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Empowering Hub's Next Generation: Unveiling Wool Industry Insights

The SQNNSW Innovation Hub Next Generation Council is a dynamic group of 18-40 year olds, including engaged primary producers, tech founders, research and TAFE students, and First Nations community members. This passionate collective is dedicated to transforming the future of regional Queensland and New South Wales by partnering with us to help ensure the latest information and innovations reach industries and communities. They are also helping to identify future project ideas and concepts.

One notable member of the Hub’s Next Generation is Brett Smith, Elders District Wool Manager for the past nine years, based on his family’s property, Tralee Grazing, in St George.

In April, the Hub had the pleasure of supporting Brett’s attendance at the annual Congress in Adelaide. This prestigious global event brought together around three hundred delegates, encompassing all stakeholders in the wool supply chain, from growers to brands.

“We all unanimously recognised the importance of the congress themes: traceability and sustainability. It is so important to improve the flow and how things all come together. Despite stagnant wool prices, there was optimism – a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel”, Brett said.

Brett also acknowledged the opportunity to forge valuable connections, one of which was with Geoff Kingwill, a producer from South Africa who is involved in an international program called ‘Ecological Outcomes Verification (EOV) through the Savory Institute. This operation is located in an area of expansive grasslands known for beef and wool production, providing training for commercial and communal farmers.

Brett’s Other Key Highlights

  1. Verifying Attributes: A Supply Chain Challenge:

    • Conversations buzzed around finding cost-effective ways to verify wool attributes throughout the supply chain.
    • Metrics and evolving technology play a crucial role in solving this challenge.

  2. Australian Initiatives: AWTH and Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme:

    • The Australian Wool Traceability Hub (AWTH) and the revamped Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme (formerly Sustainawool) took center stage.
    • These collaborative efforts empower woolgrowers to showcase their sustainable practices and control the narrative around topics like regeneration and nature positivity.

  3. Resilience and Climate Adaptation: A Positive Outcome:

    • Many farm practices enhance resilience and help businesses handle variable climates.

“Overall, the congress left me with exciting ideas and new connections.”