Expression of Interest - Coordination of 2026 NSW School Merino Wether Competition

PURPOSE

Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI) is issuing this Expression of Interest (EOI) for the procurement of services for the coordination of the 2026 NSW School Wether Merino Competition.

This EOI contains information about AWI, the procurement process and selection criteria. Subject to the terms of this EOI, AWI proposes to request a full Project Proposal from the preferred applicant.

BACKGROUND

AWI is a not-for-profit company that invests in research, development, extension and marketing along the global supply chain for Australian wool to enhance the profitability, international competitiveness and sustainability of the Australian wool industry.

As part of its remit to build capacity among the next generation of wool industry participants, AWI partners with the Dubbo National Ram Selling Association (DNRSA) to deliver the NSW School Merino Wether Competition. The program engages more than 400 students and 65 schools, who manage teams of Merino wethers over several months.

It provides hands on experience in sheep husbandry, nutrition, and wool production, culminating in a 2-day competition that assesses growth, wool quality and flock management. Students and teachers also participate in workshops, activities, and expert presentations that highlight the diverse career pathways available in the wool industry.

THE TASK

AWI is seeking an experienced and practical project coordinator to efficiently and effectively assist AWI & DNRSA in the delivery of tasks and activities associated the project.

The coordinator will:

• Liaise with participating schools, committee members and industry partners & carry out administrative tasks as required
• Manage logistics for sheep allocation, movement and health protocols.
• Assist in organising and coordination of the final competition event, including venue booking, set-up and equipment hire. This will also include co-ordinating workshop and competition activities such as sheep & wool judging, wool harvesting, career workshops and awards with AWI staff, DNRSA & other event partners
• Ensure compliance with WHS and animal welfare standards, including preparing a full risk assessment prior to the 2-day event.
• Assist with promotion through AWI communication channels and stakeholder networks.
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on project deliverables
• Undertake travel when required within New South Wales (within reason)

DELIVERABLES

The role involves adhering to a detailed project plan that outlines timelines, responsibilities, and communication strategies; delivering the NSW School Merino Wether Competition, including all logistics and event management; engaging a broad network of schools and industry stakeholders; and providing AWI with reports on participation, outcomes, and recommendations for improvement

EOI RESPONSE GUIDELINES

In your response to this EOI please provide details of your capacity and experience to coordinate this project and associated tasks.

Please include details of your experience in the delivery of similar services and key personnel.

Successful applicants will be invited to submit a full Project Proposal which will provide a detailed operational plan and budget.

AWI expects this project to commence by January 2026 and conclude in September 2026.

ENQUIRIES

Any enquiries or requests for clarification of any matters arising from this EOI should be sought from Stephen Feighan or Tom Hersee no later than 5:00 pm AEDT on Friday 12th December 2025

Stephen Feighan
AWI General Manager, Grower Services & Market Intelligence
Stephen.feighan@wool.com
0418 218 913

Tom Hersee
AWI Woolgrower Services Manager
Tom.hersee@wool.com
0448 404 407

DEADLINE

All EOI applications must be submitted by 5:00 pm AEDT on Friday 19th December 2025 to:

Tom Hersee
AWI Woolgrower Services Manager
Tom.hersee@wool.com
0448 404 407