Woolgrowers have a critical choice to make regarding the future of Australian Wool Innovation Limited, their research, development, grower services and marketing company, according to AWI chairman, Brian van Rooyen.
Postal voting is already underway, in the lead up to the AWI AGM in Perth on November 19.
Mr van Rooyen, who was appointed chairman in April this year, says two of the most urgent issues being addressed are the industry agreement to phase out mulesing by 2010 and the need to restructure AWI to deliver greater productivity and greater value to woolgrowers.
Much has been achieved in such a relatively brief period of time, he says.
Of particular note is the development of a three-year strategy that aims to increase demand for wool by 20 million kilograms per year.
“This strategy is built on a robust and cohesive plan that will enable us to reintroduce Australian Merino to a new generation of consumers,” Mr van Rooyen says.
“We are positioning our brand to meet emerging market opportunities in the mid to high end of apparel retailing.
“Importantly for the confidence of our shareholders, the plan sets clear targets for management and for key segments of our business.”
Mr van Rooyen is endorsing the re-election of four other directors as part of his “Chairman’s Ticket”.
They are:
• Successful businessman, woolgrower and researcher, Dr Chris Abell
• Well-known agribusiness chairman and woolgrower, Dr John Keniry
• Global finance specialist, Ms Robyn Clubb; and
• International business leader and marketer, Mr Ken Boundy. (See separate FarmOnline profiles).
“As a team, we wish to continue the great work that has begun this year at AWI,” he says.
“We wish to see the efficient integration of the Woolmark company into AWI to deliver innovation in fibre and marketing knowledge.
“We will deliver AWI’s new strategic plan and continue the restructuring of AWI to support the new international business model.
“We will continue reducing business overheads while ensuring the best people are in key roles.
“We intend to prudently manage AWI through the current unprecedented world economic conditions using our extensive international business experience.
“And finally, we want to restore the global reputation of AWI as a responsible, professional and ethical business by eliminating self-interest and uniting the board.”
Mr van Rooyen says the development and commercialisation of alternative solutions to surgical mulesing remains arguably the greatest single challenge facing the Australian wool industry.
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