Fifteen passionate wine industry professionals have been selected to take part in the inaugural Coonawarra Next Crop program—an immersive leadership initiative developed to nurture the next generation of leaders in the region.
The cohort represents a cross-section of the Limestone Coast’s vibrant wine community. From viticulture and winemaking to marketing and industry support, the diverse group reflects the depth of talent and commitment to the future of South Australia’s world-renowned wine region.
Delivered in partnership with Wine Australia, the Next Crop program is designed to foster leadership capability, strengthen networks, and build confidence in the region’s emerging talent.
Coonawarra Vignerons President Dan Redman said the launch of the program marks a significant investment in the region’s future.
“This is the first time a formal leadership development program has been tailored specifically for Coonawarra’s next generation. These participants are already making a meaningful contribution to our region, and the Next Crop program is about equipping them with the tools, connections and confidence to lead with purpose.”
The 2025 Coonawarra Next Crop participants are (pictured above L-R):
- Lewis White, Rymill Coonawarra
- Heidi Guyett, Coonawarra Vignerons
- Fil Farina, Elders Naracoorte
- Keeda Zilm, Usual Suspects
- Martin Wirper, Rymill Coonawarra
- Anita Goode, Wangolina
- George Kidman, Limestone Ridge Estate / Kidman Wines
- Emma Raidis, Raidis Estate
- Maddison Lemire, Balnaves of Coonawarra
- Ed Cavanagh, Limestone Coast Grape and Wine
- Chris Plummer, Wynns Coonawarra Estate
- Sally McDonald, Zema Estate
- Matilda Innes, Ottelia
- Stella Scanlon, Majella Wines
- Peta Baverstock, Cuvée-Co Wines
The program commenced on Thursday 3 July, with a powerful and reflective opening session held at the Wirreanda Bunkhouse, nestled within the heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves National Park.
The immersive experience focused on Country, Culture and Curiosity, encouraging participants to explore their own leadership journey in the context of place, community, and purpose.
Program facilitator Matthew Wright-Simon of Engage Change reflected on the opening session, remarking:
“The first session provided the group with the chance to slow down, reflect, and explore what country, culture, and curiosity means for each of us as individuals, as a leadership cohort, and for the Coonawarra region as a whole. It set the tone for a thoughtful and connected journey ahead.”
Next Crop Coonawarra 2025 focuses on cultural awareness, authentic leadership, strategic thinking, wellbeing for leaders, environmental, social and governance responsibilities, persuasive storytelling and collaborative impact
The group’s next gathering will take them to an overnight retreat at renowned local Coonawarra winery Bellwether in early August.
