Four South Australian businesses emerged victorious at the 63rd national Australian Export Awards, held at Parliament House in Canberra on Wednesday night. Among the celebrated winners was Munda Wines, an Aboriginal-owned premium wine company, which clinched the inaugural First Nations Exporter award. This prestigious recognition highlights the significant contributions of First Nations traders and exporters to international trade.
Selected from over 370 applications and 95 national finalists, Munda Wines stood out for its unique approach to winemaking. The company sources grapes from across South Australia and currently exports its products to the United States, Canada, and Malaysia. Founded by Wirangu and Kokatha man Pauly Vandenbergh, Munda Wines officially launched in 2022, quickly making a mark on the global stage.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage Through Wine
Vandenbergh’s vision for Munda Wines is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. “International markets are eager to engage with the oldest continuing culture on the face of the planet. It is an incredible point of difference for Aboriginal-led businesses and resonates powerfully with our commercial partners,” he stated. “Munda Wines redefined what Australian wine can stand for – proving that culture, Country, and commerce can walk together and open pathways for the next generation of Aboriginal entrepreneurs.”
The journey to founding Munda Wines began with Vandenbergh’s earlier venture, Wanna Mar Produce, a joint initiative with the renowned Port Lincoln fishing Stehr Group. As the first Aboriginal holder of a commercial tuna license in South Australia, Vandenbergh’s experience in the seafood industry inspired the creation of a wine brand that pairs perfectly with a chargrilled bluefin tuna steak, leading to the birth of Munda Wines.
Recognition of South Australian Excellence
The Australian Export Awards not only celebrated Munda Wines but also recognized other outstanding South Australian businesses. Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell emphasized the importance of highlighting exporters who significantly contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity.
“They create thousands of jobs in our regions and cities, taking the best of Australia to the world and enhancing our reputation as a strong and trusted trading nation and partner,” he said.
Among the winners were:
- Technologies Category Winner: MyVenue, an Adelaide-based company, is revolutionizing commerce for sports and entertainment venues globally with its cloud-based point-of-sale solutions.
- Professional Services Category Winner: CMAX Clinical Research, Australia’s longest-established independent facility for clinical trials, recognized for its expertise in accelerating product development.
- Regional Exporter Category Winner: AlmondCo, a grower-owned cooperative producing premium almond products, representing over 85% of the country’s almond growers.
The Broader Impact of First Nations Exporters
The recognition of Munda Wines at the awards underscores the growing importance of First Nations businesses in Australia’s export landscape. The standalone category for First Nations exporters aims to celebrate and encourage the unique contributions these businesses make to international trade.
By partnering with grape growers and winemakers, Munda Wines not only promotes Aboriginal employment but also serves as a model for how the wine industry can engage with First Nations culture through collaboration. The company’s success story is a testament to the potential of Aboriginal-led enterprises in the global market.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Aboriginal-Led Enterprises
The success of Munda Wines and other Aboriginal-led businesses at the Australian Export Awards highlights a promising future for First Nations entrepreneurs. By leveraging their cultural heritage and unique perspectives, these businesses are carving out a niche in the global market, paving the way for future generations.
As Munda Wines continues to expand its reach, it sets a precedent for other Aboriginal-led businesses to follow, proving that cultural heritage and modern commerce can coexist and thrive together. The recognition at the national awards serves as an inspiration for aspiring Aboriginal entrepreneurs, encouraging them to explore new opportunities and make their mark on the world stage.
