Wool exporters are proclaiming a new era for the embattled wool industry, now that it's to be rid of a levy-collecting body.
The Wool Exporters Council initially expressed its disappointment at the farmers' decision not to continue paying a wool levy to Meat and Wool New Zealand for activities such as research and training.
However the council now says it's the first opportunity the industry has had in decades to decide its own future without the interference of levy-collecting organisations such as the Wool Board and Meat and Wool New Zealand.
President John Henderson says the council and the farmer's Wool Action Group are planning an industry summit later this month from which a new organisation may emerge.
Wool Advancement Group convenor, Pat O'Sullivan, says there's some urgency, as the industry is in disarray.
He says there is a lot at stake for farmers and there have been too many failed attempts in sorting out the industry.
Meat and Wool chairman Mike Petersen says it's ironic that some people who campaigned against the wool levy are now talking about a new levy to continue supporting industry good functions such as training.
Mr Peterson says the 'no levy' vote for wool also knocks back an opportunity the industry had to tap into new Government funding, using money that Meat and Wool had earmarked for market development.
