Farming and wool industries get behind ShearNZ

Media release

Farming and wool industries get behind ShearNZ

The ShearNZ programme, described as having the potential for far-reaching effects on the future of wool in New Zealand and internationally, will be launched in Christchurch on March 27.

With “integrity and traceability in wool harvesting” as it's aim the New Zealand Shearing Contractors Association has developed ShearNZ to provide robust wool harvesting standards which emphasise sustainable business practice and service to farmers.

Association president Barry Pullin of Christchurch says the programme is built by the industry for the industry and aims to improve communication and strengthen essential partnerships between farmers, wool harvesters and the wider wool industry.

“NZSCA recognises the experience and the qualifications of wool handlers, shearers, wool pressers and wool classers but it is about total delivery. ShearNZ puts the onus on the shearing business to deliver a quality service,” Mr Pullin says.“We believe that with the right partnerships ShearNZ can also add value to the ‘story of wool’ .”

ShearNZ preserves tried and true service guidelines and includes them in a set of what Mr Pullin describes as realistic yet substantial standards for shearing businesses.

“These standards enhance the image of wool and offer considerable benefit across the entire wool industry, from farm to end use, “ he says.

The standards cover employment, health and safety, woolshed facilities, team capability, clip preparation, animal welfare and the environment.

“NZSCA recognises the experience and qualifications of wool handlers, shearers, wool pressers and wool classers and ShearNZ puts the onus on the wool industry to deliver a quality product,” Mr Pullin says.

The ShearNZ launch in Christchurch at 3.30pm on Tuesday 27 March includes senior representatives from many stakeholder organisations who will officially and collectively give their support to ShearNZ.
These include Jeanette Maxwell (Federated Farmers), Barry Pullin (President NZSCA), Stephen Fookes (Council of Wool Interests and the Campaign for Wool), Philippa Wright (Wool Brokers Association), John Dawson (Council of Wool Exporters) and Peri Drysdale representing the retail sector.

ENDS

© Scoop Media