Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI) informed that for the July to November 2005 period, AWTA test data was moderately lower year-on-year with NSW (the largest wool producing state) continuing to be the main driver of this decline.
In Western Australia, for the first time this season, the season-to-date change in test volumes was marginally higher than for the same period the year before. Season-to-date, test volumes were lower in all other states.
For the July to November 2005 period, total test volumes in the 22.6-24.5 micron range fell significantly compared to the same period the previous year.
The increased proportion of wool in the 24.6 to 28.5 micron range highlights changing management decisions by growers towards an increasing focus on meat sheep breeds.
For changes in the national micron profile below 21 micron, the exceptional pasture growing season throughout 2005 in WA has resulted in the volume of fine wool (19.5 micron & finer) tested in the first 5 months collapsing.
This is a significant factor in the changes to the micron profile in the 18 to 21 micron segment, as the WA clip moves broader. In all other states, test volumes for wool 17.5 micron and finer have continued to increase particularly in Tasmania, the third largest state in this market segment.
Australian Wool Innovation Limited
marketing@alchempro.com
