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McLaren Vale and Margaret River’s Next Crop participants graduate

12 Dec 2024
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Emerging leaders of Australia’s wine sector from Margaret River and McLaren Vale have graduated from the latest Next Crop program, the regional platform to introduce leadership, business and management skills to build capacity within wine regions.

Thirty-three graduates across McLaren Vale and Margaret River completed Next Crop, which involved a series of regionally-tailored professional development sessions delivered over the past six months.

Next Crop is funded by Wine Australia and was delivered in partnership with McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism Association (MVGWTA) and the Margaret River Wine Association (MRWA) in their respective regions.

“McLaren Vale is so lucky to have such an incredible group of leaders in our 2024 Next Crop cohort!” said Erin Leggat, Chief Executive Officer of MVGWTA. “This program has allowed them to step out of their day-to-day roles and band together into an incredible force for the region going forward. 

“Their effort and dedication to their regional projects have generated meaningful, tangible ideas that will develop the reputation, quality, sustainability and visitor appeal of our region, grapes and wines into the future,” she said.

McLaren Vale Graduates

“Having the Next Crop program in Margaret River has been incredibly rewarding,” said MRWA Chief Executive Officer Amanda Whiteland. “It reflects our commitment to supporting the future of the wine industry by equipping our emerging leaders with the skills, confidence, and insights to drive innovation and success”.

Margaret River Graduates

McLaren Vale Next Crop testimonials

“Next Crop was so rewarding. It was great to connect with old and new industry colleagues. To be able to share our vision for McLaren Vale collectively and to take measurable steps towards that vision has been highly worthwhile.”
-    Jen Pedder

"Being part of the Next Crop Leadership Program in McLaren Vale was an incredible experience! Not only did I gain valuable skills and insights but I also had the chance to learn from an amazing and diverse group of people. The conversations, shared laughs and unique perspectives of my peers were just as enriching as the course content. This collective exchange has deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities in our industry and inspired me to contribute to the region's continued growth and success.”
-    Berenice Axisa

“How exciting to be a part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking group of people, so passionate about our region, community, and industry.  It makes me very optimistic about the future of the Vale.  It’s in good hands with this Next Crop of visionaries!”
-    Alan Varney

“Next Crop McLaren Vale 2024 bought together a cohort of highly motivated regional ambassadors, introduced us to the established networks and highly experienced resources here, all while creating an opportunity to forge life-long networks between all of the participants. It was an excellent program to be part of."
-    Lauren Langfield

Margaret River Next Crop testimonials

“Being selected for Next Crop 2024 was an incredible honour. Having the chance to collaborate with and unite with industry colleagues to help future-proof our region has been a privilege. This experience has greatly boosted my confidence, allowing me to expand my network and empowering me to step up and make a positive impact — both within my company and team, as well as within the wider wine industry community.”
-    Sam Bradley 

“The Next Crop program has been an incredible experience. The industry insights, personal growth and connections I’ve built with the cohort will guide my path, strengthen my leadership and shape how I contribute to the industry’s future.”
Dave Targett 

“I found the Margaret River Next Crop program hugely beneficial. It both broadened my conception of our industry, and clarified my focus on where I think I can add value. Just as importantly, it introduced me to 14 incredibly passionate, talented and engaged wine professionals. People who I am proud to call both colleagues and friends.”
-    Dan Stocker 

“The Next Crop program has enriched my leadership journey in life both professionally and personally. It has been a time to reflect, learn and grow with a cohort of inspiring, motivated and energetic individuals with whom I’ve forged close relationships and will continue to collaborate with for many years to come. It has opened my eyes up to the wider Australian wine industry, with the challenges we face together and the power of collaborative thinking and problem solving. It is certainly an exciting and bright future, standing alongside my fellow Next Crop graduates.”
-    Ellin Tritt 

“This initiative has been instrumental in my personal and professional development, equipping me with leadership skills, industry insights, and strategic thinking—essential tools for navigating the dynamic challenges of the wine industry. Additionally, the valuable network of peers and mentors I have connected with through this program has been transformative.

For a fast-growing region like Margaret River, programs like Next Crop are vital. They empower emerging leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable, innovative growth. The connections and insights I’ve gained through this program will enable me to contribute meaningfully to our region's future, ensuring its continued success on a global stage.
This experience has deepened my appreciation for the importance of collaboration and forward-thinking within our industry. I am truly grateful to the Margaret River Wine Association and Wine Australia for their commitment to fostering leadership and investing in programs that empower both individuals and the regions they represent”

-    Megan Read                 


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This content is restricted to wine exporters and levy-payers. Some reports are available for purchase to non-levy payers/exporters.