Media Release
Interactive training DVD now available for novice shearers
28 July 2005
Not every would-be shearer could study with the country's gun shearers - until now.
Step-by-step training tips and techniques from the industry's elite are now available to everyone, with the launch today of an interactive DVD for novice shearers by Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI).
AWI Chief Executive Officer Dr Len Stephens told more than 130 producers at an AWI forum in the Riverina today that the DVD is a first of its kind.
"Until now, shearer trainers have only had textbooks and basic videos to help them illustrate technique. This DVD offers step-by-step instruction and is the most comprehensive shearer learning aid developed to date," he said.
"The DVD is designed to be used by trainers and trainees alike, and includes video footage from four angles combined with captions and a voice over explanation of what's happening.
"We were thrilled to have the assistance of such elite shearers as current World Champion Shannon Warnest, Karl Goodman and Dwayne Black for this project."
A menu allows viewers to navigate around the DVD like a website to choose the sections they want to watch. It can be shown using a DVD player on a laptop, PC or connected to a television.
The training DVD is aimed at people getting started in the industry, covering 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.
The project is fully funded by AWI as part of the company's wider $14.5 million, three-year investment in wool harvesting aimed at making shearing easier and more efficient, reducing costs and attracting more people to the profession.
The DVD has been produced by NetEffective Media Group (NMG) with the assistance of the Australian Sheep Industry Cooperative Research Centre, which has provided technical advice, scripting and editing assistance.
The AWI Novice Shearer Training DVD is available by phoning the toll free AWI helpline on 1800 070 099.
Ends.
Media contact: Ross Pollock - AWI Shearer Training Project Manager - 0418 853 668
Released by:
Megan Ball - AWI Corporate Affairs - 02 8295 3102