Walter Merriman to vacate Australian Wool Innovation chair after year of chaos

Australian Wool Innovation chairman Walter Merriman has announced his decision to step down from his position, just one week before the peak wool body’s annual general meeting.

After a year of turmoil in which his governance and handling of proxy votes caused public relation concerns, Mr Merriman’s sudden resignation was no surprise, but he remains a director on the board.

Nominated to the chairman’s role immediately, vice-deputy Colette Garnsey OAM said Mr Merriman had picked the right time for new leadership.

She said she would provide a “colourful” chairman’s report at the company’s AGM on November 23.

Mr Merriman was not prepared to comment when Countryman contacted him this week, but in a statement said: “I step down proud of what we have achieved during my time as chair.

“Our efforts have contributed to a near threefold increase in Australian wool prices.”

Mr Merriman joined the AWI board in 2004 and was elected chairman at the 2008 AGM in Perth.

Ms Garnsey said Mr Merriman had played a pivotal role in increasing the global demand and market access for Australian wool.

“One of the highest priorities for the AWI board was responding to, and actioning, the 82 recommendations of the Review of Performance commissioned by the Federal Government,” she said.

WAFarmers Livestock Council member Steve McGuire congratulated Ms Garnsey on her new role and her fortitude towards all 82 recommendations.

Agriculture Minister David Littleproud thanked Mr Merriman for his service to the wool industry.