30 September 1998
Wool CRC bids to sustain research capability
The global competitiveness of Australian wool will
continue to decline unless the industry moves decisively to boost
productivity and improve wool's attractiveness as a textile fibre,
according to Dr Lionel Ward, Director of the CRC for Premium Quality Wool,
speaking on the occasion of lodging the Wool CRC's bid for a second term
to commence in July 1999.
Dr Ward endorsed last week's comments by International
Wool Textile Organisation President, Mr Henry Grunzke, that the situation
for the world textile industry had worsened dramatically, and that there
is an urgent need to focus on textile innovation and demand building.
"Our bid for a second term aims at contributing to a
restoration of long-term profitability throughout the industry by reducing
per unit costs of production and distribution, and by enhancing wool's
versatility as a textile fibre", Dr Ward said.
"While the current Wool CRC's emphasis on reducing fibre
diameter and increasing staple strength is still important, there will be
a shift in the second Wool CRC towards the high priority issues of on-farm
productivity, wool's suitability as a textile fibre and technology
adoption."
Commenting on the significance of this bid for a second
term, Dr Ward noted the sharp increase in support from brokers and
processors and from industry bodies such as The Wool Exchange and AWTA
Ltd. Such industry support is particularly timely in view of the financial
difficulties being faced by AWRAP/The WoolMarkCompany, traditionally the
major source of wool R&D funding.
"The research and education portfolio developed for the
second CRC is a collaborative effort between research scientists and
industry representatives. This ensures that our research projects are
industry driven and that our industry partners have a direct interest in
adoption of the research results", Dr Ward said.
"Although we have put a heavy emphasis on applied
research and effective technology transfer, we have been careful to
maintain a balance between strategic and applied research. The inclusion
of gene marking, for example, will lay the foundation for a new generation
of sheep breeding techniques for woolgrowers."
"If our bid is unsuccessful, the wool industry will be
deprived of Government funding in excess of $2 million per year," Dr Ward
said. "However, of even greater concern will be the loss of resources from
research groups and industry partners, and the immense benefits that flow
from the collaborative efforts associated with the Wool CRC, including the
much needed public benefits that will flow on to rural communities."
Today is the closing date for second term applications.
Those proceeding to the interview phase of the selection process will be
notified by the end of the year and successful applications will be
announced around March next year.
Contact:
Dr Lionel
Ward (Director) 03-9416-5180 or 0412 403 335
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