Australia recognises its wool growers

The produce of Australia's world-class wool industry was put on display last Wednesday (April 24) at the 50th Ermenegildo Zegna Wool Awards, which was held in Sydney.

This is an annual event designed to promote and recognise the farmers and wool growers that drive this thriving industry and commit their lives to creating a quality product.

Over 800 guests attended the awards, while others had the opportunity to take guided tours around some of the country's top wool-producing farms.

Wool is, and long has been, one of Australia's principal exports. In fact, it's the country's "largest and most important form of agricultural land use", according to the Ermenegildo Zegna official website.

In 2011, the Australian government's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry estimated that the value of Australian wool exports was $3.047 billion, with China, India and Italy being our major buyers.

"Australia produces more than 20 per cent of wool sold on the world market and over 90 per cent of the global production of the highest quality merino wool," said Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry minister Joe Ludwig in an April 24 statement.

The National Farmers' Federation has recognised New South Wales as the leading supplier of wool in Australia, producing an estimated 112,720 tonnes per year.

Victoria comes in second place with 103,910 tonnes of wool, and Western Australia comes in third place with 79,070 tonnes.

Mr Ludwig also stated that, while the wool industry is currently doing pretty well for itself and the outlook for it is good, events such as the Ermenegildo Zegna Wool Awards are still an important way of showcasing just how important this industry is.

Australia's sheep and their wool are clearly a precious commodity and need to be protected.

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