Ten South Australian professionals have been awarded scholarships to help them become the next generation of leaders in our world-renowned wine and tourism sectors.
Now in its second year, the 2026 Great Wine Capitals Executive Business Program, delivered by Adelaide University, provides valuable upskilling and career development opportunities for early- to mid-career wine and tourism industry professionals.
This forward-thinking initiative is aimed at empowering professionals to strengthen the state’s wine and tourism sectors, and to develop the adaptability, knowledge and resilience to better prepare for future challenges and opportunities in their industry. The Great Wine Capitals Executive Business Program is a Great Wine Capitals initiative, backed by the State Government.
Wine and tourism industry professionals from seven different South Australian wine regions were awarded scholarships. Applicants from other industries with transferrable skills and an interest in transitioning into the wine and tourism sectors were also considered, in a bid to attract and support new talent for the industry.
| Scholarship recipients | Business | Region |
| Ben Shaw | Home of Plenty | Currency Creek |
| Charlie O’Brien | Silent Noise Wines | McLaren Vale |
| Emma Hart | Down The Rabbit Hole Wines | McLaren Vale |
| Jessica Nicholls | Kimbolton Wines | Langhorne Creek |
| Madison Pike | Pikes Wines | Clare Valley |
| Megan Paisley | Shaw + Smith | Adelaide Hills |
| Priscila Tamara Diniz | Eighteen Fifty & Co | Clare Valley |
| Sally McDonald | Zema Estate | Coonawarra |
| Samantha Cartwright | Gibson Wines | Barossa |
| Stephen Lindner | Turkey Flat Vineyards | Barossa |
The program will run over six days in May 2026, during which scholarship recipients will learn how to identify new opportunities, adopt sustainable practices, negotiate effectively, and build their brand.
In the final masterclass, participants will connect with a curated group of internationally renowned speakers from the Great Wine Capitals Global Network, including those from South Australia and from other leading wine regions worldwide.
The Great Wine Capitals Global Network is an exclusive group of 11 globally recognised wine regions, including iconic destinations such as Bordeaux and Napa Valley. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Adelaide joining the alliance.
Adelaide’s membership of the network is made possible thanks to the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), South Australian Tourism Commission, the South Australian Wine Industry Association, and Adelaide University.
For more information, visit the Adelaide Great Wine Capital website.
Quotes attributable to Adelaide University, Dr David Jaud, Program Director of Wine and Food Business
At Adelaide University, we are pleased to welcome the scholarship recipients of the exciting Great Wine Capitals Executive Business Program for its second year.
Building on the success of last year’s cohort, this unique initiative brings together passionate wine industry professionals from across South Australia.
Their expertise and regional perspectives will foster constructive discussion, collaboration, and connections that will grow even further after the program.
Quotes attributable to Adelaide University Lecturer in Marketing and Wine Business, Dr Irma Dupuis Day
This comprehensive program facilitates learning through subject-matter experts and connections with peers.
The program will equip participants to accelerate their professional journey and strengthen their contribution to the South Australian wine industry well beyond its completion.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Clare Scriven MLC
I congratulate the scholarship recipients for this year’s Great Wine Capitals Executive Business Program. I have no doubt that their passion and expertise will help keep South Australia at the forefront of global wine business and tourism.
South Australia produces more than 80 per cent of the nation’s premium wine, from some of the oldest vines in the world.
This initiative provides a fantastic opportunity to further develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills, positioning scholarship recipients to better navigate the growing complexities and challenges of the wine and tourism industry.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Emily Bourke MLC
South Australia is home to many acclaimed wine regions, and this sector plays a crucial part in our tourism industry.
This program is an investment in education and professional development, allowing us to back in our talent and ensure the wine tourism sector remains globally competitive.
I want to congratulate the scholarship recipients and I look forward to seeing their expertise and passion for their craft continue to keep South Australia at the forefront of global wine tourism industry.
Photo: Fleurieu Peninsula, Small Batch Wine Tours
Media contact:
Lara Pacillo, Media Officer, Adelaide University. Mobile: +61 403 659 154. Email: lara.pacillo@adelaide.edu.au