In a novel wool industry initiative to attract and retain a quality workforce, young shearers and wool handlers are being given roles as wool ambassadors.
Story John Dunn Photo AWI
Top young shearers such as Marites ‘Tess’ Woods from Parkes, NSW and wool handlers such as Alex Schoff from Chinchilla, Qld have become ambassadors for wool, spearheading a novel, Australia-wide wool industry initiative. The program is aimed at ensuring woolsheds have high-quality people with the highest possible standards and a culture that will produce the best possible result. It comes at a time when wool leaders are concerned about workforce shortages.
“These young people have been chosen because of their leadership qualities, outstanding talent and potential to excel on the farms and stations across the country,” says Craig French, manager for wool harvesting, training and careers development at Australian Wool Innovation. “Their personal presentation and the way they conduct themselves in the sheds and out of hours are additional factors behind their selection to be the face of wool as they promote their occupations to the next generation.”
This story excerpt is from Issue #158
Outback Magazine: December/January 2025
