Entries for the 2020 Australian Women in Wine Awards (AWIWA) open tomorrow, with organisers looking to celebrate a new kind of success given the 2020 we have had so far.
The AWIWA said it was looking to uncover achievements like staying in business, creatively retaining staff, pivoting to find new markets, navigating times of uncertainty, utilising leadership skills and breaking new ground.
The 2020 award categories are:
- Winemaker of the Year
- Viticulturist of the Year
- Marketer of the Year
- Cellar Door Person of the Year
- Champion of Diversity and Equality
- Owner / Operator of the Year
- Woman of Inspiration – a judges’ choice award (no entry required)
Entries close on 29 September, and the winners will be announced in a livestream broadcast on Tuesday 24 November.
The AWIWA has been a pioneer in virtual events, with its awards joined online across Australia and once again cities, towns and wine regions will be encouraged to host their own awards party while tuning in.
Thomson added: “We’re going back to where it all started.
“This method of announcing the winners actually ensures more people can participate and be part of the excitement of the evening. It will also allow gatherings of people in small numbers – dependent on the COVID restrictions in each state at that time.”
Now in its sixth year, the AWIWA works to celebrate and reward the work of women in the Australian wine community, and community leaders who champion equality and fairness for all sexes in the workplace.