The disturbing trend of some growers to prepare their wool ‘unskirted’ or not to class their clip to the Code of Practice standard is costing the industry greatly. Not only those wools which, when the market is in an easing trend like now are clearly avoided by most buyers, but these types drop the standard and reputation of our national clip and lead to lower average prices. All growers and their brokers must be encouraged to follow the AWEX Code of Practice for wool preparation and to use a registered wool classer. Any system that reduces standards for a perceived net financial gain can only lead to long term lower prices. Wool is a luxury product and current prices should demand a quality preparation. Now is not the time to lower our standards.