The Yarn | Summer listening for growers
January often provides a rare pause in the calendar — a chance to step back, take stock and consider how both you and your business are tracking as the year gets underway. For many woolgrowers, this informal “health check” is less about setting big resolutions and more about reflecting on what is working, where support or advice might help, and how seasonal challenges can be managed more effectively.
For those looking to tune into practical industry conversations over summer, several past episodes of the The Yarn remain particularly relevant. Designed to be listened to on the go — whether in the yards, on the road, or during a quieter moment — the podcast offers accessible insights that complement on-farm decision-making and longer-term planning.
Episode 278 – George Millington, new AWI Chairman
This episode introduces George Millington and explores his background, experience and pathway into the role of AWI Chairman. The conversation provides growers with insight into leadership, governance and levy investment, while also outlining key priorities for Australian wool and the broader direction of the organisation as the industry looks ahead to the year underway.
Episode 279 – Know your enemy: protecting your flock against flystrike
A timely and highly practical discussion focused on understanding flystrike risk, prevention strategies and decision-making during high-pressure periods. Drawing on research and on-farm experience, the episode explores how growers can better anticipate risk, respond to seasonal conditions and manage flystrike more effectively over the warmer months.
Episode 277 – Future leaders trip to China
This episode reflects on the Future Leaders tour to China, offering insight into global market engagement and the value of building international understanding. The conversation highlights why exposure to key markets matters, and how stronger supply-chain knowledge supports long-term confidence in Australian wool.
Episode 274 – Planfarm: sheep still have an important role to play in a cropping enterprise
A practical discussion on the role of sheep within mixed farming systems, examining how livestock can contribute to risk management, enterprise balance and whole-farm profitability. The episode is particularly relevant for growers reviewing system resilience and business structure.
This article appeared in the AWI Woolgrower Newsletter January 2026. Reproduction of the article is encouraged and should be attributed as follows: This article was first published in the AWI Woolgrower Newsletter.
