Australian Merino prodcuers keep their production process as green as the natural fibre they are producing.
Australian Merino is a natural, biodegradable and renewable fibre, making it the perfect choice for those seeking clothing that has a minimal impact on the environment.
For generations, the farmers who produce this fine wool have shown how the Australian rural landscape can be managed effectively while protecting the natural environment, supporting rural communities and meeting the needs of increasingly environmentally-aware customers. These practices of responsible farming stem from a rich tradition of life on the land, with Australian farmers making great advancements in Merino production across the past 200 years. Most farms are family owned and operated, with unique skills and a great sense of pride passing from generation to generation.
For today’s discerning customer, ethical and environmentally-sensitive farming can be as important as the quality of the clothing itself. Australian Merino achieves the highest standards across all these areas.
Well looked-after sheep living in a good environment produce the best wool. So Merino farmers are committed to:
- exceptionally high standards of animal welfare
- sustainable farming for the benefit of future generations
- responsible use of land and water resources.
Raised on sustainable grassland terrain, Australian Merino sheep are well-suited to grazing a variety of pastures. From the high rainfall areas of the eastern seaboard to the drier pastoral areas of the west, Merino sheep have become an integral part of the iconic Australian landscape. They need good pasture to graze which is why Australian farmers take such special care of their land.
Through selective breeding, Australian farmers continue to improve the quality of their Merino flocks. The breeding process is complex and difficult, requiring skills acquired across many years. The Australian wool industry invests heavily in research, development and education to help farmers identify the best animals to breed from, constantly seeking even finer, softer, Merino wool.
Australian Merino farmers are passionate about keeping their sheep healthy, both for the welfare of the animals and the quality of the wool they produce. The Australian industry leads the world in developing and implementing improvements in Merino sheep welfare. Being an island helps keep a lot of diseases and pests out of Australia too, helping maintain a healthy, unique and natural ecosystem.
Sheep shearing is an iconic Australian activity, and most Merino farmers employ specialist shearers for the purpose. The principles of sheep shearing have changed little in 200 years and it still requires strength and skill. But the modern day shearer is well equipped and athletically built, with the skills to shear up to 180 sheep a day.