10 July 1996 Sparkling guest list for Spring School in Grapes and Wine

International speakers will add a vintage sparkle to Lincoln University's 1996 Spring School in Grapes and Wine, to be held over 20-21 September.

Topping the bill will be keynote speaker Peter Høj of Adelaide, South Australia.

The foundation Professor of Viticultural Science at the University of Adelaide, Peter is a plant biochemist/molecular biologist and he will discuss two topics – "Recent developments in plant biotechnology with potential applications for viticulture" and "Recent progress in viticultural research at the University of Adelaide."

Twenty other researchers and industry leaders are on the guest list and they will discuss their current work and comment on the future of the industry in New Zealand.

"We are very fortunate to attract highly knowledgeable and well qualified speakers from the whole spectrum of the industry," says Reader in Viticulture Dr David Jackson of Lincoln University.

"The sharing of knowledge and interchange of ideas at the school can only benefit grape growing and wine making in New Zealand."

Lincoln University first held a Spring School in Grapes and Wine in 1993 as an event to mark the 20th anniversary of the initial planting of grapes at Lincoln by Dr Jackson – a trial which paved the way for the emergence of a South Island cool climate wine industry.

The 1993 school was so popular it was decided to hold a similar event annually. Today the school is seen as a major contribution to the industry through the attendance of eminent national and international speakers and the opportunity it provides to showcase new research findings and management techniques in oenology and viticulture.

The school is organised by Lincoln University’s Centre for Continuing Education and further information and registration details can be obtained from Errol Costello, Centre for Continuing Education, PO Box 84, Lincoln University, telephone (03) 325-3832 or fax (03) 325-3840.

Ian Collins, Journalist, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand.