The amazing deeds of John Hordern, Brett Keeping and Greg West were acknowledged at the recent 2026 Hunter Valley Legends Awards.
Hosted by the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association (HVWTA), the 19th edition of the annual event welcomed more than 330 guests from across both sectors to recognise the people and businesses shaping the future of the region.
Mr Hordern and Mr Keeping were inducted as Wine Industry Living Legends, while Mr West was bestowed Tourism Industry Living Legend status.
“These awards celebrate those who continue to elevate the Hunter Valley through leadership, innovation and an unwavering commitment to our region,” HVWTA president Chris Tyrrell said.
Mr Hordern was honoured for his lifelong work to the Upper Hunter wine industry as a grape grower, winemaker and business leader.
His connection began when his father planted Semillon and Shiraz on the family property near Denman in 1968.
Following studies at Roseworthy Agricultural College, he established Horseshoe Vineyard as a premium Hunter Valley wine label and built extensive experience through contract winemaking and vineyard operations.
In 2000, he helped establish Hunter Wine Services in Muswellbrook.
Mr Hordern has also held leadership roles including president of the Upper Hunter Winemakers Association and contributed to regional advisory committees supporting the sector.
Meanwhile, Mr Keeping boasts more than three decades dedicated to vineyard development, grape growing and industry advocacy in the Upper Hunter.
After planning and developing the original Two Rivers in 1988, he played a significant role in the Hunter Valley’s vineyard expansion during the 1990s, overseeing the establishment of more than 160 hectares.
Over the years, those under his care have supplied numerous Hunter Valley wine companies, while his leadership has helped shape the Upper Hunter community through multiple terms as president and vice-president of the Upper Hunter Winemakers Association.
He’s been a passionate advocate for the industry, too, through his work on climate change studies, critical industry cluster recognition and representation at planning hearings relating to mining impacts on vineyard land.
Mr West was acclaimed for his 30-plus years of contribution to the Hunter Valley wine and tourism arenas.
He has been instrumental in promoting the region both locally and nationally through a career spanning McWilliams Mount Pleasant, Agnew Wines and Boydell’s, alongside numerous industry leadership roles.
A descendant of pioneering Hunter winemaker George Wyndham, Mr West was deeply involved in tourism and cellar door development, including establishing the Hunter Valley Vineyard Association Cellar Door Sub Committee and coordinating training initiatives that continue today.
Mr West also helped create and deliver major destination events including Hunter Semillon & Seafood and Hunter Uncorked activations in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, while representing the Hunter Valley internationally at travel trade events in Singapore.
Since 2019, he’s served as chair of the Dalwood House Restoration Association, too, helping preserve an important part of the Hunter Valley’s history.
Living Legends chair Iain Riggs AM also acknowledged the trio’s significant contributions.
“John represents generations of commitment to the Upper Hunter wine industry,” he said.
“Through vineyard development, winemaking and mentoring others in the region, he’s played a pivotal role in strengthening the reputation of the Upper Hunter.
“So has Brett.
“His impact on the Upper Hunter wine industry has spanned vineyard development, regional leadership and strong advocacy for protecting the future of viticulture in the Hunter Valley.
“And, his influence on the region has been substantial and enduring.
“Greg has been one of the great ambassadors for Hunter Valley wine tourism.
“His involvement in cellar door development, destination marketing and industry collaboration has helped shape the visitor experience the Hunter Valley is known for today.”
2026 Hunter Valley Legends Awards
- Hunter Valley Young Achiever of the Year: Ollie Margan, Margan Family Wines
- Hunter Valley Tourism Operator of the Year: Wine Fairy Events
- Hunter Valley Accommodation Operator of the Year: Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
- Hunter Valley Viticulturist of the Year: Jerome Scarborough & Liz Riley, Scarborough Wine Co.
- Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year: Thomas Wines
- Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year: Stuart Hordern, Brokenwood Wines
- Hunter Valley Tourism Industry Living Legend: Greg West
- Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend: Brett Keeping
- Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend: John Hordern
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