Office Bearers 2010/11
President	Allan Phillips
Secretary/Treasurer	Michael Legge
Executive - Including President, Secretary/Treasurer	Allan Phillips, Michael Legge, Frank O'Connor, Rod Thirkell-Johnston
Delegates	Allan Phillips, Michael Legge, Frank O'Connor, Rod Thirkell-Johnston
Reserve Delegates	John Taylor, Simon Foster

March 2010

Seasonal conditions in the superfine wool growing areas have improved considerably with above average spring rainfall, followed by a relatively dry December and January.  February resulted in variable rainfall with heavy localized falls and generally above average rainfall in the previously dry Eastern areas.  Worthwhile rainfall in the first week of March if follow up rain occurs will see a good autumn.

The Tasmanian superfine clip further declined this season as a result of the three year drought.  With severe flock reductions and the improving conditions the clip was not as fine with a return to a more normal micron profile. 

It is estimated that it will take at least three years to rebuild flocks to former numbers.  The question is whether growers will return to superfine production given the present price levels or whether there will be a move where possible to meat types where the returns are at present very attractive.  It is unlikely that superfine production will return to previous level as several major properties are moving away from wool production.

The annual Launceston wool sale was held on Friday 12^th February.  While the clip still showed the effects of the drought with strengths below the normal average, prices remained subdued with little evidence for premiums.  China dominated with some support from Italian companies which was appreciated.  Top price was 3,700 c/kg for a 14.5 micron line from Macquarie Hills.

At the conclusion of the sale Roberts hosted a function for Exporters and Growers at which Frank O’Connor received a special award for outstanding service to the Tasmanian wool industry.

Roberts Tasmanian Wool Pool operations continue to expand gaining greater grower support as they develop more supply chain opportunities and it can be expected that a greater portion of the Tasmanian clip will be marketed in this manner.