A BLUEPRINT to revitalise Queensland’s sheep and wool industry with government, financier and producer collaboration will be developed by AgForce’s Sheep and Wool Board, re-elected president Alan Rae said yesterday.
Encouraging new industry entrants, the continued roll-out of wild dog exclusion fencing, increasing shearer and wool handler training opportunities and improving safety in and around shearing sheds are key priorities, Mr Rae said.
Mr Rae is a fourth-generation sheep and wool producer from the Goondiwindi region. He starts his second two-year term as AgForce sheep and wool president on 20 November 2018.
He has served as an AgForce Sheep and Wool Board director for 10 years before taking on the role of president in 2016. He has also served as secretary/treasurer for the Talwood/Bungunya AgForce branch, and for the United Graziers’ Association local branch prior to the formation of AgForce.
“While the drought has taken its toll, the Queensland sheep and wool industry has been rebuilding in recent years with stronger commodity prices and wild dog exclusion fencing helping to restore producers’ confidence.
“Over the next two years, the AgForce Sheep and Wool Board will look to develop a blueprint for how governments, financiers and producers can work together to continue the revitalization of Queensland’s sheep and wool industry,” Mr Rae said.
“AgForce is extremely grateful for the funding provided for wild dog exclusion fencing to date, and we will be encouraging the Federal and State Governments to work together and increase their investment in fencing in sheep-growing areas.
“It’s also vital that there is increased landholder participation in wild dog control measures such as baiting, trapping and shooting programs in addition to the construction of fences,” he said.
Mr Rae said with increased sheep numbers will come an increased need for shearers and a need to ensure new employees are well-trained in the importance of animal welfare and ensuring their personal safety.
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