FAWO Launches Australian Wool Industry Medal

The Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, the Hon. Barnaby Joyce supported the initiative. Minister Joyce said "I would like to commend and congratulate the Federation of Australian Wool Organisations for this new initiative to celebrate the contribution of men and women to Australia’s wool industry.

"The good times in agriculture have returned, and much of this success is due to those who are tirelessly championing in their industries and regional areas and supporting our national economy. The hard work by all those across the Australian Wool Industry contributes not only to individual businesses but flows out to our communities and other industries.

"In Agriculture, the national production value this year is expected to exceed $60 billion for the first time. International markets are demanding our wool. We are currently experiencing wool prices at levels not seen since the late 1980’s.

"I encourage individuals, community organisations, professional bodies and those across the wool industry to nominate extraordinary people from producing to shearing, from education to science, from wool classing to fashion for consideration for these awards. I look forward to the Australian Wool Industry Medal awards being announced later this year and to congratulate those who underpin the wool industry’s success and give it the ability to meet the growing global demand for high-value and high-quality wool across the whole chain."

Mr Ryan said "The Australian wool industry is iconic and contributes more than $3 billion to the Australian economy, and that should be acknowledged. The Australian Wool Industry Medal will recognise and celebrate the success of the men and women from across the wool industry who have made a real difference through their dedication, innovation and expertise".

"This is a positive initiative for the wool industry as it will bring forward nominations of people from a diverse range of backgrounds. To be acknowledged by your peers is one of the highest accolades possible." said Mr Ryan "The Australian wool industry is the world’s largest and is recognized globally as the leader in fibre quality, professional standards and research excellence. This award will enhance the profile of an industry steeped in history and achievement."

Categories of eligible nominees include, but are not limited to: Wool Growers, Brokers, Shearers, Wool Classers, Researchers, Buyers, Educators and those engaged in Marketing and Industry Services to name a few. Further information and a nomination form can be downloaded from www.fawo.org.au

Nominations for the Australian Wool Industry Medal are now open.

The inaugural Australian Wool Industry Medal will be presented to Medal Recipients at a special presentation to be held at the National "Wool Week" dinner on 24 August 2017 in Melbourne.

Media Contact:

Mrs Bianca Heaney (03) 9311 0103 or email awards@fawo.org.au