Australian Wool Industry Medal winner Jimmy Jackson, left, with WIA chairman David Michell.

LEADING international wool consultant Jimmy Jackson shared some good news after he was awarded his Wool Industry Medal in Melbourne last week.

The International Wool Consulting Group principal said during a recent trip to Vietnam and China he noticed some “green shots” after a “lousy” year in China, Vietnam, the United States, Hong Kong and the Unmited Kingdom last year.

“It was desperate last year … they were all worried about their jobs and downsizing.”

“This year, far from the woods, but there’s some green shoots, everybody is a bit more confident, doing a lot more product development and actually placing orders.

He some retailers who did not place orders last year, had done so this year, although “a little bit shorter” than previously.

“It’s all on the horizon, some green shoots, but we are still a long way from getting out of the woods.”

Mr Jackson said he was delighted to be nominated for and receive the award. He said he has had a wonderful career dealing with growers, processors, brokers and more recently retailers and brands.

At the Wool Industries Australia annual Wool Week dinner at the RACV Club on Thursday, WIA chairman David Michell awarded medals to Mr Jackson, retired market analyst Chris Wilcox and former exporter Peter Rookyard.

Mr Michell said Mr Jackson’s 55-year career has been devoted to wool processing and promotion. He was instrumental in developing innovations such as machine washable wool and the mercerized Merino process which transformed manufacturing processes worldwide.

“And for all you people who like activewear, if it wasn’t for Jimmy, you wouldn’t be wearing it.

“It doesn’t shrink and it actually works pretty well, so thank you Jimmy.”

Mr Michell said as general manager of product development at Australian Wool Innovation and later as the founder of the IWTCG, he took Australian technology to the world, working closely with Chinese wool brands.

“His leadership has ensured that wool remains competitive, versatile and at the forefront of global textile innovation.”

Australian Wool Industry Medal winner Peter Rookyard, left, with WIA chairman David Michell.

Mr Michell said Peter Rookyard dedicated 42 years to wool exporting. With his background in wool and pastoral science he founded Woolandgidgee Pty Ltd, representing many companies across the industry.

“He has been an outstanding mentor, organizing auction tours, judging competitions and contributing to industry education.”

Mr Michell said Mr Rookyard also played a key role in rewriting the wool classers’ handbook and advised on key initiatives like the Wool Selling System’s Review and AuctionsPlus.

“Through his work, Peter has not only strengthened Australia’s export reputation, but also ensured the next generation of wool professionals are prepared to carry through.”

Mr Rookyard thanked his nominator and said educating and passing knowledge to young people is important to him. He said the most important thing is education and knowledge needed to be passed on.

He said after he graduated from the University of New South Wales his computer skills landed him a job at the wool trading company Booth, Hill and New Pty Ltd. AWI chief executive officer John Roberts said Mr Rookyard taught him how to value wool, and AWI’s head of domestic operations Scott Carmody also worked at Booth Hill and New.

Former staff members of the Booth, Hill and New trading company got together at the Wool Week dinner, from left, Scott Carmody, Katrina and Peter Rookyard, and AWI CEO John Roberts.

Mr Michell said Chris Wilcox was recognized for his outstanding work in market reporting and analysis.

“For more than 33 years Chris served as Australia’s leading wool industry economist.

“He played a crucial role in shaping the industry following the collapse of the Reserve Price Scheme.”

Mr Michell said through Mr Wilcox’s company Poimena Analysis, he delivered clear, evidence-based reports that influenced industry policies and strategies.

“As executive director of the National Council of Wool of Wool Selling Brokers of Australia, he introduced initiatives such as the Wool Broker of the Year Award, while also strengthening international ties, particularly with China.

“Chris has been a regular voice at global industry events, and his legacy lies in the strong, informed foundations he has built for the future of wool.”

Mr Wilcox was travelling overseas and unable to attend to receive his award. Mr Michell said Mr Wilcox has been notified about the award and the feedback had been that he was “actually quite touched.”