“For example, we have found Merino fleece samples from the 1890's which have average diameter of 17 microns, are over 100 mm in length, with no fibres greater than 30 microns – in today's terms, qualities many growers would like to emulate in their clips!
“The material will now be available for public or private viewing, and will be made available on the Museum's database and website.”
Author Charles Massy is updating his book which chronicles the history of the Merino in Australia as part of the commemoration of 200 years of Australian wool.
Mr Massy will now have access to information about samples and images of the sheep and wool across this period.
“This is a very important step in the commemoration and celebration of the industry's great achievement. Eight samples of wool from Marsden's original flock, including sheep from whom the original bale would have been prepared are included in the collection,” said Mr Massy.
“These staples were sent to King George III in 1804 as evidence of the colony's potential, and immediately preceded the sending of the first bale.
“There are between 3,500 and 5,000 samples available, which represent a sizeable sector of the industry. In fact, a number of the studs and bloodlines in the collection are still having an impact today.”
Australian Wool Innovation Limited
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