International keynote speaker for the 6th Australian Wine Industry Environment Conference

Abstract

This project provided assistance to contribute to the costs of bringing Mr Antonio Graça
(Director R & D, Sogrape Vinhos, Portugal)to Australia.

Summary

This project provided assistance to contribute to the costs of bringing Mr Antonio Graça (Director R & D, Sogrape Vinhos, Portugal) to Australia to:

1. present a keynote address to the ADAPTATION session of the 6th Australian Wine lndustry environment Conference (6AWlEC) in October 2OLL on a project underway in Portugal regarding conservation of native grape varieties; and

2. engage in discussions and information sharing about:

• grapevine preservation and collection strategies and models; and
• our respective countries’ industry responses to climate change.

The visit by Antonio Graça provided a range of benefits for the Australian wine industry.

• A presentation on a grapevine conservation project in Portugal to support future adaptation was of great interest to conference delegates. Having an international speaker of such high technical standing was no doubt a significant drawcard for delegates to the conference.

• Some direct interactions with key industry figures involved in grapevine collections in Australia was facilitated through the visit and should result in a better approach and perspective to future plans for this part of the wine sector.

• Direct contact with some key wine producers in South Australia was facilitated, allowing significant information exchange.