Munda Wines managing director Jess Greatwich and founder and chair of Munda Wines, Pauly Vandenbergh. Image courtesy Munda Wines
Munda Wines has tasted success as the inaugural winners of the First Nations Exporter category at the 2025 Australian Export Awards.
The Australian Export Awards are celebrating First Nations Businesses with this new standalone category which recognises Australia’s First Nations traders as Australia’s first exporters who continue to make “outstanding” contributions to international trade.
The proudly Aboriginal-owned wine company celebrates and shares culture, connection and Country through its unique blends, named after the Traditional Countries that produce them.
Pauly Vandenbergh, proud Wirangu and Kokatha man, and founder and chair of Munda Wines said winning the award affirms that Aboriginal-owned excellence belongs at the highest level of Australian trade.
“Australia’s global reputation for quality and innovation amplifies our story, but it’s our deep connection to Country that gives our wines their heart, identity, and sense of place,” Vandenbergh said.
Munda Wines have already broken into the notoriously tough Canadian market by building “relationships before revenue” and are working to tap into the US market next.
“International markets are eager to engage with the oldest continuing culture on the face of the planet. It is an incredible point of difference for Aboriginal-led businesses and resonates powerfully with our commercial partners,” continued Vandenbergh.
“Munda Wines redefined what Australian wine can stand for – proving that culture, Country and commerce can walk together and open pathways for the next generation of Aboriginal entrepreneurs.”
Now in its 63rd year, the Australian Export Awards is Australia’s longest running business awards program and celebrates the achievements of exporters and their contribution to Australia’s economic prosperity.
In 2025, there were more than 370 applications submitted across eight states and territories and 95 national finalists.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, congratulated Munda Wines on the achievement.
“This new award celebrates and showcases the success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses sharing First Nations culture and expertise with the world, while also supporting local communities,” said Minister McCarthy.
“This year’s First Nations finalists export bush food, art, fashion, rail signals, consulting and coaching services, highlighting the diverse nature of our businesses breaking into international markets and making their mark on the world stage.”
The Australian Export Awards was presented by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) in partnership with State and Territory awards programs. It is made possible through the contributions of key sponsors including leading Australian corporations and Australian Government departments.
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