AWN A significant milestone has been reached for the Australian wool industry with Chad and Louise Taylor of Mumblebone Merino Stud at Wellington, NSW, securing Australia’s first rolling 10-year wool supply agreement with global apparel brand, icebreaker.
AWN supported the Taylors throughout the process, working in conjunction with Zentera Wool Company (formerly the New Zealand Merino Company) to help complete the agreement. The contract reflects the growing international interest in certified and traceable wool and provides long-term pricing certainty for producers.
Icebreaker was founded in New Zealand in 1995 and is widely recognised as a leader in Merino performance apparel. The company has traditionally sourced its fibre from New Zealand growers, and the new agreement with Mumblebone extends icebreaker’s supply into Australia through a rolling long-term contract model that has not previously been used in the Australian market.
Mumblebone has been ZQ certified for more than six years. This standard recognises excellence in animal welfare, environmental care, social responsibility, and fibre quality. Under the agreement, the Taylors expect to supply around 100 bales of Merino wool each year that meet icebreaker’s specifications. They will receive the rolling average market price over the life of the contract, along with a 2.50 dollar per kilogram premium. For the Taylors, this provides clear market direction in an industry known for its price fluctuation.
Mumblebone Stud Principal, Chad Taylor, said the benefits extend beyond the payment structure:
“Wool markets can be volatile. A rolling 10-year commitment at an agreed structure gives us stability and enables long-term decision-making.”
Mumblebone shears every six months, producing a staple length of 65 to 68 millimetres each year. This production system was incorporated into the agreement through the strong working relationship developed with Zentera.
AWN played a guiding role throughout the discussions, with Central & Western NSW Regional Manager, Brett Cooper, advising the Taylors as the agreement progressed.
AWN MD & CEO, Rick Maybury, said the agreement highlights the benefits of long-term supply structures and growing interest from brands seeking verified wool.
“AWN is pleased to have advised on Australia’s first ten-year contract with icebreaker for Chad and Lou Taylor of Mumblebone.
“The contract, advised by Brett Cooper, AWN’s Central & Western NSW Regional Manager, provides long-term pricing certainty for the Taylors and reflects growing confidence in certified wool.
“The Zentera contract model has delivered strong outcomes for growers in New Zealand, and we see real opportunity for Australian growers to benefit from it.”
For Mumblebone, the agreement aligns with the long-term growth of their stud operation. The business now supplies between 550 and 600 rams each year across Australia and New Zealand, an increase from around 400 only six years ago.
This agreement represents more than a commercial milestone for Mumblebone, it signals a shift toward closer supply chain relationships, clearer transparency, and a more stable and sustainable future for Australian wool.
For expert advice on wool and livestock, or to discuss how long-term supply agreements may benefit your operation, contact our Central & Western NSW Regional Manager, Brett Cooper.
Brett Cooper
Regional Manager – Central & Western NSW
M 0407 136 129
E bcooper@awn.net