Vineyard manager secures opportunity

WYNNS Coonawarra Estate senior vineyard manager Nick Baverstock has been named among just 15 professionals selected nationally for the Australian grape and wine sector’s prestigious Future Leaders 2025 program.

Announced today by Wine Australia and Australian Grape & Wine, the program recognises and develops high-potential individuals working across the wine value chain, equipping them with the skills, networks, and insights to help shape the future of the industry.

Selected from a competitive pool of 86 applicants, Nick joins a dynamic cohort of innovators, change-makers, and forward-thinkers from across Australia.

“I’m excited to be selected for the Future Leaders Program. It’s a privilege to be recognised alongside a group of such diverse and passionate professionals,” Nick said.

“This program is a chance to take a step back from the day-to-day, to challenge the way we think and lead, and to connect with others who are equally committed to ensuring a strong, sustainable future for our industry.

“I look forward to bringing my learnings back to Coonawarra to help shape the future of our region.”

The Future Leaders program is delivered every two years, offering intensive leadership development through workshops, industry engagement, and collaborative problem-solving. The 2025 intake spans roles from viticulture and winemaking to marketing, innovation, education, and government.

Australian Grape & Wine chief executive officer Lee McLean said the Future Leaders program played a critical role in ensuring the long-term prosperity of Australia’s grape and wine sector.

“These emerging leaders bring the fresh thinking, resilience and strategic foresight our industry needs to navigate change and seize new opportunities,” Mr McLean said. “We’re proud to support a program that’s equipping the next generation to help shape a stronger, more sustainable future for Australian wine.”.

Coonawarra Vignerons executive officer Hugh Koch congratulated Nick on his selection:

“Nick’s deep knowledge of viticulture, commitment to sustainability, and proactive leadership at Wynns make him a tremendous ambassador for Coonawarra,” Mr Koch said. “We’re thrilled to see him recognised at a national level through this outstanding program.”

Future Leaders is funded and coordinated by Wine Australia, supported by Australian Grape & Wine and delivered by Pragmatic Thinking.

Senior Program Manager and Future Leaders coordinator Jo Hargreaves said its success is evidenced by consistent high demand, overwhelmingly positive alumni testimonials, an enduring and valuable network spanning regions and roles across the wine sector value chain, along with the progression of graduates into key leadership roles across the industry.

“We look forward to supporting the individuals through this phenomenal opportunity and following their progress and impact into the future”, she said.