Wool

Rob Cochrane started his career in the stock and station industry sorting mail. After 50 years in the industry and perhaps 1000 auctions, he retired this month.

Consultant questions whether the effort put into wool is worth the reward.

Industry leaders speak of better times ahead, asking growers to stay positive despite low returns.

New research shows fibre is gaining in popularity, and for more uses than clothing and carpets.

Primary school science experiment makes a point about fibre’s sustainability.

Aim is to connect individuals and businesses with the necessary expertise to bring innovative wool ideas to life.

Services to Merino industry recognised with Companion of the NZ Order of Merit.

Reda, the Italian fabric manufacturers and owners of Otamatapaio Station, celebrated 30 years on the property in true Italian style last month – by throwing a party.

A conservation architect is on a mission to document region’s oldest and most interesting sheds.

PGG Wrightson’s Allan Jones retiring after almost six decades in the wool industry.

The government owns so many buildings, its pledge to use wool in them where feasible could kickstart a recovery in strong-wool prices, says Bremworth CEO.

Not a lot has changed in the woolshed in the past seven or so decades, with little to no investment in research, development or education in wool, says David Scobie.

Concerned about cheap imports, Bremworth seeks clarity on what exactly is meant by new government directive.

Wool-based outfit makes history as it nets both Emerging and Supreme awards.

Government decision on wool in public sector buildings ‘a significant boost to wool growers and the industry’.

Designer falls for felting, creating vessels, clothes and rugs.

It’s early days, but pricing and demand have been lifting at wool auctions, mainly due to real improvement in wool quality.

Contamination issues are costing the industry money and contracts.

WDC working with industry to develop ‘micro-credentials’ for shearers and handlers.

Prices significantly up compared to this time last year.

Certainty of income an option for select number of farmers under new initiative.

‘Proud to be supporting Kiwi farmers and rural communities.’

Tough market has wool firm doing battle with rising costs.

Siloed sector urgently needs to get its house in order, says Meat and Wool chair.

Wools of New Zealand says it has several initiatives on the go, including a new commercial wool carpet tile.

Small budget and local talent produce compelling ad campaign for fibre in the home.

Some income stability ‘is good news in a year like this’.

WRONZ deploys former Wool Board money on research into saleable wool-derived products.

Carpet company offers 30% ‘product subsidy’ for cosier classrooms.

Synthetic carpets are getting a free ride from environmentalists, Alan Emerson says.

Devold’s Merino fold get to see where fibre ends up.

Phil Weir on the risks and benefits of being the primary producer.

Wool industry meets with officials to push for use of homegrown fibre.

Solution dyed nylon under scrutiny after outcry over school carpeting.

Outcry as imported synthetics set to be used in 800 rural schools

WoolWorks Ventures to focus on new projects and innovations.