Growing up on a family estate surrounded by sheep, Rachel Murphy has been immersed in the world of farming and wool from an early age. While her father worked as a shearer. So she discovered her own passion in Wool Handling – a path that has led to national representation and advocacy for Ulster wool. With four consecutive appearances for Northern Ireland at the World Championships. Rachel combines dedication, skill, and a deep connection to the farming community. Beyond the competition arena, she champions sustainable, local wool, helping bridge the gap between farmers and consumers while highlighting the versatility and value of this natural fibre.

Can you tell us about your background in farming and the wool industry?

My dad works on an estate running around 1,000 ewes. And I grew up there, so sheep have always been part of my life. I help out with lambing, shearing and wool handling and have done from a young age, so it’s something I’ve always been around.

Dad was a shearer, but I never fancied picking up the handpiece myself. So I went down the wool handling route instead – and that’s where I found my place.

How many times have you represented Northern Ireland in the World Champs?

This will be my fourth time in succession representing Northern Ireland at the World Championships, which is something I’m incredibly proud of.

To pull on the Northern Ireland jersey once is special, but to do it four times running really means a lot. It takes a huge amount of commitment, training and support from those around you, so I never take the opportunity for granted. It’s always an honour to represent home on that stage.

What’s your preparation for the World Champs?

My preparation for the World Championships starts with keeping myself fit. I go to the gym regularly to make sure I’m strong and ready for the physical side of it. Wool handling is demanding, so fitness makes a big difference.

I’ll be travelling over in February and will spend time working alongside my sister, Ellen, while I’m there, which is great preparation in itself. If there are any competitions happening while I’m over, I’ll definitely look into entering them.

How does it feel representing Northern Ireland on the World stage?

It’s even more special this time as it’ll be the first time both Ellen and I will be competing together at a World Championships. That means a lot to us.

I’m sure there’ll be a bit of sibling rivalry thrown in – there always is – but it’s all in good spirit. At the end of the day, we’re both proud to be representing Northern Ireland and supporting each other along the way.

How did you first become involved with Ulster Wool, and what led to you becoming an ambassador?

I first became involved with Ulster Wool through helping out at the Balmoral Show, mainly with the wool handling and packing. It was a great way to get stuck in and be part of it all.

Jayne Harkness-Bones was a big inspiration to me and really encouraged me to step into the competition side of things. Having that support and belief made a big difference, and it naturally led to me becoming more involved and eventually taking on the role of ambassador.

From your perspective, what makes Ulster wool (fibre) special and worth championing?

From my point of view, Ulster wool is special because it’s a completely natural product. It’s sustainable, renewable and something we’re producing right here at home, which is important.

It’s also incredibly versatile. There are so many different products it can be used for, from insulation to clothing and beyond. I think that’s something worth shouting about, especially at a time when people are looking for more environmentally friendly options.

We held the Muckamore open evening last year – why do you feel these events are important for both farmers and the public?

The Muckamore open evening were really worthwhile. They give farmers the chance to see exactly what happens to their wool once it leaves the yard. From how it’s graded and the different types and qualities. I think that understanding the process helps everyone see the bigger picture.

They’re also important for the public. It gives consumers a better idea of where wool actually comes from and the work that goes in behind the scenes. That connection between farm and product is something we shouldn’t lose.

How can farmers make the most of our services and support?

Farmers can really make the most of our services by working together and bringing their wool through one main outlet. By pooling it together, it gives strength in numbers and helps ensure the wool is marketed properly and sold at a competitive price.

It also means the grading is done professionally and consistently. Which helps protect the reputation of our product. The more we work together and back the system in place, the stronger the industry will be for everyone involved.

What’s the most rewarding part of being an ambassador?

The most rewarding part of being an ambassador is getting out and speaking to farmers about Ulster Wool and what we’re trying to achieve. It’s good to have those honest conversations and hear directly what’s on people’s minds.

I also really value working alongside the other ambassadors. There’s a great community spirit between us. We’re able to share opinions and talk through the different queries we’re all getting. That way, we can feed things back properly and make sure farmers feel heard and supported.

In three words, how would you sum up Ulster Wool?

Supportive, Guidance, Valuable