NORTH-west Victoria’s sheep industry has a new state-based woolgrower extension network – but it all seems very familiar and very effective.
It is the same network, with a rebrand to align groups nationally.
AWI Extension VIC will continue as before to deliver practical information and training programs to increase woolgrower adoption of best practice on-farm production and management.
It will continue to deliver the same on-farm information as usual through BestWool/BestLamb, using workshops, field days, webinars, newsletters, social media and conferences.
Extension networks are guided by a producer advisory panel, or PAP, of woolgrowers and industry stakeholders from across the state, allowing growers to drive the adoption of seasonally relevant information.
Mallee PAP representative John Ferrier said the networks continued to be a vital link between the research, development and marketing body AWI and the woolgrowers it works for.
He said the networks were doing “a superb job in assisting all woolgrowers to improve their businesses, regardless of where they farm or the size of their operation, or their age or level of experience”.
“Whether it be new topics and the latest research – for example, new shearing shed designs or refurbishment ideas or different models of production, such as containment feeding or novel pastures, or perennial challenges such as feet, flies and worms – our network can provide information and workshops to assist with tackling this on-farm,” Mr Ferrier said.
“Perhaps the main reason for the branding change has been to clear up confusion.
“Many growers have told us they didn’t know AWI was involved in the extension networks. They wondered where their levy-payer funds were going.”
AWI national extension manager Emily King said the program of each network reflected the needs of each state.
She said that as well as delivering seasonal information based on feedback from each state network’s PAP, the extension networks promoted and delivered key AWI programs.
That included the AWI-developed workshops Winning With Weaners, RAMping Up Repro (co-developed with Zoetis) and Picking Performer Ewes.
“The networks are also playing a significant role in the delivery of key AWI flystrike extension program workshops, SimpliFly and ClassiFly, for woolgrowers to improve the flystrike protection of their flock through targeted management and improved natural resistance of their sheep to flystrike,” Ms King said.
“The AWI extension networks are a great resource for any woolgrower looking to improve their enterprise or for anyone simply wanting to meet and enjoy the company and experience of other woolgrowers.
“All woolgrowers are encouraged to get involved.”
For more information, head to www.wool.com/networks or call the AWI Helpline on 1800 070 099.
