Barossa Cellar was packed for the launch of the 2025 Barossa Vintage Festival on Tuesday evening, which culminated in churches of all denominations from across the region, ringing their bells at 6.30pm.
CEO of Barossa Australia, Scott Hazeldine, welcomed all to the evening, and spoke about the Festival as, “probably the most significant event on the region’s calendar” and “much loved by visitors and residents alike.”
Scott, along with other speakers at the event, acknowledged the dedication of the organisers and volunteers behind the Festival, without which it wouldn’t be possible.
“…As many of you know putting on a Festival of this ilk is not a small undertaking and really relies on some good processes and systems but also a significant input of blood and sweat and tears from the community, industry and business,” Scott said.
Chair of the 2025 Barossa Vintage Festival, Carla Wiese-Smith also spoke about the integral role of volunteers.
“There are so many unseen volunteer hours which go into pulling this Festival together and it’s what’s kept the Festival going for 75 years and I think everyone will agree it’s what’s going to keep the Festival going for another 75 years or more,” Carla said.
Carla introduced Grand Master of the Barons of Barossa, Louisa Rose, who spoke eloquently about the evolution of the Barons of Barossa, celebrating 50 years in 2025, and its place in the community, before The Barossa Council Mayor, Bim Lange talked about the love for the Festival in the community, adding the comment, “Without a doubt the Barossa, we do know how to throw a party….”
Carla introduced Co-Directors of Barossa Vintage Festival 2025, Rebecca Reynolds and Maz McGann as the “dynamic duo,” with Maz taking the time to thank each individual sponsor.
“We live in a giving place and this is one of those times when the givers get to shine,” Maz said.
In her speech, Rebecca provided an update on the Festival, saying that the event number had now reached 91 events stretching over the five days, with 1000 people taking part in Saturday’s Festival Parade alone (and that’s without considering the onlookers).
Rebecca also said the Grapestomp activities were booked out, with 60 groups taking part from as far afield as Tamworth, Sydney and even mainland China!
Also participating are representatives from Grapevine, Texas.
At the finale of speeches, Rebecca rang an historic hand-held bell on loan from historian Luke Rothe, to herald the start of festivities!
