Harvesting

Improving the numbers, quality and productivity of shearers and wool handlers is a current focus for AWI.

Application of new technologies, practices and guidelines created by AWI ensure a skilled and safe harvesting workforce for the future.

  • New wool harvesting technologies

    AWI is continuing research into alternative harvesting technology inorder to improve workplace safety and boost the quality of the wool gathered. These developments include shearing platforms such as the Peak Hill ShearEzy UPSP and biological harvesting.

  • Add-on shearing technologies

    Creating new and safer shearing technology is focused on better handpieces, anti-lock safety devices, shearing shed design, mobile crutching trailers and other useful technology to make wool harvesting as safe and as cost effective as possible.

  • Shearing and OH&S costs

    The cost of shearing has been identified as the biggest single expense to Australian woolgrowers in the sheep-to-mill process. Many of these costs are related to workplace injuries, an area that AWI is currently addressing.

  • Shearing shed guidelines

    Are you thinking about renovating an existing shearing shed or building a new one? AWI lists issues to consider and provides detailed recommendations when proposing the construction of a new shearing shed or the renovation of an existing one.

Overview

See additional information about shearer and wool handler training on AWI Corporate website.

Maintaining the safety and productivity of shearers around the nation is fundamental to supporting the future of woolgrowing.

The high-costs associated with shearer injury are being addressed by AWI directly through the introduction of new technological and knowledge-based resources.

The continued development, trial and commercialisation of the AWI funded UPSPs means that woolgrowers are a step closer to maximising the safety of shearers and their potential productivity levels. Field tests of a smaller, lower-cost commercial prototype begun in July 2006 and they are expected to be available for commercial sale by the years end.

AWI’s packaging together of all available material on many issues, including shearing shed design, ensures that all harvesting activities are as efficient and streamlined as possible.

 

AWI Global Sites