THE Riverland wine industry is set to benefit from more than $900,000 of industry funding – announced this week – to deliver nearly 30 research, biosecurity and promotional programs.

Funded under the Riverland Wine Industry Fund, projects include local weather station maintenance, the implementation of an app to help improve grape quality, a dedicated region-based fruit fly co-ordinator, and funding towards the Riverland Wine and Food Festival 2022.

Chaffey MP Tim Whetstone said the Wine Industry Funds are important for local regions to deliver projects that may not otherwise happen.

“The Riverland is Australia’s largest wine growing and producing region, so it’s critical we continue to support the industry to innovate and grow,” Mr Whetstone said.

“By putting the prioritisation of the projects in the hands of those on the ground in the region, it ensures that any gaps are addressed, enabling projects and services to be developed that provide real value to the local growers and winemakers.”

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, David Basham, said the projects would provide ongoing resources and support to the local wine and viticulture sector.

“The $273 million Riverland wine industry is a critical part of our state economy and the $900,000 of industry funds will help deliver new projects which will drive growth and create jobs,” Mr Basham said.

“South Australia is without doubt the country’s ‘wine state’ and projects like this will only further enhance this reputation.

“The funding provides the capacity to innovate, the ability to adopt best industry practice and the resources required to respond positively to the demands of the modern market.

“Riverland Wine will distribute the funding which will cover areas such as regional promotion, improved grape and wine production and policy issues that are impacting the health and state of their industry.

“The projects or initiatives to benefit from the fund have been identified as a high priority by Riverland’s wine makers and winegrowers.”

For further information on the Riverland Wine Industry Fund, visit the website.