Seven Australians transforming the future of food, horticulture and agriculture are featured in Winston’s Harvest, a new video series launched today by the Winston Churchill Trust Australia.
This series brings to life the Fellows’ experiences and reflections following their overseas research, and what impact they have had in their individual field. Through short, engaging films, Winston’s Harvest
captures how ideas gathered abroad are being put to work at home.
“Winston’s Harvest is about impact,” said Chris Dacey, CEO. “Each Fellow featured in this series has taken a bold idea overseas and returned with knowledge to create positive change. Since its first year, The Trust has supported Fellows like Ian Tolley in 1965 to bring back ideas that are practical and transferable to our local communities.”
One Fellow, Stuart McGruddy CF said the experience was transformative. “My Churchill experience was a true turning point in my understanding of my industry on a global level. There’s something uniquely powerful about getting “under the hood” of an international operation. Learning from the success and the mistakes from global leaders has been incredibly valuable.”
The series also reflects the Trust’s longstanding mission to invest in people, empowering them to develop solutions, inspire others and strengthen Australia’s future.
Winston’s Harvest will be released across The Winston Churchill Trust Australia’s digital channels, with new episodes rolling out over each week, every Wednesday.
Website: churchilltrust.com.au
YouTube: @churchilltrust
The seven Fellows featured in the series offers a window into their motivation to travel, the moments that shaped their learning, and how their findings are being embedded into real world practice.
Andrew Polkinghorne CF (2023, SA) – explored how farmers can better utilise fluid fertilisers on calcareous soils to enhance crop performance and soil efficiency. Drawing on global practices, his work helps Australian growers optimise nutrient uptake in difficult soil conditions, with the potential to increase productivity while reducing input waste and environmental impact.
Holly Klintworth CF (2022, VIC) – completed specialised training with a leading cognac distillery to master traditional and modern brandy-making techniques. Her Fellowship is boosting Australia’s emerging premium spirits industry by bringing back expertise in distillation, maturation, and product development to support high-quality, locally made brandy.
Stuart McGruddy CF (2020, QLD) – studied advanced freezing methods for whole soft berry fruits, finding techniques that better maintain texture, flavour, and shelf life. His results assist Australian producers in reducing waste, boosting export chances, and providing higher-quality frozen products to markets.
Joanne Lane CF (2018, NSW) – examined global kelp farming models to evaluate how seaweed aquaculture could be successfully introduced in Australia. Her work highlights the potential for a new sustainable industry that supports regional economies, enhances marine ecosystems, and provides alternative income sources for coastal communities.
Gina Dal Santo CF (2015, SA) – explored international models of artisan cheese production to support the development of a national cheese education centre in Australia. Her work is strengthening the paddock-to-plate artisan cheese industry by building skills, improving product quality and supporting regional producers.
Ian Henderson CF (2006, QLD) – investigated how surplus agricultural produce such as fruit, sugar, and wine grapes can be turned into value-added vinegar products. His research shows new market opportunities for excess produce, helping to cut waste and generate extra income for Australian farmers.
Fiona Buining CF (2020, ACT) – studied urban farming models that offer vocational pathways for aspiring food growers, especially in city settings. Her findings support the growth of training-based urban farms that develop skills, create jobs, and strengthen local food systems.