Curtin University of Technology and Winewatch are supporting a project aimed at making Margaret River more environmentally friendly.
Curtin’s Winewatch Project Officer, Genevieve Hanran-Smith, said by helping local winemakers and grape growers gain EntWine Australia certification, Curtin and Winewatch were protecting the Margaret River environment and advertising the eco-friendly nature of the area’s wines.
“By becoming EntWine certified, Margaret River winemakers and grape growers are showing that they take their responsibility for the environment seriously,” she said.
“This is important for protecting the local environment, which is valuable for its biodiversity, the lifestyle benefits it brings and its attractiveness to tourists.”
The scheme involves third party certification and requires demonstration of best agricultural practice, management of remnant vegetation and waterways, winery wastewater management and resource use efficiency.
Nine wineries and 55 vineyards are involved in the Margaret River pilot. Participants have received training on the requirements of the scheme, support to develop environmental action plans and most are currently working towards meeting the requirements in order to pass the third party audit.
Local winery and vineyard Cape Mentelle was the first to be audited and is the first Western Australian member of EntWine Australia.
Curtin’s Wine Science Lecturer, Associate Professor Mark Gibberd, said this was another example of Curtin supporting the local industry.
“Curtin recognises the importance of the Margaret River wine industry and the unique environment of the South West,” he said.
“Through this program, we will help provide local winemakers and grape growers with the expertise to protect the area’s biodiversity plus gain new customers through their recognition as environmentally responsible businesses.”
Winewatch is a partnership between Curtin, the Margaret River Wine Industry Association, Cape to Cape Catchments Group, GeoCatch, Shires of Busselton and Augusta-Margaret River. The project is funded by the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country.
