Oates to provide stability for wine

Margaret River’s embattled wine industry received a shot in the arm last week with news local winemaker Cath Oates was appointed acting chairwoman of Wine Australia. The Oates End operator and former Margaret River Wine Association president, pictured, was named to the role for a three-month stint. Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said Ms Oates would provide stability for the Australian wine sector during the pandemic. “The wine industry has already faced significant challenges in 2020 from bushfires and reduced demand in key markets,” he said. “It is important Wine Australia has a strong voice bringing the marketing, research and development and regulatory functions together while working through these challenges.” Ms Oates first joined Wine Australia as a director in 2018 and was a previous Wines of WA vice-president.