New gear to attract and retain learner shearers
In an initiative launched in 2021 to help attract and retain new shearers in the Australian wool industry, AWI is presenting learner shearers with a handpiece and other shearing gear, subject to the shearer passing certain criteria.
The AWI project enables new and committed entrants in the shearing industry to be equipped with effective tools for the trade, at no cost to the shearer.
The gear in the ‘AWI Learner Shearer Toolbox’ comprises a Heiniger handpiece with cutter and comb, hollow grinding check stone and pendulum, oil can and comb brush, needle and cotton, as well as a singlet and gear bag to store it all.
“The AWI toolbox provides an extra incentive for budding shearers to build up their skills and stay in the industry,” said AWI National Manager, Wool Harvesting Training & Careers Development, Craig French.
“The gear is not a simple handout; the shearer must first pass certain strict criteria, consistent across all states. But, if successful, they will own the tools at the end of their training in 6-12 months’ time.”
Seth Green and Robert Schramell holding their AWI Learner Shearer Toolboxes, after in-shed coaching with trainer Paul Oster and woolgrower Steve Eckert at Langhorne Creek, South Australia.
In a similar initiative, the South Australian Wool Training Advisory Group (WoolTAG) helps support and retain new participants in the wool harvesting industry through the provision of WoolTAG Tool Box vouchers to new trainees. The vouchers enable them to purchase equipment to use as they begin their career in the industry and build their speed and earning potential. The vouchers are valued up to $500 for shearers and $200 for wool handlers.
Benjamin Rolph and Ashley Raymond holding their WoolTag vouchers, with trainer Rick Chilcott at an improver school at ‘Teetulpa’ at Yunta, South Australia. The vouchers are provided courtesy of AWI, Heiniger, Livestock SA, Willoway Pastoral, and Bruce Nutt and family.
This article appeared in the June 2024 edition of AWI’s Beyond the Bale magazine. Reproduction of the article is encouraged.
