Two leading figures at Riverland Wine – which was criticised by several members earlier in 2024, amid a disastrous year for many growers – resigned last week.

Executive officer Lyndall Rowe and grower engagement officer Charles Matheson ended their paid roles with the advocacy body last Thursday.

Representing over 900 local growers and around 30 wineries, Riverland Wine had been accused of a lack of action during the current industry crisis, which stems mainly from oversupply issues and unsustainable prices paid for grapes.

However, the pair’s contributions have been praised in a statement issued by Riverland Wine.

“Lyndall and Charles have worked hard to support Riverland growers and winemakers through arguably some of the industry’s most challenging times,” Riverland Wine said.

“The EO and GEO roles can be difficult enough at the best of times let alone when grape growers and winemakers are enduring some of the lowest prices and toughest operating conditions ever experienced.

“Despite the challenges, Lyndall and Charles have maintained a positive and forward- thinking outlook when advocating on growers’ behalf to government and industry and non-government organisations.

“The management committee thanks them both for their service to the region and wish them well in their future endeavours.”

In March, Ms Rowe defended herself and Riverland Wine against critics, describing claims of a lack of action as “unfair and unfounded”.

“We have continued to advocate for growers and are working hard to lobby for support – and in particular financial support – from the federal and state governments and the supporting umbrella wine industry associations,” Ms Rowe said.

“We have been listening to concerns and we have been working to reach as many decision makers as possible.”

Chaffey MP Tim Whetstone said utilising local knowledge and experience would be crucial for Riverland Wine’s future operations.

“We thank them for their service, but through these really tough times, I think Riverland Wine will have to adjust the way management works within the organisation,” Mr Whetstone said.

“They’ve already appointed a part-time grower liaison (officer)”¦ it’s a local, someone who lives in the district and part of the wine industry as a whole. “Riverland Wine can respond with measures that can help grape growers that are paying the levies.”

Ms Rowe and Mr Matheson played a key role in the development of the Riverland Wine Industry Blueprint, launched late last year.

Aimed at ensuring the sustainability of the local industry, the blueprint was developed with the support of Riverland Wine, the SA Government, Wine Australia, and the Wine Grape Council of SA.

The SA Government provided $100,000 in funding to support the blueprint.

Meanwhile acting Riverland Wine chair Jim Markeas will be the organisation’s point of contact until further notice.  

This article appeared in the  Murray Pioneer,  2 October 2024.