However, the organisers are not resting on their laurels.
WoolOn event co-ordinator Jamie Richards said holding the show every second year would allow the committee to re-energise and expand its wool-focused events.
"Be assured, we’re not sitting back relaxing over the course of this year. It’s grist to the mill and we are so looking forward to bringing an energised and absolutely sensational calendar of wool-focused events in 2025 and 2026."
Plans for the first two-yearly show, in August next year, would be released this year.
"We’ll be announcing the categories for 2026 later this year, with a plan to open for entries much earlier than usual in 2026."
WoolOn chairman Nigel Wilson said the success of last year’s weekend of events led to an acceptance of what could be achieved by a volunteer organisation.
Staging two catwalk shows on one day followed by a trade expo the next day would challenge any professional agency, never mind a volunteer group.
"We’ve made the difficult, but correct, decision to not hurtle into producing events for this year. While this may seem disappointing to our always enthusiastic and supportive audience and, of course, the designers dedicated to entering their amazing creations, we encourage you to set your sights on next year with big, bold and beautiful in mind."
WoolOn had drafted a three-year strategy — Create, Promote and Celebrate — which had identified fabulous opportunities for the organisation and the wool community, he said.
The process had also highlighted the need for additional volunteers to make those developments possible, Mr Wilson said.
"As an organisation, WoolOn has collected its thoughts and consolidated ideas into a firm and passionate vision. Now, we need to take some time to develop the strategy into strong and meaningful events and education for the future."
WoolOn was unique in New Zealand as the only specifically wool-focused creative event, he said. Participation by designers from all around the country, including repeat entrants, and community feedback highlighted how highly valued WoolOn was.
Secretary Sue Phillip said the committee was very grateful to the community, businesses, funders and other groups which supported the event.
Mr Wilson said he was resigning from his chairman role due to other commitments but urged anyone interested in the event to go to the WoolOn annual meeting.
With a newly defined strategy, more people were needed for governance, fundraising and production, Wilson said.
— WoolOn’s annual meeting will be held at Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery on March 13 at 7pm.
