Wine industry leaders tackle new development program

FIFTEEN passionate wine industry professionals have been selected to take part in the inaugural Coonawarra Next Crop program—an immersive leadership initiative developed to nurture the next generation of leaders in the region.

The cohort represents a cross-section of the Limestone Coast’s vibrant wine community. From viticulture and winemaking to marketing and industry support, the diverse group reflects the depth of talent and commitment to the future of South Australia’s world-renowned wine region.

Delivered in partnership with Wine Australia, the Next Crop program is designed to foster leadership capability, strengthen networks, and build confidence in the region’s emerging talent.

The 2025 Coonawarra Next Crop participants are:

• Anita Goode, Wangolina

• Chris Plummer, Wynns Coonawarra Estate

• Ed Cavanagh, Limestone Coast Grape and Wine

• Emma Raidis, Raidis Estate

• Fil Farina, Elders Naracoorte

• George Kidman, Limestone Ridge Estate / Kidman Wines

• Heidi Guyett, Coonawarra Vignerons

• Keeda Zilm, Usual Suspects

• Lewis White, Rymill Coonawarra

• Maddison Lemire, Balnaves of Coonawarra

• Martin Wirper, Rymill Coonawarra

• Matilda Innes, Ottelia

• Peta Baverstock, Cuvée-Co Wines

• Sally McDonald, Zema Estate

• Stella Scanlon, Majella Wines

Coonawarra Vignerons president Dan Redman said the launch of the program marks a significant investment in the region’s future.

“This is the first time a formal leadership development program has been tailored specifically for Coonawarra’s next generation,” he said. “These participants are already making a meaningful contribution to our region, and the Next Crop program is about equipping them with the tools, connections and confidence to lead with purpose.”

The program commenced earlier this month, with a powerful and reflective opening session held at the Wirreanda Bunkhouse, nestled within the heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves National Park.

The immersive experience focused on Country, Culture and Curiosity, encouraging participants to explore their own leadership journey in the context of place, community, and purpose.

Program facilitator Matthew Wright-Simon of Engage Change said the first session provided the group with the chance to slow down, reflect, and explore what country, culture, and curiosity means for each of us as individuals, as a leadership cohort, and for the Coonawarra region as a whole.

Next Crop Coonawarra 2025 focuses on cultural awareness, authentic leadership, strategic thinking, wellbeing for leaders, environmental, social and governance responsibilities, persuasive storytelling and collaborative impact.

The group’s next gathering will take them to an overnight retreat at renowned local Coonawarra winery Bellwether early next month.

For more information about the Coonawarra Next Crop program, visit: www.coonawarra.org/next-crop-2025