It was an emotional occasion at the beginning of the annual ram sale at Grogansworth Merinos, Bowning when studmaster Kim Henderson announced his friend and classer of the Grogansworth flock, Ian Marwedel has decided to retire from the industry to which he has dedicated his long life.
”We are part of a great industry and individuals play an enormous part in the passage of the industry,” Mr Henderson said.
“Ian Marwedel, who has been coming here for 33 years has announced his retirement ‘effective’ on 31 December.”
Mr Henderson first met Ian Marwedel at the Royal Perth Ram Sales in 1973, and they immediately formed an everlasting bond.
After leaving school, Mr Marwedel began his career as a jackaroo on “Terrick Terrick” at Blackall, under the management of Ray Murdoch, thus beginning an association with The Australian Estates Comapny Limited until he started classing sheep professionally in his own right in 1979.
“He has a nice simple philosophy about life and the same goes with his ram breeding,” Mr Henderson said.
“Ian believes in keeping the job simple, as big as you can get the sheep and with plenty of wool, with balance.”
Mr Henderson said Ian Marwedel was at the very cutting edge of his profession, classing flocks all over Australia adding immeasurable wealth to woolgrowers and the nation.
“We have appreciated his integrity, his work ethic, his views on life and we thank him sincerely for his time here at Grogansworth,” he said.
“Thank you Ian, not only from us here but from the industry throughout Australia.”
Mr Marwedel said he has had a wonderful career with a lot of wonderful clients, and none better that the Henderson family.
“I have got to know many of you over the years and I have appreciated your friendship,” he said.
“There is always room for improvement but I’m sure Michael Elmes and the crew here will keep the job going.”