Chris Tyrrell takes the Helm as President of Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association

Chris Tyrrell, CEO of Tyrrell’s Wines, is now the President of the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association (HVWTA).

He takes over from Stuart Hordern, Senior Winemaker at Brokenwood, who completed his two-year term.

The election, held at the HVWTA AGM on November 21 at Rydges Resort, also saw Sasha Degen of Degen Wines and Hunter Valley Stays becoming the Vice President.

As the leader of Tyrrell's Wines, a prominent winery in Australia, Chris Tyrrell is the sixth President of HVWTA.

He follows in the footsteps of his father, Bruce and grandfather Murray, both former Presidents of the Hunter Valley Vineyard Association.

Commenting on his appointment, Tyrrell said, “It is with pride that I take on this role to continue the excellent work of Stuart and the HVWTA team. In Sasha, I am joined by someone with a strong connection to both the wine, accommodation and tourism industries and who plays a key role in the advocacy issues facing our region. Her commitment to enhancing the visitor experience aligns with our focus to develop world-class experiences for our visitors.”

Sasha looks forward to collaborating with members, partners, and stakeholders across the wine and tourism industries.

Jennie Curran, CEO of HVWTA, thanked the new Board Executive and Members for their dedication. She emphasized the strength that passionate leaders like Stuart, Chris, and Sasha bring to the Hunter Valley and the Australian Wine and Tourism industries.

“In Stuart, Chris & Sasha, I see the best of the Hunter Valley, passionate leaders with a strong connection to place and who share the same objective: to make our region the best it can be. They do that by getting involved and by giving their time generously. Thank you to Stuart, Chris and Sasha; the Hunter Valley and the Australian Wine and Tourism industries are stronger for your involvement,” said Curren.

HVWTA is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization dedicated to making the Hunter Valley a premier wine and tourism destination. The Board, consisting of 14 local business leaders, supports the strategic priorities of destination marketing, advocacy, and industry development for Hunter Valley Wine Country.