Sheep CRC chief executive Professor James Rowe

Genomics testing and data measurement incorporating electronic ear tags could fast-track superfine flock development and help profitability, according to Sheep CRC chief executive officer James Rowe.

Professor Rowe will be one of the speakers at the Australian Superfine Woolgrowers Association annual seminar and dinner in Armidale NSW on May 2.

“This is a challenging but potentially exciting time for Australian superfine wool growers, with the adoption of technology now reaching a tipping point that could result in major improvements to flock performance over the years ahead.

“Genomics testing provides information on genetic merit of animals for a range of traits, including those that cannot be measured until late in life, such as adult wool traits,” he said.

“Used in conjunction with data measurement tools like eID can fast-track the development of your flock and help superfine wool growers remain profitable in this evolving market.”

Latest on breeding, feeding and marketing superfine wool

Woolgrowers will learn the latest on breeding, feeding and marketing superfine wool at the annual event. The seminar will also focus on practical demonstrations showcasing electronic tags tags, sheep genetics products and tools, fleece testing, the wool comfort and handle meters.

Other key speakers will include:

– Australian Country Spinners CEO Brenda McGahan, updating ACS’s latest efforts in marketing superfine wool yarn in the US knitting market

– ParaBoss executive officer Lewis Khan, giving an update on the Barber’s Pole worm vaccine.

– Sheep Genetics manager Hamish Chandler, on Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBVs) for Merino and terminal ram selection.

– AWEX CEO Mark Grave, giving updates on the code of practice review, minimum bale weights and electronic bale identification.

– Michael Jackson and David Tester, on crimp curvature measurement and insights on the wool comfort and handle meters

– Helen Cathles (AWSGA) and Gary Robinson (AWI), giving an update on the KnitExtra fibre crimp trial to establish the importance of high crimping wool in knitwear

– Matt Foster, Grazag, feeding Merino sheep for more wool and meat

– Paul Swan, AWI, on recent marketing developments.

Wool buyer panel to discuss AWI selling systems review

A panel of highly regarded wool buyers will discuss their submissions to the Australian Wool Innovation Wool Selling Systems Review and speciality wool needs. Other important updates will be delivered by AWI and the AWTA.

AWSGA said the day promises to bring together recent technological developments and practical demonstrations to drive more profit from Merino enterprises and keep abreast of recent issues.

The ASWGA seminar will be held at the Wright Lecture Theatre, University of New England from 9am-4pm and a dinner celebrate the winners of the ASWGA National Fleece Competition will be held at Merilba Winery, Kingstown. The cost of the seminar only, covering morning and afternoon tea and lunch $30. RSVP: Melissa Mulley, ASWGA, [email protected]

Source: Australian Superfine Woolgrowers Association