Wool harvesting DVD training resources
A set of incredible resources to aid in the training of novice and skilled shearers and wool handlers has been developed by AWI for the wool industry.
Aimed at trainers, trainees and professional industry people, the DVDs contain a menu that allows viewers to navigate around the DVD, like a website choosing the sections they want to watch.
The DVD's can be viewed using a DVD player on a laptop, personal computer or on a DVD player connected to a television.
Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) has the following DVD's available (see information below):
Novice Shearing - training for your future
The DVD is designed to be used by trainers and trainees. It features footage of professional shearers from four angles for maximum observation combined with captions and a voice over explanation.
The training DVD is aimed at people getting started in the industry and covers topics such as the basic gear needed, handpiece set-up and maintenance, and how to catch and drag a sheep to the stands. It also shows shearing techniques for both Merino and crossbred sheep.
Elite shearers including current World Champion Shannon Warnest, Karl Goodman and Dwayne Black assisted in the production of the DVD with the Australian Sheep Industry Cooperative Research Centre providing technical advice, scripting and editing assistance.
The DVD has recently been enhanced to include a section on the vulnerable areas of the sheep such as teats, ears and vulva.
Improver/Professional Shearing – Refining your skills
Professional shearers can now get advice from the elite in the industry with the release of this interactive training DVD for improver and professional shearers by AWI.
Using video footage from various angles and voice over explanation, the training DVD provides detailed guidance on handpiece grips, foot positions, weight transition and hand-eye coordination.
It also provides step-by-step guidance on blow placement for different sections of the sheep, including the positioning of the teeth of the comb and the best entry points and angles.
Wool Handling and Shed Skills – Making it easier
The Wool Handling and Shed Skills – Making it easier DVD is designed for the novice and improver wool handler to understand and develop the skills that are needed in their role.
The resource takes a story approach explaining the requirements for a novice to begin working in a commercial wool shed. Topics covered not only reflect on the skills of picking up and throwing a fleece, skirting and wool preparation but also cover issues such as superannuation and tax file numbers.
There are two DVDs in the set covering general wool preparation and the preparation of superfine clips. As such the resource is also suitable for woolgrowers and contractors.
Experting and Grinding – Obtaining the best from your gear
A well maintained handpiece couple with a well serviced shearing plant will ensure a quality outcome and lift tallies. This DVD presents the correct techniques of grinding and experting, presented by shearing equipment manufacturers, for both the novice and professional shearers.
It details how to service and maintain shearing plant as well as providing the basics of grinding technique and handpiece setup to make the task of shearing easier.
Wool Industry Workshop – Exercises for shearers & wool handlers
Professional shearers, woolclassers and wool handlers need to be in peak physical condition to carry out their roles with limited physical strain. Having the correct technique is vital. Warm up and maintenance exercises are critical to assist in maintaining fitness levels and minimising injuries.
The exercises shown in the DVD are designed to be used by average people during the course of the working day - a must to avoid long term pain and injury.
Crutching technique – Improving productivity
Professional shearers can spend up to 25% of their time crutching throughout the year. Having the correct technique in respect to sheep position and blow placement is critical to lifting tallies and ensuring a quality outcome.
This DVD has elite practitioners detail catch and drag, blow placement, types of crutch techniques, gear setup and the vulnerable areas of the sheep. You will also find a range of tips and tricks to make the task of crutching easier both on a mobile crutching trailer/cradle or across the board.
Where to get your copy
All AWI Shearer and Wool Handler Training DVDs are available by phoning the toll free AWI helpline on 1800 070 099.
Related links
Find out more about shearer and wool handler training.
AWI training resources
View an online shearer training video to find out about AWI's training resources. You can be connected to the Internet via broadband or dial up to view the video.
Contact
Joe Sullivan
Program Manager - Wool Harvesting
Tel: + 61 2 8295 3100
Contact via email