Latest news with #wineeducation
ABC News
5 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Consortium commits to saving Queensland College of Wine Tourism
Southern Queensland business leaders are rallying to ensure the unique Queensland College of Wine Tourism continues to operate after months of uncertainty. A consortium led by the Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce has been selected to run the college, with the state government giving it two years to turn things around. The announcement came after the University of Southern Queensland withdrew its support from the $8.5 million college last year, leaving its future in limbo. Located on the Stanthorpe State High School campus, the one-of-a-kind Australian education and training facility provides an opportunity for Queensland's future wine makers and grape growers, tourism and hospitality workers to hone their craft. The college, which has been operating since 2007, will also receive non-financial support from Southern Downs Regional Council, the Granite Belt Grower's Association, Granite Belt Wine and Tourism, Queensland Country Tourism and Queensland Wine Industry Association. The consortium has developed a four-year plan to deliver hands-on training in viticulture, agribusiness, tourism, hospitality, and business management at the campus, which will be known as The Precinct. Chamber president Michelle Feenen said providing support for the college was a chance to safeguard its future and protect a "jewel in the region". "We felt that here in the region we had the skill set and we had the knowledge, and we know this region very, very well and we know these industries that are represented through what happens here at the wine college," Ms Feenen said. "What we didn't want was to have potentially worst case scenario, a private operator that might come in with a lot of our aspirations, but then find that they fall on their on their face really quickly and then it becomes another scenario of what to do with this facility. "We wanted to guard against that." Queensland College of Wine Tourism acting manager Kim Gallaway said it was a relief for more than 20 staff to know their jobs would be secure after an "uneasy" few months. "It's a positive outcome after all the uncertainty we've had and it'll bring a good vibe I believe back into the workplace with employment opportunities to continue into the future with the new consortium," she said. "We're in a rural area, there's not that many positions available to our industry staff here that we have, the professionals that we have. "So for them to be able to stay here at the college into the future I think is an absolute positive outcome today." Trade, Employment and Training Minister Ros Bates said the consortium would provide a sustainable future for the college as well as the wine and tourism industry. "This is a massive win for the Southern Downs region, including the people employed at the college, and will help address the evolving needs of Queensland's food, wine, agribusiness and tourism sectors," Ms Bates said.
Associated Press
17-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
VinoCadre Launches Air Charter Flights, an Exclusive Way to Explore the Elevated Texas Hill Country, Napa, and Sonoma
05/16/2025, Fredericksburg, Texas // PRODIGY: Feature Story // VinoCadre, an innovative marketing platform that unites wine professionals and engages consumers, is excited to announce the launch of its exclusive air charter flights. More than its next business milestone, the release symbolizes the company's commitment to transforming the wine-tasting experience into an unforgettable, palatable journey. To prepare for the first air charter flight on July 7th-10th, VinoCadre is currently accepting bookings, with more expeditions to follow soon after. VinoCadre Founded in 2015 in Saint Helena, California, VinoCadre has since expanded to the Texas Hill Country. The air charter flights will honor both destinations, promoting local wine education, curating unique food pairings, and offering high-end private tours of California and Texas's luscious vineyards. With a helicopter, fixed wing, and ground transportation included, exploring hidden gems has never been easier. Organized by the platform's wine specialists, the experience is as compelling as it is illuminating. This sky-high adventure is led by VinoCadre's founder, Andre Boada, an advanced sommelier, keynote speaker, and wine business consultant. Tapping into his 20 years of industry experience, combined with the intimate knowledge of winemakers, educators, and chefs who will accompany him, Boada's mission is simple: to enrich traditional wine-tasting with a lifestyle-driven philosophy. According to Boada, this is 'the pinnacle of wine-tasting experiences,' and the bespoke itinerary attests to that. This four-day, three-night trip is truly top-scale, from the very first moment guests step into the aircraft. During the flight, travelers can indulge in a high-end champagne seminar arranged by the founder before landing across the scenic vineyards of Napa and Sonoma. The activities that follow bring a unique fusion of adventure and serenity, addressing the needs of all visitors. While a helicopter ride up the mountain to peek behind the scenes of Napa wineries or driving through the vineyards of Sonoma provide the thrill, delectable dishes prepared by world-class chefs—each one paired with the most complementary glass of wine—unite guests over meaningful conversations and laughter. Through a partnership with a high-end local home division, VinoCadre can offer the most luxurious accommodation that further elevates the experience. On July 7th, guests will travel to Villa Montebella, a terracotta-colored mansion nestled amidst green rolling hills, where they will be greeted with a welcome party. Every attendee can enjoy their own suite, lavish amenities like a tennis court or an underground wine cave, and more. Villa Montebella, Wine Cave After the first excursion, VinoCadre is planning two more trips in August: 4th-7th and 25th-28th. Looking ahead, Boada envisions the experience entrenching its footprint across other villas and resorts, with the company continuously working toward a future where wine isn't only savored; it's enjoyed for the rich experience it offers. On a mission to unite communities through the palate, VinoCadre shows that, as the founder concludes, 'The power of wine goes beyond the glass.' Media Contact Name: Andre Boada Email: [email protected]
