Merino SA marks century of History
Horrocks Vale Collection's Nikki Atkinson with Finesse model Mitta wearing her recently launched Emily Dress.
Merino SA celebrated its centenary with a cocktail function in the historic sheep shed at the Adelaide Showground, a structure built just three years after the organisation was formed.
Woolgrowers, agents and sponsors gathered in the same area where, just hours earlier, judging had taken place for the Poll Merino feature breed.
Among the many dignitaries in attendance were SA governor Frances Adamson, Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Clare Scriven, Opposition agriculture spokesperson Nicola Centofanti, leader of the Opposition David Speirs and members of the show executive, including outgoing chief executive officer John Rothwell and incoming CEO Will Rayner.
Australian Wool Innovation chairman Jock Laurie congratulated the SA breeders on their milestone and their efforts encouraging the next generation through the school's wether competition, which this year broke another entry record with 76 teams of three.
"Wool is the best natural fibre in the world. One thing AWI will continue to do is defend the natural fibre against everyone who is trying to take us down," he said.
"Across Australia, it is a fabulous industry and a fabulous fibre. We should be proud of it and encouraging more and more young people to come in it."
Two Merino stalwarts - Roger Fiebig, Hilton Heath stud, Sanderston, and Heather Dalla, Orrie Cowie stud, Warooka, were bestowed service awards by Merino SA's John Daniell.
Australian Wool Innovation ambassador and television personality Catriona Rowntree compered a fashion parade showcasing the latest innovations in woollen clothing.
tafeSA applied fashion design and merchandising students showcased their designs alongside established local brands such as Iris + Wool, Bullrush and Binny.
The runway show stoppers though were a collection of stunning woollen wedding dresses from Upper North wool grower and fashion designer Nikki Atkinson, Horrocks Vale Collections.
Catherine Miller
Original Article : Merino SA marks century of history