Nature and nurture 

The Kalleske vineyards have a couple of claims to fame, including being the home of Australia’s fastest grape-picker – none other than Kym’s mum, Lorraine. In the 1980s, she won four national championships. This was also one of the first organic and biodynamic certified vineyards in Australia.

“When people come here, they often say the place has got a nice feel to it,” says Kym. “I feel that’s partly because of us being organic and biodynamic. There’s no chemicals. There’s nothing bad used on the property.”

For Kym, living and working on the family property all his life has its pros and cons. It’s a picturesque spot to spend his days, whether he’s pruning vines, gardening or riding motorbikes with his kids. But having your workplace outside your window also means being constantly reminded of what needs to be done. And with 30 individual blocks of vines to care for, there’s plenty to do.

Managing multiple vineyards and producing high-quality grapes without the use of chemicals has forced Kym and his dad John to get creative about solving problems. They’ve built and adapted machinery and equipment and created their own compost and biodynamic spray.

“My philosophy is if you’re going to do something, do it well,” says Kym. “And do it in a way that is good for the environment, good for you, good for your workers and good for the end consumer.

“I’m passionate about producing something that’s of high quality. And when my brother Troy makes it into wine that wins awards, that drives me, because I know I’m on the right path, and I’m doing a good thing.”

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