During the judging process for this year's Ultimate Clip Awards, senior management at New England Wool were not only impressed by the quality of the entries, but the sheer perseverance shown by growers to continue to deliver top class wool in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis.

"Each year the calibre improves across the board and 2011 was no exception"said Managing Director Mr Andrew Blanch. "The quality was impressive, especially when you consider that the financial incentive to prepare wool to such high standards has not existed over the past few years. "

"I am proud of what these growers have produced. On behalf of our shareholders (Italian Spinning and weaving mills Reda SpA and Vitale Barberis Canonico SpA), I want to say thank you for continuing to invest in producing fine quality, even when it seemed the wider market was not supportive of you doing so. I am convinced that if growers keep seeking to improve then the Australian industry will remain resilient, no matter what the future holds."

Mr Blanch said that while growers were currently enjoying high prices, it was important for the industry to seek ways to sustain those prices for longer than one season.

"This is critical to ensure growers get financial returns that give them the confidence to reinvest in their farms, especially after a long period of low prices and poor climatic conditions," he said.

Mr Blanch said that New England Wool's two Italian-based shareholders, are both looking at ways to build a stronger and more stable future through a commitment to quality and diversification.

Reda has launched a new function fashion line; the Rewoolution Outdoor and Active Wear range, in February 2011 to a positive response around the globe.

The range is made of superfine wool - totally suitable because of its softness, thermal qualities, flame retardant properties and its ability to move moisture to the surface, keeping skin dry.

"This new venture by Reda is part of a strategy to look at new markets for superfine wool and complements the classic men-high-end suit fabrics that it is already so well known for,"said Mr Blanch.

"Barberis is also looking to further its reputation for exquisite fabrics by continuing to deliver various new designs and constructions that will offer it'sexisting and future markets something different.

"A complete commitment to quality in all facets of business; from the raw materials they procure to final fabric production and marketing, is the simple, but powerful pillar on which Barberis has built it's reputation,"Mr Blanch said.

He said that it was both companies commitment to excellence and eminence, which has held them in good stead over the past few years.

"Neither company faltered or compromised this commitment during the GFC - despite dramatic downturns in global consumer spending - and this has been a significant contributing factor to their relatively quick and robust recovery."

Mr Blanch also said that in order to continue to thrive, the superfine wool industry must continue to focus on communication and collaboration at all levels.

"I am encouraged by the effort I see by wool growers generally, and New England Wool prides itself on giving open, honest feedback to growers through this awards process and on the wool show floor. I am also encouraged by the work being undertaken by Australian Wool Innovation to engage growers, exporters and other industry participants - such as the major fashion labels - to develop strategies that will benefit the industry as a whole.

"Congratulations to all of the 2011 Ultimate Clip Awards entrants and of course, our winners. The team at New England Wool looks forward to working with you all in the years ahead."

2011 WINNERS

1^st place: Allan & Carol Phillips from Deddington, TAS

2^nd place: Pittman Family (Glenburnie Partnership) from Walcha, NSW

EQUAL 3rd: Cameron Family from Guyra, NSW and Don & Meg Thomas from Wallangarra, QLD

Regional Awards

Southern Tablelands: Peter & Merran Walmsley from Captain%u2019s Flat, NSW

Queensland: Don & Meg Thomas from Wallangarra, QLD

Northern Tablelands: Pittman Family (Glenburnie Partnership) from Walcha, NSW

Central Tablelands: Max Rayner & Sons from Mudgee, NSW

Victoria: Everard & Marilyn Linke from Hamilton VIC.

Encouragement Award: Kenneth &Tracey Cameron, and their son Josh from Walcha, NSW