I just want to let you know that after 18 years in the wool industry I have made the difficult decision to resign from my position as Executive Manager of Australian Wool Industries Secretariat Inc.I have certainly enjoyed working with you over these years. There have been some challenges as well. COVID certainly did not help and I am sure you will agree. There have been opportunities to travel and promote our wool industry overseas especially at IWTO where I also mentored young professionals. During my time here I have made many friends and would like to thank you for your support during that time. I have enjoyed organising many events including our annual Wool Week and the IWTO Congress held in Sydney in 2016. My involvement with the FAWO Emergency Animal Disease Preparedness Working Group and winning the Australian Biosecurity Award for FAWO in 2014 was a great achievement for the wool industry. It was a very proud moment.My role grew over time and I have held various positions in the following wool industry organisations;Wool Industries Australia Inc (previously Federation of Australian Wool Organisations) as Public Officer and Secretary of the Arbitration Committee and Technical Committee.Private Treaty Wool Merchants of Australia Inc as Public Officer and SecretaryAustralian Council of Wool Exporters and Processors IncAustralian Superfine Wool Growers Association Inc as Public OfficerNational Council of Wool Selling Brokers of Australia IncMichael Manion Wool Industry FoundationStandards Australia as an observer for WIAThere were also many industry and government committees.As founder of “Women in Wool” in 2019 and uniting women in the wool industry, this was also another achievement. This initiative has been well received by many women across Australia and overseas and will continue for years to come. This is now an Industry Incorporated Association.There will be challenges ahead for you all, so be kind to all and I recommend that you mentor and teach the young adults that you employ as they are the future of the Australian wool industryMany thanks to all who have contacted me by phone, email and sent messages. I value and appreciate your support and friendship and you know who you are.I finished up on 6 October 2023 and wish you all the best for the future. Kind regardsBianca Heaney