Former Wallaby Jim Miller, wearing his Woolmark scarf. Photo – Food Miles Magazine.

WOOL has joined forces with Australian Rugby Union to produce the first Woolmark ARU supporter jerseys.

The Australian wool industry’s marketing arm, The Woolmark Company, has joined forces with the ARU to promote the strong heritage and natural connection between the great Australian icons.

The first Woolmark supporter jerseys will be recreations of the 1937 and 1938 playing tops worn by the Wallabies in Test matches against South Africa and New Zealand. A new range of woollen scarves will also be available for Australians to show some natural fibre and national spirit.

The Woolmark Company said Australian wool and Australian rugby have helped establish Australian as a world force and put the country on the map. Their history is inextricably linked with rugby union being the game of choice for many Australian wool-growing families. Long before the game turned professional, many players worked on sheep properties and spent their weekends playing for their local town, district or, in rare cases, even playing for Australia, the company said.

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Current Wallabies Nick Phipps and Bernard Foley with wool scarves.

ARU general manager commercial, Pete Sciberas said the code was delighted that Woolmark are joining ARU’s partnerships family.

“They represent one of the most iconic brands and products in Australia, and have a natural affinity with the rugby community, much of which is based in rural and regional Australia.”

Holding the latest woollen Wallabies scarf and standing amongst his flock, Jim Miller said he had fond memories of his time in the 1960s representing Australia and touring and playing the game with the best in the world.

“Here I am now, 60 years later running sheep at the top of their game and producing a wonderful article of wool, made of 19.5 micron the type of soft wool I grow.”

Jim Miller’s story in Food Miles magazine can be read here (page 41-43).

New South Wales wool grower and Boorowa Goldies rugby club member Murray Dymock said Merino wool and rugby have always been very big parts of his community.

“To know that something you put your life into producing is now going into a product that supports the Wallabies is pretty good feeling”.

Wallabies 100pc Australian wool scarves will be available soon at www.heraldsun.com.au/shop.

Source: Australian Wool Innovation.