Australian Wine Industry’s First Female Life Member

Jane Mitchell from Mitchell Wines in the Clare Valley has been made a Life Member of the Australian Wine Industry by Australian Grape & Wine (AGW).

She is the first female Life Member of AGW (formerly Winemakers’ Federation of Australia).

“Jane’s outstanding achievements and efforts over many years in the winery, board rooms and in her community have played a key role in creating a vibrant modern industry,” outgoing AGW chairman Sandy Clark says.

“After more than 43 vintages and working in all facets of winemaking at Mitchell Wines, Jane is recognised for her commitment to the wine industry.”

Jane was one of the first appointees of the South Australian Tourism Commission.

For 12 years she was on the Australian Regional Winemakers’ Forum, Winemakers’ Federation of Australia Council and served a six-year term with the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation Board.

“This award recognises outstanding leadership and contribution to the nation’s wine industry over and above an individual’s career achievements,” Mr Clark says.

“Jane is an exceptionally worthy recipient and takes her place amongst other greats including Wolf Blass, d’Arry Osborn, Philip Laffer, Terry Lee and the late Brother John May and Peter Wall.

“Australian Grape & Wine is proud to administer this award.”

Meanwhile John Hart is the new chair of AGW, taking over from Sandy Clark.

Australian Wine Industry Life Members

Jane Mitchell (2021)
Dr Tony Jordan OAM (2019)
Mr Leo Pech (2019)
Mr James Halliday AM (2017)
Mr Chris Hancock MW (2017)
Mr Denis Horgan AM (2017)
Mr Wolf Blass AM BVK (2016)
Mr Colin Campbell OAM (2016)
Mr John Angove AM (2016)
Mr Philip Laffer AM (2014)
Mr Bill Chambers OAM (2005)
Mr Graham Wiltshire OAM (2005)
Br John May SJ (2004)
Mr Guenter Prass AM (2004)
Mr Colin Gramp AM (2003)
Dr Ray Beckwith OAM (2003)