Australia’s Finest: Aussie Growers recognized in World’s Largest Measured Fleece Competition

When people think of Australian wool, they may picture a warm merino sweater or a premium wool coat. But behind these products are generations of Australian farmers dedicated to producing some of the highest-quality wool in the world.

That commitment was recognized this month when Michael and Jenny Sweeney, sheep farmers from New South Wales, Australia, won the Grand Champion title at the 2026 Australian Fleece Competition.

Their winning fleece measured an ultra-fine 18.8 microns (a measure of wool fibre thickness) and scored 97.5 out of 100 points, standing out among hundreds of entries from across the country.

For Michael Sweeney, the award represents more than just a successful season.

“Having been in the business of breeding and showing wool for 35 years, this is a lifetime goal and something that I have always dreamed about,” Michael said.

The victory caps off a remarkable year for the Sweeneys, whose fleeces have already secured top honors at both the Walcha Show and the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

A Showcase of Australia’s Wool Excellence

The 2026 Australian Fleece Competition marked its 25th anniversary and attracted 483 fleece entries from 171 exhibitors across Australia.

With entries received from every wool producing state in Australia, the competition caters for all major wool types - from ultra-fine Merinos through to British breeds.

Nutrien Wool Operations Manager and competition judge David Hart said the quality of entries surpassed even last year’s highly regarded competition.

“This year, I’ve been amazed by the breathtaking quality of the Super and Ultrafine wools,” David said.

“What we’ve seen across the board is wool at its magnificent best - soft, white and bright, stylish, and full of character.”

Welcome returns change conversation around wool

The competition comes as Australia's wool industry experiences improving market conditions after several challenging years.

According to Nutrien Ag Solutions Market Insights Lead Ethan Woolley, wool prices have recovered strongly during the 2025–26 season.

The industry's key benchmark, the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI), finished the season 61% higher than where it started.

Ethan said one of the main reasons for the price improvement has been lower wool supply.

"Australian wool production has declined in recent years, resulting in less wool available for buyers. As supply tightens, competition for quality wool has increased and prices have responded accordingly," he said.

Industry experts expect market conditions to remain supportive if supply stays limited. While short-term price fluctuations are still possible, the longer-term outlook for Australian wool remains positive.