Stanthorpe’s Granite Belt Wines at the Heart of New Wine Scholarship Partnership

March 23, 2023

Just 20 minutes from the heart of Stanthorpe, Queensland, The Star Entertainment Group and the Queensland Wine Industry Association have come together to launch a new wine scholarship program. This inaugural initiative shines a spotlight on the region’s renowned Granite Belt wines and seeks to nurture a new generation of wine enthusiasts and professionals.

The Stars’ scholarship winners will go amongst the vines and barrels at vintage time and will be given hands on lessons across all areas of the wine industry from grape growing and harvesting, winemaking processes to bottling, tasting and even wine judging.

Carolina Scudeler restaurant supervisor at The Star Gold Coast’s Cucina Vivo and Mark Hadley from premium guest services at Treasury Brisbane are the first to be awarded the scholarships. Both have worked across numerous hospitality roles with The Star for more than five years.

“I love wine, I love drinking it and I love serving it. I was motivated to apply for this scholarship to learn more and provide a better dining experience for my guests,” said Carolina.

“I feel I have a solid understanding of wine and wine brands, but I am so enthusiastic to get hands on, learn more about the entire process and then give back as a value add to my customer engagement,” said Mark.

The budding sommelier students have already undertaken a two-day immersive program at the Granite Belt’s award-winning Hidden Creek Winery, located 20 minutes south of Stanthorpe and 3 hours dive from Brisbane.

Andrew Corrigan, president of the Queensland Wine Industry Association said Carolina and Mark will also get a taste of the industry beyond the vineyards.

“We are thrilled we can expose the winning pair to the art of wine stewarding at the upcoming Royal Queensland Wine Awards, how to source and match wines for special events as well as become an Associate Judge at the 2023 Queensland Wine Industry Awards later in 2023,” Mr Corrigan said.

“I have no doubt both will become passionate ambassadors and advocates for the Queensland wine industry.”