Celestial Bay is owned by Michael and Kim O'Brien.

After introducing Kim, who was then Michael's English girlfriend from the city, to the dust, flies and silly sheep on his family farm, Kim confirmed that a condition of their wedding vows (on her part) would be, “2 children – NO farm".
 
Nothing turned out quite that way.

Michael’s love of the land came at an early age in Chittering where his family’s farm is situated. His ambition to follow the farming life was put on hold when, despite being enrolled to study  Agricultural at Muresk College in Northam, a series of events led him to his father's fashion business in Perth, a change of direction which would last 20 years. (click here to view Michael speaking about the family's commitment to Celestial Bay)
 
In 2000, Michael felt the need to “follow that dream,” and invested in 90 acres of prime land in the Margaret River area to plant a few vines!! This was Kim’s compromise to farming. It all sounded a little more glamorous than sheep and her love of a good drop of red was also a consideration.

As many come to understand, in primary industry disappointment often precedes success.  The price of grapes plummeting in 2003, the rabbits killing the rootlings, kangaroos, garden weevils and black beetles all took their toll.

With the oversupply of red grapes and the resulting ridiculous prices being offered for fruit, they decided to bite the bullet and invest more money, employing a wine maker, building a winery and appointinig a marketing team. This also meant purchasing another 120 acres to plant.

For nearly three years many a weekend was spent down at the farm living in the shed, sleeping in a loft.  Then came the Donga, or as Kim affectionately refers to it as, “the cabin.” Times were looking up.

Many a gourmet meal has been prepared in a very cramped kitchen with limited space and facilities, feeding up to 24 workers with hot morning teas and lunches while planting in the freezing, driving rain.

The passion for the land and the quest for a great bottle of wine have not stopped with Michael and Kim. Their son Aaron who lives on the property is currently studying viticulture and oenology and their daughter Daneka is involved with marketing and sales, having just returned from overseas on a marketing excursion to the United Kingdom and Europe.

So after many years of blood, sweat and tears – many tears from Kim -  the venture has proved to be much more than a little winery down south. It is now a business that is exporting to 5 countries, selling wine across Australia and regularly receives accolades and awards within Australia and internationally. As a family, they are very proud of their achievement.

After 27 years of marriage it may be time for Kim to reassess her marriage contract. 2 children – No more farms!!! - Just better wine.

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