I stated at that time, and still believe, that woolgrowers are losing ground without industry support and we need to understand that opportunities are available to us but only if we choose to collectively invest in the projects that will take us there. Information and transparency is key.
A common theme I have heard from end-use retailers is a fundamental lack of understanding among their consumers about what wool is and where it comes from. Some consumers think wool production is like the fur trade, which is ridiculous given our sheep produce regular crops of this fabulous natural fibre across their lifetime.
There are commercial and grower entities out in the market right now putting these education programmes together but with strategic, carefully costed initiatives these programmes could be expanded.
It sounds so simplistic, this need to explain the basics of wool, but we have assumed for far too long that "everyone knows what we do and what wool is". The unpalatable truth is they don't - this needs to change. The Campaign for Wool is a winner in this space and I believe in backing winners. Where else do you see free endorsement from royalty and "A-list" celebrities along with free advertising in the world's leading magazines? Perhaps we should be paying for it - we might appreciate it more. Make no mistake - this is not generic marketing - this is simply about keeping the door open.
Man-made, oil-based fibres have undeniably captured our market, and although wool may be a niche product, it is one with incredibly robust values. Wool also has the luxury edge - consumers will always recognise good quality - they just have to be aware of the option. Along with its natural attributes, the environmental story of wool needs to be transmitted along the length of the value chain to policy makers and consumers alike. That's where our value return will come from: contrasting what wool is and what it is not.
As a wool grower, I can only vote as I see fit but my opinion is that everyone acknowledges the mistakes of the past; frivolous spending and questionable business decisions are the theme. We can stare at our boots and bemoan the waste of money, loss of expertise and disrespect to those paying the money.
We can continue to view wool as a by-product; that shearing is a necessary evil for animal health reasons, get rid of it off our farms and make it someone else's problem.
Or we can lift our heads and start looking to the future.
We can begin celebrating the success of those wool growers who still take pride in their clip - who understand its value to their farm profitability.
We can look to support the young people who want to bring their drive and enthusiasm to all levels of our industry.
We can tell our part of the story and help our marketing teams create that vital link between farmer and purchaser. We can capture and share the information that will allow us to make informed decisions about selling our clip.
But most importantly, we can give ourselves options by gaining grower consensus.
One united voice which is supported by the entire industry - an internationally recognised, non commercially aligned representative body for the wool industry. If you say there are absolutely no issues with the returns we farmers are getting and that consumers know what wool is, then so be it. If, however, you believe we are better off together then you will vote to support the levy.
This wool grower will be voting "yes" for the levy.
• Wool growers should have received voting packs by now (if not contact electionz.com on 0508 666 002 to get one). Voting closes October 10.
