This group, added to the 20 young breeders who are to participate in the upcoming course, is delivering a growing number of smart, enthusiastic young people to drive the industry into the future.
"All need young people's opinions and drive in a whole range of initiatives – from the national genetic information and evaluation service Sheep Genetics Australia (SGA) launched by Minister McGauran in Adelaide last year, to meeting the changing needs of retailers in market savvy products and just-in-time delivery," Dr Stephens said.
The leadership course is a natural progression of a successful inaugural course run by Merino SA in 2003 according to Tom Ashby, principal of the North Ashrose Merino stud at Gulnare in SA, and an instigator of the program.
"This leadership course will give the young breeders a great networking opportunity and a chance to expand their role in the Australian Merino industry," Mr Ashby said.
"One of the best results from the inaugural course was more young breeders on the state committee where they have participated and talked about their ideas.
"They're now building on the success of 2003 by expanding the program to offer the same opportunities for young breeders from across Australia."
To be held in South Australia's Clare Valley, the five day leadership course will cover topics such as conflict, leadership styles, succession, entrepreneurship, decision-making and public speaking, together with a range of guest speakers.
Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI) is a research and development organization that works with woolgrowers, researchers, processors and manufacturers. The company's activities are financed from Federal budget allocations and wool industry levies. The Federal core allocation to AWI in 2003-2004 is around $14 million.
Australian Wool Innovation Limited
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