MEDIA RELEASE

THE HON JOHN MOORE MP
MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY, SCIENCE AND TOURiSM

 

Friday 26 June 1998
190/98

 

Minister Applauds CSIRO Wool Harvesting Breakthrough

The Minister for Industry, Science and Tourism, John Moore, today announced a world-first from CSIRO scientists: commercialisation of a process that gets the wool off the sheep's back, without the sheep having to be shorn!

Bioclip uses a naturally-occurring protein that triggers a break in wool fibres, and within a week, the sheep simply sheds its fleece. This revolutionary wool harvesting method produces improved wool quality and eliminates the stress and minor injuries that are an inevitable consequence of traditional shearing methods.

It is expected to have a significant and increasing impact on Australia's $3 billion wool industry.

"CSIRO has led the world, again," said Mr Moore. "This latest 'breakthrough' has taken 20 years to research, develop and commercialise. While this is a world-first for Australian science, it does underline the long lead-times and the great patience and persistence required to successfully bring a revolutionary product to market."

"Bioclip is another example of Australian excellence in research and development. It confirms that the Federal Government's commitment to encouraging and enhancing innovation is right on track. Through world class R&D, Australia becomes more globally competitive, our economy grows, there are more jobs, and all Australians can have a better standard of living."

The Bioclip process is great news for producers because it reduces variability in wool fibre length, increases quality and yield, and improves the marketability of Australia's top-end wool output. It also increases the value of sheep leather because the hide isn't marked by shearing cuts.

Another benefit of the process is that it reduces the need for chemicals to control lice and dermatitis in fleeces.

"Bioclip was developed by a team of scientists at CSIRO's Animal Production unit, in a co-funded project between CSIRO and the Woolmark Company (formerly International Wool Secretariat.) Everyone associated with the project should be congratulated for their commitment and great skill. They have made an enormous contribution to one of Australia's most important and respected industries," Mr Moore said.

More information is available from Pat Wilson at CSIRO on 02 98402741 and 018 615359, and Deb Goundrey at the Woolmark Company on 03 93419194 and 0419 568482.