Key figures in the South Australian Food, Wine and Agribusiness sector have stepped up with top tips for the community about how they can help support local producers these Christmas holidays.

The Food, Wine and Agribusiness Ambassadors are from a wide range of industries and together with the state government are calling on South Australians to buy local this summer.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham says 2020 has been a difficult year for primary producers, firstly with drought then bushfires and COVID-19.

“Wine, horticulture and seafood are important to the state economy all year round, but all had special significance for us all in the lead up to Christmas,” he says.

“I am encouraging everyone to support our vital producers not just by buying local in the lead up to Christmas, but throughout the whole summer.

“Plus, I’m pleased to see these great tips from the team of food and wine pioneers, educators and industry legends who are the current ambassadors for the South Australian Food, Wine and Agribusiness sector.

“There is something for everyone in these ideas about ‘how to help’ with practical solutions and support for an important sector within South Australia.”

The current group of Ambassadors met with the Minister for the first time in November to discuss how the influential group could support the Food, Wine and Agribusiness sector, and ultimately the whole state.

Minister Basham says he was proud to work with the ambassadors in a number of ways including encouraging consumers to support South Australian producers.

“Together this group offer a wealth of experience and as ambassadors they help the whole community to understand the importance of the sector to the state’s economy.

“Our ambassadors have participated in many events such as Tasting Australia and the recent Gather & Graze by Cheesefest and been speakers at events like the inaugural AdvanceAg conference in February this year.

“These people, through their connection to government, industry and consumers, will ultimately contribute to our Growth State target of $23 billion by 2030.”

The Food, Wine and Agribusiness Ambassadors are:

Amanda Duggan, Andrew ‘Cosi’ Costello, Angelo Demasi, Callum Hann, Catherine Sayer, Chester Osborn, Darren Thomas, Duncan Welgomoed, Kris Lloyd, Maurice Crotti, Michael Angelakis, Peter Gago, Ray Borda, Rika Warbanoff, Robert Hill-Smith.

For more information visit the PIRSA website.