The woolgrower candidates will challenge the five board members up for re-election in November, including the new chairman, Brian van Rooyen.

However, former high-profile Woolmark boss, Brenda McGahan, who was expected to be a candidate has ruled herself out.

Haddon Rig stud principal, George Falkiner, added his name to the list this week, alongside Australian Stud Merino Breeders president, Will Roberts, and West Australian woolgrower, David Webster.

Mr Falkiner said he was approached to stand by AWI members, including current board directors.

“It’s time to close the debate on mulesing and move forward on creating demand for wool,” said Mr Falkiner, speaking at the Rabobank National Merino Show and Sale.

But, most importantly, that meant not compromising animal welfare, which at Haddon Rig translated to mulesing with pain relief before phasing out the practice as genetic and other alternatives became viable, he said.