May 20, 2019
The South Burnett lost one of its pioneering winemakers last week.
Michael (Mike) Berry, 79, who had been in poor health the past eight years, died peacefully in Kingaroy Hospital on Thursday, May 16, surrounded by family members.
Mike founded Kingsley Grove Estate with his wife Pat in 1998, planting a 25 acre vineyard – the second largest in the region – and building a fully equipped winery in just four years.
The couple operated Kingsley Grove until his son Simon and daughter-in-law Jo took over day-to-day operations in 2011 after Mike’s health declined.
Mike was an engineer by profession and worked on projects in Asia for many years before moving to Australia to study wine-making.
He was known for his desire to build a world-class vineyard and winery and be part of Queensland’s expanding wine industry.
He is survived by wife Pat, sons Mark and Simon, daughter-in-laws Mary and Jo, and grandchildren Grace, Sarah, William and Polly.
His funeral service will be held at Virgo Funerals at 24 Pioneer Avenue, Kingaroy at 10:30am on Thursday, May 23.
Those who knew Mike or wish to pay their respects are welcome to attend.
Afterwards, refreshments will be served at Kingsley Grove Estate’s cellar door at 49 Stuart Valley Drive, Kingaroy.
