Accolade Wines Chief Supply Chain Officer Joe Russo is urging CCW members to make sure they have their say on a more sustainable future for wine in the Riverland.

Time is running out for growers to vote, with next Wednesday marking only 13 days – less than a fortnight – to the close of polls. CCW’s AGM is on 21 May and proxy voting is already open.

“It is absolutely crucial that growers exercise their democratic right and vote yes in favour of our package. Don’t miss out – this is the only option that allows all of us to have some control over the future,” Mr Russo said.

“Quite simply, things cannot stay as they are. We’re collectively facing the biggest industry challenge in many decades. The existing contract between Accolade and CCW was struck 25 years ago and is totally inappropriate and not sustainable in the contemporary environment.

“A yes vote will allow us to continue forward on a sustainable footing, with the appropriate mix of flexibility and certainty for both sides. A no vote leads to a highly uncertain outcome, significant ongoing pressure on all parties, no access to our package to assist those wishing to exit and removes control from any of us.”

Mr Russo said it is critical that growers ensure they have a clear understanding of the proposal and the alternatives. Accolade Wines has invested a significant amount of resources and time into providing opportunity for growers to understand the need for change, the proposal and to ask questions about it. This includes:

• Attending and answering questions at [5] large public meetings, including [one in December, one in March] and a further three meetings in Berri in April, with a combined attendance of around 200-300 growers.
• Making over 500 phone calls in an attempt to invite every grower member to attend smaller group meetings
• Arranging and attending 7 smaller group meetings to meet with 91 growers
• Setting up an information website with FAQ and question function – and responding to the questions submitted
• Providing a Punjabi version of the website
• Setting up a Facebook page and responding to submitted questions

For further information contact:

Adam Bell, 0481 476 521 or adam.bell@accoladewines.com.au