairfield’, Ardlethan
21-22 JANUARY
ANZ PERPETUAL TROPHY CROOKWELL FLOCK EWE COMPETITION
Champion
Maiden Ewes
K Wolf, Hollowmount Pastoral Co,
‘Hollowmount’, Bigga
Long Wool Section
1
Hollowmount Pastoral Co
(D Zouch, manager), ‘Hollowmount’, Bigga
2
G & D Selmes, ‘Wahronga’, Crookwell
3
B & M Cartwright, ‘Kempton’, Fullerton
Spring Shorn Section
1
J & M Lowe, Innisvale Pastoral Co,
‘Innisvale’, Crookwell
2
A Selmes, Franita Pastoral Co, ‘Glenayr’,
Crookwell
3
T & N Hewitt, ‘Galmara’, Grabben Gullen
Overall Winner
M Inder, Wattle Grove Partnership,
‘Wattle Grove’, Dunedoo
Medium/Strong category
1
M Inder, Wattle Grove Partnership, ‘Wattle
Grove’, Dunedoo
2
P & T Doherty, ‘Roine’, Goolma
Highly
Commended
J & J Webb, ‘Cooyal Station’, Cooyal
Superfine/Fine category
1
T & W Price, ‘Boiga View’, Pyramul
2
F & M Blackwell, Blackwell Pastoral Company,
‘Waterview’, Ilford
Highly
Commended
Doherty Bros, ‘Klondyke’, Goolma
19 FEBRUARY
THE TED LITTLE MEMORIAL MERINO EWE COMPETITION (Trundle)
1
G & N Sutherland, ‘Currajong Park’, Fifield
2
Burke Partnership, ‘The Kars’, Trundle
3
Gowing Partners, ‘Lowan’, Trundle
20 FEBRUARY, FINAL AT BOOROWA SHOW ON 6-7 MARCH
30 JANUARY
LAKE CARGELLIGO SHOW SOCIETY MAIDEN MERINO EWE COMPETITION
26TH ANNUAL BOOROWA SHOW SOCIETY & BOOROWA MERINO
BREEDERS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL FLOCK EWE COMPETITION
1
P & M McCarten, McCarten Farms,
‘Nargoon’, Rankins Springs
1
D McGrath, P C McGrath & Sons, ‘Clear View’,
Boorowa
2
R, T & R Rossiter, ‘Youngara’, Ungarie
2
B Hurley, ‘Killanear’, Boorowa
3
P & B Hall, ‘Trelynne’, Weethalle
20th Anniversary
Lake Cargelligo
Maiden Merino
Ewe Competition
Scholarship
3
M Dymock, ‘West Killanear’, Boorowa
C Fyfe, ‘Caringa’, Lake Cargelligo
AWI Top 10
Per Cent Award
A F Whittaker, ‘Rossi’, Godfreys Creek
Dual Purpose
Award
L & H Aldersey, ‘Rowena’, Boorowa
4 FEBRUARY
23-24 FEBRUARY
ANZ AGRIBUSINESS GUNNING FLOCK EWE COMPETITION
THE 35TH DON BROWN MEMORIAL
MERINO EWE COMPETITION (Condobolin)
1
P & M Hewitt, PW, MA & MP Hewitt,
‘Allamby’, Gunning
2
A & A Basnett, Naamaroo Pastoral Co,
‘Nerragundah’, Gunning
3
A & E Howard, ‘Clear Hills’, Blakney Creek
17 FEBRUARY
BOOKHAM AGRICULTURAL BUREAU MERINO EWE COMPETITION
1
R & S Hyles, ‘Westbourne’, Bookham
2
G & R Robertson, ‘Lynlee’, Bookham
3
T Armour, ‘Glenrock’, Bookham
1
D, V, T & G Stuckey, Stuckey Pastoral,
‘Corella’, Condobolin
2
M & T Helyar, Glenmore Pastoral,
‘Glenmore’, Tullibigeal
3
I & J Menzies, Moonbah Pastoral Co,
‘Moonbah’, Condobolin
Ian Munro
Memorial Award
for Best Short
Wool Flock
Crouch Bros, ‘Milby’, Condobolin
Encouragement
Award
D, S & C Ward, Wardlee Pastoral Co,
‘Berrilee’, Tullamore
ON
FARM
Don Brown Memorial Merino
Ewe Competition at Condobolin.
24 FEBRUARY
Bookham Agricultural Bureau
Merino Ewe Competition.
13 MARCH
ANZ AGRIBUSINESS TARALGA FLOCK EWE COMPETITION
1
C & S Croker, ‘Ayrston’, Golspie
2
M Craig, Craigmoor Partnership,‘Tanjenong’,
Taralga
3
B Croker, ‘Burralyn’, Golspie
4
B Corby, ‘Bunjie’, Taralga
BATHURST MERINO ASSOCIATION MAIDEN
EWE COMPETITION – CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS
This competition is between previous winners of last 20 years
Winner
1-2 MAY
THE BERRIDALE AG BUREAU MONARO MERINO EWE COMPETITION
27 FEBRUARY
THE DOUG BICKET MEMORIAL EWE COMPETITION (Parkes)
1
C & L Tanswell, Milpose Pastoral Company,
Parkes
2
A, G & R Rice, ‘Hillview’, Cookamidgera
Encouragement
Award
G Cole, ‘Pindari’, Mandagery
12 MARCH
CENTRAL WESTERN ASSOCIATION OF AGRICULTURAL SHOWS
MAIDEN MERINO EWE COMPETITION – 16TH ANNUAL COMPETITION
This is a competition between winners and runners-up of Trundle,
Parkes and Condobolin competitions
1
D, V, T & G Stuckey, Stuckey Pastoral,
‘Corella’, Condobolin
2
G & N Sutherland, ‘Currajong Park’,
Fifield (Trundle)
Runners-Up
Winner
T & K Dolbel, ‘Milton Vale’, Triangle Flat
Burke Partnership, ‘The Kars’, Trundle
1
B & J Constance, ‘Athlone’, Peak View
2
D & M Incher, ‘Mayfield’, Dry Plains
3
D Constance, ‘Werralong’, Berridale and J & C
Buckley, ‘Windradeen’, Adaminaby (equal third)
Hoggets
1
N & F Adams, ‘Wahroon’, Cooma
2
M & L Walters, ‘Boundary Creek’, Dalgety
Trophy Winners
Overall Winner
B & J Constance, ‘Athlone’, Peak View
1 Over 500 Ewes
B & J Constance, ‘Athlone’, Peak View
1st Under 500 Ewes
D & M Incher, ‘Mayfield’, Dry Plains
st
John Coy
People's Choice
Award
B & L Tozer, ‘Starwood’, Jerangle
41
42
ON
FARM
SCANNING
FOR SUCCESS
A recent webinar provided
participants with practical
information on the
importance and benefits of
pregnancy scanning ewes.
A recording of the webinar
is available to view on the
Sheep Connect NSW website.
Pregnancy scanning can be a useful tool in
managing reproductive performance and
recognising flock potential.
Sheep Connect NSW Coordinator Shelly
Anderson said that sheep producers who don't
scan their ewes are missing out on a valuable
opportunity to boost farm profitability
through increases in lambing percentages.
A screenshot from a video about
sheepscanning techniques of
Andrew Naylor (Belubula Scanning)
scanning ewes at Woodstock, NSW.
BENEFITS OF SCANNING FOR
YOUR FLOCK CAN INCLUDE:
• Increased flock reproduction rate
• Ease of managing lambing mobs
• Identifying and culling dry ewes
• Prioritise nutrition for pregnant ewes
• Selecting replacement hoggets
from twin rearing ewes.
W
oolgrowers who tuned in to a
recent webinar run by AWI’s Sheep
Connect NSW network, in conjunction with
Central West Local Lands Service, learnt
a multitude of tips on using scanning as a
management tool to lift lamb survival.
For those who missed it, the ‘Scanning
for Success’ webinar was recorded and is
available to view on the Sheep Connect NSW
website www.sheepconnectnsw.com.au free
to anyone across the country.
“Producers are more easily able to monitor
the reproductive performance of their ewes
through scanning results and make sound
management decisions as a result,” she said.
“Lamb losses can be reduced by targeting the
nutrition of both single and twin-bearing ewes,
and losses occurring from mid-pregnancy to
lambing can be more easily identified.”
The webinar was presented by Chris Shands
of Chris Shands Rural who has a wealth of
knowledge and experience in the area of ewe
management. It also included videos featuring
Andrew Naylor of Belubula Scanning that
demonstrate and discuss the mechanics of
successful scanning and factors that may
affect accuracy.
“Relatively simple action can lift lamb survival
and flock efficiency through targeted nutrition
and lambing management. Pregnancy
scanning allows greater control of the flock
during the lambing time,” said Mr Shands.
AWI
state
networks
Producers learning from producers
AWI state networks provide opportunities for producers to get involved in educational and practical
programs that focus on making positive changes to production and management practices.
The networks are fundamental to:
the spread of new ideas;
continuing education; and
the adoption of best practice.
Networks are present in each wool growing state and all woolgrowers are encouraged to get involved.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED, CONTACT THE COORDINATOR IN YOUR STATE
AWI STATE NETWORK
COORDINATOR
PHONE
EMAIL
Sheep Connect NSW
Shelly Anderson
02 6391 3954
[email protected]
BESTWOOL/BESTLAMB (Vic)
Lyndon Kubeil
03 5761 1649
[email protected]
Sheep Connect SA
Ian McFarland
08 8226 0428
[email protected]
The Sheep's Back (WA)
Andrew Ritchie
08 9736 1055
[email protected]
Leading Sheep (Qld)
Nicole Sallur
07 4654 4220
[email protected]
Sheep Connect TAS
James Tyson
0409 006 774
[email protected]
Pastoral Profit (national)
Pene Keynes
08 8841 4500
[email protected]
ON
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43
44
ON
FARM
A LIFE IN
THE SHEDS
Shearer trainer Kevin Gellatly from Western Australia imparts the same skills that he learnt at
a shearing school in the mid-1960s to the students that he teaches today. Kevin was this year
inducted into the Australian Shearers’ Hall of Fame at Shear Outback.
R
enowned shearer Kevin Gellatly from
Western Australia learnt the shearing
skills that were to set him up for life, at a
shearing school being run in the mid-1960s
on a property close to his family’s farm at
Perenjori, 350km north of Perth.
Fifty years on, Kevin is now the teacher,
imparting those valuable skills to a new
generation of shearers in the state.
Such has been his contribution to the
shearing industry, that Kevin had the
honour in April to be inducted into the
Australian Shearers’ Hall of Fame at Shear
Outback in the NSW town of Hay.
“It was a real privilege for me to be amongst
such a very distinguished group of shearers,”
Kevin said. “I’m very humbled by the award
and that so many family, friends and colleagues
travelled to Hay to witness the event. I relived
a lot of good memories. There is a great
camaraderie in the shearing community.”
Not long after the celebrations, he was
back doing what he loves the best: teaching
young shearers. He has been a shearing
teacher for the past 15 years, largely at C.Y.
O'Connor Institute at Narrogin, and most
recently for AWI at Rylington Park Institute
of Agriculture, near Boyup Brook, along with
his partner Amanda Davis.
“We hold one-week residential classes here
with about a dozen in each class,” he said.
“Most students already have some shed
experience, but we’re happy to take on
rookies if they’re keen. We teach skills like
wool handling and wool pressing, as well as
shearing, because it’s often these skills that
get youngsters their first jobs in the industry.
“I teach the shearing students two main
things: firstly, how to get ‘on the skin’ so there
are no cuts; and secondly, skills to ensure
the shearer’s longevity in the industry, such
as getting the sheep in the right position so
it becomes passive and won’t tire out the
shearer. These are the skills that I learnt
when I first started shearing and have been
using throughout my career.”
After his initial training in the mid-1960s,
Kevin worked for a few years on the ‘northwest run’ in the Gascoyne region on large
pastoral properties, which he looks back on
as some of the best times of his life. He then
became a contractor with his two brothers,
Lyn and Rod, for the next 24 years working
out of Perenjori, often passing on his shearing
skills to the youngsters in his teams.
He moved to Perth in the late 1980s to
further the education of his children,
Joanne and Kevin Jr, and in 1995 began as
a representative for Heiniger traveling all
across Australian and New Zealand. As well
as trialing new products, he held workshops
on grinding and handpiece maintenance,
something which he says had been neglected
by shearers in the past.
The Heiniger job enabled him time to take up
teaching shearing professionally at agricultural
colleges, about which he is passionate.
“I’ve always had a strong interest for training
people how to shear and handle wool in the
sheds,” he said. “There were very few schools
when I started out; I was lucky to attend one,
and I’ve never looked back. Now I pass on
those skills I’ve learnt to others.
Kevin Gellatly (right) with his son Kevin Jr (left) after being inducted into the Australian Shearers’
Hall of Fame in April. The other inductees this year were the late Mark Conlan of Kyneton, Victoria;
the late Maurice Doyle of Dookie, Victoria; Dick Duggan of Maryborough, Victoria; and Ian Elkins of
Canberra who, like Kevin, is also an AWI shearer trainer.
“From when I was young, shearing was
always my destiny. I was encouraged from
a young age by my mother Beryl who has
continued to provide me with great support
over the years. But some kids I see coming
into the schools are sometimes lacking a
direction in life. When they get in the sheds
though, and if they have a connection with
the sheep, they often thrive and have a new
impetus in life by the time they leave the
school at the end of the week. I like to think
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45
SHED SAFETY SIGNAGE KIT
The safety signage kit for woolsheds is now available
for purchase online.
W
oolgrowers are now able to purchase
online at www.wool.com/shedsafety
the safety signage kit for their woolsheds.
Kevin Gellatly (right) providing AWI-funded training
at a shearing and wool handling school being held at
Rylington Park Institute of Agriculture, near Boyup
Brook in Western Australia.
that I’m a bit of a father figure to them,
supporting and guiding them, like I did with
my own children.
“The funding of this training by AWI has been
very beneficial in helping attract and train
new workers into the industry, and improve
the value and quality of the wool clip.
“I’ll be carrying on training for many years
to come. At 67, I’m still very young at heart,
in good health and I feel I have a good
connection with the students.
“The shearing industry has provided me with
a fulfilling career. I’d do it all over again.”
Initially released two years ago, the kit was
designed by the WA Shearing Industry
Association (WASIA), with support from
AWI, following requests from woolgrowers
and contractors at shed safety assessment
and training workshops.
AWI sponsored the development and
production of the kit and is once again
making it available to woolgrowers for $25
(including GST), which covers handling
and postage cost only.
and woolhandlers in the industry, and
attract others, woolgrowers need to
ensure that their staff have professional
shed conditions in which to work.
These signs meet Australian Standards and
legislative requirements in all Australian
states and will help woolgrowers meet
occupational health and safety obligations.
MORE INFORMATION
The kit is available to purchase online at
www.wool.com/shedsafety or by calling
the AWI Helpline on 1800 070 099.
The kit includes a total of 36 signs (22
different signs), printed on UV-stabilised
polypropylene for durability, with
predrilled holes for easy installation. The
kit also includes guidance notes to assist
in the proper location and installation of
these signs.
The aim of these signs is to help improve
and promote safety in woolsheds.
If woolgrowers want to retain shearers
HARVESTING VIDEOS
FEATURE TOP TIPS
AWI has released a series of short training videos for
shearers and wool handlers to promote better techniques
and improve clip preparation practices in the industry.
A
comprehensive series of 200 short videos
covering all aspects of wool harvesting is
helping to improve skills in shearing sheds.
The AWI videos, which are available on USB
from AWI, are a complete reference guide
for shearers, wool handlers, woolgrowers,
instructors and students working in various
areas of wool harvesting.
Packed with tips, hints and practical advice,
the videos include advice from experienced
shearers, wool handlers and wool classers
including Shannon Warnest, Dwayne Black
and Rachel Hutchison.
describe in words,” he says. “People working in
shearing sheds have traditionally learnt their
skills ‘on the job’ by being shown; the videos
use the same approach. Now available on a
USB, the videos are suitable to be watched in
the shearing shed on laptop computers.
“Good training is essential for new and
existing people working in sheds. These videos
complement the free in-shed training for
novice, improver and professional shearers and
wool handlers that AWI continues to provide.”
The new USB includes videos in the
following sections:
Many of the videos on the USB are reworked
versions of ones previously available from
AWI on DVD, but there are also new videos
covering topics including basic wool handling.
• Basic wool handling
AWI shearing industry development manager
Jim Murray says the videos on the USB are
a great way of getting information to people
working in the industry.
• Wool handling and shed skills
“So many aspects of the skills involved in
shearing and wool handling are hard to
• Crutching.
• Novice shearing
• Improver/professional shearing
• Experting and grinding
• Wool industry workouts
AWI has issued a series of handy videos to help
reduce the costs and improve the quality of
harvested wool. PHOTO: Dave Rankine
MORE INFORMATION
The USB is available free to shearers,
wool handlers, trainers and
woolgrowers and is available
by calling AWI on 1800 070 099.
Novice shearers at the recent AWI-funded training course. Marshall Andrews,
Tom Hurley, Kristoffer Halls, Jacob Carmody, William Stanley, course instructor
and coordinator Ian Elkins, ‘Burrowa Hills’ manager Bill Stanley, Dominic Parkman,
Mark Veness and Brody Tiyce. PHOTOS: Natalie Tarry Personality Plus Photography
YOUNG SHEARERS
MAKE THE CUT
The newly established Boorowa Wool Harvesting Association, with support from AWI, is helping
attract young people in the region to the wool industry and provide a kickstart to their career.
E
ight eager youngsters from Boorowa,
Murringo and Taralga on the South West
Slopes of NSW recently attended the first
shearing and wool handling development
course organised by the newly established
Boorowa Wool Harvesting Association (BWHA).
The independent organisation was set up in
July 2014 by members of the local Boorowa
community with the aim to encourage and
enable more budding young shearers living in
the region to enter the wool industry and give
them the skills to succeed in it.
The course in March was held at the ‘Burrowa
Hills’ property of Ross Dwyer who generously
provided the shed and the sheep free of
charge for the training. AWI supported the
course by providing funds for the training, and
the BWHA provided the handpieces for the
students to use on the course.
The students, aged from 16 to 21, were taught
skills in shearing, wool handling, penning
up, catching and dragging sheep out onto
the board for shearing, grinding tools for
shearing, work health and safety practices,
personal health, exercise and maintaining
their own well-being.
Locally born and bred Ian Elkins, who
was recently inducted into the Australian
Shearers’ Hall of Fame, was the course
instructor and coordinator. Ian is also a
board member of the BWHA.
“The course went really well,” Ian said.
“Although a week isn’t a long time, we managed
to give them a lot of hands-on experience and a
real taste for the industry. They were all really
keen and good learners. I reckon they’ll do well
in the shearing industry.”
people interested in becoming a shearer
or wool handler after leaving high school,”
Leanne said.
“With Ian’s help I wanted to gather
community support to change the perception
of youngsters in my own community and
give them the opportunity to train, work and
succeed in the wool industry.
Along with Ian, the idea to set up an
organisation to encourage and support
budding shearers came from fellow Boorowa
local Leanne Croker, whose family has a long
history of working in the shearing and wool
handling industry.
“While people can learn to shear in a shed
environment with no official education and
training, in order to improve their skills –
and ensure good quality before quantity
of sheep shearing – we must provide
educational opportunities with people
like Ian Elkins and other experienced
instructors, so these young people can be
the best at their game.”
For the past three years Leanne and Ian have
been working with local businesses from the
Boorowa region, shearing contractors, stud
owners and AWI to raise funds to create the
training courses and upgrade infrastructure
in the district.
Leanne says that in the past six months
the NSW TAFE non-concessional fees
for shearing courses have increased
significantly, resulting in many students
now unable to attend the TAFE courses due
to financial difficulty.
“Ian and I could see over time that there
was a decrease in the number of young
“Over the long term this lack of training
opportunities at TAFE will have a
ON
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detrimental impact on Australia’s wool
industry. With fewer young people learning
the skills to start a career in the wool
industry it will be harder for woolgrowers
to find shearers and wool handlers to do
the job.
“The courses supplied by the BWHA, with
support from AWI and the local business
and the community will help fill this gap
and encourage students to think of the wool
industry as a viable career choice.
“Our course is covering all the subjects that
TAFE does, with more hands-on experience
than TAFE provides, for young people from
age 15, and at no cost to them. While there
is no official accreditation, the students
receive a certificate of attainment with Ian’s
signature on it, which I reckon is as good an
endorsement as any trainee can get!”
Leanne says the wool industry is important
for bringing economic balance to local
rural communities.
“We really need to support students in
the bush, and this initiative gives a real
opportunity for them to kick-start their
career. While we mainly take students from
Under the guidance of Ian Elkins, the young
shearers learnt the basics of the trade with an
emphasis on position and footwork.
As well as shearing, the students learnt other shed
skills including wool handling.
Boorowa, we are happy to receive enquiries
from as far as Yass, Young, Goulburn, Cowra
and Crookwell.
Leanne thanks Noel and Debbie Lawrence,
owners of Top Gun Shearing Supplies in
Western Australia, who provide the BWHA
with a discount on all shearing equipment
and also donate a lot of products for the
students at the end of the shearing school,
plus the Encouragement Award each year
valued at more than $200.
“The wool industry is a major employer and
driver for economic growth in these areas –
and it’s important for the wellbeing of these
rural communities to help promote and ensure
the industry’s sustainability in the region.”
AUSSIES PULL WOOL OVER KIWI STARS
A
ustralian woolhandlers Sarah Moran
(Vic) and Tara Smith (SA) beat a strong
New Zealand pair in the Trans-Tasman test
at the Golden Shears in Masterton, New
Zealand, in March.
The Australian shearers of Shannon Warnest
(SA), Daniel McIntyre (NSW) and Damien
Boyle (WA) made it a double win for the
Aussies, beating the three Kiwi shearers in
the Trans-Tasman shearing test.
New Zealand went into the test with wins
in 25 of the 33 tests since Trans-Tasman
woolhandling internationals started in 1998.
Australia had only won twice previously
in New Zealand, in Masterton in 1999 and
Christchurch in 2011.
Australia has now won eight of the
countries’ last nine Trans-Tasman matches,
and has 29 tests to the Kiwi’s 28 since regular
Trans-Tasman exchanges began in 1974-75.
Australia won 260.679 points to the Kiwi’s
281.845 points.
Industry trainer Sarah Moran and
international rookie Tara Smith said they
were confident about their job during the
test in which each team handled four Merino
fleeces and four standard breed strong wool
New Zealand fleeces. They won, 400.022
points to the Kiwi’s 501.488 points.
Shannon Warnest finished in first place
(79.380 points), with Daniel McIntyre in
second place (87.017 points) and Damien
Boyle in fourth place (94.282 points).
Shannon Warnest won the Joseph Paewai
Memorial Trophy for best ‘quality’ points.
The Australian team. Back: Shearing judge Richard
Hein; Shannon Warnest; Daniel McIntyre; Damien
Boyle; Tara Smith; Sarah Moran; wool handling
judge Raelene Laidlaw; team manager Jim Murray.
Front: Support crew: Mark Weis; Tracey Collins;
Jamie McIntyre; Tara Hadley-Smith; Tom Brewer.
Sarah Moran of Victoria competing in the TransTasman wool handling test.
AWI provides funds for the Australian team’s
travel, accommodation and uniforms. This
support of the national team complements
AWI support for shearing competitions
at local and state levels, with the main
aims being to promote excellence and
professionalism within the Australian
shearing industry, and to encourage young
people to join the industry.
If you’re planning a local or regional
shearing and wool handling competition
based on Sports Shear Australia criteria,
you may be eligible for support from AWI.
Contact Jim Murray at AWI on 0427 460 007
or [email protected] to find out more
about what support might be available for
your event.
Shannon Warnest of South Australia competing in
the Trans-Tasman shearing test.
47
48
ON
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ON
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49
Benita Moir (right) and
her project supervisor
Dr Dean Thomas of
CSIRO (centre), with
research assistant
Miranda MacIntyre
of CSIRO (left), at
the project site on
Simon and Tony York’s
property at Tammin in
the central wheatbelt of
Western Australia.
SUPPLEMENTS AID
DISTRIBUTION
OF GRAZING
New research shows that the strategic placement of mineral supplements in a wheat crop
can attract sheep from areas of high to low grazing intensity, thereby creating more uniform
grazing across the paddock and hence better crop utilisation.
M
ixed crop and sheep farmers could
potentially increase on-farm
efficiency and profitability by introducing
supplementary feed in grazed wheat crops
to increase the dispersion of sheep and
therefore their utilisation of the crop.
This is the key finding in a thesis prepared
by University of Western Australia (UWA)
graduate Benita Moir for her Bachelor of
Science (Agricultural Science). The research
was carried out as part of an AWI-funded
project with CSIRO aimed at increasing
wool sheep in cropping zones and improving
producers’ confidence in managing the
impacts of sheep on cropland.
Benita, who grew up on her parents’ sheep
and cattle property at Narrikup near
Albany, was announced as the WA Young
Professionals in Agriculture winner for
2015, following her presentation of the
thesis at an annual forum in March hosted
by the Ag Institute Australia (WA Division).
Benita was one of seven outstanding young
WA professionals to deliver the findings of
their tertiary agriculture research studies
at the forum.
“There has recently been renewed interest
in crop grazing amongst mixed crop and
sheep farmers, as a way of providing highly
digestible sheep forage during early winter
when demand for feed typically exceeds the
supply from pastures,” Benita said.
“Despite the benefits of crop grazing, its
adoption has historically been relatively
low, especially in the medium to low rainfall
areas of the Western Australian wheatbelt,
in part due to the perceived risk of uneven
grazing of the crop which can lead to
reduced yields in overgrazed areas.
“As the effects of strategic supplementary
feed placement on sheep distribution in
a wheat crop had not previously been
investigated, I wanted to examine – with
my study supervisors Dr Ken Flower of
UWA and Dr Dean Thomas of CSIRO – if
supplementary feed would attract sheep
from areas of high grazing intensity to
under-utilised areas of a wheat crop, and
thereby change their grazing distribution
within a paddock.”
The research was carried out on
woolgrowers Simon and Tony York’s
property at Tammin in the central wheatbelt
of Western Australia, during June and July
2014 on the wheat cultivar Magenta.
Two paddocks of wheat were initially grazed
for two weeks by one-year-old Merino ewes
without supplement. Then, plots of high (H),
medium (M) and low (L) grazing intensity
were selected using GPS tracking of the
seven sheep in each paddock. A mineral
supplement was then placed in half of the
plots identified as low grazing intensity
(LS). Sheep were then re-introduced and the
paddocks grazed for another two weeks to
determine if the supplement altered their
grazing pattern.
Crop biomass cuts and visual grazing score
measurements were also taken throughout
the experiment to support the GPS data.
The results show that after the supplement
was introduced, there was a fourfold
increase in the number of GPS points in
the LS plots and a decrease in H plots.
Furthermore, there was no significant
difference in grazing intensity between
treatment plots after the supplement
was introduced, indicating that grazing
distribution became more uniform as a
result of the supplement.
However, the crop biomass and grazing
score data did not confirm the GPS data,
which Benita says might have been due to
high variability in these data. Despite this,
Benita says the results still suggest that the
strategic inclusion of supplement in a grazed
wheat crop will increase the dispersion of
sheep and improve grazing uniformity of the
crop lessening the risk of yield losses due to
areas of concentrated grazing.
“Mixed crop and sheep farmers could
implement these findings by introducing a
supplement when sheep are first placed on
the crop, using their knowledge of where
sheep typically tend to graze more heavily
within a paddock,” Benita said.
“Alternatively, farmers could utilise
satellite imagery to observe vegetation
differences throughout the paddock and
then place supplements in areas where
vegetation is greatest, which is where
grazing intensity is lowest.”
Having finished her degree, Benita is
currently helping out on her family’s
property at Narrikup. However she is hoping
to pursue a career in agronomy, ideally in her
beloved rural Western Australia.
50
ON
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AWI supports the National
Merino Sheep and Merino
Fleece Young Judges
Championships to help
bring through the next
generation of young judges
and Merino breeders.
Queensland's Charlie Brumpton wins the title of 2015 National Merino Sheep Young Judges Champion,
keeping the title in the family following his sister’s win in last year’s competition. PHOTO: The Land
YOUNG JUDGES
CHAMPIONSHIPS
FOSTER TALENT
T
he Brumpton family of Mitchell,
Queensland, have made the headlines
two years in a row at the National Merino
Sheep Young Judges Championship, with
Charlie Brumpton taking out this year’s title,
following the win by his sister Felicity in the
2014 competition.
Charlie also did well in this year’s National
Merino Fleece Young Judges Championship,
coming second behind Angus Dawson of
Armidale, NSW.
17 year old Charlie, who is the son of Nigel
and Rosemary Brumpton of Mt Ascot Merino
Stud, operates the Jolly Jumbuck Poll Merino
stud in partnership with his older sister and
younger brother Lachlan.
AWI was the national supporter of both
competitions this year, held at the Sydney
Royal Easter Show in April.
AWI helps fund the events to support young
people within the industry to further their
skills through visual selection and appraisal of
wool and sheep. By providing the opportunity
to broaden their experiences and knowledge
base through competition, the finalists will
become ambassadors for the wool industry.
The Young Judges Championships are for
people aged between 15 and 25 and are
helping to train the next generation of young
judges and livestock breeders.
state champions who competed were
Morgan McCallum of Booleroo Centre in
South Australia, and Stephanie Boyce of
Northampton in WA.
To participate in these National
Championships, the competitors must first
have won their own state finals. The New
Zealand champion also competes in these
National Championships.
The competitors in the National Merino
Sheep Young Judges Championship had 12
minutes to judge four poll Merino sheep put
up for appraisal and were judged on their
handling as well as their reasoning.
The Young Judges Championships are
coordinated and overseen by the Federal
Council of Agricultural Societies (FCAS)
which comprises the state/territory
organisations that govern more than 600
country show societies across Australia. In
recent years the Royal Agricultural Society of
New Zealand has joined FCAS as an Associate
Member, allowing New Zealand competitors
to participate in and increase the calibre of
the Young Judges Championships.
In second place behind Charlie Brumpton
was Ben Hartwick of Ballyroganin in Victoria,
followed in third place by Lachlan Hunter of
Bruce Rock in WA. The other state champions
who competed were Royce Pitchford of
Echunga in South Australia, Sophie Watson
of Kentuky in NSW, with New Zealand
competitor Ben Sutherland of Omalama.
There were no competitors from Tasmania
this year as the state’s finals were scheduled
for later in the year. However, the Tasmanian
competitors will be on home turf in the
national finals next year which are being
held at the Royal Launceston Show in
October 2016. AWI will help fund the 2016
national finals.
In the National Merino Fleece Young Judges
Championship, Ella McCarthy of Mount
Eliza in Victoria came third behind Angus
Dawson and Charlie Brumpton. The other
ON
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CORRIEDALES
LOOKING FORWARD AND BACK
producers is cultivated here in Australia,
with several schools across the country
having their own Corriedale studs and the
students being keen contestants in junior
judging and handling competitions.
“I am also a great admirer of the Corriedale
Young Ambassador Programme – a joint
initiative between New Zealand and
Australia – which increases the knowledge of
Corriedale sheep and agricultural production
in both our countries.”
Indeed, the fact that both the grand
champion and reserve champion Corriedale
ewes at the Sydney Show were awarded to
Badgally stud, run by St Gregorys College at
Campbelltown, is an illustration of the calibre
of young Corriedale producers in Australia.
The grand champion and reserve champion
Corriedale ram was won by Richard and Jane
Carter of ‘Billigaboo’, Goulburn.
Australian soldiers wrapped up warm in London’s Trafalgar Square during World War One.
PHOTO: Topical Press Agency / Stringer
• Corriedale producers at this year’s
Sydney Royal Easter Show were in
an optimistic mood due to buoyant
prices for their wool and an increase in
exhibitors in the judging ring.
• They also commemorated the role
that the Corriedale fleece has played
in supplying the uniforms for soldiers
since 1915, when the ANZACs were
established.
W
ith the price of 26 to 30 micron wool
having increased by more than a
quarter over the previous 12 months, the
mood was upbeat amongst the Corriedale
exhibitors at this year’s Sydney Royal
Easter Show.
But while the Australian Corriedale
Association and its members were looking
to the future with optimism, they also
honoured the connection the fibre has
with military clothing over the past 100
years – since the establishment of the
Australian and New Zealand Army Corps
(ANZACs) in 1915 – by organising a stand in
the sheep pavilion with the theme of ‘War
and Wool’.
Because of its lustre and loft, Corriedale
wool was ideal for uniforms, greatcoats
and blankets supplied during World War
One to our troops, as well as those of Great
Britain, France and Russia. The wartime
demand for crossbred wool was huge
because, for Europe especially, the material
had to be durable, warm and hard wearing.
Commemorating the past 100 years since
the establishment of the ANZACs was
especially appropriate given the breed’s
strong connection with both Australia and
New Zealand.
The Corriedale breed evolved simultaneously
in both countries by selectively breeding from
cross bred progeny of pure Merino and Lincoln
sheep. Developed in the latter quarter of the
19th century to meet a demand for a dual
purpose animal with good meat characteristics
and commercial wool production, today it is a
true dual purpose breed that produces heavy
cutting bright fleece.
To highlight the long-term cooperation
between the two countries, the Australian
Corriedale Association invited Tom Burrows,
a council member from the New Zealand
Sheepbreeders’ Association, to attend and
judge the Corriedale entrants at this year’s
Sydney Royal.
The Chairman of the NSW branch of the
Australian Corriedale Association, Tony
Manchester of ‘Roseville’, Kingsvale, thanked
Mr Burrows for his attendance and spoke of
his confidence for the future of breed.
“There is a lot more interest in Corriedales at
the moment, with plenty of entrants at this
year’s Sydney Royal – up by 15 from last year
to 83,” he said.
“Corriedales cut heavy wool and, combined
with the lift in prices for wools of this
micron, the breed is delivering good returns
for producers. Add to this high lamb and
mutton returns, then you can see why
people are attracted to this exceptional dual
purpose breed.”
MORE INFORMATION
www.corriedale.org.au
At a special function held after the judging,
attended by stud breeders, commercial
producers, AWI representatives and
students, Mr Burrows – whose grandfather
was a trooper in the Canterbury Mounted
Rifles at Gallipoli – spoke of his admiration
for the industry in Australia.
“The enthusiasm of the Corriedale
community that I have met in Australia is
something to be admired – and the fleeces
and carcasses of the sheep that I have seen
today at judging were outstanding,” he said.
“I’ve been particularly impressed with the
how the next generation of Corriedale
Judge Tom Burrows with the Grand Champion
Corriedale Ewe paraded by Lachlan Watkin and
Reserve Grand Champion Corriedale Ewe exhibited
by Michael Watkin, both of St Gregory's College
Cambelltown that has its own Corriedale stud.
51
52
MARKET
INTELLIGENCE
MARKET INTELL
HEALTHY RISE IN
PRICE OF WOOL
COMPARED TO OTHER FIBRES
US$/kg
18
16
14
WOOL 4 YEAR AVERAGE
ACRYLIC 4 YEAR AVERAGE
WOOL (EMI)
ACRYLIC
COTTON 4 YEAR AVERAGE
POLYESTER 4 YEAR AVERAGE
COTTON
POLYESTER
4 (P)
4 (C)
12
4 (A)
3 (P)
10
3 (C)
3 (A)
8
2 (P)
2 (C)
6
2 (A)
4
1 (P)
1 (C)
1 (A)
2
0
JAN 92 to APR 95
MAY 95 to APR 99
MAY 99 to APR 03
MAY 03 to APR 07
MAY 07 to APR 11
MAY 11 to APR 15
Source: PCI Fibres and AWEX
T
his graph shows the rise in the Eastern
Market Indicator (EMI) in $US over
the past 24 years since the collapse of the
Reserve Price Scheme. The average EMI for
successive four year periods is highlighted
in bold.
The relative change in price and average
price for polyester, acrylic and cotton are also
provided as a comparison.
The graph illustrates that in relative terms,
the price of wool has increased over the
24 year period more than all the other
illustrated fibres. The comparative rise in the
price of wool has been notably large since
AWI began investing funds in marketing
eight years ago and especially in the most
recent four year period.
The graph also shows that the prices of all
the illustrated fibres are affected by periodic
volatility in the market and slowdowns/
upturns in the global economic climate.
WOOL : COTTON
WOOL : POLYESTER
WOOL : ACRYLIC
JAN 92 TO APR 95
3.28
3.38
2.74
MAY 95 TO APR 99
2.91
3.63
2.88
MAY 99 TO APR 03
4.11
4.52
3.45
MAY 03 TO APR 07
4.55
3.95
3.06
MAY 07 TO APR 11
4.22
4.58
3.16
MAY 11 TO APR 15
5.23
5.31
3.76
The price ratio of wool compared to the other illustrated fibres has increased over time.
MARKET
INTELLIGENCE
IGENCE REPORT
AVERAGE
MONTHLY EMI
COMPARISON
AVERAGE MONTHLY EMI FOR MARCH 2015 - MAY 2015 COMPARED WITH
1. FOUR YEAR HISTORICAL DATA AND 2. THE DECADE 2000-2010
T
he chart opposite shows percentile in
Australian dollar terms using four-year
AWEX monthly Eastern Market Indicator
(EMI) and a comparison against the decade
January 2000 - December 2010. From MarchMay 2015, the monthly EMI averaged at
$11.63, tracking at the 66th percentile. The
percentile value (66th) indicates that over
the past four years, the monthly EMI
recorded a price lower than $11.63 for 66 per
cent of the time. It also means within that
period, the monthly EMI recorded a price
higher than $11.63 for only 34 per cent of
the time. Merino Cardings (MC) averaged at
$9.94, operating at the 100th percentile.
EMI
For the same period, 18 micron averaged at a
monthly value of $13.67 (44th percentile),
21 micron averaged at $12.35 (57th percentile),
and 28 micron averaged at $8.57 (100th
percentile).
24um $10.81
While the EMI is tracking at the 64th
percentile over the past four years, it is at
the 100th percentile when compared to the
first decade this century.
$11.63
100
66
17um $13.98
75
35
18um $13.67
44
93
19um $12.95
47
92
20um $12.49
99
57
22um $11.99
99
54
23um $11.72
Decade
Jan 2000 - Dec 2010
99
54
21um $12.35
99
56
77
97
25um $10.21
99 100
26um $9.62
99 100
28um $8.57
100
99
30um $8.04
100
99
32um $7.08
100
99
MC
100
99
$9.94
0%
10
20
30
Past 4 years
June 2011 - May 2015
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
WOOL VALUE
PRODUCED PER STATE
YEAR ENDING 30TH JUNE 2014
AU$ MILLION
3.2%
QLD
3.4%
TAS
15%
SA
WA
23%
VIC
23.1%
32.3%
NSW/ACT
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
550
600
650
700
750
800
850
Source: ABS
53
54
MARKET
INTELLIGENCE
THE EMPIRE
STRIKES BACK
In the second of a regular feature article written by AWI’s
Global Strategic Advisor Peter Ackroyd, we provide an insight
into a resurgence of the wool textile industry in Britain that will
benefit Australian woolgrowers. Mr Ackroyd is President of the
International Wool Textile Organisation and Chief Operating
Officer of the Campaign for Wool.
Peter Ackroyd, President of the
IWTO and Chief Operating Officer
of the Campaign for Wool.
T
he UK economy is currently
outperforming all other countries
in the European Union. Growth post
the world economic crisis has been
sustained and aided significantly by UK
remaining outside the Euro zone. GDP
grew by +3% in the first quarter of 2015.
In the same quarter in 2009, GDP fell by
-5.6%. Although much has changed, the
business community is pleased with the
recent election results and looks forward
to seeing continued policies that have
encouraged growth and tackled the debt.
Historically, most of the Australian wool clip
was processed in the West Yorkshire valleys.
Some still is, but bulk manufacturing left
these shores in the three decades following
World War 2. However, niche manufacturing
of finer micron yarns and fabrics is very
much alive and well as is the manufacturing
of woollen spun knitwear yarns and tweed
fabrics. In Yorkshire and Scotland there is a
sizeable upholstery weaving industry using
21 micron Merino wool.
All sectors are reporting good domestic
and overseas business, and capacity is
increasing for the first time in four decades.
Most of the key players are now Woolmark
licensees and those who once shied
away from us are now some of our more
enthusiastic partners. Mills need the quality
assurance guarantees that Woolmark
certification can offer.
The healthy state of trade in the woollen
and worsted sector that employs around
10,000 workers in around 40 mainly small
and medium sized companies is due to six
factors that have developed since the crash
of 2008.
1. Export growth to Asia: Demand for
UK fabrics in Japan and China grew
exponentially during the crisis as the
move to quality accelerated in Asia. Most
of the UK wool textile companies are
more than 75 per cent export. In short,
those firms that were majority export
survived, those dependant on home trade
failed. The current rising value of the
pound is of concern.
2. The fashionable ‘British Look’: UK mens
and womenswear fashion brands have
expanded their presence under licence
in Asia and North America over the past
five years as the British Look continues
to remain a 'good taste reference' in global
men's wear in particular. Gieves and
Hawkes with 150+ stores in China is a case
in point, as is the continued expansion
of the Paul Smith brand in Asia. Isetan,
Japan's leading department store stocks
more than 100 UK brands, many of which
are made under licence locally or in China.
3. Trading up: The UK retail industry
has seen the process of polarisation
accelerate over the past seven years.
The middle market is being squeezed as
retailers such as Marks & Spencer seek to
trade up and align the perception of their
fashion departments with the excellent
reputation of their food offer. The
clear beneficiary of retail polarisation
is John Lewis which was traditionally
positioned in the upper segment of the
middle market. John Lewis' operating
profits rose by 62% in the last fiscal year.
Chairman of John Lewis, Sir Charlie
Mayfield said his results were 'hard won'.
In Australian terms, John Lewis is more
David Jones than Myer.
4. Ingredient branding: Much of the UK
men's and women's wear retail offer is
made in China. To disguise the oriental
origin, men's wear brands in UK and
Japan that are seeking to trade up, use
the growing phenomenon of 'ingredient
branding' – which I discussed in the
March edition of Beyond the Bale – which
is where branding of the key component
of the garment, the fabric, is featured on
the garment.
5. Home of menswear: London's reputation
as a world hub for men's fashion is
unchallenged and the arrival of the
London Collections Men fashion week
in 2012 has confirmed and consolidated
London's preeminence in a sector of
fashion that is growing globally. The UK
wool textile manufacturing sector has
benefited through association accordingly.
6. Campaign for Wool: Last but in no way
least, the Campaign for Wool has given an
extraordinary boost to the industry both
in UK and in markets where The Prince
of Wales’ message of environmental
excellence is well received by consumers
seeking quality via a fibre upgrade.
Although the mood in the trade is good,
there are concerns about, increased
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) issues
and complicated compliance regulations,
currency movements, the lack of effective
primary processing in UK, a shortage of
skilled operatives and the volatility of
growing export markets in Asia, particularly
the Chinese crack down on gifting and its
effects on the luxury market in China.
READERSPHOTOS
55
WIN!!!
READERS’
PHOTOS!
Have you got any interesting photos that
you’d like to share with other readers of
Beyond the Bale?
We are always keen to see and hear what
people working with Australian wool are
up to. If you want to share any photos
with us, please email the image and a brief
description to the editor of Beyond the Bale
Richard Smith at [email protected].
The photos could portray any feature, be
it humourous or poignant, informative or
provoking, gritty or beautiful.
Here are a few photos that we have recently
received from readers.
If you submit a photo that gets
published in Reader's Photos,
you’ll receive a copy of Tracey
Kruger’s ‘Shearing in Victoria’s
Western District’ book.
ABOVE The front cover of Tracey Kruger’s 224page ‘Shearing in Victoria’s Western District’.
The book is also available to purchase for $60
(postage included) from Tracey’s website:
www.shearinginvictoriaswesterndistrict.com
or by phone on 0427 735 208.
WOOL RESOURCE KIT
Debra of Yarraville in Victoria
sent in this photo of her daughter
Amelia (5) reading the Wool
Resource Kit booklet to her
brother Hugo (1). Debra says
they both love learning all about
wool – from the sheep to all the
different uses for wool. The Wool
Resource Kit is published by
Kondinin and is also available as
part of AWI’s Learn About Wool
school resources – see page 25.
JUST HAVING A PEEK
Sophie and Benjy Pisasale sent in this photo of
their son Henry, age 12 months, watching dad
in the sheep yards at one of their properties
'Willowvale' at Deniliquin in NSW. Henry is
destined to be a sixth generation woolgrower!
BUDDING WOOL
HANDLERS
Amanda Manifold of Camperdown
in Victoria sent in this photo of
her two young nieces Harriet (7)
and Imogen (3) cleaning up for
her after shearing a couple of pet
lambs. Both sat watching patiently
until Amanda was finished then
got to work!
BUDDING SHEARER
Murray and Michelle Whiley of West Wyalong in
NSW sent in a photo of their 9 year old daughter
Holly, who wanted to have a go at shearing.
Holly was so proud of herself she went in for
another one.
THE ART OF QUILLIE RUGS
Kira Mead of Albany in WA sent in this photo of a standing wool rug (quillie) that she made from
strips of up-cycled Australian wool blankets, which she dyed with food colouring and joined using
a hot glue gun with the back stitched with wool yarn. The rug is sized 131cm x 122cm x 3cm.
www.accidentalrugmaker.wordpress.com
You can make a difference to
their lives and yours
by using Tri-Solfen.
Angus Carter and
his daughter Mary,
Calliope, Kentucky, NSW
As woolgrowers we want what’s best for our animals. Mulesing can put
their welfare at risk, which is why I use Tri-Solfen. Tri-Solfen provides rapid
pain relief for at least 24 hours and reduces bleeding and stress. You
can also let buyers know your wool is ethically produced, by declaring
you use pain relief on the National Wool Declaration. So join me and
make a difference to the welfare of your animals and our industry by
using Tri-Solfen when mulesing. Become a Better Choices member
and find out why pain relief is a better choice at betterchoices.com.au
Pain relief is a better choice.
Now available from your local vet and accredited Landmark stores.
© Bayer Australia Limited. 875 Pacific Highway Pymble NSW 2073 ACN 000 138 714. Tri-Solfen® is a registered
Animal Ethics Pty Ltd trademark. Better Choices® is a registered trademark of Bayer AG Leverkusen, Germany. To find
out more, call our customer information line toll free on 1800 678 368, 9am to 4pm (EST) Monday to Friday. BAATRI841
BETTER
CHOICES
A better life for livestock