‘World of wool’ photo gallery
Have you got any interesting photos that you’d like to share with other readers of Beyond the Bale? If so, please email the image and a brief description to AWI Communications Officer, Kate Rice, at kate.rice@wool.com
A lasting legacy
This special image capturing three generations working side by side was shared by Georgia Honan. In the shed of their family property North Benalla (Hallett, SA), Georgia stands alongside her father Craig (left) and Grandpa John (right). John has sadly since passed away, and photos like this serve as precious reminders of many happy memories on the farm together. Georgia and her dad still work together today, carrying on the legacy.
Pete the sheep
Alison Rosewarne shared this moment between friends, captured by Erin Rutledge as Pete the sheep said hello to Stephen Rutledge during a day in the paddock at Conargo (Woodstock, NSW). It was noted that Pete, once a shy little poddy lamb, is now a much-loved character and favourite with the B&B guests that visit Conargo Cottage.
Ready-made bed in the shed
A visit to the shearing shed can really take it out of you! Little Alyssa stopped by ‘Glenview’ (Wongan Hills, WA) shearing shed to visit her grandparents. Despite 3000 noisy Merinos in the yards and shed, Alyssa found the perfect place to get some shut eye with her grandmother Mary Siegert capturing the moment.
50 years in the business
An achievement 50 years in the making, Coolamon (NSW) woolgrower and classer, Patrick O'Brien recently received recognition from AWEX for his commitment to wool classing. A proud moment for the O'Brien family, Patrick's son shared this photo of Patrick after receiving his 50 Year Classing Stencil in the mail.
Like mother, like daughter
At just four years old, young woolgrower Peggy has spent many hours in the yards with her Grandparents Greg and Kaye Potter and mother Sam. During pre-lambing treatments at Fairview Polwarths (Barongarook, VIC) Peggy was found inspecting the ewe’s wool, just as she’s seen her mother and grandpa do many times before.
For the head and the heart
At Kia Ora Merino (Winslow, VIC), wool is at the heart of it all – and the head! Susan Finnigan snapped this image as she was greeted by an inquisitive mob of their Merino ewes. The fine wool of these ewes is also used by Susan to create felted hats. All 100% wool, Susan crafts the hats by hand on special order. Pictured are two of Susan’s hats dyed botanically with eucalyptus leaves.
This article appeared in Issue 106 of AWI’s Beyond the Bale magazine that was published in September 2026. Reproduction of the article is encouraged and should be attributed as follows: This article was first published in Issue 106 of AWI’s Beyond the Bale magazine.
