Livestock SA immediate past president Geoff Power has been recognised for nearly 25 years of service to the SA and national wool industry.
Last night the Orroroo wool grower was among 11 industry stalwarts to receive an inaugural Australian Wool Industry Medal in Melbourne, Vic, held as part of 2017 National Wool Week.
Organised by the Federation of Australian Wool Organisations, the award recognised people who had made an exceptional and sustained contribution in the Australian wool industry.
FAWO chairman elect David Michell said the men and women had all made a significant contribution to Australia’s wool industry over many years and came from a range of sectors within the industry, from farming, to broking, to trading and exporting to service sectors.
“It is very timely that we acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of these outstanding people to this iconic Australian industry,” he said.
“Wool prices are now at record levels and optimism for both wool and sheep is high.
“The industry has faced difficult times over the past three decades and the contributions that these people have made has ensured that many in the industry can enjoy these more prosperous times.”
Livestock SA chief executive officer Andrew Curtis said Mr Power was a very deserving recipient and the award couldn’t be better timed.
He has just stepped down from his leadership role in the organisation at the recent annual general meeting in Hahndorf after nearly 25 years involvement in Livestock SA and its predecessor, the South Australian Farmers Federation.
“We are very proud to see Geoff recognised nationally for his many years of services to the Australian and South Australian wool and livestock industry,” he said.
“He has been a very passionate advocate for the wool industry for many years and has worked tirelessly at all levels of the industry.
“Even though he lives more than 280 kilometres from Adelaide he is always ready to drive this distance, often having to then catch a plane to attend meetings interstate so that he can represent and advocate for issues that remain vital to ensuring a strong and vibrant wool industry.”