- Published:
- Friday 8 September 2017
Victoria’s wine industry continues to go from strength to strength thanks to Andrews Labor Government support, which is helping growers expand their businesses and connect tourists and wine connoisseurs to the perfect drop.
Premier Daniel Andrews visited the picturesque Mount Langi Ghiran vineyard today to meet with wine industry representatives and tourism operators to discuss the ongoing growth of the Victorian wine industry.
Mount Langi Ghiran is one of many wineries in the Grampians region benefitting from dedicated Labor Government funding, which is pioneering projects to target new markets, boost wine tourism, and expand wine businesses.
The Wine Growth Fund has provided a number of grants to support the Grampians and Pyrenees regions’ distinct cool climate wine region. Round 1 projects included:
- Montara Winery Cellar Door Expansion
- The Grampians Pyrenees Wine Tourism Master Plan 2017 - 2020
- Great Southern Road Food & Wine Itinerary
- The Mount Langi Ghiran Picnic Idyll
- Richardson Wines Cellar Door Facility
- The Grampians Winemakers Strategic Marketing and Brand Plan
Mount Langi Ghiran benefitted directly from funding for a new picnic seating area for visitors to enjoy.
Victoria’s wine industry plays a vital role in regional and rural economies, which contribute an estimated $7.6 billion to the Victorian economy and directly employ nearly 13,000 people.
Victoria’s wine exports were valued at $294 million last year – up 18 per cent from the previous year. China is Victoria’s largest export market and growing, comprising more than a third of exports.
The Labor Government is strongly backing the wine industry. Through the Victorian Wine Industry Development Strategy 2017-2021, the Wine Growth Fund and appointment of the Wine Industry Ministerial Advisory Committee – we’re giving the support the sector needs to grow and prosper.
The second round of the fund is currently open, with $900,000 available to support projects that increase exports, boost jobs and support tourism across Victoria’s 21 distinct wine regions.
Applications for Round two close on Friday 15 September. For more details go to rdv.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We’re proud to back Victoria’s wine industry and their world-class drop. Thanks to their hard work, they’re creating jobs, boosting exports and making our regional areas even better places to live, work and visit. ”
“From a winery-walkabout to cellar door tastings, it’s time to get out to regional Victoria and raise a glass to our growers and the future of Victorian wine which is well and truly sparkling.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“The Grampians and Pyrenees regions produce premium wine that is the envy of the nation – that’s why we’re supporting these projects that will help attract more visitors to this beautiful part of the state.”
Quote attributable to Chair of Wine Victoria Damien Sheehan
“Wine Tourism is so important to the future of our industry, it allows consumers to enjoy our amazing wines in so many different and exciting ways.”
“We are thrilled that the Victorian Government is supporting our wineries through the Wine Growth Fund to make sure Victoria is the best wine tourism destination in Australia.”