The innovative “Future Leaders – succession for the Australian wine sector” program was launched in May 2006 to help develop the skills and potential of the next generation of wine industry leaders.

 

Forty five graduates have completed the first three intakes of the program (in 2006, 2007 and 2009) and are now taking on key industry roles and adding their voice to important industry debates.

 

The program involves sharing decades of wisdom from successful industry leaders with the bright stars of the future.  Importantly, it captures this learning and ‘street-smarts’ within the industry and attempts to accelerate the development of tomorrow’s industry leaders.

 

Future Leaders is a joint initiative of the Winemakers’ Federation of Australia, the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation, the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation and Wine Grape Growers Australia. WBM – Australia’s Wine Business Magazine is a founding partner.

 

Specifically tailored to the wine sector, the program is delivered by the not-for-profit company Australian Rural Leadership Foundation. Established in 1992, ARLF develops and delivers learning, support and engagement opportunities for leaders through its flagship Australian Rural Leadership Program and a range of multiple-session short courses for specific industries and communities.

 

Fifteen participants again were selected for the 2010 intake and two scholarships were awarded, including the second Trevor Drayton Scholarship, in honour of the late Trevor Drayton, a serving Board members of WFA at the time of his death

"Outstanding program and very worthwhile. Highly recommended."
Brad Wehr
Wine by brad, Margaret River

 

“It was an honour and a pleasure to be a part of the Future Leaders 3 program. The people I met and the information I gained on our industry will be invaluable to me going forward. I would recommend this program to anyone who has an interest in the ongoing success of this industry.”
Ed Swift
Printhie Wines, Orange

 

“A great network of passionate, inspiring people with a genuine commitment to the Australian wine industry. A very worthwhile personal and professional development experience. “
Dan Johnson
AWRI

 

Who do I contact?
Deb Clarke
Project Manager
Telephone: 08 8222 9255
Email deb@wfa.org.au