Free entry to Wine Centre for summer holidays

Thursday, 30 October 2003

The University of Adelaide has responded to public demand and extended free entry to the National Wine Centre until the end of January 2004.

In announcing this today, Mr Mark Szolga, the University's Commercial Director, said the University was keeping its initial promise by making the centre accessible to the public.

"When we announced the acquisition in February, we said a major objective was to engage Adelaideans and provide them the opportunity to explore one of the city's true icons," Mr Szolga said.

"Since opening the centre to the public in September, we have received fantastic support from the people of Adelaide. This has prompted us to extend free entry through the summer holiday period giving people the opportunity to visit the centre."

In February this year, the University agreed to lease the National Wine Centre for $1 million for a period of 40 years from the South Australian Government. The University moved into the wine centre on 1 September 2003.

In announcing the acquisition, Vice-Chancellor Professor James McWha said, "the National Wine Centre would provide improved links with the wine industry. In addition, it will enhance our position in Australia and globally as the leading Australian wine educator."

"It also offers unique marketing opportunities and much needed space for the expansion of our wine-related programs," Professor McWha added.

The University now has enough space to accommodate 200 students in the wine sensory evaluation classes and the centre's Busby Hall has already been used for this purpose.

The University of Adelaide currently offers 20 wine-related courses, and more than 780 students, including 30 international students, were enrolled last year. There are undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

The wine centre will continue to cater to special events and conferences.

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