Photographer: Dragan Radocaj
AFL Diversity Talent Manager Paul Vandenbergh, in collaboration with Cirillo Estate and Chalk Hill Wines, will be launching a new wine label, Munda Wines, in 2022.
Due to release later this year, Munda Wines will be launching its Peramangk Country Cirillo Estate Wines 2022 Grenache and its Kaurna Country Chalk Hill 2021 Blewitt Springs Syrah.
As a proud Wirangu/Kokatha man from the Far West Coast of South Australia, Vandenbergh has been working with the AFL since February 2021, improving talent outcomes for Indigenous and multicultural players across the country.
Vandenbergh is now looking to honour First Australians’ land and culture through winemaking.
“We are regarded as a ‘New World Wine Country’ but with a mix of ancient soils and culture, Munda Wines is educating to re-think this,” said Paul on social media.
“From a young age we are taught to look after Munda (Country) first, then plants (punu) and animals (kuka) – these are the principles behind Munda Wines.”
Paul has shared on his Facebook that he is “amazed” and “proud” to be working with some of the regions’ “best winemakers” and looks forward to vine picking for the inaugural Munda Peramangk Country Grenache soon.
“The fruit couldn’t look any better thanks to our friendship with the immensely humble and talented Marco Cirillo from Cirilla Estate Wines,” said Paul on social media.
Paul Vandenbergh continues to work closely with clubs and AFL and AFLW Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander players to ensure a smooth transition from talent pathway programs and elite programs at AFL/AFLW level.
Prior to the AFL, Vandenbergh was formerly the Aboriginal Programs Director at the Port Adelaide Football Club, where he led community programs and generated initiatives for indigenous youth in SA.
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