In this episode of Animals and Us, we’re joined by Dr Nan Bray – marine scientist turned ethical wool producer – who’s redefining what it means to care for both animals and the land. Based in the Tasmanian highlands, Nan runs White Gum Wool, a farm where sheep are not just livestock but respected members of a social and ecological community.

Nan shares how her science background informs a radically compassionate approach to sheep farming – one that avoids slaughter, mulesing and tail docking, while preserving family groups and supporting healthy, functioning ecosystems. Her sheep graze freely on diverse native pastures, teaching their lambs to forage and live in kinship groups that reflect their natural behaviours.

We talk about the ethical and environmental impact of conventional wool production, what it means to truly listen to animals, and how farming can shift from domination to relationship. For anyone curious about regenerative practices, animal-centred agriculture, or the future of wool, this is a powerful conversation grounded in both data and deep care.

website: whitegumwool.com.au

blog posts: https://www.whitegumwool.com.au/yarns-from-the-farm

instagram: @whitegumwool

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