BY OLIVIA DILLON
Staff shortages in the Hunter region's tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors are creating concerns regarding the upcoming wine harvest.
In the wake of the travel and lockdown restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many vineyards in the region have a number of vacant positions, usually filled by backpackers and international students.
Roles in tourism and hospitality took a particularly large hit during the pandemic, with many workers having to be stood down, and others seeking employment outside of the industry during the extended lockdown.
Last season, the region was unable to take advantage of the Pacific Seasonal Workers Scheme, as they were required to provide three months work, which would have exceeded the harvest period.
President of the Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association and CEO of Tulloch Wines, Christina Tulloch, says the group will do all they can in the upcoming months to coordinate with major contractors and get people working in the vintage.
"It's going to be a short-term pressure at the start of next year because vintages usually run for about six weeks. So, we've just got to do everything we can to get the word out that we are looking for people to come and work in The Valley," she said.
"Any support we can get from the government in terms of encouraging individuals for this short period of time would be great, whether that's changes to the Pacific Seasonal Workers Scheme or something to encourage domestic workers to come into the region; we do need something to be done."
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| Tulloch Wines in the Hunter Valley |
