In collaboration with the Peter Westblade Scholarship (PWS) and Monaro Farming Systems (MFS), WoolProducers Australia informed emerging industry leaders of the importance of industry policy and advocacy at the PWS / MFS training weekend. The weekend was attended by 32 emerging industry leaders, who engaged in presentations and practical sessions led by industry specialists covering stockmanship, sheep selection, pasture assessment, animal health, animal production, wool marketing and industry policy and advocacy.
WoolProducers General Manager, Adam Dawes presented to the group, introducing the roles and governance processes of WoolProducers Australia and the different roles of RDCs and industry policy bodies. Mr Dawes’ presentation discussed the policy development and advocacy process, sighting recent examples relating to trade risk mitigation, including emergency animal disease preparedness and sheep and wool traceability.
Mr Dawes said, “It was great to have the opportunity to inform emerging industry leaders of the importance of industry policy and advocacy – something that is not generally well understood in the wool industry.”
“Speaking from experience, early in agricultural careers young people are often focused on developing practical skills and technical knowledge and running their businesses. It is important that we also get young people engaged in industry policy and advocacy at this stage of their career, as decisions made today will have a tangible impact on them throughout the remainder of their careers”, Mr Dawes said.
Sally Martin, Director on both the PWS and MFS Boards said, “The Peter Westblade Scholarship and Monaro Farming Systems have joined forces in 2025 to offer a valuable training weekend for young people (18 to 30 years) looking to build a future in the sheep industry.”
“This hands-on experience connects participants with industry leaders, covering essential topics including pasture assessment, animal health, stockmanship, wool clip preparation, and genetics.”
“Beyond on-farm fundamentals, the program also explored supply chain dynamics, industry policy and the importance of mental health. By gaining insights and building networks, attendees will be equipped to explore diverse career opportunities within the sheep industry." Ms Martin said.
WoolProducers also used the opportunity to officially launch the 2025/26 Youth Ambassador program. The Youth Ambassador program provides the opportunity for emerging industry leaders to act as an observer in WoolProducers Board and Committee meetings for 12 months, along with being provided with mentorship and networking opportunities to support their professional development.
“A great bunch of energetic and engaged young professionals attended the PWS / MFS Monaro Training Weekend, I really hope to see the calibre of these people sitting at the WoolProducers Board and Committee tables over the next 12 months”, Mr Dawes said.
Photos for use with attribution to Adele Offley
ENDS
WoolProducers Australia contact | PWS and MFS contact |
Adam Dawe | Sally Maring |
General Manager | PWS and MFS Director |
0455442776 | 0400 782 477 |
About WoolProducers’ Australia
WoolProducers plays a critical role in working closely with companies and entities funded by woolgrower funds including compulsory levies or fees for service.
Its mission is to develop constructive and profitable outcomes for woolgrowers nationally.
The agency is responsible for appointing a director to each of the Australian Wool Exchange and the Australia Wool Testing Authority, promoting good corporate governance and ensuring that the interests of growers are met.'
WoolProducers maintains a working relationship with Australian Wool Innovation as the voice of woolgrower shareholders. It aims to contribute to AWI’s programs for the benefit of growers, promoting responsible use of levy funds and ensuring good corporate governance.
WoolProducers is the sole wool industry member of Animal Health Australia, and as such, carries a significant responsibility for decision making on behalf of the industry in the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak.
As the only wool grower organisation with membership of the National Farmers’ Federation, WoolProducers is responsible for providing key policy advice on behalf of our members, and other wool growers, to Australia’s peak farm body.
WoolProducers also works closely with the Federal Government Departments on key issues such as animal health and welfare, biosecurity, pest management control, natural resource management, drought preparedness, emergency animal disease outbreak preparedness and industry development, including research, trade and logistics.