The new six-stand Jamestown Shearer Training Centre, South Australia: AWI funded an improver/advanced ‘Shear n Gear’ workshop on the day before a five-day training course in June, co-funded with SCAA Shearer Woolhandler Training with assistance from the Jamestown Show Sheep & Wool Committee.
AWI funds training for shearers and wool handlers to attract and retain new entrants into the wool harvesting industry, build the capacity and longevity of existing staff, and increase returns to woolgrowers through improved clip preparation practices.
Adequate numbers of highly skilled professional staff to harvest and handle a high-quality Australian wool clip in a timely manner are key to the profitability of the Australian wool industry.
AWI therefore funds hands-on practical training for shearers and wool handlers in the shed, aimed at increasing their productivity, skills development and professionalism. Training covers a wide range of experience, from learner to professional shearers and novice to professional wool handlers.
In the 2020/21 financial year, 1,614 days training were delivered (with more than 4,143 attendances by shearers and wool handlers) through AWI-funded programs across Australia.
Due to the current shortage of and demand for shearers, there is a concerted effort to run extra novice and improver schools and workshops, funded by AWI and several state governments.
Best practice in shearing sheds results in a high-quality wool clip and the health and wellbeing of both professionals and sheep.
AWI thanks all the woolgrowers who provide their facilities and sheep, and all the other organisations and individuals that lend their time and resources to help run this training.
