Coonawarra’s wine community is raising a glass to Wynns Coonawarra Senior Vineyard Manager Nick Baverstock who has been announced as one of only 15 participants nationally to partake in the Australian grape and wine sector’s peak leadership development program – Future Leaders 2025.


The program recognises and develops high-potential individuals working across the wine value chain, equipping them with the skills, networks, and insights to help shape the future of the industry.


Selected from a competitive pool of 86 applicants, Mr Baverstock joins a dynamic cohort of innovators, change-makers, and forward-thinkers from across Australia.


“I’m excited to be selected for the Future Leaders Program. It’s a privilege to be recognised alongside a group of such diverse and passionate professionals,” he said.


“This program is a chance to take a step back from the day-to-day, to challenge the way we think and lead, and to connect with others who are equally committed to ensuring a strong, sustainable future for our industry.


“I look forward to bringing my learnings back to Coonawarra to help shape the future of our region.”


The Future Leaders program is delivered every two years, offering intensive leadership development through workshops, industry engagement, and collaborative problem-solving. The 2025 intake spans roles from viticulture and winemaking to marketing, innovation, education, and government.


Australian Grape and Wine chief executive Lee McLean said the Future Leaders program played a critical role in ensuring the long-term prosperity of Australia’s grape and wine sector.


“These emerging leaders bring the fresh thinking, resilience and strategic foresight our industry needs to navigate change and seize new opportunities. We’re proud to support a program that’s equipping the next generation to help shape a stronger, more sustainable future for Australian wine,” Mr McLean said.


Coonawarra Vignerons Executive Officer Hugh Koch congratulated Mr Baverstock on his selection.


“Nick’s deep knowledge of viticulture, commitment to sustainability, and proactive leadership at Wynns make him a tremendous ambassador for Coonawarra. We’re thrilled to see him recognised at a national level through this outstanding program,” he said.


Future Leaders is funded and coordinated by Wine Australia, supported by Australian Grape and Wine and delivered by Pragmatic Thinking.