Nutrien's backing Tassie woolgrowers

Nutrien Ag Solutions has solidified its wool operations in Tasmania as it looks ahead to 2025, with George Nicols heading up the Wool Division for Tasmania and Western Victoria.

Tassie-born George has spent over two decades managing family and corporate farms across both Victoria and Tasmania and has working been with Nutrien since 2021.

“I’ve always been passionate about wool and livestock,” says George. “There’s a unique opportunity here in Tasmania to leverage our clean, green reputation to market our sustainable, high quality agricultural products.”

As part of his role, George is focused on maintaining Tasmania’s strong wool industry and helping local farmers tap into international markets.

“The industry is evolving rapidly, and sustainability and profitability are key areas we need to focus on over the next decade. I’m committed to representing Tassie wool producers to buyers and exporters, and ensuring our woolgrowers can take full advantage of global opportunities.”

George says that Nutrien offers a unique advantage of local expertise combined with a national and global presence.

“Our team in Tassie is not only experienced but deeply embedded in the local farming community. We’re here to service the specific needs of our producers, from advising on livestock and wool to offering tailored solutions for the challenges they face.”

Rounding out Nutrien’s Tasmanian leadership team are Josh Sattler, General Manager – Tasmania, Duncan Bull, Division Merch and Fertiliser Manager, and Stuart Milwood, State Agronomy Manager.

George also highlighted the exciting new wave of talent coming into the agriculture industry.

“We’ve seen younger professionals join our team, bringing innovative ideas and enthusiasm, which is exactly what we need to stay competitive in an unpredictable market.”

Wool Lead Tasmania & Western Victoria George Nichols

“Despite the tough season we had in 2024, we are optimistic about the year ahead and committed to ensuring our farmers have access to the right products, advice, and tools to navigate market conditions and make the most of seasonal opportunities,” George adds.

One of Nutrien Ag Solutions’ strengths lies in its ability to provide real-time market intelligence.

“With our on-the-ground presence at the Australian Wool Exchange in Brooklyn (Victoria), we’re able to bring the latest market insights directly to our clients. Having people on the floor means we can react quickly to shifts in demand and pricing, ensuring our producers can make informed decisions,” says George.

In addition, Nutrien’s market insight platform, Mecardo offers customers concise, timely and relevant market analysis across a range of commodities.

 “We regularly draw on Mecardo’s comprehensive market reports to offer our clients the best strategies for maximising profitability,” says George.

“This kind of data-driven insight, combined with our local expertise, ensures that Tasmania’s wool producers have the tools they need to succeed in an unpredictable market.”

Tasmanian General Manager Josh Sattler and George Nichols

Nutrien is also going further for agricultural communities, with 12 emergency trauma training workshops delivered across Tasmania in the past two years, as part of a national initiative to upskill regional communities with life-saving skills, targeted to those working in agriculture.

The Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program has also provided grants to a number of Tasmanian community groups over the past four years, including the Huon She Shed Inc, Parkham Community Inc and Lower Barrington Community Hall Inc, each awarded a $5,000 grant in 2024.

In Tasmania, Nutrien operates 15 branch locations, with more than 200 advisors and specialists working across a wide range of sectors, including wool, livestock, real estate, finance, water, and more.