Abstract
Drawing on research outputs of the Winegrowing Futures program and other sources Theme 6 developed and delivered an extensive and diverse range of communication products for use in extension, training and education, including the development and delivery of Spring Vine Health field days and the Grapevine Management Guide Theme 6 demonstrated the effectiveness and further potential of a user-defined and focussed approach to the state and national extension of the outputs of scientific research. Using the key elements of that approach provided by the prescribed Theme outputs, the NWGIC has created a coherent process from which to generate national innovation in the Australian wine sector. This includes the development of Extension of Australian Grape and Wine Research Findings: a plan for coordinated national delivery.
Summary
For the Australian wine sector to continue to grow all stakeholders must remain internationally competitive. This requires developing and maintaining an innovative culture underpinned by scientific research, education and vocational training.
The aim of this Theme was to accelerate rate of innovation i.e. practice change within the wine sector, by responsive management of knowledge generated by R&D conducted within the Winegrowing Futures program and elsewhere. The program was focused initially on NSW regions while contributing to wine sector capacity building more widely.
A key principle throughout was to ensure that the focus remained on industry needs and finding appropriate solutions to those needs. The wine industry stakeholders include wine grape producers, wine producers, information brokers and private consultants each of these stakeholders may need information delivered in different ways to achieve the desired outcomes.
Theme 6 was to create a state-wide team that could meet whole-of-industry needs by promoting:
– Linkages with researchers
– Desk audits of National, State and regional issues
– Independent extension activities with industry
– Development of training/short course opportunities