Gateway to growth: Unlocking the potential of the Australian goat fibre industry

Australia’s goat fibre industry is gaining momentum and there’s never been a better time to get involved. Whether you’re an experienced producer, run a mixed cropping farm business or just curious about what fibre goats could offer your enterprise, the Goat Fibre Gateway is a practical touchpoint to expand your industry knowledge and build networks.

This free, easy-to-navigate online platform is packed with practical tools and resources designed to help you grow a thriving mohair or cashmere business. The Gateway is tailored to meet you where you are, whether you’re running a large-scale operation or exploring goats as a diversification opportunity.

The Gateway allows real-world learning at your time and pace. You’ll find plenty of resources, from factsheets to podcasts to producer case studies, covering topics like goat health, genetics, fleece quality and marketing your fibre. It’s all backed by the latest research and shaped by industry leaders. The platform is constantly evolving, with new content added regularly.

Learn the art of shearing a goat

A recent and practical addition to the Gateway is the ‘How to shear an Angora goat’ video, a step-by-step guide designed to build confidence and competence in goat fibre producers of all experience levels. If you’re new to fibre goats or a seasoned shearer looking to refine your technique, this video offers clear, step-by-step instructions on the shearing process. Gain insight on everything from animal handling to handpiece maintenance to fleece care.

The video is led by David Lillis, a respected industry expert with decades of experience in shearing Angora goats. His calm, methodical approach and deep knowledge make the video an invaluable resource for anyone wanting to expand their skillset in the shearing shed.

Growing the goat fibre community

The Gateway is managed by neXtgen Agri International and supported by the AgriFutures Goat Fibre Program, a strategic initiative investing in research, development, and extension (RD&E) to build a resilient, productive and profitable industry. The Program’s objectives are to grow the number of productive goat fibre producers and to foster a collaborative industry that produces consistent and quality goat fibre for use in high-end European markets.

Visit the Goat Fibre Gateway today, explore its expertly curated resources, the tools and support are right at your fingertips.

To explore the Goat Fibre Gateway, sign up here