Working across New South Wales (NSW) as a District Wool Manager, Toby Haylock is part of the next generation stepping up to support the Australian wool industry.
Raised south of Cooma on a commercial Merino operation, Toby has been around sheep and wool his whole life and never really considered doing anything else.
“I’ve always had a strong connection to the industry,” Toby said.
“Sheep work, shearing sheds, wool, it’s what I grew up with, and it’s where I’ve always seen myself building a career.”
Toby began his professional career in wool in 2023, starting in a bulk class before moving into private buying and store management. He joined Elders in January 2025, where he now supports wool growers across the Southern Tablelands.
“My job is to help growers prepare and present their wool in the best possible way,” he said.
“I’m in sheds during shearing, talking with classers, working out the right time and method to sell. It’s about giving clients confidence that their wool’s being looked after and marketed properly.”
Toby is also building his skills in the auction room and stepping into the auctioneer’s role, a part of the job he’s thoroughly enjoying.
“I love it. Being in the room, selling wool, and seeing firsthand how the market’s moving,” he said.
“It also means I can give clients direct feedback. Whether the wool’s presenting as expected, if there’s been any surprises, or if we need to rethink timing, that kind of insight is really valuable for growers.”
As a young person early in his wool career, Toby is focused on building relationships and establishing a strong presence across the region.
“My goal is to be out on the ground meeting people, letting them know who I am and what I stand for,” he said.
“There aren’t many younger people coming through the wool industry, so I want to show that there’s still a strong future here, and I’m keen to be part of that.”
He said one of the biggest drawcards of joining Elders was the strength of the team and the support across the business.
“The team environment is one of the best parts, everyone’s willing to share ideas and help out,” he said.
Toby is also enthusiastic about Elders’ recent investment in the future of wool, particularly the state-of-the-art wool facility in Melbourne.
“The new wool business is something no one else is doing, it’s a major step forward for the industry,” he said.
“With autonomous guided vehicles, full solar, and round-the-clock capability, it’s more efficient, more sustainable, and closer to port. That means lower costs and better returns for clients.”
He said the facility is already helping to bridge the gap between grower and buyer.
“Having that direct link with exporters and being able to pass that intel straight back to growers is a big part of the value we bring.”
Toby also has strong family ties to the Tablelands region and said reconnecting with the area has been a personal highlight.
“My mum’s family is from here, so it’s been great to meet people who know that history,” he said.
“This is a traditional wool growing area with a lot of proud, long-standing operations. I feel lucky to be working in it.”
As the industry continues to evolve, Toby said he’s optimistic about where wool is headed and ready to play his part.
“Elders is investing in the future of wool at a time when a lot of others are stepping back. That’s a clear sign of confidence in the industry,” he said.
“It’s a good time to be involved, and I’m looking forward to helping growers get the most out of their wool.”