The Australian Distillers Association (ADA), Spirits Victoria Association (SVA), and Agriculture Victoria are pleased to announce the appointment of Marianne Duluk as the new Industry Development Officer and Spirits Victoria Association Executive Officer, commencing 4 May 2026.

While Sebastian Costello leaves big shoes to fill, we are confident Marianne brings the experience, energy and leadership needed to support the continued growth of Victoria’s distilling sector.

Marianne joins the role with close to 20 years’ experience across global marketing, brand and export leadership in the premium beverage sector, including more than a decade leading international marketing and export initiatives. She is exceptionally well placed to support and evolve the Victorian spirits industry at a time of significant opportunity.

James Omond, President of SVA in welcoming the announcement, said:

"Marianne brings exactly the blend of skills our sector needs right now - from managing multi-million dollar government-funded programs and leading export capability initiatives across 17 international markets, to building the strong relationships with producers, associations and government agencies that will be critical to delivering the Vic Distilled Program."

"This appointment would not have been possible without the generous support of the Victorian Government through Agriculture Victoria. Their investment in the Vic Distilled Program reflects a genuine commitment to strengthening Victoria’s distilling sector, supporting regional producers, and building the capability our industry needs to thrive in both domestic and international markets."

Currently leading global industry growth programs for South Australia’s wine, food and beverage sector within the South Australian Government, Marianne holds end-to-end accountability for major government-funded initiatives spanning grants, export readiness, market activation and diversification. Her portfolio includes leadership of the Spirits Expansion Program, as well as the $3.9 million Global Wine Growth Program and the Premium Food and Beverage Export Growth Program.

Acting as a key liaison between industry, associations and government, Marianne has worked closely with organisations including Distillers SA, Food SA, Austrade and Wine Australia - regularly engaging with CEOs and senior stakeholders to align strategy with delivery outcomes.

Having previously spent nine years working across leading Victorian wine businesses, Marianne also brings a strong understanding of the state’s broader food, wine and beverage landscape, along with a genuine passion for the Victorian distilling community and its contribution to the state’s hospitality and visitor economy.

In accepting the role, Marianne said:

“It’s a privilege to join such a passionate and innovative community, and I’m thrilled to be on board. I’m looking forward to working closely with local producers and helping unlock growth opportunities so their businesses can thrive.”