Summary of a review of grapevine germplasm collections in Australia

The nature of genetic resources in the form of in situ plantings nationally and internationally, is diverse. The nature of formal collections of plant material is usually an indication of the original purpose of collecting the plants and the value perceived in having the plants maintained in a specific location under particular conditions and operating plans. The project team was asked to conduct a review of Australia’s main grapevine collections. The Brief which is attached in Appendix 1, outlined four main tasks: • Review the status of existing grapevine collections. • Deliver information on ‘best practice’ management of genetic resources. • Make recommendations on priority collections. • Discuss potential business models. A revised and expanded register of grapevine germplasm was produced. To update the previous edition of the National Register (Nicholas, 2006), the team has collated confidential information received from public and private collection managers. It has also reviewed available information on other perennial (grape and non-grape) genetic collections in Australia and overseas. The functions and resources of these collections have been considered in identifying options for Australia and recommended approaches for Australia’s future management of grapevine genetic material.