Mary Retallack inducted into Businesswomen's Hall of Fame

Congratulations to viticulturist Mary Retallack on being inducted into the Businesswomen’s Hall of Fame.

For the past 19 years, HerBusiness (formerly The Australian Businesswomen’s Network) has recognised and profiled Australia’s leading female entrepreneurs through the Businesswomen’s Hall of Fame.

Over that time, over 200 women have been inducted – some quiet achievers, others high profile leaders of industry, some emerging entrepreneurs and small business owners, others the champions of the community sector.

“Through the Businesswomen’s Hall of Fame we shine a light on female entrepreneurs – their success; their insights and their wisdom," said HerBusiness CEO Suzi Dafnis. "And telling the stories of these amazing women also inspires and encourages other women to pursue their passion, follow their instincts and create the business and life they love.”

Retallack is the Managing Director of Retallack Viticulture, which offers a broad range of viticultural services throughout Australia. She is also a Director of Wine Australia, a member of the Adelaide University Wine Alumni Steering Group, on the editorial panel of the Australian and New Zealand Grapegrower and Winemaker Journal, and a founding board member of the Women of the Vine Global Symposium, which meets in Napa Valley each year.

A third-generation viticulturist, Retallack has won numerous awards, including the Rural Woman of the Year award in 2012 and the Len Evans Tutorial Scholar in 2014.

She is one of 17 entrepreneurs inducted into the Businesswomen’s Hall of Fame in 2017.

Among her strategies for success that she shared with HerBusiness:

>> Build others up and give back. We have less than 10% female viticulturists in the wine community. It is important to be seen and heard so others can learn about and have equal access to the fantastic opportunities available in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and especially the agribusiness and primary production sectors.

>> Net-weave. Continue to expand, nurture and use your networks, making sure you are aware of and put your hand up for opportunities. We get the best outcomes when we have both men and women involved in decision making. Make sure you are present at the decision-making table.

>> Mentors and sponsors. Find both mentors who can challenge you in a safe environment, and sponsors who can help to open doors to opportunities for advancement.

>> Be generous, kind and compassionate. Be generous with your knowledge, expertise, enthusiasm, guidance and time. Every connection we make can make a difference. Never underestimate the difference an individual can make.

>> Follow your passions. Surround yourself with the right people. Embrace each opportunity that comes your way. Take time out to reflect and recharge. Look after your heath, it underpins everything you do. Expect and embrace the unexpected. Be passionate with a purpose, be generous and have fun.