Generations of people involved in the wool industry, from fleece to fashion, will help a family-run wool merchant celebrate 70 years in the industry this weekend.
WS Hickey & Son will host an open day at its Omakau woolstore today bringing together farmers, makers and locals from across the region for a day of connection, innovation and all things wool.
Director Hayden Hickey, the third generation of Hickey in the business, said the milestone was as much about people as it was about the industry.
The plan was to ‘‘celebrate with all the generations, reconnect with everyone’’.
‘‘We’re dealing with generations of farmers, growers and communities,’’ he said.
‘‘The event is all about having a good time and showcasing all things wool.’’
It moved to Leask St in 1966.
Hayden’s father, Brent, took over in 1981 and led a series of expansions through the 1990s.
Hayden joined the business in 2011, continuing the family legacy.
This year’s celebration carries added significance too, following Brent Hickey’s death last year.
The open day will include woolstore tours, machinery demonstrations and a range of interactive activities, including a children’s treasure hunt as well as food and coffee stands.
‘‘This year we’ve got lots of interactive and educational activities,’’ Mr Hickey said.
‘‘We’re fully focused on all things wool.’’
There will be people working with wool from across Central Otago including Maniototo and Roxburgh, showcasing their products and creations and highlighting the diversity of the region’s wool industry.
Mr Hickey said a key drawcard would be the Royal A&P Society Golden Fleece Awards - more than 100 fleeces from around the country were entered in the national competition final - the first time the event had been hosted in Omakau.
