TAFE NSW Kurri Kurri Winery celebrated three decades of viticulture and winemaking education at a formal anniversary event on 22 April 2026. Since producing its first vintage in 1995, the winery has served as a primary training ground for the Hunter region’s wine industry, combining hands-on teaching with commercial-grade production.

The winery reached the 30-year milestone in 2025, with the recent event serving to recognise the founders’ vision and the technical achievements of graduates. To mark the occasion, Diploma of Viticulture students produced a special Founders’ Drop Cabernet Sauvignon. The project was a cross-faculty collaboration, with eight Certificate III in Graphic Design students competing to design the commemorative label. Student Maria Terrile was selected as the winner for the final anniversary packaging.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said the winery has played a vital role in supporting the broader industry and producing skilled winemakers.

“This milestone reflects the founders’ vision and the dedication of staff and students who have built a respected centre of learning,” Steve said.

Director of Agriculture, Animals, Food and Science at TAFE NSW, Rebecca Coventry said the anniversary release showcases the full production journey from vine to bottle.

“The Founders’ Drop captures the journey of producing the wine and designing the label, reflecting the training results we continue to deliver,” Rebecca said.

One of the winery’s founders, Tom Lantry said the facility was originally envisioned as a site where students could develop real-world skills outside a traditional classroom.

“Seeing it thrive 30 years later, producing wines and training graduates, is rewarding,” Tom said.

The winery continues to operate as a commercial-scale teaching facility, earning national and international awards for its vintages over the past 30 years. By integrating students into every stage of the winemaking process, the Kurri Kurri campus remains a key contributor to the regional workforce in one of Australia’s most prominent wine-growing districts.

IMAGE | TAFE NSW Kurri Kurri Winery marks 30 years of industry training