A Century of Tahbilk: Bonnie Purbrick Unveils Plaque Honouring 100 Years of Family Stewardship

A Century of Tahbilk: Bonnie Purbrick Unveils Plaque Honouring 100 Years of Family Stewardship

On the morning of Thursday, 4th December 2025, Tahbilk Estate marked a defining moment in its history, celebrating 100 years of continuous Purbrick family ownership with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, attended by family, dignitaries and members of the local community.

At the heart of the ceremony was 97-year-old matriarch Bonnie Purbrick. With her family beside her, she unveiled the plaque, now positioned on the right-hand side of the Cellar Door alongside other historic markers that chart Tahbilk’s story through time.

“This morning I thought to myself, this is a very special day,” Bonnie said. “There have been some very important people who have unveiled plaques in the past, and I am honoured to have been asked to unveil a plaque celebrating 100 years of my family at Tahbilk.”

The gathering paused for a moment’s quiet reflection, as past, present and future converged, the history of the estate, the dedication of generations, and the promise of what lies ahead coming together in one profound gesture.

Bonnie’s decades at Tahbilk have shaped a deep and enduring sense of belonging; the estate stands as her family’s constant and unwavering home.

The ceremony also featured remarks from fifth-generation family member Monica George, who spoke of her pride in the family legacy and the responsibility felt by the next generation to protect and honour the estate’s history.

Reflecting on the family’s journey, Debbie Purbrick shared:

“I feel very fortunate that our family has been involved with Tahbilk for 100 years. Great-grandfather Reggie bought this property, then called Château Tahbilk, in 1925 unseen from England…”

Mark Purbrick reflected on the resilience behind the milestone:

“Over the last 100 years, we have survived the Great Depression, the Second World War, the GFC and the most unpredictable seasons we have ever worked with… all our efforts are focused not on the past, but on the future.”

The ceremony reflected Tahbilk’s long tradition of commemorative plaques, beginning in 1876 following James Purbrick’s completion of the “New Cellar.” Subsequent plaques mark significant milestones, including Tahbilk’s centenary in 1960 with Prime Minister Robert Menzies, the 100th anniversary of the “New Cellar” in 1975 with Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser, and Tahbilk’s 150th anniversary in 2010 with Victorian Premier John Brumby.

Fourth-generation winemaker Alister Purbrick addressed guests:

“To survive and thrive over a long period, a family or business must have vision, courage and commitment…”

He paid tribute to staff and the broader Tahbilk community, acknowledging the generations of local families who have contributed to the estate over more than a century.

The 2025 plaque now stands as a tribute to a century of Purbrick stewardship, preserving historic vineyards, caring for the wetlands, and carrying forward the traditions that define the estate. It will also serve as a marker for future generations, acknowledging the responsibility we all share in shaping what comes next.

“This isn’t just about looking back,” Alister added. “This has been a day to honour the people who brought us here, and to look ahead to what the next century will hold.”

With the plaque now in place, Tahbilk looks ahead to its next century of family stewardship, guided by history, strengthened by values, and shared with all who visit the estate.