The Wine Grape Council of South Australia (WCGSA) has appointed Rachel Triggs as its new independent chair, marking a significant leadership change in the state’s wine sector. Triggs brings a wealth of experience, having served as chair of Australian Women in Wine and as a committee member for Australian Grape and Wine. Her background as a corporate lawyer and current role as director of governance at the new Adelaide University further bolster her credentials.
WCGSA emphasized that Triggs’ expertise in winemaking, law, industry regulation, governance, and advocacy aligns with its mission for credible, grower-focused representation.
“This is an excellent appointment for South Australian grape growers, and one that will strengthen the Council’s ability to deliver practical, grower-focused outcomes,” said outgoing interim chair Lachlan Allen.
New Faces at KBR Adelaide
Science, technology, and engineering company KBR has expanded its Adelaide office with the addition of two key figures. Ben Champion joins as the new roads and highways discipline manager, bringing over 25 years of experience in the transport sector. His previous roles include an 18-year tenure with the Department of Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) and leadership at engineering consultancy Jacobs.
Joanna Davies, with over 19 years of experience as a chartered engineer, steps in as KBR’s principal roads engineer. Her expertise in road design and safety, honed through roles at DIT, will be crucial as she contributes to the formulation of South Australia’s Road Safety Strategy 2020.
Leadership Changes Across Industries
Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) has confirmed Matthew O’Reilly as head of broadcast content after a successful interim period. O’Reilly, with over 15 years at SCA, will now officially lead content teams across the Hit and Triple M Networks.
“I’m proud and humbled to officially lead our broadcast content teams into the next exciting phase at SCA,” O’Reilly said.
Meanwhile, Australian Naval Infrastructure (ANI) is expanding its legal team in Adelaide, offering a unique opportunity for a Senior Associate or in-house counsel. This role supports ANI’s growth and complexity, focusing on compliance and legal risk management.
In Alice Springs, the Central Land Council seeks a Human Resources Manager for a 14-month contract, offering a chance to contribute to Aboriginal communities’ aspirations while enjoying the cultural richness of Central Australia.
Financial and Executive Appointments
The City of Tea Tree Gully has appointed Lisa Gilmartin as its new financial manager. Gilmartin brings over 11 years of senior experience from the City of West Torrens, enhancing the council’s financial and asset management capabilities.
SA housing developer Rivergum has named Michael Buchan as its new CEO. With over 25 years in housing construction and land development, Buchan is poised to lead Rivergum through its next growth phase.
“We are pleased to have secured an experienced and strategic leader in Michael as we expand our focus,” said Rivergum founder Victor Said.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia has appointed Christine Cook as the new SA branch director. Cook’s leadership in member-based organizations and her experience in workforce development and governance will be instrumental in enhancing community pharmacies’ roles in South Australia.
Community and Corporate Initiatives
Three new ambassadors have been named for St Vincent De Paul’s CEO Sleepout, including Fiona Endacott, Tom Clark, and Paul Kitching. This initiative aims to raise awareness and support for homelessness in South Australia, with the event scheduled for June 18 at Adelaide Zoo.
Lastly, SkyCity Entertainment Group has appointed Blair Woodbury as chief financial officer. Woodbury’s extensive experience in financial leadership roles, including at Sky Network Television and New Zealand Post, positions him well to oversee SkyCity’s financial strategies.
These appointments reflect a dynamic shift in South Australia’s corporate and community sectors, with new leaders poised to drive growth and innovation across various industries.
