The Wine Grape Council of SA (WGCSA) is reviewing the South Australian Grape Grower Industry fund (SAGGIF) as required by legislation.

The current contribution paid by grapegrower members to the SAGGIF is calculated at $1 per tonne of grapes sold.

South Australian winegrape growers are encouraged to register their details online on the WGCSA website by August 31 to ensure they receive information and can vote on the proposed changes to the SAGGIF.

WGCSA business manager, Lisa Bennier said extensive discussions and modelling to update the fund and reflect changes in the industry mean grower representatives who make up the Wine Grape Council of SA are recommending a change to the way contributions are calculated.

“The next step is to advise and seek the views of all growers. It is important they understand the proposal and have their say,” Bennier said.

Independent grapegrowers are required to confirm their membership from Vintage 18 via a registration link on the WGCSA website.

An independent grapegrower is a member of WGCSA if they have the $1/per tonne SAGGIF contribution deducted from their grape payments by the winery purchasing their grapes.

“It is vital to ensure the voting process on the future of the SAGGIF is correct and transparent,” Bennier said.

“We need growers to update their details and make sure they are on the database so they can receive information, ask questions if they wish and then vote.”

Please visit www.wgcsa.com.au/saggif-registration to register by COB 31st August 2018.

The Wine Grape Council of SA (WGCSA) is the peak body for South Australian independent grapegrowers.

It represents and provides information for growers, advocates to government on issues which affect the business of wine grape growing and works with research agencies on priorities for R&D.