Barossa and Grapevine: uncorking new connections
24 Sep 2025The Barossa made its mark in Grapevine, Texas with a whirlwind sister city exchange that strengthened friendships, deepened connections and highlighted a shared passion for culture, learning and community.
The Barossa delegation, with representatives from Council, Barossa Australia, Regional Development Australia and Nuriootpa High School embraced every opportunity to share stories, exchange ideas and proudly showcase the best of the Barossa.
The busy itinerary included formal meetings, deputations, site visits and tourism events, with a view to strengthen economic, cultural and education ties.
Mayor Bim Lange said it was good to travel back to Grapevine and meet with Mayor Tate and his team again, following their visit to Barossa earlier this year.
“Meeting with Mayor Tate and his key staff in a structured formal meeting was a great opportunity exchange ideas. Gaining an understanding of their planning, building and infrastructure processes, gave us valuable insight into the ways they approach growth and development with fresh perspectives on how we can shape our own future."
“On the education front, it was inspiring to see how progressive the Colleges are in teaching trades to their students, ensuring they’re skilled up and job ready when they graduate.”
Among the highlights of the study tour was delegate’s attendance at the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Grapevine memorial, where Mayor Lange and NHS student Miyu Endersby laid a wreath on the Barossa’s behalf.
Mayor Lange said taking the students was an absolute highlight.
“To see how the Texas students blended so well with our Barossa students and the long-term memories and relationships that have been developed was pretty special.”
From a regional perspective, the feedback from wineries that joined the delegation and took part in Grapefest (the largest wine festival in Southwest) was overwhelmingly positive.
Mayor Lange acknowledged their pivotal role in keeping brand Barossa relevant and well positioned in front of the Texas community.
“As expected, the visit was an incredible opportunity, offering experiences that will pave the way for future opportunities and potential collaborations across tourism, trade and investment, education, arts, events and the creative industries,” said Mayor Lange.