Twelve sommeliers chosen for scholarship

Sommeliers Australia has announced the twelve successful scholars of its flagship education initiative, the 2025 Education Scholarship.

They will come together in Melbourne from 11-13 August for a three-day immersive program designed to support the next generation of Australia’s wine and hospitality sector.

Held triennially, the Education Scholarship is a flagship initiative created to build capability, community and confidence among Australia’s wine professionals.

Over the three days, scholars will take part in benchmarking tastings, hosted by some of the country’s most respected wine and hospitality professionals.

This year’s recipients represent a diverse cross-section of the industry, hailing from venues across the country and bringing with them varied experience and aspirations.

Selected scholar Sophie Kemp, from The Heritage Wine Bar & Restaurant in Western Australia, said, “I would like to thank Sommeliers Australia for this opportunity – it means so much to be a 2025 scholar.

“I appreciate the chance to further immerse myself in the world of wine.

“I’m so excited to absorb as much as possible from seasoned industry professionals.”

Fellow scholar Courtney Keegan from Dan Murphys in Victoria echoed her enthusiasm: “I’m most excited for the opportunity to build upon my skills and get an in-depth look at benchmark examples from around the world and from Australia.

“I’m also excited to connect with my partnered sponsor and also to connect with and learn from my fellow scholars!”

Vice-President of the Education Scholarship committee, Bridget Raffal said, “Top responses reflected a sense of generosity: applicants showed they’d contribute meaningfully to the conversation in the room while remaining open to learning from others.

“They struck a balance between personal and professional, highlighting the importance of community and communication in wine, why opportunities like this matter, and how they help shape better, more connected professionals.”

Acting president Sarah Andrew said the program continues to evolve thanks to the support of industry partners.

“The launch of this tri-annual opportunity comes at a time the industry has never been more engaged with Sommeliers Australia and our members,” she said.

“We have events selling out, waiting lists for highly anticipated opportunities and the Education Scholarship working group has just selected 12 professional, diverse and engaging members from across the country.

“The support from business and industry alike has been unprecedented, taking considerable focus to match scholars to sponsors.

“The offers to continue engagement beyond the scholarship from both recipients and sponsors is exciting for all our members.”