ISSUE 83 JUNE 2020 - STRENGTHENING WOOL'S ECO-CREDENTIALS - Australian Wool ...
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ISSUE 83 JUNE 2020
PROFIT FROM WOOL INNOVATION
www.wool.com
09
STRENGTHENING WOOL'S
32
REBUILDING AFTER SCHOOL MERINO
66
ECO-CREDENTIALS NATURAL DISASTERS WETHER CHALLENGE
04 AWI’S RESPONSE 50 FLYSTRIKE
TO CORONAVIRUS RD&E UPDATE
EDITOR
Richard Smith
E richard.smith@wool.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER OFF-FARM ON-FARM
Lisa Griplas
E lisa.griplas@wool.com 3 Review of Performance 28 Case study: Andrew Scanlon, WA
Australian Wool Innovation Limited 3 Review of WoolPoll 29 Next generation on the horizon
A L6, 68 Harrington St, The Rocks,
Sydney NSW 2000 3 Wool industry long term plan 30 Kangaroo Island bounces back
GPO Box 4177, Sydney NSW 2001 4 CEO: AWI’s response to coronavirus 31 Drought resources from AWI
P 02 8295 3100
E info@wool.com W wool.com 6 Boosting immune system with sleep 32 Back to Business webinars
AWI Helpline 1800 070 099
7 Science backs sleeping in wool 33 Transitioning from containment
SUBSCRIPTION
Beyond the Bale is available free. 8 All go for Merineo 34 Don’t be a Basil Fawlty!
To subscribe contact AWI
9 Wool biodegrades in seawater 36 Better management with Ag360
P 02 8295 3100 E info@wool.com
10 Wool protects skin from flames 38 Coronavirus and woolgrowers
Beyond the Bale is published by Australian
Wool Innovation Ltd (AWI), a company 12 Aclima’s award-winning base-layers 39 Coronavirus and shearing
funded by Australian woolgrowers and the
Australian Government. AWI’s goal is to help 13 Norwegian outdoor brand Ulvang 40 Don Boyle’s new shearing shed
increase the demand for wool by actively 42 Brookton (WA) shearing camp
selling Australian wool and its attributes
14 Instagram influencer marketing in US
through investments in marketing, innovation 15 Ryan Robinson: Living on the edge 43 Conargo (NSW) shearing school
and R&D – from farm to fashion and interiors.
16 Bush shirts provide extra income 44 Shearer training goes online
COPYRIGHT 17 Home comfort with EMU Australia 45 Fall armyworm marches south
Material in Beyond the Bale is copyright.
Reproduction of the material is encouraged. 18 Special offer from Woolstar 46 Merino Lifetime Productivity
However prior permission must be obtained
from the Editor. 18 Online wool weaving tutorial 48 World’s oldest frozen semen
DISCLAIMER 19 Shaun the Sheep marketing results 49 AWI’s new flystrike strategy
To the extent permitted by law, Australian 50 Flystrike RD&E update
20 Odour resistant properties of wool
Wool Innovation Ltd excludes all liability
for loss or damage arising from the use of, 21 Zegna Baruffa Lane Borgosesia 52 Breeding breech strike resistance
or reliance on, the information contained in
this publication. 22 Neeman's wool shoes in India 54 New Visual Sheep Scores booklet
The Woolmark symbol is a certification mark
registered in many countries. 23 Woolmark Learning Centre 55 New lamb marking training guide
© 2020 Australian Wool Innovation Ltd. All
24 Naturally Inspiring seminars 56 Lice treatment products
rights reserved.
25 Woolmark Performance Challenge 57 Lice biosecurity: coping with strays
ADVERTISING SALES
Steve Luxford, Pulse Hub Pty Ltd 26 Belgium student’s ‘Rave New World’ 58 ParaBoss regional reminders
P 0429 699 553
E steve.luxford@pulsehub.com.au 27 Bradford Textile Society Awards 59 Taking a closer look at Chlamydia
Advertising is subject to terms and conditions
published on the ratecard, which is available 60 RAMping Up Repro goes online
from Pulse Hub.
61 Best bait rate for wild dogs
ISSN 61 Funding for 44km fence near Walcha
1447-9680 AWI INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Sheep Production,
62 Wild dogs, foxes and 1080
FRONT COVER Marketing Consultation
This photo was taken by Melise Coleman Science & Technology 64 Muzzles for working dog safety
(www.melisecoleman.com) of Jodie Green at Processing Innovation
‘Aloeburn’ at Boree Creek in NSW. The photo Traceability 65 Best practice wild dog control at Paroo
& Education Extension
captures the mood of the moment and also the 66 NSW School Merino Wether Challenge
caring bond between farmer and animal. “This
photo wasn’t set up, it’s just a poddy lamb who 69 AWI Graduate Training Program
knew exactly what time it was, who meets her feedback@wool.com
humans each day at the yards,” Melise said. 70 WoolQ Market launched
Melise has uploaded this photo on Instagram, WOOL.COM 71 WoolQ eSpeci proves popular
saying: “Farming is not a job, it’s a way of life. To subscribe to the free monthly AWI e-newsletter 72 Supply chain update
Thank a farmer, it might be just what they need for woolgrowers, and the weekly wool market review
to get through their day, and because they.. so.. e-newsletter, visit www.wool.com/subscribe 73 AWI's The Yarn podcast
so.. bloody.. deserve.. it. This love exists on Aussie
farms, and I wanted you to see it.” 74 EMI weakens amidst coronavirus
facebook.com/AustralianWoolInnovation 75 Readers’ photos
This magazine is printed on PEFC
(Programme for the Endorsement of instagram/BeyondTheBale WOOLMARK.COM
Forest Certification) paper stock.
twitter.com/woolinnovation facebook.com/TheWoolmarkCompany
youtube.com/AWIWoolProduction instagram.com/TheWoolmarkCompany
wool.com/podcast twitter.com/woolmark
View Beyond the Bale online at
BtB http://beyondthebale.wool.com youtube.com/TheWoolmarkCompany
GD3813
UPFRONT 3
REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE RECOMMENDATIONS
AWI’S PROGRESS OF IMPLEMENTATION
As part of AWI’s three-year business cycle, an independent THEME IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS
review of performance (ROP) of AWI is routinely undertaken
100%*
to assess the company’s performance. The latest ROP was CONSTITUTION
undertaken by Ernst & Young (EY) for the period 2015-2018. 24 out of 24 recommendations complete.
EY’s report, which was published in July 2018, included 82
recommendations.
98.2%*
GOVERNANCE
In September 2018, AWI launched its ROP 21 out of 23 recommendations complete.
Implementation Portal at rop.wool.com to provide
100%*
detailed and up to date information to woolgrowers MONITORING EVALUATION
about the progress made by AWI in implementing the 82 & REPORTING
recommendations. Displayed right is a summary of the 16 out of 16 recommendations complete.
overall progress, and the progress across each of the
100%*
seven themes of the recommendations. COLLABORATION
3 out of 3 recommendations complete.
Further information is available at
rop.wool.com
97.9%*
PEOPLE & CULTURE
99%
OVERALL
AWI POSITION
6 out of 7 recommendations complete.
CONSULTATION
4 out of 5 recommendations complete. 95%*
Agree/ Industry
IMPLEMENTATION agree (81)
100%*
ROP RECOMMENDATIONS
PROGRESS For Shareholder
& IMPLEMENTATION
Consideration (1)
4 out of 4 recommendations complete.
(as at 27 April 2020)
* Percentage figure is calculated on the cumulative completion rate within each theme.
Remaining recommendations at various completion stages.
To view individual recommendation progress rates, visit rop.wool.com
REVIEW OF WOOLPOLL NEXT GEN CONTRIBUTE
AWI welcomed the announcement in April TO LONG-TERM PLAN
by the Department of Agriculture, Water
and the Environment to review WoolPoll, as More than fifty wool industry leaders met
an opportunity for woolgrowers to provide (online) on 30 April to chart the Australian
their ideas to improve how WoolPoll is wool industry’s 10-year strategic plan.
conducted. WoolPoll is the three-yearly poll
A
through which wool levy payers vote on their WI’s Woolgrower Consultation Group (WCG) – which is a
preferred rate of wool levy. broad-based group that includes representatives of national,
state and regional woolgrower groups and the Department
of Agriculture, Water and the Environment – was joined at
T he Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
issued a discussion paper in April, in which it stated: “This
review will examine whether WoolPoll remains an appropriate and
the meeting by 21 representatives of the wool industry’s ‘next
generation’ from across Australia who have been identified as
future leaders by WCG members.
contemporary process that provides government with assurance
The development of a strategic long-term vision for the wool
about what wool levy payers want their levy rate to be. The review
industry was one of the recommendations from the 2018 Review
will make recommendations to the department, AWI and the wool
of Performance. AWI is facilitating the development of the 10-year
industry about how to optimise the WoolPoll mechanism.”
industry plan, while the WCG is the principal oversight body for
The Department invited all wool levy payers and interested wool the project.
industry stakeholders to contribute their perspectives by 29 May.
“AWI is proud to listen to and work with representatives across
The Department stated it will review all the responses and written
the length and breadth of the wool industry,” said AWI CEO Stuart
submissions and that it expects to hold targeted meetings (using
McCullough. The outcomes from the meeting will contribute
phone and video) in June and will use these to follow up on key
to the development of a series of five discussion papers to be
issues raised in submissions as required.
provided to WCG members for debate and feedback. Further
The Department will outline the review’s findings and any consultation with wider industry stakeholders will occur
recommendations in a report, which it expects to publish in throughout the plan’s development process, with delivery of the
September 2020. strategy expected in late 2020.
The Department is reviewing WoolPoll to deliver on a MORE INFORMATION
recommendation made in the 2018 Review of Performance. www.wool.com/2030
4 UPFRONT
AWI’S RESPONSE TO THE
IMPACT OF
CORONAVIRUS Stuart McCullough
Chief Executive Officer
Australian Wool Innovation
The coronavirus pandemic is both a terrible health crisis and a major economic shock to
the world economy. Here I provide an important update on how AWI has adapted to these
challenging times and is getting on with its business of R&D and marketing for the benefit
of Australian woolgrowers.
AWI REMAINS MARKETS TAKE see if it can recover as quickly as it did coming
out of the GFC. Unfortunately, two of our
OPEN FOR BUSINESS A BIG HIT biggest markets, the UK and Italy, have been
Throughout the global coronavirus The global coronavirus pandemic affects the badly hit by the virus and each had to impose
pandemic, AWI is continuing to work for wool industry in many ways, but the way that severe lockdowns which has badly reduced
woolgrowers to ensure the sustainability of it affects most profoundly is in the reduced consumer spending there.
our industry and the profitability for your purchasing of garments by consumers. Due to
enterprises. social distancing and lockdowns in so many MARKETING
countries, people have simply been unable to PROJECTS REVIEWED
Your interests and future remain the focus get to stores to buy garments. Furthermore,
of all AWI staff in Australia and across AWI must be smart about when, where, and
global economies have been badly shaken
the world. They all continue to work hard indeed whether it is prudent to actually
and many people do not have the spending
for you, albeit currently from home for spend woolgrower funds – and this is
power they once had. Fiscal concerns and
most them. We are an agile company and especially the case with our marketing
potential unemployment weigh heavily on
have the digital support infrastructure activities at the moment. Given the drop-
many consumers. Make no mistake, retail sales
and frameworks to ensure productivity off in consumer spending across the globe,
have been hit very hard indeed and it looks
while staff work remotely. Regular internal I asked our marketing teams at the start of
like overall consumer demand for wool will be
meetings and communication now occur March to review all our current marketing
weak for at least the next four months or so.
online, keeping everyone engaged and campaigns and collaborations, and stop any
supported. On the bright side, some governments, such as expenditure on projects that rely on face to
the UK government, have been very proactive face shopping or were no longer expected to
Although most of our offices around in trying to support business and protect jobs produce a return on investment. There is no
the world, including our Sydney office, which will help people’s on-going capacity point spending money marketing a product
currently remain closed and face to face to consume beyond basic needs. It was also if consumers cannot buy it. Those marketing
meetings are suspended, rest assured that fortunate the pandemic hit during the spring funds are better held back and spent at a later
the company remains very much open for of our all-important northern hemisphere time when it is more likely an investment
business. All staff can still be contacted via markets rather than the high turnover will yield results. Once we see a market
email, phone and our website. Our usual autumn/winter seasons for wool. recovering, we will deploy the marketing
AWI Helpline number for woolgrowers is funds that we held back as quickly as we can
also still available during business hours on The pandemic has impacted some countries and try to stimulate demand.
1800 070 099. more than others. At AWI, we are looking to
ensure that we identify markets and sectors There is a lot of uncertainty about the
Woolgrowers can stay up to date on AWI’s that will recover quickly and drive demand market outlook at the moment and we don’t
activities and market intelligence via as we come through this unprecedented want to invest woolgrowers’ funds if we have
our regular e-newsletters (subscribe at disruption. I think China in particular has got imperfect information. We have therefore
www.wool.com/subscribe), our recently the potential to recover most quickly which set up a special business intelligence unit
revamped website wool.com, The Yarn would be great news due to the size of its dedicated to collecting information to help
podcast, and our various social media economy and its importance for Australian us during this unique global situation. The
channels including Twitter and our newly wool as both a big consuming and processing unit has been reaching out to AWI staff
launched Facebook channel. AWI’s grower market. Other markets about which I across the world who have been focused
networks in each state also very much am hopeful are Germany and the Nordic during the past two months on collecting the
continue to operate – their website and countries which seem to have weathered the best intelligence they can get on markets and
contact details are available at www.wool. virus better than many. While the US has been businesses. This will enable us in due course
com/networks. badly hit by the virus, it will be interesting to to begin releasing marketing funds again
UPFRONT 5
in the most effective manner – at the right While rural areas thankfully do not seem to the year – these include Milano Unica (high end
time, in the right locations, with solvent have been directly affected by coronavirus textile and fashion) in Milan and Première Vision
business partners, in optimum retail sectors infections as much as metropolitan areas, (woven fabrics and wovenwear) in Paris. We will
– but only when there has been a thorough it is important that people remain vigilant. be ready to resume our presence at trade shows
evaluation of the merit. On pages 38, we provide information for once they open again, but in the meantime have
woolgrowers on how to help ensure that their been working on digital alternatives.
ADAPTED MARKETING farming operations, staff and contractors,
IN THE SHORT TERM family and friends are as protected as possible. LOOKING TO THE
When the full impact of the coronavirus Wool auction rooms posed a challenge in terms
FUTURE
pandemic first hit in March, we switched our of managing social distancing but they have I hope you have all been safe and well during
focus in the short term to retailers and brands remained open. During this period, we have these unprecedented times and remain so.
that have proven digital retail platforms, worked hard with industry on the WoolQ The situation changes daily and we are all
because online purchasing has not been hit as platform to offer WoolQ Market (an online continually working to adapt to the new
hard as brick and mortar stores. While so many auction for the sale of wool) as a contingency normal. 2020 will be a tough year for everyone,
people have been isolated at home, online to the open cry auctions. Successful trials of markets and woolgrowers. Despite the
shopping and social media has been key to our the WoolQ Market auction system took place coronavirus pandemic being a major shock to
promotion and messaging to sell product. with brokers and buyers in April and WoolQ key macroeconomies, I am quite confident that
began conducting regular weekly auctions the wool industry and woolgrowers are more
Our marketing teams have worked hard
at the end of that month (see page 70). It has than robust enough to get through the crisis.
to tap into what people are likely to
purchase online while at home and identify always been WoolQ’s aim to complement
all the strengths of the existing open cry Although the EMI has dropped, I am
opportunities for wool. We have tried to be in
auction system at the same time as delivering encouraged as to how well the wool market
step with the mood of consumers and have
additional services, rather than a replacement. has held up compared to other markets during
been highlighting wool’s health and wellness
these extraordinary times. There are still
benefits, its suitability for comfort in the
home and whilst exercising, its benefits for SUPPORT wool processors buying our raw wool and I
rest and sleep, and hand knitting for keeping TO THE TRADE am sure they believe, like me, that there is
decent underlying demand for the premium
busy and easing anxiety. We have also been
Much of our off-farm textile innovation R&D and natural qualities of our fibre along the
promoting wool’s natural eco-credentials.
projects across the world continue as normal supply chain right through to consumers.
under close monitoring. However, many of Furthermore, the positive relationships
ON-FARM: R&D our trade and designer partners have been AWI has built along the supply chain during
CONTINUES, badly affected by the global lockdowns and we the past decade will help ensure a positive
EXTENSION AND are doing what we can to support them. For outcome for Australian wool in the future.
SELLING TURNS DIGITAL instance, the expertise of our global technical
Most of our on-farm R&D projects continue
team is being promoted to our partners, and RECOVERING
as normal and we closely monitor their
communications have been sent to Woolmark FROM DROUGHT
licensees offering our support in supply chain
progress and budgets. However, during the management, staff education and training.
AND BUSHFIRE
past three months, many face to face industry
While there has been much focus by
events and activities for woolgrowers have Trade education is an important part of what the business on the effects of the global
had to be postponed or cancelled due to AWI does. While we have had to cancel face to coronavirus pandemic, I am still deeply
government social distancing guidelines. AWI face education workshops, we are fortunate concerned with the circumstances of the many
has responded quickly and made many of its to have previously converted many of our woolgrowers and rural communities that have
own events available online instead. Examples training resources into a digital format and been struggling from the effects of ongoing
include the Back to Business series of 12 launched our online Woolmark Learning drought conditions and then bushfires.
webinars (see page 32) that were originally Centre (see page 23). This has enabled us to
scheduled as workshops throughout bushfire easily provide access to comprehensive online A wetter start to 2020 has eased the severity of
and drought impacted regions. Another educational resources for all levels, from short-term rainfall deficiencies over much of
example is AWI’s popular RAMping Up Repro student to professional, as an alternative to our eastern Australia. However, the lack of rainfall
workshop (see page 61) that was held online usual face to face training. over an extended period was so severe that
as a webinar in early April. All these webinars recovery will be a slow process. Furthermore,
are recorded and made available to be viewed With so many students across the while many parts of the country have recently
free at any time by woolgrowers wherever world studying at home, we have sent received some reasonable falls of rain, there
they are in the country. Once social distancing communications to all our education are areas that have not been so lucky.
measures have been relaxed in Australia, AWI databases (students and teachers) highlighting
will resume its attendance at wool industry the digital learning opportunities available via Whether you are still suffering or
events nationwide. our online education platforms including the recovering from drought and/or bushfire,
Woolmark Learning Centre, Learn About Wool, I urge you take advantage of AWI
The decision by the Federal Government to
Wool Performance Challenge, Wool4School resources. Refer to our website at wool.
allow shearing to continue under strict health
and Woolmark.com websites. For younger com/droughtresources and www.wool.com/
and hygiene protocols was a great result for
children at home, we have been publicising the bushfires for further information.
the industry. AWI worked closely with other
Shaun the Sheep online games for children at
organisations to push the case. However,
Supernaturalwool.com (see page 19).
we have suspended our face to face in-shed
shearer and wool handler training during International trade shows at which we would
the past two months, but as an alternative have normally exhibited during the coming
have recorded and rolled out a series of well- few months have been postponed until later in
received online training videos (see page 44).
6 OFF
FARM
BOOSTING YOUR
IMMUNE SYSTEM
WITH SLEEP
MiniJumbuk’s wool quilts incorporate Airlight TechnologyTM which helps regulate sleeping temperature.
Leading Australian wool bedding brand and Woolmark licensee MiniJumbuk is reminding
consumers that a good night’s sleep strengthens the immune system and is therefore integral to
building a good defence against colds and the flu.
W e all know that when we have a
good night’s sleep it makes us feel
and function better during the day, but did
A study conducted by The University of
California2 found evidence that indicated
poor sleep was the number one factor in
with wool is the best way to guarantee a great
night’s sleep. By simply choosing to sleep in,
on and under wool, we believe that you will
you know sleep is integral in building your determining whether someone would get sick achieve a deeper, more restful sleep.
immune system too? Studies1 have shown after being exposed to the cold virus.
“Ultimately, this can help you to build your
that people who get poor quality sleep are
The study showed subjects who slept less immune system.”
more prone to catching colds and flu viruses.
than six hours a night were 4.2 times more
Mr Turner says the advantages of sleeping
With that in mind, an easy way for all of us likely to catch a cold compared to those who
with wool stem from the fibre’s two unique
to increase our immune system and health is got more than seven hours of sleep - see
properties: its moisture absorption abilities
graphics below.
through improving the quality of our sleep and its dynamic thermal capacities.
each night.
WOOL AND IMPROVED “Wool is able to absorb up to about 30% of
SLEEP AND THE SLEEP QUALITY its own weight in moisture, while remaining
dry to the touch. As you sleep with wool, any
IMMUNE SYSTEM MiniJumbuk Managing Director Darren
perspiration is drawn away from the skin,
Turner says that through its unique,
The science shows that while you sleep, your natural properties, wool can assist people to helping to maintain a consistent level of
immune system produces proteins called improve their sleep quality and gain a better humidity in your bed. Your skin remains dry,
cytokines, a specific type of protein that night’s sleep. improving your comfort as you sleep.
helps fight against colds, flu viruses and other
“At MiniJumbuk, we consider that sleeping “Furthermore, by constantly absorbing and
infections to keep you healthy.
releasing water vapour, wool acts as a buffer
effectively helping to minimise changes in
body temperature.”
MINIJUMBUK’S 45
YEARS WITH WOOL
MiniJumbuk was established in 1975 in
the country town of Naracoorte in South
Australia by local sheep shearer Don Wray.
Today, MiniJumbuk is still proudly based in
Naracoorte and has grown to become a global
leader in the design and manufacture of
premium wool bedding products.
The company specialises in wool quilts,
mattress toppers and pillows. Its products
are sold in the major department stores
and homewares retailers in Australia, such
as Myer, David Jones and Adairs, as well
as online.
“It’s our attention to detail and quality that
has given us the reputation we have today.
Our staff have a genuine commitment to
OFF 7
FARM
SCIENCE BACKS
providing excellent customer service and top
quality products that we are truly proud of,”
Mr Turner said.
“Each of our wool quilts incorporate Airlight
TechnologyTM that provides superior
insulating properties while allowing for the
SLEEPING IN WOOL
creation of lighter, more comfortable quilts The results of scientific studies funded by AWI during the
that perfectly regulate sleeping temperature.
past few years have shown that a better night’s sleep is
“MiniJumbuk was founded on wool, and achieved when sleeping wearing wool.
the fibre continues to be the focus of the
company. We source the best possible
Australian wool – much of it from the local
area. I believe that MiniJumbuk being
based in a small regional town in the heart
of Australia’s prime wool-growing areas reduced time
plays a big part in the brand. Customers like to fall sleep
authenticity, they like traceability.”
References:
1
Sleep Health Foundation, Sleep to Boost Your Immunity,
www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au, 13/3/20
2
University of California San Francisco, Short Sleepers Are Four
Times More Likely to Catch a Cold, www.ucsf.edu, 31/8/15 less fragmented
sleep
MORE INFORMATION
www.minijumbuk.com.au
less
wakefullness
Sleeping in wool sleepwear has been scientifically proven to improve your
sleep. PHOTO: andresr
D uring the past few years, scientific
studies funded by AWI have tested the
aged ≥65 years (12 minutes in wool, 27
minutes in cotton and 22 minutes in
40% DISCOUNT sleep of both older and younger adults and
found that wearing wool is conducive to
polyester).
• Sleeping in wool resulted in less
FOR READERS OF restful sleep, attributed to the properties of fragmented sleep compared to sleeping
wool fibres that keep the body in the 'thermal in other fabrics, especially between wool
BEYOND THE BALE comfort zone'. and polyester sleepwear.
“The great value of these research • Sleeping in wool resulted in less
MiniJumbuk is offering Beyond the investments on behalf of Australian wakefulness for poor sleepers after sleep
Bale readers a 40% discount on all its woolgrowers is that we are now building onset, compared to sleeping in cotton.
full priced products. The offer closes a very solid and contemporary body of Overall, wool performed better than cotton
on 31st August 2020. You can order scientific evidence which supports claims and polyester for the majority of the 11
online or by phone. that wool is beneficial to a good night’s sleep, sleep quality parameters, while neither
which should help build consumer demand cotton nor polyester was better than wool
for wool,” said AWI's Program Manager for any parameter.
for Fibre Advocacy and Eco Credentials, The results of a previous AWI-funded
ONLINE Angus Ireland. study, also undertaken by the University of
Sydney, but this time focusing on healthy
The results of the most recent AWI-funded
younger adults, were also published in
1. Visit www.minijumbuk.com.au study, focusing on older adults, were
Nature and Science of Sleep, in 2016.
2. Select your product published last year in the journal Nature and
Science of Sleep. The study by the University Seventeen healthy young adults underwent
3. Proceed to checkout nine nights of polysomnography testing
of Sydney compared the effect on sleep
4. Enter the discount code BTB40 and it was found that the time it took to
quality of wearing single jersey Merino wool,
5. Enter billing and shipping details cotton and polyester sleepwear, in warm fall asleep was significantly shortened
6. Complete purchase conditions (30ºC and 50% humidity) for when sleeping in superfine Merino wool,
participants aged 50-70 years old. with trends of increased total sleep
time and sleep efficiency compared to
BY PHONE In older adults with no health concerns, cotton sleepwear.
sleep disturbances are often linked to the
“While these two studies have shown
thermal environment that is vital for sleep
1. Call 1800 088 834 and wool sleepwear promotes better sleep,
maintenance. Sleeping outside the optimum
quote discount code BTB40 particularly in older adults and poor
temperature range can negatively impact
2. Arrange payment by credit sleepers, another AWI-funded study that
the sleep of older adults, as they are more
is under way might also identify benefits
card or bank transfer vulnerable to heat stress.
of sleeping in wool for menopausal women
The key findings were: who often experience hot flashes and
disturbed sleep. Future studies might also
All enquires should be directed to • Sleeping in wool reduced the time taken identify benefits for other people, such as
Minijumbuk via info@minijumbuk. to get to sleep compared with sleeping in shift workers who have disrupted circadian
com.au or phone 1800 088 834. cotton and polyester for older participants rhythm,” Angus added.
8 OFF
FARM
Recently launched compared to other products. I put this down
singlets from Merineo to wool’s inherent benefits supported by
are made from Australian medical research to say babies sleep better in
superfine Merino wool.
wool, combined with the swaddling design of
the sleeping bag. Midwives all say newborns
settle better if swaddled.”
Since the launch of the first Merineo
swaddle, the brand’s product range has
evolved to now include a ‘wingless Merineo’
basic sleeping bag for newborns, a sleeping
bag (arms in or out) for older babies, and a
sleeping bag for toddlers.
“The swaddle and sleeping bags for babies
(which are suitable for infants under six
months) have been formally acknowledged
by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute
as ‘hip-healthy’,” Claire said.
“I have also embarked on a new strategy
to sell to obstetricians who in turn gift to
their babies.”
All the products are designed and
ALL GO FOR
manufactured in Australia, are machine
washable and are available in a range of
colours and trims.
MERINEO
In July 2018, the Merineo newborn swaddling
bag was displayed at Italy’s main textile
trade fair, Milano Unica.
“Merineo was selected for display at Milano
Unica because of its innovative use of
mesh style fabric, a highly breathable knit,
often used for activewear as a next-to-skin
A childhood on the family wool-growing property was garment,” Claire said. “Closer to home, in
inspiration for Claire Hausler to create the initial Merineo Bendigo last year, I was honoured that
swaddle for newborns, made from Australian superfine Merino Merineo was featured in the Australian
Sheep and Wool Show fashion parade,
wool. Three years later, the Merineo brand has grown to now
thanks to AWI.”
produce a range of baby sleeping bags and has also recently
launched a new range of singlets. The latest development from Merineo
was the launch in February of a range of
singlets for children. Available in sizes 000
M erineo founder Claire Hausler grew up premium Merino wool and hopefully to 7 and machine washable, they are also
on her parents’ wool-growing property become repeat users of the fibre, ultimately made in Australia from 100% superfine
‘Murrumbereck’ in Minhamite, western supporting the Australian wool industry.” Merino wool, in a ‘cool mesh’ fabric and are
Victoria, and has therefore always known luxuriously soft.
and been passionate about the natural An early accomplishment for Claire’s
business was when she teamed up with “When we designed these singlets we wanted
benefits of superfine Merino wool.
the Knox Private Hospital in Melbourne something long-wearing because we know
In 2016 when she couldn’t find suitable to supply Merineo newborn sleep swaddle how quickly children grow out of their
Merino sleepwear for her and her husband’s bags (with the hospital’s branding) to its clothing, particularly newborns. Our singlets
newborn son, Jack, she saw a gap in the newborn babies. are slightly longer than other singlets on
Australian market for wool swaddles the mainstream market and ours are made
(sleeping bags for newborns). After further “I contacted the hospital and presented with a super stretchy fabric, designed to fit
research and development, Claire devised the idea; they liked it because of the health comfortably around the chest and waist
Merineo – a world-first design embracing benefits of wool. Part of the work with the to suit the growing baby, achieving longer
the traditional swaddling method and the hospital involved running a pilot program wear,” Claire said.
modern sleeping bag. where we tested the usability of the Merineo
on newborn babies,” Claire said. More new childrenswear will be launched
Knowing babies sleep better in superfine later this year.
Merino wool (due to its softness, “It was enormously rewarding when the
breathability, thermal qualities and majority of parents responding to the survey MORE INFORMATION
elasticity), Claire sourced 17.5 micron Merino said their baby settled better in a Merineo www.merineo.com
wool from a mill to which the family farm
supplies. And so, Merineo – a play on the The Merineo swaddling bag is
made from Australian superfine
words Merino and Neonate – was born.
Merino wool and designed to
help parents settle their baby
“My parents, Ken and Marjorie Hausler and quickly and easily in a natural,
three brothers Alan, Stephen and Glenn are breathable fabric.
all woolgrowers,” said Claire. “By creating the PHOTO: Bianca Dickinson of
Merineo brand, I want parents to experience the_dickinson_klanOFF 9
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WOOL READILY
biodegrade to a high degree, as does the
cellulose-based viscose rayon. Synthetic fibres
show little or no biodegradation,” Angus said.
BIODEGRADES
The treatment that makes wool machine-
washable (the application of a thin polyamide
film to the fibre surfaces), actually caused
the wool to biodegrade more rapidly than
IN MARINE ENVIRONMENTS
untreated wool. The scientists believe this
is probably because the treatment process
removes some of the fibre’s cuticle (its armour
Research funded by AWI has shown that machine-washable plating), rendering it more susceptible to
wool fibres as well as untreated wool fibres readily biodegrade microbial degradation. It is important to note
that the polyamide resin used in the machine-
in the marine environment, in contrast to synthetic fibres that wash treatment for wool is very different
do not. The research found no evidence to support the idea that from common commercial polyamides.
the polyamide resin used as part of the machine-washable wool
“Significantly, the scientists did not detect
treatment forms microplastic pollution. any formation of microplastic polyamide
fragments resulting from the biodegradation
of machine-washable wool,” Angus said.
pollution,” said AWI's Program Manager
for Fibre Advocacy and Eco Credentials, Based on observations from soil
Angus Ireland. biodegradation, the scientists expect that over
a relatively short time wool will biodegrade
“It had been suggested that the commonly
completely in the marine environment. The
used polyamide resin (Hercosett) on machine-
rate of biodegradation for untreated wool
washable wool, which prevents the wool
is likely to increase to be similar to that of
felting, might break into fragments as the
machine-washable wool once its cuticle is
wool fibre degrades. It was important that
broken down.
this suggestion be examined and refuted
scientifically.”
ANOTHER STRING IN
RESEARCH PROCESS WOOL’S BOW
Scientists from AgResearch undertook The results of the new study complement
the study using a method based on an previous AWI-funded research into
established standard for measuring marine microplastic pollution from textiles, which
biodegradation. Residues were examined recommends an increased use of natural non-
using scanning electron microscopy synthetic materials, such as wool, in global
(SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray textile markets.
spectroscopy (EDX).
“This is yet another study that helps
The samples used in the study were sourced demonstrate the eco-credentials of natural
from comparable lightweight base-layer fibres in a world where there is increasing
fabrics, each made from the six fibre types concern about the effect on the environment
Residues from machine-washable wool (top) and being studied: of synthetic textiles,” Angus said.
polyester (bottom). The degradation of wool is
clear, as is the lack of degradation of the synthetic • two types of Merino wool: machine It is part of a larger body of work by AWI
fibres. towards better accounting for the use phase
washable wool and untreated wool
in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of apparel.
• viscose rayon, which is made of cellulose
I t is estimated that 0.6-1.7 million tons of
microfibres are released into the oceans
every year. An important source of this
derived from plant sources such as
wood pulp
“Natural fibres such as wool readily
biodegrade and consequently don't amass in
• three synthetic fibres: polyester, nylon (a the environment. This important difference
pollution is fibre shedding during the
polyamide) and polypropylene. between natural and synthetic fibres needs
laundering of apparel.
The fabrics had been deconstructed to be accounted for in Life Cycle Assessment
This seemingly ubiquitous contamination of (shredded) to remove any possible for the LCA to be credible and scientifically
the environment with fibres and fragments interference from the way the fabrics were defensible,” Angus added.
from textiles, especially from synthetic fibres, structured. Furthermore, the fabrics had been
Table 1: Relative biodegradation of fibre types
is of growing concern amongst brands and washed repeatedly before testing, to simulate
consumers. a partial garment lifetime. Relative
Fibre type
biodegradation
Previous studies have already shown that The average biodegradation of three samples
wool biodegrades in the natural marine for each of the six fibre types was measured Control (paper pulp) 100
environment, which is good news for the wool relative to a ‘positive control’ (ie a sample Untreated wool 20.3
industry and the planet. However, the aim of known to biodegrade readily). In this study,
Machine-washable
this new study, undertaken by AgResearch the positive control was kraft paper pulp. 67.3
wool
and funded by AWI, was to measure the
rate of biodegradation (in the marine RESEARCH RESULTS Viscose rayon 64.5
environment) of wool relative to competing Table 1 (right) provides the amount of
Polyester 6.3
fibres, and study the residues produced. biodegradation of the six fibre types during
the 90-day trial period, expressed relative to Nylon 0.8
“One of the main objectives was also to the ‘positive control’.
disprove the idea that machine-washable Polypropylene 1.8
wool might create a form of microplastic “The study shows that both types of wool10 OFF
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Considerably more severe skin injuries to military personnel in the Middle East (where battle techniques such as improvised explosive devices were used)
occurred when synthetic base-layers were worn, compared to wool base-layers, as synthetic base-layers can melt onto the skin at high temperatures.
PHOTO: Frank Rossoto Stocktrek
WOOL
Some personnel choose cotton because it
is the cheaper alternative and perceived as
being a cooler option. However, there is the
risk of large amounts of sweat/moisture
PROTECTS SKIN
building up in a cotton garment when worn
in a layered system, which at high heat
intensities increases radiant heat transfer
and can lead to steam burns and increased
FROM FLAMES
levels of stress.
There’s also a trend for personnel to choose
synthetic ‘moisture management’ (wicking)
sportswear garments. The key concern with
STUDY PROVES SUITABILITY FOR synthetic fibres (even flame-retardant ones)
is that, when they are exposed to flame or
MILITARY AND FIRE FIGHTERS extreme heat, they melt and drip which can
result in molten polymer coming into contact
with the wearer’s skin and burning it.
AWI has funded a new scientific study into the fire resistance “In contrast, wool fibres are known to have
of various fabrics used as base-layer garments for military a natural resistance to burning, even when
and first responder personnel such as firefighters. The exposed to an ignition source for long
study concluded that the wool and wool rich fabrics in the periods. This is due to wool having a high
ignition temperature, high limiting oxygen
study performed the best, while the 100% synthetic fabrics index and its self-extinguishing behaviour,”
(polypropylene and polyester fabrics) performed the worst Angus said.
due to their propensity to melt and damage the skin.
“Wool fibres are known to have a
natural resistance to burning, even
F rom the Battle of Waterloo to the Korean The increased demand has in part been
when exposed to an ignition source for
War, wool’s inherent ability to protect the driven by the incidence of injuries to military long periods.”
wearer from hostile environments, including personnel in the Middle East, where battle Angus Ireland, AWI
extreme cold and fire, made it the military’s techniques such as improvised explosive
fibre of choice for outer layer garments. devices (IEDs) were used. Considerably more
Nowadays, the military and first-responders severe skin injuries occurred when synthetic THE NEW STUDY
are looking to base-layer wool garments due base-layers were worn, as they can melt onto AWI has funded a new scientific study,
to the health and safety benefits offered by the skin at high temperatures. undertaken by AgResearch, to test the fire
this ‘last line of defence’. resistance of nine fabrics (see Table 1) used
A review in 2017 by AgResearch of base-layer as base-layer garments for military and first
“This growing market demand for wool undergarments worn by the military, fire responder personnel.
base-layer garments relates to the already service and police first responders revealed
well-researched benefits of superfine Merino that, worryingly, there are often no required To enable a realistic assessment of the
wool, including its softness next to the skin, specifications or test method standards protection offered by the base-layer
moisture management, breathability – and relating to these important protective garments, a new ‘skin simulant’ test
fire resistance,” said AWI's Program Manager garments. This results in cotton or synthetic method was designed using fresh pig skin.
for Fibre Advocacy and Eco Credentials, base-layers often being chosen by some The test method involved two techniques
Angus Ireland. military and emergency service personnel. to simulate the skin’s exposure to, firstly, aOFF 11
FARM
naked flame ignition source and, secondly, Figure 1: Naked flame impacts on exposed skin
an accelerant fuelled threat (such as an The Merino wool blend covered skin (B) is very similar to the undamaged control (A),
IED or petrol bomb). whilst the military polyester (C) and polypropylene (D) covered skin clearly both have
Once cooled, the most visibly damaged damage as evidenced by the splitting of the upper layer (epidermis), loss of voids and
area of skin for each test was sampled discoloration of tissue below.
using an 8mm biopsy punch and examined
by AgResearch using a microscope.
The results showed that the worst
performing fabric was the polypropylene
fabric closely followed by the three UK
uniform polyester fabrics.
The fabric that performed best overall
was the Zirpro®-treated wool (100%) fabric
which showed no apparent differences
compared to the undamaged control
samples (see A and B in Figure 2), in both
the naked flame and accelerant tests.
The second-best performing fabric was the
double knit of the Merino/fire resistant
treated viscose blend (B in Figure 1). The
rib knit of the Merino/fire resistant treated
viscose, the Modacrylic/rayon/nylon
and Nomex® fabrics were the joint third
ranking fabrics.
Angus says the results show that there is Figure 2: Accelerant fuelled impacts on exposed skin
significant potential for wool base-layers The 100% Zirpro®-treated Merino covered skin (B) is very similar to the undamaged
to be used for protection as well as comfort control (A), whilst the military polyester (C) and polypropylene (D) covered skin clearly
by the military and emergency responders.
both have severe damage.
“This new test method demonstrated that
while synthetic fabrics might be the most
cost effective with regard to procurement,
they offer very little protection to the
wearer under the applied test conditions,”
Angus said.
“It also highlights that an expensive fibre
such as Nomex® is not the only option for
protection, as the wool/viscose blend fabric
of comparable density can offer the same
or better level of protection.”
The results of this study, along with a
detailed video, are being publicised by
AWI in trade publications, at trade shows
and distributed to partner brands (such as
Aclima – see page overleaf) for use in their
own marketing.
TABLE 1: The nine fabrics used in the AgResearch study
FABRIC STRUCTURE Measured mass
MARKET COMPOSITION
(g/m2)
Outdoor 100% polypropylene Rib 175
British Forces 100% polyester Fleece 180
British Forces 100% polyester Fancy knit 160
UK Police 100% polyester Fancy knit 146
US Military Modacrylic/rayon/nylon Single jersey 184
US Military Nomex®/spandex (97/3) Fancy knit 223
Protective/outdoor Merino wool/fire resistant viscose (50/50) Double knit 230
Protective/outdoor Merino wool/Fire resistant viscose (50/50) Rib 220
Protective mid-layer 100% Zirpro® treated Merino wool Single jersey 44012 OFF
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ACLIMA’S
around for a while but it has never been
executed as well as in the apparel winner of
this year.”
AWARD
BASE-LAYERS FOR
PROFESSIONAL USERS
A different market altogether is the
WINNING
professional user market in which there are
opportunities to increase wool in work wear
and specialist clothing.
BASE-LAYERS
Aclima has been targeting this sector in
recent years and sees a great potential in it
for wool. Most of the wool innovations that
have been developed for the outdoor market
during the past 10 years are also readily
applicable to the Police, Defence Force and
The Woolmark Company is helping award winning outdoor Rescue services.
brand Aclima to promote its Merino wool apparel, focusing
The main product line in achieving this
primarily on two categories: its lightweight summer tops and its goal for Aclima is its WoolNet range that
base-layers for professional users. delivers warmth without weight. The mesh
construction of the base-layers provides
excellent breathability and is very light
“The cooperation with The Woolmark and comfortable to wear. The Norwegian
Company has always been good,” said military has used Aclima WoolNet garments
Aclima CEO Hans Petter Jacobsen. “We have for decades.
experienced benefits in our marketing and
packaging using the Woolmark symbol. One of Aclima’s WoolNet garments is the
The input from The Woolmark Company’s award-winning WoolNet Overall (for men
laboratory and research personnel is also and women) that was the grand champion
valuable. When working with professional winner for Autumn/Winter 2020/21 at the
buyers from police and military, these Scandinavian Outdoor Award. “The best
objective results and data are most valued.” overall I have worn so far,” raved one jury
member. “The stretchy, soft WoolNet fabric
LIGHTWEIGHT SUMMER used throughout the one-piece base-layer
garment does not get soaked when sweating
BASE-LAYERS during high activity, dries quickly, and
As with most wool focused brands, the insulates well.”
challenge for Aclima is to maintain demand
for wool products in the warmer seasons, The Woolmark Company has been providing
outside the traditional peak wool selling marketing support to Aclima in this
seasons of autumn and winter. professional user category. Of particular
interest, The Woolmark Company provided
The Woolmark Company has been assisting Aclima with video footage regarding
Aclima promote its LightWool collection, the flame-resistant properties of wool
which has been specially engineered to work compared to fabrics made from other fibres
Aclima’s WoolNet garments are designed for high
well in the warmer seasons. (see previous page). This footage has been
intensity activities when moisture transport, weight,
ventilation and functionality are the most important. used by Aclima to promote its Merino
LightWool garments are made from
wool base-layers at security and safety
superfine 17.5 micron Merino wool yarn
A clima is a Norwegian knitwear
manufacturer and Woolmark licensee
that specialises in sports base-layers and
and weigh only 140gsm, meaning these
lightweight and soft garments are ideal
trade shows such as Milipol in Paris in
November last year.
for activities like running, cycling or golf MORE INFORMATION
mid-layers, with Merino wool in most of
during the summer months or as soft, www.aclima.com
its products. Founded in 1939, the company
warm everyday clothes. The garments are
is very well established in technical and
machine washable.
functional apparel.
One of Aclima’s LightWool garments is the
The Woolmark Company has been
award-winning LightWool Sports T-shirt
working with Aclima to increase consumer
(for men and women) that won the Apparel
demand for its Merino wool products.
category for Spring/Summer 2020 at the
This is primarily being achieved through
Scandinavian Outdoor Award. The Awards
promotion of Aclima’s LightWool range for
have been held since 2005 to support product
Spring/Summer and its WoolNet range for
innovations and are highly respected in both
professional users.
the manufacturing and retail industries.
A secondary goal of the collaboration has
The Aclima Sports T-shirt is a 100% Merino
been to build consumer, retailer and trade
wool garment that has Merino wool mesh
understanding of wool’s properties and
strategically placed under the arms and The Aclima team after their 17.5 micron
benefits, which will result is a longer term
partly on the back for optimal ventilation LightWool Sports T-shirt (also pictured at top of
and wider increase in demand through page), which combines Merino wool fabric with
and breathability. The Scandinavian Outdoor
the distribution of wool products by more Merino mesh under the arms and partly on the
Award jury stated: “Combining knitted
retailers and contract business. back, won the Spring/Summer 2020 Scandinavian
Merino fabric and Merino mesh has been Outdoor Award in the Apparel category.OFF 13
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WOOL WITH BANG:
ULVANG
Norwegian-based sports and outdoor brand Ulvang, whose
business is wholly based on wool, is expanding into new
geographical markets and sports sectors, with support from
Ulvang founder and Olympic gold medallist Vegard
The Woolmark Company. Ulvang: “From an environmental perspective,
wool comes out very well.”
U lvang takes its name from its high-
profile founder, Vegard Ulvang, one of
the most successful cross-country skiers of
much so that its slogan is ‘We are wool!’.
Vegard is still part of the team at Ulvang
“I believe it will be very important in the
future for brands and consumers to know
about the environment in which the sheep
all time – he won three Olympic gold medals and is involved in product development, are raised, that the wool is produced to a
in 1992 as well as World Championship gold testing and sales, as well as being its proper standard. I believe the customer will
medals in 1991 and 1993. key ambassador. be attracted to those that have got their
values in order and are in control of their
But Vegard is also a big adventurer. He has “The brand’s aim has always been to supply chain,” Vegard added.
climbed in the Himalayas and the Caucasus facilitate great experiences for our
Mountains, reached the South Pole, crossed customers in nature – and I am very proud AWI’s marketing arm The Woolmark
Greenland and the Northwest Passage to have contributed to the movement Company has been supporting Ulvang’s
on skis, and spent countless hours in the away from synthetic base-layers to wool marketing initiatives to help increase
mountain ranges of Norway. He has also the volume of Australian Merino wool
products,” Vegard said.
starred on travel and adventure TV shows. garments sold.
Ulvang’s base-layer products and some
As an athlete and adventurer, Vegard Ulvang aims to increase its focus on high
mid-layer products and accessories are
considers wool as the only fibre that is good intensity sports such as cross-country
made from Merino wool, with the brand’s
enough in competitions and for expedition. skiing, and expand into warmer season
marketing very much focused on the fibre’s
sports such as running, highlighting the
In 1995, Vegard developed the first Ulvang inherent natural properties and its next-to
trans-seasonal properties and benefits
product: a wool sock. Fast forward 25 years skin benefits. of wool. All its products are Woolmark-
and the brand now produces a wide range of
certified.
wool base-layers, mid-layers and accessories As well as the natural benefits of
(socks, hats etc) and is very well established wool, environmental protection, social Ulvang already has a large presence in
in the ski and outdoor sectors. Wool is responsibility and animal welfare are also North European countries and aims to
totally engrained in the Ulvang business, so pillars in the brand’s philosophy. expand further into other European
markets and also take its first steps
into China.
Ulvang’s ‘Rav 100%’ base-layer As part of its marketing, Ulvang has been
series uses 100% Merino wool and is highlighting the traceability of its apparel
one of its customers’ favourites.
back to the origin of the fibre. This has
included a video and feature on its website
of one of the Australian properties,
‘Nanimia’ in Victoria (see picture below),
that supplies Merino wool to the brand.
MORE INFORMATION
www.ulvang.com
One of the properties from which Ulvang sources
its Merino wool is ‘Nanimia’ at Snake Valley in
central Western Victoria, owned by Alan Pitcher
and his son Russell. The Pitcher family typically
runs about 5,000 sheep of 18-19 micron on their
800-hectare property.14 OFF
FARM
INSTAGRAM
INFLUENCER MARKETING
The Woolmark Company is joining with key ‘Instagram influencers’ in the United States to
promote commercially available wool products to their large fan bases.
A s an image-driven social media platform,
307k
Instagram offers a modern and novel
opportunity for AWI’s marketing arm The
Woolmark Company to influence consumers’
purchase intent. INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS
@missholldoll
As well as having its own Instagram channel,
The Woolmark Company partners with other
If you’ve been following me for a
HOLLY JOHNSON
key Instagram channels, selected due to their
while, then you know I’m a big fan
established credibility and large audiences.
of merino wool. It’s breathable,
The images and posts that these ‘Instagram moisture-wicking, odor resistant,
influencers’ post onto their channels can be very environmentally-friendly, etc. The
impactful upon their fans, and through this list goes on with this 100% natural,
partnership are being used to increase consumer renewable and biodegradable fiber…
awareness and purchasing of wool products. and I’m excited to tell you guys all
about it! Over the course of the next
The Woolmark Company joined in March few months, I’ll be partnering with
with three high profile opinion leaders in the @TheWoolmarkCompany and sharing
United States, who each have large Instagram the benefits of Australian wool,
followings, to share their experiences with introducing you to some great brands
wool and showcase wool products from Holly Johnson is a Washington state native and using Aussie Merino wool (like
partner brands. Here are some of the images nature lover who enjoys hiking and backpacking. @nagnata_) and showing you how I
She will promote wool product from partner
and experiences they have shared with incorporate it into my lifestyle!
brands such as Nagnata, Tracksmith, Black
their followers. Diamond and Lululemon.
125k 383k
LAUREN SINGER
INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS
RYAN ROBINSON
@handsomerobinson @trashisfortossers
Lauren Singer is the CEO
and Founder of Package
Free Shop, and will
advocate for natural fibres
Ryan Robinson is a through her completely
professional highliner, plastic free lifestyle. She
adventure athlete, will promote wool product
photographer, and three- from partner brands such
time American Ninja Warrior as Phillip Lim, Wardrobe
finalist. He will promote wool NYC and Everlane.
product from partner brand
Black Diamond. I don’t believe that you should ever have to sacrifice
Well, the seasons just got a whole lot comfier... I’m excited to personal style and creativity to be sustainable, and
announce that I am now part of the because of secondhand shopping and innovative new
@TheWoolmarkCompany ambassador team! It’s a proud brands that are made from fully natural fibers, I’ve
opportunity to work with a brand built on values surrounding found that I haven’t had to … I’m excited to partner with
connection, unity, and collaboration to bring Australia’s best the non profit, @thewoolmarkcompany, to help raise
wool to the high performance space. What’s more is they’ve awareness of natural fibers like wool so you don’t need to
now joined forces with @BlackDiamond to bring a whole buy synthetic fabrics. For example, these @31philliplim
new level of performance, comfort, and sustainability to an pants were made in partnership with Woolmark using
already amazing product line by using Australian Merino Australian merino wool - a 100% natural and renewable
Wool, which is 100% natural, renewable and biodegradable fiber. The look is aesthetically aligned with my style and
(Mother Earth says thank you!) I’ll be sharing more on this in the materials are aligned with my values … Over the next
my stories today so make sure to follow along. Proud to be few months I’ll be featuring a range of brands that use
part of the team! merino wool.You can also read
