Latest News
• Add My News • Search Old News
Leadership Program Supports Wine Industry  http://www.english-wine.com/vineyards.html The first year of the Wine Industry Leadership Program (WILP) has ended on a high, with 28 people graduating from the program and intense interest shown for future courses across Australia. By Department of Primary Industries - 20th September 2007 - Back to News Developed by Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation, in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Rural Training Initiatives (RTI), the program is a four-year leadership project designed to build the next generation of wine industry leaders.
"During the program people came together at a local level and developed networks and skills, which apply to the regional industry, in their own business as well as in everyday life," said WILP program co-facilitator, Jill Briggs.
"The program is tailored to meet the needs of each region and is developed in consultation with local wine industry personnel."
During the program the graduates attended one of three regional courses and represented a variety of sectors including grape growing, winemaking, management, cellar-door, administration and marketing.
DPI Senior Wine Industry project officer, Cynthia Mahoney, is excited by the industry’s response to the program so far and believes it will only continue to grow.
"We have received fantastic feedback and look forward to delivering the program in at least nine regional areas throughout Australia over the next three years," Ms Mahoney said.
North East Victoria program graduate Tim Long from Granite Range Estate, said the course gave participants a better understanding of themselves and an appreciation of the extra power that effective communication can bring to problem-solving and decision-making.
"I sometimes struggle to present information in the best manner, so components of the course such as dealing with media, participating in meetings effectively and networking were particularly important," Mr Long said.
Central Victoria program graduate, Victoria Leeke of Fosters Group Ltd and family company, Kimbarra Wines, said she had increased energy, enthusiasm and confidence in managing her team as a result of the course. For a complete list of graduates, refer to page 2.
Next year, the three day course will be run in South Australia and Western Australia. The cost is $297 (GST inclusive) for FarmBis-eligible participants.
For further information please contact Jill Briggs on (02) 6035 7284 or Cynthia Mahoney
on (03) 9296 4628 or visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/wineindustryleadership.
Congratulations to the following Wine Industry Leadership Program Graduates:
North East Victoria Program
Damien Cofield - Cofield Wines and Drinkmoor Wines
Sarah Flamsteed - Smiths Vineyard
Tyce Light - Chrismont
Tim Long - Granite Range Estate
Peter Long – Granite Range Estate
Rowland Milhinch – Scion Vineyard
Mellissa Millgate - Cofield Wines and Drinkmoor Wines
Michael Oxlee – Stanton and Killeen Wines
Central Victoria Program
Helen Bethune – Shelmerdine Vineyards
Lisa Cole – Yuroke Vineyards
Kate Cotter - Gentle Annie Wines
Deborah Jones Munari – Munari Wines
Andrea Hart – Fosters Group Ltd
Victoria Leeke - Fosters Group Ltd and Kimbarra Wines
Robyn Simmie – Yuroke Vineyards
Steve Thomas - Blaxland Vineyards
Attwood Program
Loretta Breheny – Brown Magpie Vineyard
Adam Dalton – Mitchelton Wines
Lyn Gleeson – Whistling Eagle Vineyard
Sharni Hutton – Mitchelton Wines
Graeme Millard - Milvine Estate Wines
Jo Millard - Milvine Estate Wines
Alan Murray – Ten Minutes By Tractor Wine Company
Deb Orr – Heathcote Cellars
Lynn Rathjen – Whistling Eagle Vineyard
Trish Rathjen – Whistling Eagle Vineyard
Joanne Sheridan – Ten Minutes By Tractor Wine Company
Matthew Zerbe – Box Stallion
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
Related Articles- East Gippsland Councillors take council in community program to Twin Rivers district for local engagement on 29 September 2026
East Gippsland Councillors will visit Bruthen, Johnsonville and Metung on September 29, meeting residents and businesses to discuss local priorities, challenges and opportunities through Council’s community engagement program. - Bass Coast Shire Council seeks community input to shape future grants program and strengthen local community initiatives until 4 October 2026
Bass Coast Council is reviewing its Community Grants Program, inviting residents and groups to help shape funding priorities supporting local projects, events, climate action and community initiatives. - East Gippsland Council begins targeted roadside slashing program to reduce fire risks ahead of approaching fire season
East Gippsland Shire Council has begun targeted roadside slashing ahead of fire season, prioritising vegetation growth, local conditions and emerging fire risks, with progress updates available online. - Baw Baw Council awards $137,000 in community grants to 35 local groups supporting events, programs, equipment and community projects across the shire
Baw Baw Shire Council has conditionally awarded more than $137,000 to 35 community groups through its first 2026/27 grants round, supporting local events, projects, equipment and initiatives across the Shire. - Tourism industry warns visa delays threaten jobs and revenue ahead of Australia's critical Christmas holiday season this year
Australia's tourism sector warns visa delays, rising living costs and fuel prices could put $3 billion revenue and 20,000 jobs at risk this Christmas, urging government action. - Community groups encouraged to apply for East Gippsland’s 2026-27 grants program before 14 September 20260 deadline
East Gippsland community groups can apply for 2026–27 grants supporting community, environmental, social and wellbeing projects, with funding from $3,000 to $20,000 available until September 14, 2026. - Morwell International Rose Garden Festival unveils exciting 2026 program ahead of November celebration
Morwell’s free International Rose Garden Festival returns November 6–7, featuring entertainment, workshops, markets, children’s activities and spectacular Night Lights, celebrating the region’s iconic gardens with more than 4,000 roses. - Gippsland community groups invited to apply for grants up to $20,000 under Stronger Communities Program Round 10 until 23 November 2026
Gippsland community organisations can apply for $2,500 to $20,000 grants under Round 10 of the Stronger Communities Programme, with $150,000 available for local infrastructure and social benefit projects. - Darren Chester says growers and industry groups are concerned Labor's visa processing pause is creating uncertainty for farmers
Australian farmers warn delayed visa processing for seasonal and skilled workers could worsen labour shortages, disrupt harvests, reduce food production and push fresh produce prices higher for Australian families. - Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible. - Australia Day Awards nominations closing soon and other council projects and program updates
South Gippsland Shire Council shares updates on community awards, infrastructure, citizenship, seniors’ programs, events, grants, jobs, emergency preparedness, and public consultations about local swimming pools and essential community services. - Latrobe Council urges Premier Carroll to fast-track investment, industry growth and secure future jobs in Valley
Latrobe City Council has urged newly appointed Premier Ben Carroll to meet urgently on economic diversification, investment and job creation as the region faces energy transition, manufacturing job losses and Yallourn 2028 closure. - Moe’s first women’s cricket team makes history as $11M Ted Summerton Reserve upgrade boosts regional sport and accessibility
Moe’s Ted Summerton Reserve has received an $11 million upgrade, delivering improved sporting facilities, accessibility and female-friendly change rooms ahead of the town’s first women’s cricket match. The project supported 370 jobs. - Victoria releases ten-year waterway strategy to strengthen river, estuary, wetland and floodplain management across state
Victoria has released its updated Waterway Management Strategy, outlining a ten-year plan to protect rivers, wetlands, estuaries and floodplains, while supporting community involvement and Traditional Owners’ cultural responsibilities. - Bass Coast Shire Council traineeships open pathways to local careers and opportunities
Bass Coast Council’s 2026 traineeship program supports seven trainees with practical experience, qualifications and career pathways. Applications for 2027 are expected early next year, with opportunities showcased at Phillip Island September expo. - Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on first draft Events Strategy for future events from 27 August to 16 September 2026
Baw Baw Shire is inviting residents, event organisers and local businesses to comment on its first draft Events Strategy, open on Baw Baw Connect from August 27 to September 16, helping shape future event planning across the Shire. - Cr John White recognised for 10 Years of dedicated service representing East Gippsland communities on council
East Gippsland Councillor John White has been recognised for 10 years of service, including two terms as Mayor, advocating for local priorities and representing communities across government levels. - Melbourne Symphony Orchestra returns to Sale after 17 years, bringing acclaimed performances and Australian premieres to The Wedge on 28 October 2026
The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will return to Sale on October 28, performing at The Wedge for the first time since 2009, featuring Mozart classics and a world-premiere Australian concerto. - West Gippsland Landcare celebrates 40 Years of environmental action and community connection
More than 150 Landcare supporters celebrated 40 years of West Gippsland Landcare, reflecting on achievements, community connections and future opportunities for resilient landscapes and sustainable farming. - West Gippsland community invited to document local biodiversity during first-ever month-long West Gippy Bio-Blitz citizen science projects
West Gippsland CMA is inviting residents to join its first Bio-Blitz throughout October, documenting local plants and wildlife through iNaturalist to build a snapshot of the region’s biodiversity. - Latrobe Regional Gallery unveils spring exhibitions celebrating place, culture, community, history and the natural world
Latrobe Regional Gallery spring program features five exhibitions exploring Gippsland places, community, culture, history and nature, alongside Japanese traditions and contemporary artistic responses. - Wellington Shire no-fee green waste disposal returns to support community preparedness on 17 October to 15 November 2026
Wellington Shire free green waste disposal program returns October 17, helping residents reduce bushfire risks before summer, with extended access available at Loch Sport until November 30. - East Gippsland Landcare Groups recognised at Victorian Awards celebrating 40 Years of environmental stewardship and community conservation efforts
East Gippsland Landcare groups Moogji Aboriginal Council and FEVL received the First Nations Landcare Collaboration Award, while Romawi Landcare was highly commended for innovation and its ongoing conservation efforts. - Martin Cameron backs Regional road funding to fix dangerous, neglected Latrobe Valley roads and bridges
A proposed $288 million Country Roads and Bridges program would give Latrobe City $1.5 million annually for four years to repair and upgrade local roads and bridges. - Gippsland Landcare champions win Victorian awards for environmental conservation, First Nations collaboration and sustainable agriculture achievements
Two Gippsland Landcare champions have won 2026 Victorian Landcare Awards, with Moogji Aboriginal Council and Kate Mirams and Peter Neaves recognised for environmental stewardship, collaboration and sustainable agriculture. - Latrobe City ratepayers to receive 2026/27 notices as council outlines $90.4M works program
Latrobe City ratepayers will receive 2026/27 rates notices from late August, helping fund $90.4 million in capital works, essential services and community assets across the municipality. - Regional Development $750,000 investment expands employment and education support for 120 Latrobe Valley young people through 2028
The Victorian government is investing a further $750,000 in the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Program, supporting 120 young people with employment, education, training and independence opportunities through 2028. - Six Latrobe Valley businesses receive funding to diversify, boost productivity and strengthen supply chains during economic transition
Six Latrobe Valley businesses will receive funding through the Gippsland Supply Chain Resilience Program to improve productivity, purchase equipment, expand markets and strengthen supply chains amid regional economic transition. - South Gippsland Council highlights Seniors Festival 2026, road safety projects, community initiatives and other updates across shire
South Gippsland Shire Council highlights Seniors Festival events, $2.849 million in road safety funding, a new Nyora public toilet, resilience initiatives, community programs and feedback opportunities across the region. - Latrobe City Business Festival returns with free October events connecting businesses, employers, job seekers and industry partners
Latrobe City’s 2026 Business Festival runs October 14–23, offering free jobs expos, workshops, networking, professional development and business events connecting employers, workers, students and industry. - East Gippsland Landcare Groups secure funding for environmental projects and community conservation across the region
East Gippsland Landcare groups received 22 project and 11 support grants under the 2026 Victorian program, funding habitat restoration, weed management, biodiversity, education and volunteer activities. - Darren Chester joined Traralgon Rotary volunteers and State MPs to prepare 500 sandwiches for Eat Up Australia’s school lunch program
Darren Chester joined Traralgon Rotary volunteers and MPs Marty Cameron and Melina Bath to prepare 500 sandwiches for Eat Up Australia, providing free school lunches to disadvantaged children across Gippsland.
|
|
