By Andy Young
Premium Barossa wine producer Elderton Wines have announced the first recipient of the Elderton Winemaking Excellence Scholarship.
Cameron and Allister Ashmead of Elderton Wines announced that fourth year Bachelor of Oenology and Viticulture student Thomas Darmody will be the inaugural recipient of the scholarship.
“We are excited to announce that Thomas Darmody is the inaugural recipient of the Elderton Winemaking Excellence Scholarship. Thomas is an outstanding young man, who loves the Barossa, and we look forward to assisting him in his final year of study,” said Cameron Ashmead, Co-Managing Director of Elderton Wines.
“This scholarship gives us the opportunity to give back to the great Barossa community that continues to support our small family winery. We feel that offering mentoring and vintage placements to the successful students also provides them with great building blocks for their career.”
Darmody grew up on a property on the western edge of the Barossa and is entering the final year of his studies. He will also be taking up a position at Elderton’s winery this vintage.
“Thanks to Elderton and Foundation Barossa, I have a great opportunity to learn through working at a world-class, family owned winery. This will provide a good grounding for my future career. The scholarship will assist me to focus on my studies and achieve my best in my final year,” Darmody said.
Cameron added: "All the applicants were outstanding candidates, and we encourage all interested students to apply for the 2017 Scholarship. More details will be released in April."
The scholarship funds, which are administered by Foundation Barossa, provides financial assistance of up to $3000 towards educational expenses, along with the opportunity for mentoring from the team at Elderton. The scholarship is awarded to a passionate student undertaking a Bachelor of Oenology (Winemaking) at an Australian University, entering their first through fourth year of study.
Applications for the 2017 Elderton Winemaking Excellence Scholarship will open later this year, with further information to be available through Foundation Barossa (www.foundationbarossa.org.au).