One hundred years ago in the Nagambie Lakes region was where it all began for the Purbrick family.

In 1925, the Purbricks purchased the property overlooking the Goulburn River, which has become the flourishing, widely acclaimed winery Tahbilk.

Five generations of Purbricks have since been at the helm of the estate, responsible for the success it has achieved over the decades.

Marking the centennial of Purbrick family ownership on Thursday, December 4, 97-year-old Bonnie Purbrick, the matriarch of the family, unveiled a plaque that carves the connection between the family and Tahbilk into stone.

The celebration invited members of local and federal government, the long list of Purbricks and the community who have supported the family along the way to the estate.

After a smoking ceremony led by Uncle Peter from wawa biik, fourth-generation family member Mark Purbrick acknowledged the long history that the Taungurung people shared with the estate.

“While we may have clocked up 100 years of family ownership, it really is quite insignificant compared to the traditional custodians’ bond to this beautiful estate,” he said.

And before the plaque was officially laid, Mark added, of his older brother: “Alister has been at the steering wheel of Tahbilk since the late 1970s and there’s no-one better placed than him to lead the laying of the 100th year of family ownership here today.”

Addressing the crowd, Mon George of the fifth generation said she was proud to be part of Tahbilk.

“Tahbilk isn’t just a winery — it’s a family business in the truest, most complicated sense,” she said.

“We’re part of a multi-generational movement.

“We’re in this for the long haul — I feel the weight of legacy, and pride that I’m part of something that’s lasted nearly 170 years, with 100 of those being owned by our Purbrick family.”

After the plaque was laid by the family, memories were shared throughout the afternoon.

Alister Purbrick, who led the winery for nearly five decades, said, after this momentous occasion, his eyes were on the next century ahead.

“Our story is one of courage, resilience and commitment,” he said.

“As we unveil this plaque and look toward the next 100 years, this is a moment to pause, reflect and celebrate the collective passion that has carried Tahbilk through the past century and will guide it into the next.”

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Tuesday, 24th March 2026

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