Vinehealth Australia CEO Inca Pearce and communications advisor Cindie Smart have begun a series of regional visits to discuss biosecurity priorities with councils, wine industry associations and tourism groups.
Topics covered so far include regional development and biosecurity planning, fencing of vineyards near bike and walking tracks, tools and technology to improve biosecurity practices, and support for the Vinehealth Australia’s Wine Tourism Biosecurity Program.
Meetings have so far been held with:
- Limestone Coast Grape and Wine Council
- Coonawarra Vignerons
- Wattle Range Council
- Regional Development Australia: Limestone Coast
- Local Government Australia: Limestone Coast
- Barossa Grape and Wine Association
- Tourism Barossa
- Barossa Council
- Regional Development Australia: Barossa
Meetings are scheduled in the Fleurieu Peninsula in December, and in 2019, meetings will be held in Clare, the Riverland, the Adelaide Hills and Langhorne Creek.
“We’re thrilled with the response we’ve had from councils and other organisations. When we explain the rising biosecurity pressures we’re facing in South Australia and what’s at stake, everyone we’ve met with has agreed that biosecurity should be a greater priority,” said Inca.
“We’re fortunate in South Australia to have some of the oldest vines in the world, thanks to the absence of the grapevine scourge, phylloxera. But we need to work hard to remain free of phylloxera and other pests and diseases that could severely damage our industry.
“Councils and associations we have already spoken to have agreed to work with the wine industry more closely on biosecurity plans and projects to keep our vines safe.”
In addition to these important meetings, Vinehealth Australia’s Wine Tourism Biosecurity Program trainer Hayley Conolly is delivering free training to cellar door and tourism staff around South Australia.
“This year, we’re aiming to train as many bus tour companies as possible – we want tourists to hear messages about keeping vines healthy from as many tour operators as possible,” Inca said.
If you would like to discuss biosecurity with Cindie and Inca, phone (08) 8273 0550 or email communications@vinehealth.com.au.