Young wool growers listen to WPA general manager Adam Dawes at the training weekend. Image – Adele Offley.

WOOLPRODUCERS Australia launched its 2025/26 Youth Ambassador program at the weekend, highlighting the importance of industry policy and advocacy.

The launch was part of a WPA presentation at the Peter Westblade Scholarship and Monaro Farming Systems Monaro training weekend at Numbla Vale in New South Wales from 14-16 March.

Recognising the vital role of youth in driving industry progress, WoolProducers is seeking nominations from dynamic and enthusiastic individuals aged 18-35 yearscwho are actively involved in any sector of the wool supply chain.

The successful candidate will join the WoolProducers board as an observer for a 12-month period, gaining invaluable insights into industry policy development and agri-politics.

WoolProducers chief executive officer Jo Hall said WPA is excited to welcome the next generation of leaders to the team.

The WoolProducers Youth Ambassador program provides a platform for young people to contribute their perspectives and gain firsthand experience in shaping the future of our industry.

“We recognise the immense value of having a youth perspective at discussions that take place around the WoolProducers table,” she said.

The Youth Ambassador program was a key component of WoolProducers’ “Raising the Baa” program, which was initiated by a federal government grant.

“Such was the success of this program that the WoolProducers board has decided to continue the Youth Ambassador program.

“The Youth Ambassador program empowers young people to develop their leadership potential and contribute to the sustainable growth of our industry,” Ms Hall said.

WoolProducers will cover all travel costs associated with the youth ambassador role. Appointments will be merit-based, ensuring that the most passionate and dedicated individuals are selected.

The Monaro training weekend was attended by 32 emerging industry leaders, who engaged in presentations and practical sessions led by industry specialists covering stockmanship, sheep selection, pasture assessment, animal health, animal production, wool marketing and industry policy and advocacy.

WoolProducers general manager Adam Dawes outlined the roles and governance processes of WoolProducers Australia and the different roles of RDCs and industry policy bodies. He discussed the policy development and advocacy process, citing recent examples relating to trade risk mitigation, including emergency animal disease preparedness and sheep and wool traceability.

“It was great to have the opportunity to inform emerging industry leaders of the importance of industry policy and advocacy – something that is not generally well understood in the wool industry,” Mr Dawes said.

“Speaking from experience, early in agricultural careers young people are often focused on developing practical skills and technical knowledge and running their businesses.

“It is important that we also get young people engaged in industry policy and advocacy at this stage of their career, as decisions made today will have a tangible impact on them throughout the remainder of their careers”, he said.

PWS and MFS director Sally Martin the Peter Westblade Scholarship and Monaro Farming Systems have joined forces this year to offer a valuable training weekend for young people (18 to 30 years) looking to build a future in the sheep industry.

“This hands-on experience connects participants with industry leaders, covering essential topics including pasture assessment, animal health, stockmanship, wool clip preparation, and genetics.

“Beyond on-farm fundamentals, the program also explored supply chain dynamics, industry policy and the importance of mental health. By gaining insights and building networks, attendees will be equipped to explore diverse career opportunities within the sheep industry,” Ms Martin said.

Mr Dawes said a great bunch of energetic and engaged young professionals attended the PWS/MFS Monaro Training Weekend and he hoped to see the calibre of these people sitting at the WoolProducers board and committee tables over the next 12 months.

WoolProducers Youth Ambassador key details

Eligibility: Individuals aged 18-35 years, active in any sector of the wool supply chain.

Opportunity: 12-month observer role on the WoolProducers Board.

Benefits: Exposure to industry policy development

Travel and logistic costs: Covered by WoolProducers Australia.

Application process: Merit-based selection.

Nominations close: Friday, 30 May, 2025.

Further information: email [email protected]