For decades winemaker Colin Campbell of Campbell’s Winery, Rutherglen, has topped his field and now his determination and family legacy has earned him national recognition.
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Mr Campbell was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his services to the wine-making industry, which contributed to solidifying Rutherglen and Australia’s reputation for quality wine.
The fourth-generation winemaker said it was an honour to accept the award and to continue the tradition started by his forefathers.
“I think it’s a character in your blood, often families come back home,” he said.
“You grow up with it, it’s in your blood, you’re a part of it.
“There’s lots of things to enjoy, you meet fantastic people, we’ve done a lot of travel – but to taste a good wine sets you on fire and give you a burst to try do something better.”
After leaving home, Mr Campbell returned in 1968 and never wanted to leave again.
“I’m the fourth generation and it was established in 1860, that’s when the winery started to grow grapes,” he said.
“My brother lives at the farm working in the vineyard and I look after the winery.
“We’ve worked together for 50 years and it’s been a really good team, our wives are also very much involved and now we’re bringing in the next generation who are in their forties now.”
Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie said she had known Mr Campbell for years and was delighted the wine industry “legend” was recognised. “He has worked tirelessly for the industry and his Rutherglen winery is an institution,” Senator McKenzie said
“He thoroughly deserves this high honour and I wish him continuing success in the years ahead.”
Mr Campbell was named the inaugural Legend of the Vine in 2014 and has been made a life member of the Australia Wine Industry, and received a distinguished services award from the Victoria Wine Industry Association in 1995.
He is chair of the Durif of Rutherglen group and Muscat of Rutherglen Network, and has previously chaired the Fortified Sustainability Project.
He is also a board member of the Winemakers’ Federation of Australia and a member of Australia’s First Families of Wine.
Mr Campbell said he had seen a huge transformation in the industry and credits his success with hard work and an amazing support network.
“People are the most important thing in the business,” he said.
“Our staff are precious, we treat them like family and my wife Prue is a real tower of strength and if you don’t get that support you don’t get anywhere.”
Digital journalists with The Border Mail.
Digital journalists with The Border Mail.
