David Pettavel pioneered the establishment of the Geelong wine region in 1842, the industry's early successes are a tribute to Pettavel's accurate assessment of the climatic and geological influences of the region
David Pettavel left Switzerland and emigrated to Australia in 1842 aboard the barque Platina. Upon landing at Port Philip, Pettavel continued directly to the hills of Geelong to plant the region's first vineyard. These vineyards, and the wine produced from them were such a success that Pettavel immediately began plans for further vineyard development throughout the rolling hills of Geelong. The shortage of skilled labour became a major constraint to Pettavel's expansion, so Pettavel returned to Switzerland, and sailed back to Australia aboard the ship the Evening Star in 1856 after convincing family and friends to follow him to Australia. Pettavel»
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