MYRTLEFORD: Deputy Premier and minister for Agriculture, Pat McNamara, paid tribute to post war immigration at the official opening of Michelini's winery on Wednesday. In his speech to a crowd of 60 invited guests, Mr McNamara said the Australian wine industry as it is today owed a lot to the Italian community who brought the love of wine and good food with them to a new country.

Mr McNamara said the wine industry was more than just about consumption; it had cultivated a new life style for Australians with current exports totaling $10 million. "This area in particular has a great future," Mr McNamara said. "The warm days and cool nights produce high quality grapes and high quality wine. There is no doubt this trend will continue."

Following the official cutting of the ribbon with Emo Michelini, Mr McNamara joined guests in sampling the six varieties of wines made from locally grown grapes.] Guests included a "who's who" of the wine industry including regional and interstate visitors. Others including tobacco representatives and Alpine Shire councilors. All enjoyed the first Michelini vintage poured by cellar door sales manager Corinne Michelini. Friends and family continued to pour through the winery well into the late afternoon, chatting over a quiet drink and wishing the Michelini family the best for the future.

Deputy Premier Pat McNamara cuts the ribbon to officially open Michelini's Winery on the Great Alpine Road Myrtleford, watched by Emo Michelini.