Wool study still wants ideas

By PHILIPPA STEVENSON agricultural editor

Sheepfarmers are being asked for more ideas on the make-or-break wool industry development plan despite the submission deadline passing more than a week ago.

Consultants McKinsey and Co began the $1.8 million Wool Board-funded project in October and invited submissions until November 28.

McKinsey principal Andrew Grant said the project was the industry's last shot at success after years of declining returns.

Wool Board chairman Bruce Munro has promised the organisation will disappear if that is what the plan suggests.

Ian Farrant, chairman of the grower-representative Independent Stakeholder Group, declined to say yesterday how many submissions had been received by the deadline.

But he urged growers to continue making submissions.

Despite letters to growers urging them to make their thoughts known by November 28, the date was "indicative only," Mr Farrant said.

At the second monthly briefing by McKinsey to the group, it was already apparent "that we are receiving a professional and well thought-out investigation from them, with some positive indications for the industry."

He could give no detail and said the meeting had been about process issues. Terms of reference were confirmed for the study, due by next May, and would cover five stages.

He said they would include a report on all options for improving revenue from wool categories and a review of the cost structure and productivity of the supply chain.

There would also be a short-list of strategic options for change.

The fourth and fifth stages would recommend implementation strategies and delivery structures.