Leeuwin Concerts' History

Each year Leeuwin stages a series of spectacular alfresco concerts in the picturesque grounds of the Estate as part of the Winery's ongoing association and sponsorship of the Arts. The tradition of the Leeuwin Concerts began in 1985 when Leeuwin Estate provided financial support for the London Philharmonic Orchestra's tour to Australia. As part of the visit the Orchestra performed in this unique vineyard setting, thereby launching what was to become an institution - the annual "Leeuwin Concert Series".

Described as the most extraordinary concerts ever held in Australia, the concerts now enjoy a 26-year history and have featured an eclectic mix of the world's finest musicians and entertainers.

Leeuwin Concert History

1985 The London Philharmonic Orchestra
1986 The Berlin Staatskapelle
1987 The Royal Danish Orchestra
1988 Ray Charles and The West Australian Symphony Orchestra
1989 Dionne Warwick and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra
1990 Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, James Galway and The WASO
1991 The Czech Philharmonic Orchestra
1992 Diana Ross
1993 Tom Jones
1994 Julia Migenes, Perrin Allen and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra
1995 George Benson
1996 Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra
1997 Shirley Bassey and the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra
1998 Julio Iglesias
1999 Bryn Terfel, Yvonne Kenny and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra
2000 Michael Crawford and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra
2001 Roberta Flack
2002 John Farnham
2003 kd lang
2003 Picnic in the Vineyard with James Taylor
2004 Lesley Garrett & Anthony Warlow with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra
2005 STING
2005 Jack Johnson - Twilight Concert
2006 Amici Forever & Jane Rutter
2007 Simply Red
2008 Yvonne Kenny, David Hobson & The West Australian Symphony Orchestra
2009 Chris Isaak
2010 Boz Scaggs & Michael McDonald

Leeuwin also stages a series of Family Concerts featuring Australian musical talent:

Australian Family Concerts

1993 Kate Ceberano and friends
1994 Yothu Yindi
1995 Black Sorrows and Vika & Linda Bull
1996 Paul Kelly and Joan Armatrading
1997 Yothu Yindi
1999 The Whitlams
2000 Paul Kelly, Uncle Bill and Kasey Chambers
2001 Tex Perkins and Jimmy Little
2002 The Waifs and Oh Susanna
2003 Mahotella Queens
2004 The Waifs
2005 The Waifs
2006 The John Butler Trio
2006 Alex Lloyd
2007 Kate Cebrano
2008 The John Butler Trio & The Waifs
2009 The Waifs
2010 The John Butler Trio

A highlight in Australia's social and cultural calendar, visitors from all over Australia and abroad make the annual pilgrimage to the remote Margaret River venue, 280km from the nearest capital city of Perth. Attired in anything from top hats to t-shirts, they come to picnic on the sprawling winery lawns, whilst enjoying the music of the industry's greatest performers.

Gradually the crowd begins to hush in anticipation of the night's show, as the sun sets over a majestic backdrop of misty karri forest. Suddenly, as the music fills the natural amphitheatre, Leeuwin's famous kookaburras burst into a raucous cackling chorus - much to the amusement of guests and the delight of startled entertainers.

Some 1800 Corporate Guests, invited by many of the country’s leading businesses, enjoy a sit-down black tie dinner by gourmet caterers with dancing in a stunning marquee at the conclusion of the performance. Meanwhile, other guests enjoy the live post concert entertainment as they continue to picnic in the main arena.

The success of the Leeuwin concerts has gained enormous recognition for the small town of Margaret River, renowned for its spectacular beaches and vineyards, and helped win Leeuwin the prestigious National Tourism Award in the "Tourism – Wineries" category. In the 2000 Queen’s Honours List, Leeuwin’s Founders, Denis and Tricia Horgan, who with their family maintain hands on management of each Concert, were awarded Members of the Order of Australia for their contribution to Tourism.

The Leeuwin concerts have become an event; a delightful party in a picnic atmosphere. A Festival of fine wine, food, and music. Truly all nights to remember.