My vision for CCW

By ANDREW KASSEBAUM, Winkie

TO ALL the CCW shareholders I would like to take this opportunity to share with you my vision for the future direction of our co-operative.

CCW is seen as a unique and often powerful force within the Australian wine industry, and its working relationship with Constellation Wines is the envy of other wine businesses.
However, as a growers group we are price takers. We should have more control of our future and not be dictated to by winemakers.
In the current climate of over-supply, we are being told by the Winemakers Federation we must downsize, yet it was their reckless issuing of contracts during the good times, with no accountability of their actions, that has resulted in the current predicament.
It is safe to say the majority of wine grape growers would not invest in new plantings without some contractual security.
To date, our regional growers association has provided limited guidance for CCW grape growers, but is happy to take our levies.
As a growers group we must be focused on our future.
The board of directors needs to provide the leadership and resolve to ensure the survival of all its growers.
The leadership of Jim Caddy cannot be questioned, however I believe other directors need to be more focused on the needs of the growers they represent.
It’s time to inject new blood onto the board, people who have the drive to take CCW forward as a powerful co-operative to face the coming challenges as the wine industry recovers.
I am committed to a vibrant future for CCW and the Australian wine industry which holds both challenges and rewards.
I ask respectfully for your vote during the forthcoming CCW annual general meeting on April 20. Thank you.