BRIAN WALSH has been reappointed as chair of Australian Grape and Wine Authority (AGWA) board. The announcement was made in late June by Anne Ruston, Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, confirming a three-year term from 1 July.

Walsh has been the chair since AGWA was formed in 2014, starting in an acting role, after the merger of Wine Australia and the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation.

“Under Brian’s leadership, AGWA has been established quickly and effectively and seen a very successful first few years,” Minister Ruston said.

“AGWA is focused on investing in research and development, building international and domestic markets, encouraging adoption of new technologies and protecting the reputation of our wine industry all with the aim of supporting a prosperous Australian grape and wine sector,” she said.

“Australian bottled wine exports grew 9 per cent to an average $5.35 per litre in 2015-2016, its highest level since October 2003.

“Mr Walsh’s reappointment means he will be able to continue to oversee AGWA’s 2015-2020 Strategic Plan and the implementation of the $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support package which will drive exports and promote our fabulous wine tourism offering to the world.

Walsh has worked within the wine industry since 1968, both as a winemaker, manager and executive. He has also held chair and director positions on various wine industry bodies, including being a member of the former Wine Australia Corporation.

His previous industry representative roles include president of the South Australian Wine Industry Association, chair of the South Australian Wine Tourism Advisory Board, and chair of

Barossa Winemakers Committee. Walsh is currently the independent chair of Riverland Wine.

Source: Australian & New Zealand Grapegrower & Winemaker, July 2017, page 14.