AWI Extension Networks Update
AWI’s investment in its six, state-based woolgrower extension networks have been renamed. However, the Networks will continue as before to deliver practical information and training programs to increase woolgrowers’ adoption of best practice on-farm production and management.
The six, state-based AWI Extension Networks will continue to deliver the same valuable and timely on-farm information as usual through workshops, field days, webinars, newsletters, social media and conferences to their growing, combined membership of over 17,000 members.
All AWI Extension Networks are guided by a Producer Advisory Panel (PAP) of woolgrowers and industry stakeholders from across the state. Meeting at least twice a year, the PAPs allow woolgrowers to drive the adoption of seasonally relevant, valuable and timely information.
The newly-named AWI Extension Networks:
- AWI Extension NSW (formerly AWI Sheep Connect NSW)
- AWI Extension QLD (continuing to invest through Leading Sheep with Queensland Government)
- AWI Extension SA (formerly AWI Sheep Connect SA)
- AWI Extension TAS (formerly AWI Sheep Connect Tasmania)
- AWI Extension VIC (continuing to invest through BESTWOOL/BESTLAMB with Agriculture Victoria)
- AWI Extension WA (formerly The Sheep’s Back – name changed in September 2023)
AWI Chief Executive Officer, John Roberts, says the AWI Extension Networks continue to be a vital link between the research, development and marketing body AWI and the woolgrowers it works for.
“The AWI Extension Networks are 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 like containment feeding or novel pastures, or perennial challenges such as feet, flies and worms, the AWI Extension Network in your state can provide information and workshops to assist with tackling this on-farm.
“The main reason for the change is to clear up confusion. Many growers have told us they didn’t know AWI were involved in the Extension Networks. They wondered where their levy payer funds were going.”
AWI National Extension Manager, Emily King, explains the networks work reflects the needs of each state.
“As well as delivering seasonal information based on feedback from each state Extension Network’s Producer Advisory Panel, the AWI Extension Networks promote and deliver key AWI extension programs, including 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 the 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.
“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,” Emily added.
All the AWI Extension Networks will continue to be delivered by the same organisations as they have been prior to today’s announcement.
For more information, to sign up for the free newsletter and stay in the loop with upcoming opportunities in your region and to find contact details for the AWI Extension Network and Producer Advisory Panel in your state, head to www.wool.com/networks, call the AWI Extension Network Project Manager in your state or phone the AWI Helpline on 1800 070 099.
Contact
Kevin Wilde
kevin.wilde@wool.com
0436 031 277
