Winemaker dies in windsurfing accident

Australian winemaker Simon Burnell has died after a windsurfing accident in the Margaret River region.

Simon Burnell

The 44-year-old went missing after going windsurfing yesterday prompting a search operation that involved the Margaret River Police, Water Police, Police Air-wing, Volunteer Sea Search and Rescue and Margaret River Surf Lifesaving through Sunday night and Monday morning. His body was discovered this morning in water near Rivermouth Point, as reported by WAtoday.com.au.

Mr Burnell was the chief winemaker at Ferguson Valley winery Willow Bridge Estate for five years and had worked in the industry for about 15 years.

Jeff and Vicki Dewar, owners of the estate where Burnell worked, posted a statement on its website this morning calling Burnell a “highly respected winemaker” and “valued friend”.

It read: “Simon was not only determined to make the best possible wines, his dedication and tireless commitment to what he called his “one percenters” has ensured the Willow Bridge brand continues to be respected worldwide and for that we will be forever grateful.

“We are thankful to have had Simon be such an integral part of our team for over five years and he will be missed beyond words. Our thoughts, love and prayers are with Linda and all of Simon’s family at this tragic and deeply sorrowful time. Rest in peace mate, Jeff and Vicki Dewar”

Others in the industry took to Twitter to pay tribute to the winemaker.

Desperately sad to hear of Simon Burnell’s passing. A hero to us at UC – v funny, took the piss + made THE best value range of wines in Aus.

— United Cellars (@UnitedCellars) March 23, 2015

So saddened to learn of the loss of talented winemaker Simon Burnell @WillowBridgeEst A wonderful man gone too soon.

— Katnook Coonawarra (@Katnook) March 23, 2015