By Alison Marks
Westend Estate Wines has taken out the 2009 NSW and ACT Family Business of the Year Award in the Third Generation category.
NSW Family Business Australia (FBA) chairman Terry Rowney said the Calabria family had created a strong brand in a very different market to where the company started 64 years ago.
“The success of Westend Estate can be attributed to the way in which the Calabria family have continued to modify the company to adapt to changing markets, through sound business practices and enthusiasm for their local area,” Rowney said.
The Griffith-based winery was established in 1945 by Francesco and Elizabeth Calabria and was initially named ‘Calabria Wines’.
Sons Tony and Bill took over Westend Estate Wines in 1974 and began selling their wines in bottles.
Today, Westend Estate produces 15,000 tonnes of grapes per year and exports to over 25 countries around the world.
The business employs over 40 people, including eight members of the Calabria family.
Westend Estate will now go on to compete in the Third Generation Award at the National Family Business of the Year Awards in August.