The Andrews Labor Government is backing Wyndham’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 Werribee, Tim Pallas MP recently joined ShadowFax Winery’s General Manager Phil Strachan, to announce $25,000 as part of the Labor Government’s Wine Growth Fund.  These funds will be for Shadowfax Winery’s Exports Plan and the ShadowFax composter and closed loop system project to develop sustainable farming practices.

The Wine Growth 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 Werribee Tim Pallas MP

“I am thrilled to announce the funding for ShadowFax Winery in the third round of the Wine Growth Fund – providing Wyndham’s best winemakers with the support to grow their businesses and boost visitors to our beautiful wine regions.”

“Victorian winemakers produce some fantastic wines, and we’re proud to back this industry to keep growing well into the future.”