A STATE competition is set to spark a rivalry between two neighbouring communities, with Penola and Coonawarra both nominated for the inaugural South Australian Ag Town of the Year award.
The two towns will line up alongside nine other MacKillop communities and 41 towns statewide, with the award celebrating areas which have demonstrated excellence and support for their farming industries over the past year.
Brand’s Laira winemakers Peter Weinberg and Amy Blackburn said they were not surprised by the nominations due to the region’s diverse agricultural economy.
“We have several agricultural industries such as livestock, cropping, grapes and forestry,” he said.
“It gives the area a bit more diversity because you have got so many people involved in so many different agricultural industries and science.”
Ms Blackburn said Penola and Coonawarra also boasted unrivalled livability.
“It is a lovely place to live because each weekend you can go out in your own town and feel like a tourist,” she said.
“There is a richness to the areas and with the cafes and markets that are held throughout the areas, it is no wonder.”
Mr Weinberg said the immense community spirit set Penola and Coonawarra apart from other towns.
“With the amount of festivals that occur throughout the region it creates a family-friendly atmosphere for the areas which only increases that community spirit,” he said.
“As a small town community we are certainly punching above our weight in regards to tourism and events.”
Member for Mackillop Nick McBride was thrilled the towns had been nominated.
“Penola has a bustling year-round tourism industry, thanks in part to its long and rich history,” he said.
“I have seen first hand the way businesses work to actively source new market opportunities and support regional events in the area.”
Mr McBride praised Coonawarra’s worldwide reputation for producing superb quality wines.
“It is developing walking and cycling trails, improving roads and upgrading public parks to add to the tourism experience,” Mr McBride said.
An independent panel will assess each town and narrow the field to five towns, with the final winner being announced later this year.
Bordertown, Keith, Beachport, Millicent, Kalangadoo and Tantanoola have also been nominated.
