Federated Farmers Meat and Fibre chair Rick Powdrell

Kiwi sheep farmers have only three days left to vote in their country’s Wool Levy Referendum that closes closing at 2pm this Friday.

Federated Farmers Meat and Fibre chair Rick Powdrell said it was great to see that 40 percent of eligible sheep farmers had already voted, but he wanted to make sure the last 60pc have their voices heard on how they want the $700m industry to move forward.

“This is the final call for sheep farmers to decide the future of their wool industry on Friday,” he said.

“Voting can be done by fax toll free on 0528 233 532 869 or online at www.votewool.co.nz. Postal voting has now closed.

“We are the world’s third largest wool exporter, supplying 45 percent of the world’s carpet wool, but it is predicted by the industry that  wool’s share of the global market will inevitably decline to less than one percent by 2040,” Mr Powdrell said.

“It is clear we need a united voice.

“Sheep farmers genuinely want to see more unity and I believe the Wool Levy will provide that common voice and industry good support,” he said.

Mr Powdrell said voting ‘yes’ meant $4.2m to represent and develop the industry, based on a 2.75c/kg levy for the 154,000 tonnes of wool produced in New Zealand each year.

“It will give us the opportunity to have an internationally recognised, non-commercial voice to represent wool growers effectively and in a way that ultimately makes a difference.

“This week it is vital that sheep farmers make sure they understand what it means for the industry and seize the opportunity to have their say for our large and very important sector,” he said.

“I urge sheep farmers to make their voice count. If not now for the wool industry, when.”