Kate Methven, Elders district wool manager in Hamilton, Victoria, has been recognised with the Women in Wool Emerging Excellence Award, which celebrates her contribution and rising talent in the Australian wool industry.
Kate’s pathway into the wool industry began through her studies, completing a Bachelor of Agriculture and a Certificate IV in Wool Classing through the University of Melbourne.
She joined Elders in February 2021 as a Wool Technical Support Officer. In August 2022, she moved into the District Wool Manager role, based in the Hamilton branch.
Now covering the Hamilton and Horsham regions, Kate’s role is varied and hands on.
“I spend a lot of time with woolgrowers, on farm during shearing, assisting with wool marketing and genetics selection, carrying out RWS audits, and attending wool sales with clients,” she said.
“I also step into the auctioneer’s box during sale days, which is a great way to stay in touch with both the market and our clients.”
Kate’s recent award win at the inaugural Women in Wool conference has been a standout moment in her career so far.
“The Emerging Excellence Award recognises up and coming talent in the industry, and was sponsored by Vitale Barberis Canonico,” she said.
“It was a real honour to be recognised, especially in a room full of incredible women from all parts of the wool supply chain.”
Kate said her passion for the industry is driven by both the product and the people.
“Wool is such an amazing fibre, it’s sustainable, renewable, and has so many qualities we’re looking for in modern materials,” she said.
“I also get to work alongside woolgrowers who are genuinely passionate about what they do. That’s what makes it such a fulfilling job."
Kate also highlighted the role Elders continues to play in supporting the future of the industry, particularly through investment in infrastructure.
“Elders Wool’s new wool handling facility in Ravenhall provides great innovation and investment in the industry that gives long term sustainability and improved outcomes for clients,” she said.
“We’ve had great feedback from clients. It’s a significant investment and a real show of commitment to the industry. The new show floor and cutting edge technology provide outstanding facilities to support the marketing of the wool being sold.”
