Barons Honour Ray Beckwith

The contribution of veteran oenologist Ray Beckwith was recognised at the 2012 Declaration of Vintage in Tanunda on Sunday. "Ray's work was key to Australia becoming a first class world producer of table wine," said Stephen Henschke, Grand Master of the Barons of Barossa. Dr Beckwith, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, was presented with a bottle of 100 Year Old Seppeltsfield Para Vintage Tawny as a token of thanks. In other developments, Fiona Donald, senior winemaker at Seppeltsfield Winery was named the Barossa Winemaker of the Year -- the award recognises Fiona's contribution in reviving the historic gravity feed winery - while John Schiller was named Barossa Vigneron of the Year. The award recognises John's long and consistent record of growing high quality grapes using sustainable soil management practices.

Scholarship for Tim

Trinity College student Tim Atkinson has won the prestigious Andy Thomas Scholarship from Adelaide University. The scholarship provides an allowance of $6000 per annum to assist with the winner's education/living costs and tuition fees for a maximum of four years. Tim, the 2011 school dux, achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95 and has enrolled in a Bachelor of Engineering at the university. The Andy Thomas Scholarship was created in 1998 to honour the space shuttle astronaut and Adelaide University graduate. Dr Andy Thomas graduated in 1973 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Nicole wins trip to Melbourne

Nicole Drake, a 4th year apprentice from the Novotel Barossa Valley Resort, has been chosen to attend a prestigious master class (Proud To Be A Chef) in Melbourne next week. Nicole, 20, is one of only 30 apprentice chefs from around Australia to be selected. She's now in the running to win an International Culinary Scholarship, valued at $7,500. "I'm excited to receive this amazing opportunity," she said. "It's not something you get to do every day. I'd also like to thank James Dooley (head chef at the Novotel) for all the support he has given me throughout my whole apprenticeship."

Lehmann whites Take Trophy

Peter Lehmann has won the Leo Buring Perpetual Trophy at this year's Sydney Royal Wine Show. The company's white wine portfolio gained more points than any other exhibitor in the premium white class to take out the trophy. "This is a tribute to our growers and the team at the winery," says winemaker Andrew Wigan. "And it firmly places Eden Valley as one of the great Riesling sites of the world." Peter Lehmann red wines were also in the winner's circle, with a top gold awarded to the 2010 Art Series Shiraz Grenache.

One Bloke, 300 Sheep

No, this isn't a story from New Zealand. On March 24, Neales Flat shearer Mark Steinborner will attempt to shear 300 sheep in 24-hours. The charity event is being organised by the Barossa branch of Make-A-Wish Australia - proceeds will go towards helping children with a life-threatening medical condition. "I know a family whose daughter had a wish granted by Make-A-Wish Australia," said Mark. "I just thought I'm helping a child to fulfil their dreams and this was one way I could do it." If you would like to support Mark come along to Eudunda Oval on March 24 (starting at 10am) or contact Rachael Ditttrich on 0447 640 272 or Natalie Scholz on 0419 837 519.

On The Horizon

February 24
Movie: Eat Pray Love (M)
A married woman (Julia Roberts) flees an unhappy relationship by travelling to Italy, India and Bali in search of pleasure, love and enlightenment. Jacobs Creek Visitors Centre. Movie ticket and a glass of wine: $15. Bookings recommended: 8521 3000.

February 25 & 26

Angaston Show. A traditional country show featuring log chopping, yard dog competition and so much more. Great fun for the whole family. More information at www.angastonshow.org.au

February 26
‘Free Genie' (aka Gian and Cloudy) are playing at the Wanera Wine Bar & Restaurant tonight, 5pm-9 pm. Tapas, a la carte menu, cocktails, wine and beer available. No cover charge.

February 28
High Tea at Harry's. Come along to the Novotel for the valley's plushest high tea. The tea includes glass of bubbles and gourmet goodies. 2pm-4pm. Novotel Barossa Valley Resort: 8524 0025.

March 9
Artisan's Market at Greenock. Enjoy a night out after work at the Greenock Town Square. The market showcases locally made jewellery, paintings, cosmetics, soaps, candles, and much more. Live music, food, wine and other drinks are all available.