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Internationally acclaimed actor and Australian native, Cate Blanchett, surprised four Australian woolgrowers when she presented them with the Eco Stewardship Award at this year’s Green Carpet Fashion Awards, Italia, on behalf of the tens of thousands of passionate wool producers across Australia.
Cate Blanchett said, “It gives me particular pleasure to present tonight’s Eco Stewardship award to a group of people from my native Australia who are genuinely leading the sustainability charge. And in an aspect of the fashion industry that is foundational – the production of Merino wool. An ambitious programme of reform has seen the best Australian woolgrowers set new benchmarks for producing this most precious natural fibre. Of course, nobody tells this tale better than those working to progress this critical movement”.
Australian woolgrowers, Matt and Vanessa Dunbabin, ‘Bangor’ farm, alongside Richard and Jenny Weatherly, ‘Connewarran’ farm – who have each displayed sustainable farming and conservation practices – travelled from Australia to Milan to accept the award.
Matt and Vanessa explain, “Every day, woolgrowers across the country are caring for their animals and the land in a passionate and sustainable way, ensuring that when you are wearing wool, you are also caring for the environment. Woolgrowers have always known this is the case – and it is fantastic that this has been recognised by the fashion industry.”
Richard and Jenny, explain: “We are very honoured and very proud. I feel that we are representing other woolgrowers, who have shown remarkable stewardship of their country, as well as representing Australia and to some degree, representing Livia Firth’s innovative and brilliant work as well as The Woolmark Company commitment on this regard and the work of Italian fashion industry.”
To find out more about Australian woolgrowers and their commitment to the environment, visit: www.woolmark.com/spotlight
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