A new national network called Rootlings has been launched to harness the energy of young grape and wine professionals to foster the next generation of talent in the wine industry.
The targeted program will support under-35s working as winemakers, viticulturists, cellar door staff, wine judges and other roles, often in regional areas, to build connections and develop their skills.
The program was successfully piloted in New South Wales in 2023, attracting more than 50 participants.
It is the brainchild of Maggie Jarrett of See Saw Wines in Orange.
She felt the sector was lacking a peer-to-peer support network for younger professionals.
Following overwhelmingly positive feedback, Rootlings is being expanded nationally.
The initiative will be led by Hunter Valley-based wine marketing specialist Jenna Vaughan.
She has been appointed national project officer.
Ms Vaughan was motivated to apply for the role after experiencing the benefits through the pilot.
“Witnessing the profound impact of the NSW Rootlings program on young professionals in the wine industry has been truly inspiring,” she said.
“It is a privilege to now be part of a program that fosters personal and professional growth, ignites passion and shapes the future of Australian wine.
“By connecting like-minded individuals, providing mentorship and facilitating skill development, we empower the next generation to drive innovation and elevate the Australian wine industry to new heights.”
Designed by and for young professionals across the Australian grape and wine sector and jointly supported by Wine Australia and the Australian Society of Viticulture & Oenology, the program will provide networking and education activities focused on the needs of young people in the sector and their professional development.
Wil Arnold, cellar door manager for Swinging Bridge in Orange, was a participant in the Rootlings pilot.
He said the program had given him a “much better perspective of the industry as a whole and the many career paths that can be followed”.
“Having exposure to each area of the industry through the program has helped me gain a better understanding of where my skill set and interest can take me,” Arnold said.
“I think it is easy to feel isolated as a young person in the wine industry and Rootlings is the perfect way to connect with like-minded people. It also provides great learning opportunities that are not easily found elsewhere in the industry.”
Dr Martin Cole, Wine Australia CEO, said the launch of Rootlings was in line with the goal of attracting, developing and retaining skilled people in the wine sector – a priority outlined in the One Grape & Wine Sector Plan.
“It is vital for the future-proofing of the grape and wine sector that it retains skilled and semi-skilled people across all areas,” he said.
“Rootlings will develop peer-to-peer networks and professional development activities for young people, by young people.
“An engaged youth can drive positive change across the sector and it is hoped the program will empower participants to become actively involved at regional, state and national levels.”
ASVO executive officer Chris Waters said he was looking forward to working closely with Ms Vaughan and supporting her to expand Rootligs across Australia.
“The Rootlings initiative aligns perfectly with the ASVO’s strategic objectives to build connections, knowledge and professional development for its members,” Mr Waters said.
“Over the past four decades, ASVO has established a strong sense of community within the wine industry, especially among winemakers, viticulturists, researchers and scientists.
“Rootlings will do the same for a younger generation via the networks that Jenna will establish. By working together, we will bridge the gap and build a strong intergenerational wine community.”
Photo: Jenna Vaughan.
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