Vinpro will continue to present its popular training courses for vineyard teams, but in a new format to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Wine grape producers can now request practical demonstrations to be presented on their farms in the form of a half day course for a maximum of 15 people. This new format replaces the traditional prescheduled full-day courses that included both theory and practical training for larger groups.

“It is important to us that vineyard workers are continuously empowered through training opportunities such as these training courses, while at the same time valuing their safety,” says Hanno van Schalkwyk, Vinpro viticulturist and coordinator of the training courses. “By adapting the format, we would like to prevent the transport and gathering of vineyard teams in one venue and limit the spread of COVID-19.”

Compared to the previous ten training modules, producers can now choose from the following two practical sessions to be presented on their farm.

Winter training:

  • Basic pruning principles (short, half-long bearer and Guyot systems)
  • Maintenance of pruning shears
  • Prevention of trunk diseases
  • Correct planting techniques of young vines.

Summer training:

  • Basic functioning of the vine
  • Goal of canopy management
  • Different canopy management techniques
  • Young vine development
  • Common pests and diseases.

Each person attending the training will receive a free safety mask, while the basic health measures will be adhered to, including taking attendees’ temperatures, washing and sanitising of hands, as well as maintaining social distance during the sessions.

Vinpro trained more than 1 000 persons in the course of last year, thanks to financial support from the Vinpro Foundation. Columbit also became involved as a valuable partner this year.

The cost is R210 per person. Book a practical training session by contacting the Vinpro training office at 021 276 0429 or email [email protected].