Breaking the Sheep's Back

Discover the compelling narrative of 'Breaking the Sheep's Back,' a gripping exploration of Australia’s wool industry collapse. This meticulously researched book, authored by Charles Massy, delves into the overlooked tragedies and profound consequences stemming from Australia's biggest industry disaster. Once a flourishing economic powerhouse, the wool sector has seen a dramatic decline, prompting Massy's exhaustive investigation into the pivotal events leading to its downfall. Spanning 436 pages and published by University of Queensland Press in 2011, this trade paperback offers rare insights into the political and economic fallout that reshaped Australia. Readers will uncover the lack of accountability that followed the crisis, as there has been no royal commission to date, despite the enormous social and financial damage inflicted. Massy's thorough interviews and access to classified documents illuminate the stories behind the scenes, from prime ministerial offices to the sheep farms that once thrived. Perfect for those interested in Australian history, economics, and political intrigue, 'Breaking the Sheep's Back' is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of a nation defined by its sheep. With FREE shipping available, delve into this vital piece of history today.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780702238857
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2011
Publisher: University of Queensland Press
Pages: 436


Description:
Breaking the Sheep's Back is the untold story of the events that led to Australia's biggest industry disaster.

Once a great nation-building icon, the wool business today is but a third of its size when Australia 'rode on the sheep's back'. Compared to the more recent Australian Wheat Board scandal, 40 times more funds were lost in the downfall, and vastly more collateral social and economic damage was done in this country and across the globe.

This story is a tragedy that reached into the offices of prime ministers and Cabinet members across seven federal governments and its agencies. Despite this politically sanctioned collapse, there has never been a royal commission. Until now, no one has investigated what precipitated the great crash of February 1991 or the industry ongoing decline.

It has taken author Charles Massy ten years to research and write this book. In the process he spoke to most of the major players and gained access to the key documents and correspondence. He has gone inside cabinet and political offices, the Wool Corporation, the boardrooms of international wool buyers, wool processors and designers, and the living rooms of farmers across the country.

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