Obituary: Wine Australia’s Yvonne May

The wine trade is in mourning after Wine Australia’s UK/Europe Regional Director Yvonne May lost her battle against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia and passed away on Friday, aged 53.

After running Lindsay May PR with her husband, David, for more than 15 years, Yvonne decided Australian wine was where her heart was and she joined our company in January 2011.

Through a serious of vibrant initiatives, including Tasting Blind Club, One Day Wine School, the Inspired Tasting and the Nordic Roadshow, Yvonne successfully helped raise the category profile with a tireless commitment and incomparable energy.

The UK/Europe office will remember Yvonne for her passion, kindness, sense of humour and above all, her commitment to the world of Australian wine. To her staff, past and present, Yvonne was an inspiration as well as a mentor.

Yvonne has asked that instead of flowers a donation to The Benevolent be made. Donations can be made online or alternatively cheques can be made out to The Benevolent and sent to 39-45 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3XF.

A private funeral will take place later in the month with a memorial to follow in due course.

Wine Australia’s Regional Director – Australia, Asia and Emerging Markets, Aaron Brasher, will oversee operations until a new Regional Director for UK/Europe is appointed.