This October, Tahbilk is welcoming one Australian family to our historic estate for the Long Lost Lunch, a day dedicated to reconnecting, sharing stories and creating family memories around the table.
For an event centred around reunion, we knew we needed a host who truly understands the significance of reconnecting with family. Saroo Brierley, who will host the Long Lost Lunch, knows firsthand the life-changing power of a family reunion.
At just five years old, Saroo became separated from his family in India after becoming lost at a train station. After surviving alone on the streets of Kolkata, he was placed in an orphanage before being adopted by an Australian family and raised in Hobart. Curious about his history, Saroo never stopped searching for the family he had left behind. Guided only by childhood memories and years of determination, he eventually found his hometown using Google Earth before travelling back to India. Twenty-five years after they were separated, Saroo was reunited with his birth mother in a remarkable story that would go on to inspire the award-winning film, Lion.
Today, Saroo's story continues to inspire people around the world, making him the perfect host for Tahbilk's Long Lost Lunch.
"Reuniting with my family was the most powerful moment of my life," Saroo said. "After years of searching, we finally found each other again and that sense of relief and peace is something I want another family to feel."
For more than 100 years, family has been at the heart of Tahbilk and, for generations, the Purbrick family has gathered around the table to celebrate milestones and strengthen connections. Yet in today's world, bringing everyone together isn't always easy. Distance, busy schedules and the pressures of everyday life mean many Australian families are spending less time together than ever before.
This October, Tahbilk will welcome one Australian family to the estate for a reunion that's long overdue. Hosted by Saroo Brierley, the winning family will be flown to Victoria for a day dedicated to reconnecting, sharing stories and creating new memories together around the table.
Fourth-generation Tahbilk custodian Alister Purbrick believes the initiative reflects values that have been part of the estate for generations.
"For generations, our family has shared meals, stories and milestones around the same table. We know how special these moments are and we are honoured to help another family create memories and celebrate what matters most," he said.
Nominations are now open for families whose reunion has been far too long in the making. Whether separated by distance, life's demands or simply the passing of time, we invite Australians to share their story for the chance to reconnect this October.
