Five South Australians will be State Champions for the Rootlings Wine Industry Youth Network, alongside representatives from around the country.
The Rootlings program was established six months ago by the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology and Wine Australia to engage young people in the industry.
Rootlings national project officer Jenna Vaughan said the program was a “dynamic network dedicated to fostering relationships, facilitating professional development, and promoting continuous learning among young professionals in the wine industry”.
“The enthusiasm of our State Champions is a clear testament to the passion and dedication young people have for shaping the wine industry,” Vaughan said.
“Throughout 2025 and beyond, our State Champions will be instrumental in activating in-region opportunities. These initiatives will provide young professionals with invaluable chances to learn collaboratively and grow professionally, ensuring a vibrant and innovative future for the wine sector.”
The South Australian Rootlings State Champions:
- Sarah Lavelle, DTC Manager for Seven Hill Cellars, Clare Valley
- Maddie LeMire, Winemaker at Balnaves of Coonawarra, Coonawarra
- Alexandra Alavoine, Winemaker at Kirrihill, Clare Valley
- Erin Armstrong, Assistant Winemaker at Hardy’s Tintara, McLaren Vale
- Michelle Li, Winemaker at Knappstein Wines from Clare Valley
To view profiles on the individual State Champions, visit the Rootlings website: State Chapters — Rootlings: Australian Wine Youth Network.
Words: David Simmoms
