Topics of discussion include the profitability and reliability of growing wool, the fibre’s opportunities in a carbon economy, on farm R&D priorities, better communication and new marketing initiatives to lift global demand for wool.

While AWI has heard from growers at over 80 events since April this year, the ideas from a cross-section of the next generation of woolgrowers were a particular focus this week.

The thoughts and ideas of these next-gen growers were shared with a larger audience of woolgrowers on Friday where further debate about the future of their organisation took place.

AWI chairman Wal Merriman said this round of consultation had generated invaluable feedback. He added 2009 had been a very important year for the company with a large restructure of the business to ensure greater accountability and performance.

"Growers have overwhelmingly supported the focus for more marketing of the natural fibre at WoolPoll and we’re now getting on with the business of selling more wool," he said.

"We will continue to hear from the growers we serve about where we should be taking their business.

"AWI is now run like growers run their farms: efficiently and in a business-like manner. This is an ongoing process and we look forward to conversations with as many growers as possible in 2010."

Chief executive officer Brenda McGahan thanked the participating growers for taking the time to discuss the future of their industry body.

"This forum started with some fresh ideas from younger voices and was built on with the wisdom from older woolgrowers. Wool has a great future if we all move forward together," she said.