Graham Gregory Award

The prestigious Graham Gregory Award, is the top citation acknowledging an individual's outstanding contribution to the NSW wine industry.

Winegrowers, winemakers, and others involved in the wine industry such as researchers, educators, leaders and innovators are encouraged to apply.

Please note that the award is retrospective recognising service for the previous year.

Purpose of the award

Recognition by peers of an individual for honourable contributions benefiting the NSW wine industry generally. These contributions will be in one or more of the following fields and/or in any other field which advances the NSW wine industry:

• Leadership
• Technology and innovation
• Research and development
• Industry regulation
• Winemaking and viticulture
• Enhancing regional and/or state profile
• Education and training
• Market development
• Environmental footprint.

The award is named after former NSW Agriculture Deputy Director General Graham Gregory, who was instrumental in the development of the NSW wine industry, and recognises areas such as leadership, research and development, winemaking, education and market development.

2024 winner

Sally Evans takes home the 2024 Graham Gregory Award at NSW Wine Awards

The NSW Government has announced Sally Evans as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Graham Gregory Award, recognising her exceptional leadership, service and influence on the New South Wales wine industry.

NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, presented the award to Ms Evans at the annual NSW Wine Awards, held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Sydney.

The Graham Gregory Award is the industry’s highest accolade, recognising individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the NSW wine industry in fields such as leadership, research and development, technology and innovation, viticulture, winemaking, education and market development.

As Chair of the Len Evans Tutorial – Australia’s leading wine judge training program – Ms Evans oversees the annual selection and development of 12 emerging wine professionals, offering them access to world-class tasting and mentorship by the finest wine professionals in Australia.

In 2010, she joined the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW council, where she is currently a board member and chaired the Sydney Royal Wine Show Committee for 6 years, where she introduced the James Busby Trophy for Best NSW Wine.

Her leadership extended to coordinating national collaboration among Australian Capital City Wine Shows and NSW regional shows, fostering greater unity and excellence across the sector.

She was named a ‘Legend of the Vine’ by Wine Communicators of Australia in 2024 for her lifetime of service to the Australian wine industry and accepted the Maurice O’Shea Award on behalf of the Len Evans Tutorial in 2016.

Beginning her wine career in London in the 1990s, Ms Evans has held senior roles at McWilliams, Winepros Ltd, and Len Evans Holdings.

In addition to her formal roles, Ms Evans is a respected wine writer, marketer and mentor, actively supporting women and young people entering the industry.

Her father, Len Evans, was a recipient of the Graham Gregory Award in 1997.

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) Deputy Secretary Agriculture and Biosecurity Rachel Connell said Ms Evans’s career achievements exemplify the spirit of the Graham Gregory Award.

Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and Biosecurity Rachel Connell said:

‘Through her remarkable contributions across leadership, education, market development and regional promotion, Sally has consistently elevated the profile of NSW wine, both locally and internationally.

She has helped shape the next generation of wine judges, giving them the tools and confidence to represent Australian wine on the global stage. Her legacy is one of generosity, vision and enduring impact.

Her commitment to mentoring emerging talent ensures the industry’s future is in capable hands.’

President of the NSW Wine Industry Association Mark Bourne said:

‘Sally’s commitment and impact on the wine industry is well known and I cannot think of a more popular recipient.’

‘A mentor to countless wine industry professionals, Sally has been a consistent force for good in the NSW wine industry.’

Sally Evans said:

‘I am proud to be a part of the dynamic NSW wine industry, with its rich heritage and progressive outlook.’

‘To be named as the recipient of the 2024 Graham Gregory Award is an overwhelming honour.

‘It’s been a privilege to make my own modest contribution to one of Australia’s most enduring and cherished industries.’

Past winners