Future events
Kick the Dirt Viti – grapevine leaf-roll virus
Kick the Dirt Viti meetings are open to anyone to attend and provide an opportunity for viticulturists/grape growers to meet and discuss technical issues, exchange information and view innovative practices in a social but professional context.
Grapevine leaf-roll associated virus (GVLaR) 1 and 3 are major problems for grape growers as they can result in reduced fruit quality and yield (reported losses of between 10-70%). A recent survey of 218 samples across Australia found 13% of them were infected with GLRaV-1 and 14% were infected with GLRaV-3. Guest presenter Dr Monica Kehoe (DPIRD) has investigated the diversity of these viruses and used the information to develop an in-field diagnostic test which has the potential to give a result in about 30 minutes in the field. Having accurate and fast diagnostics to determine the viral status of vines will help maintain the overall health of a vineyard by allowing infected vines to be identified and removed. Both viruses are also transmitted via grafting and so improved diagnostics will improve the success of grafting by ensuring only healthy cuttings are used. Monica will discuss her findings and the diagnostic services offered by DPIRD. She will also provide an update on a Chardonnay trial which is looking at the effect of GLRaV-1 and GLRaV-3 on the end product of the wine itself.
9.00am – 11.00am Wednesday, 3 July
Barrel Hall (Cellar Door) Cherubino Wines, 3462 Caves Road, Wilyabrup
This event is free to attend
Morning tea will be provided, please RSVP for the Kick the Dirt Viti meeting for catering purposes.
Margaret River winemakers' trial forum
Celebrating its fourth year, Margaret River winemakers are invited to participate in this year’s trial forum. Guest winemaker Sarah Pidgeon from Wynns Coonawarra will provide insight into a number of innovative practices focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra.
This forum also provides local winemakers with a unique opportunity to share wines and experiences from in-house trials. These trials may include viticultural or winemaking treatments influencing quality, style and production efficiencies. Cabernet Sauvignon will be the main theme but other varieties will also feature.
9.00am - 12.00pm
Tuesday, 9 July
Sensory Laboratory, Margaret River Education Campus, 272 Bussell Hwy Margaret River
This forum is free to attend
Numbers are limited due to venue capacity, RSVP by 5 July to Richard Fennessy.
Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference and Trade Exhibition
The 17th AWITC will be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre 21-24 July 2019. Eleven plenary sessions will present the latest business and technical content, with a diverse range of Australian and international speakers. Thirty-four practical workshops will be held in dedicated sessions on Sunday 21 July that do not conflict with the main conference program. An extensive technical posterdisplay will convey the newest scientific advances and there will be plenty of opportunities for social activities and networking.
21 - 24 July 2019
Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide
The event program and registration can be found at the Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference website.