The National Wine and Grape Industry Centre (NWGIC) at Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Wagga Wagga is putting the spotlight on vineyard health this spring, with a series of field days in key grape growing regions.

 

The Centre, in conjunction with the NSW Department of Primary Industries, will host eight ‘Spring Vine Health Field Days’ in NSW, Queensland and Victoria.

 

NWGIC Deputy Director, Associate Professor Gregory Dunn, said vineyard health underpins productivity, wine quality and ultimately profitability.

 

“The saying great wines are made in the vineyard is true. This is where it all starts and once the fruit is produced it is up to the winemaker to ensure that the quality of the fruit is expressed,” he said.

 

The field days are part of a national initiative, co-funded by the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation, to help growers and winemakers build the capacity to better manage vine health.

 

Associate Professor Dunn said topics of discussion will be tailored to meet the priorities of individual growing regions to help prepare for the upcoming season.

 

“Expertise from all around Australia is brought to the regions to target key issues affecting vine health,” he said.”Given the extremely difficult conditions during last season, it’s not surprising that a major issue of interest for most regions this season is advanced pest and disease management.

 

“Improved soil biology and management will also be addressed, reflecting the recent upswing of interest in ecological and organic viticulture.”

The first field day will take place in the Hunter Valley on Tuesday 16 August and will be followed by events in other regions during August and September.

 

The NWGIC is alliance of CSU, NSW Department of Primary Industries and the NSW Wine Industry Association.