Cheers to the wine growth fund

The Andrews Labor Government is backing Macedon’s wine industry, with a grants program to support the growth of wineries in the area, increase visitors, boost exports and support local jobs.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today on a visit to Taradale House announced that four wineries in Macedon will share in $2 million in the third round of the Labor Government’s Wine Growth Fund, which will support 78 projects at wineries across Victoria.

The fund’s infrastructure grants will assist Cobaw Ridge, Gisborne Peak Winery and Eco Cottages, Lyons Will Estate and Taradale House to complete projects that extend and expand on current facilities, further boosting wine tourism in our region.

The fund is expected to provide a boost of around $12 million to the wine industry across the state with projects including cellar doors, kitchen and café upgrades, wine production facility developments, e-commerce programs, accommodation initiatives and vineyard improvement works.

The first two rounds of the Wine Growth Fund supported 106 projects, attracting investment of approximately $6.8 million into the state’s wine industry which is worth $7.6 billion to the Victorian economy and employs around 13,000 people, mostly in regional areas.

The Wine Growth Fund is part of the Labor Government’s commitment to boost the wine industry in Victoria, alongside the Wine Industry Development Strategy and the formation of the Wine Industry Ministerial Advisory Committee.

In addition, the government will continue to support the wine industry through Wine to the World, a $5 million election commitment to support Victorian wine producers to create jobs and increase exports.

The $10 million election commitment Taking Our Local Produce to the World will also provide assistance to producers of craft food, beer and spirits to help grow their businesses.

Quotes attributable to Member for Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
"I am thrilled to announce the third round of the Wine Growth Fund – providing innovative winemakers in Macedon with the support to grow their businesses and boost visitors to our beautiful region."

"The Macedon Ranges is famous for its wine and wine tourism continues to grow. I’m proud that this grants program backs this industry."