In the wake of recent storms that wreaked havoc on O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard, the Homestead and Vineyard have suffered substantial damage, prompting a comprehensive restoration project. The storms, which brought wild weather conditions, left a trail of destruction, with our Homestead requiring a full roof restoration and other essential repairs. While the extent of damage to the grapevines is still under assessment, the O’Reilly’s family remains determined to turn adversity into an opportunity for improvement.
“A MASSIVE THANK YOU TO ALL THE ENERGEX AND EMERGENCY WORKERS THAT LABOURED TIRELESSLY OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD!”
The restoration project, scheduled to take place from February to March, will involve sectioning off of the entire Homestead to ensure uninterrupted work for the builders. Despite the challenges, the Vineyard operations will continue to run smoothly, with a strategic shift to the Wine Cellar serving as the central hub. Families are still encouraged to visit, enjoy picnics, and spend their day by the creek, maintaining our Vineyard’s commitment to providing a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all our guests.
One of the remarkable aspects of our Vineyard’s response to the storm damage was its ability to adapt to the loss of mains power, water, and phone service for four consecutive days. O’Reilly’s careful planning included the deployment of an industrial generator, ensuring that essential facilities such as fridges for cold beverages, ovens for hot food, and even a Starlink satellite receiver for WiFi coverage remained operational. This innovative approach not only ensured the continuity of vineyard operations but also showcased the resilience and adaptability of our team.
A heartwarming story emerged from the storm’s aftermath as a couple scheduled to have their wedding at the vineyard on the 27th of December faced unexpected challenges due to damage to their own house and planned accommodations for their wedding celebrations. Despite the hardships, the vineyard provided a glimmer of hope for the couple, allowing them to proceed with their wedding as planned. Our vineyard staff, determined to bring joy amidst adversity, facilitated a beautiful celebration, creating lasting memories for the newlyweds.
As the restoration project unfolds, our vineyard looks forward to emerging stronger and more vibrant than ever. Our commitment to community, creativity, and adaptability during challenging times stands as a testament to the spirit of O’Reilly’s, and the owners express gratitude for the continued support of all our guests, and the community at large.
