A national shearing shortage and difficulties getting shearers across state borders has caused the shearing season to run late, stressing farmers and contractors, and raising concerns about sheep welfare. Key points: Shearing seasons are extended with districts including SA's Murray Mallee not expected to finish until December Warmer weather and longer wool puts sheep at greater risk of flystrike Shearers …
Shearing is a tough job, but many young Victorians are travelling from far and wide to learn the skill. Key points: Regions in Victoria are seeing record numbers of students enrol in shearing and wool-handling classes this year Robbie Last, 16, is learning to shear so he can support his parents on their farm during the national shearer shortage VFF …
Western Australia is facing a shortage of shearers and woolshed workers as contractors struggle to fill teams for the upcoming spring harvest. Key points: The coronavirus has stopped international shearers from filling vacancies in Australian woolsheds Shearing contractors are finding it hard to attract young people to the industry Australia's sheep flock has more than halved in the last 40 …