The Bloemfontein Wool Farmers’ Day 2026 was held from 17 – 18 February 2026 at the UFS Library and the Bloemfontein showgrounds. Under the theme Building a Competitive and Sustainable Wool Industry: From Farm Biosecurity to Certified Markets. The event focused on enhancing the resilience and marketability of the local wool sector.

Day 1: Theoretical Foundation

The first day, hosted at the University of the Free State, focused on the theoretical and regulatory aspects of the industry. Key sessions included:

• Biosecurity and Disease Control: Dr H. Bester-Cloete provided an overview of biosecurity in the Free State, while Dr N. van Hasselt and W. van der Merwe detailed specific measures for controlling Sheep Scab.

• Certification and Standards: S. van Schoor from SAMIC discussed the importance of certification in the wool and mutton industries.

• Legal Framework: M. Mortassagne highlighted the Animal Identification Act’s critical role in biosecurity and preventing stock theft.

• Industry Support and Research: The NWGA discussed its role within the province, and Dr A.J. Strauss presented findings on the performance of communal wool sheep in the Free State. 

Day 2: Practical Application

The second day transitioned to the Bloemfontein showgrounds for practical demonstrations. Although the program originally intended to involve livestock, actual animals could not be used due to a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak. To ensure the training remained effective while adhering to safety protocols, the following was conducted:

• Wool Handling: A practical session utilized an already sheared wool bale to demonstrate woolshed layout, hygiene, classing, grading, and handling for certification

• Risk Mitigation: Dr J. van Rooyen from the UFS discussed the vital role herders play in biosecurity and mitigating risks on the farm.