SA wine industry scheme
The South Australian government is putting $1.8 million into a scheme to attract more visitors to South Australia’s wine industry.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Leon Bignell said the aim is to build the state’s wine sector and confirm South Australia’s position as the nation’s best producer of premium wine.
“Funding from the scheme will not only directly benefit individual cellar doors but also extend to grape growers, winemakers, individual wine brands, culinary tourism operators, restaurants as well as regional food and wine events,” Mr Bignell told the Border Chronicle
“We have 18 distinct wine regions and we want to ensure we continue to attract as many visitors and sell as much wine as possible.
“In 2014-15, South Australia's wine sector generated almost $1.8 billion in revenue and increasing the funding for this crucial industry means more jobs in our regions.
“The scheme will ensure the benefits from Adelaide’s membership in the Great Wine Capitals Global Network will flow across the state – promoting our regions on an international stage.”
He said the scheme was developed in consultation with the wine industry.
It offers two grants programs.
First is the $1 million Cellar Door Grants Program which will help wineries upgrade their cellar door offerings. That might include adding exclusive tasting rooms, bed and breakfast facilities and education programs teaching visitors all about premium wine.
All South Australian wineries can apply for grants of up to $25,000.
Then there is the $600,000 Regional Wine Industry Association Grants Program, targeting regional wine tourism and visitor experiences. Regional wine and grape associations can apply for grants of up to $50,000.
The state has also allocated $200,000 to support new major wine events and promotions
Applications for the Cellar Door Grants program will close at 5pm on Tuesday..
Applications for the Regional Wine Industry Association Grants program runs until 5pm November 25.
by Leon Gettler, November 11th 2016
