Tyrrell’s Wines, Agnew Wines and many other vineyards across the region are giving job hunters up to six weeks work as the annual ­harvest unfolds.

Bruce Tyrrell said it was often challenging for vineyards to attract enough pickers each year and, while they relied on backpackers to fill the void to some extent, they wanted to support Hunter workers.

He raised the matter at Kurri Kurri TAFE last year and has worked with employment agencies to link some unemployed people with this year’s harvest.

He said 30 locals were picking at Tyrrell’s this year, which was a huge improvement on the five he had in 2015.

“The vast majority have come direct to us looking for work,” Mr Tyrrell said.

“They get a good feeling when they get their first pay cheque.

“I’d rather be paying the locals to give the young people a start and give them the chance to experience that pride.”

Agnew Wines is also trying to attract more Hunter workers.

Manager Shaune Flynn said the company was focused on helping local people in need of work and some, like Donna Williams, kept coming back each year.

Ms Williams has spent six weeks of the year picking grapes for Agnew Wines for the past decade.

She balances the annual income with pruning jobs through out the year. 

“Grape picking is unreal, you get to meet different people ... I love working outdoors,” she said. 

“I do bits and pieces through the rest of the year. Picking is great because I know I can rely on it,” she said.