News

University Aids Drought Recovery of Regional Wool Growers

Media Release, Friday 22 June 2007

The University of Melbourne will help get drought affected wool growers back on their feet with a ‘Wool Harvesting and Drought Recovery Seminar’ on Thursday July 5.

The seminar is a joint initiative of the University of Melbourne School of Veterinary Science’s ‘Mackinnon Project’ and Australian Wool Innovation. Registration closes on Friday June 29.

One of the headline speakers at the event is Dr Angus Campbell from the Mackinnon Project, who will present results from the project’s 5 year ‘Time of Shearing Trial’, including previously unpublished data on crutching, flystrike and weaner mortality.

“The research found that in ewes there are two times when the diameter of wool decreases, first in autumn, and then when the ewes are pregnant in spring,” Dr Campbell says. “This shows there is not one annual shearing time which will consistently improve wool strength.”

“This seminar will provide wool growers with valuable information as to how to evaluate what shearing time best suits their flock, as well as providing expertise on long term planning for drought recovery, such as pasture productivity and animal health.”

The event will also feature a presentation from Australian Wool Innovation on new wool harvesting technologies, while the seminar will close with an open group discussion on wool production this past year.
Based at the University of Melbourne’s Veterinary School at Werribee on the outskirts of Melbourne, the Mackinnon Project is a recognised leader in sheep and beef consultancy both in Australia and internationally. A unique range of services is offered, including farm management consultancies, farmer training programs, contract research and post graduate training programs.

Seminar Details:
Thursday July 5, 2007
Registration from 10am
The University of Melbourne
School of Veterinary Science
250 Princes Highway
Werribee, Vic 3030
Melways Map Reference 206 G5
Mackinnon clients $55 (incl GST); non-clients $88 (incl. GST)