The Yarn

With about a third of the Australian wool clip bought at retail in Europe, what does the re-opening of society in parts of Europe mean for wool demand and the future of our fibre? Peter Ackroyd shared his extensive experience and knowledge in this vital market at this vital time.

With a strong track record with the National Farmers Federation and NSW farmers, new AWI Chairman Jock Laurie is first and foremost a farmer himself. In this extensive interview, hear Jock’s view of the current state of the wool industry, future prospects and challenges and why things look so bright for wool.

A lifetime in Merinos, this stalwart of the industry explains why he believes the industry is at the greatest point in his long life so far.

The Australian Fleece Competition attracts hundreds of fleeces every year and has been doing so for 20 years. Measuring through both objective and subjective means it gives great feedback to woolgrowers. We also head to Gippsland, a wool region in Victoria that has been through it all in recent years but now has a very bright looking future.

It’s the beginning of the new wool selling season, after a very interesting 12-18 months for the Australian wool market. With the EMI recovering over 60% since the pandemic low of 858ac in September ’20, AWI trade consultant Scott Carmody fills us on what’s driving Merino wool prices, where crossbred wools sit, and what the coming months may look like for Australian woolgrowers.

In future, there will be product labels placed on all garments in Europe, informing consumers of the environmental impact of the garment on sale. Current methodology measures wool and other natural fibres harshly compared to synthetic, man-made fibres. Hear how AWI and the IWTO are working to correct this.

Where is the digital exchange and storage platform at? Are woolgrowers, brokers, exporters and buyers on board? Have we reached a critical mass of users yet? Stephen Hill addresses the big questions.

The flagship of the Australian wool industry is back with superfine wool prices the highest they have been for some years. The prospects for the industry are very good, but don’t take our word for it: hear from two families central to the industry for a combined 200+ years: Danny Picker and Trevor Mibus speak to The Yarn.

From a reluctant social media user to prolific user of technology on farm. Hear from sheep farmer and stud breeder Mark Mortimer about his “it has to work for me” approach to new technology.

Woolgrowing in Tasmania has been put under the microscope for profitability with the expansion of irrigation over the last 20 years. Despite new production options, fine wool is still winning in terms of profitability, stability and reliability according to George Gatenby.