PEMBERLEY OF PEMBERTON: A LEGACY THAT CONTINUES TO SHAPE THE SOUTHERN FORESTS

For more than 105 years, the Radomiljac’s ancestors have farmed the fertile soils of Manjimup, on Seven Day Road, and at Eastbrook, just outside Pemberton.  Many of you will have visited the original Radomiljac farm which became the site of Guadadino’s wonderful farm shop. They have adapted to changing seasons, industries and opportunities while remaining deeply connected to the land and community that have shaped their journey. Today, Pemberley of Pemberton is recognised for its award-winning wines, premium produce and welcoming cellar door, but the family's legacy extends well beyond the farm gate. Through decades of leadership, advocacy and service, the Radomiljacs have helped shape the Southern Forests into one of Western Australia's most respected food and wine regions.

David and Monica Radomiljac now have Jordan and Lisa working alongside as responsibility is gradually shared between generations. Together, they are navigating a long-term succession that honours the knowledge and experience of the previous generation while creating space for new ideas, ensuring Pemberley continues to evolve for generations to come. A third generation is already growing up on the farm, representing the fifth generation of the Radomiljac family's farming legacy and learning the values that have shaped the family for more than a century.

David believes the Southern Forests offers some of the finest growing conditions in Western Australia. High rainfall, ancient fertile karri loam soils and stable growing temperatures provide the ideal environment for producing premium food and wine, while the region's collaborative farming community continues to drive innovation and resilience. It is a combination the Radomiljac family has proudly championed for generations.

Visitors arriving at Pemberley quickly discover that the experience is about far more than tasting wine. The cellar door has become a place where conversations naturally turn to farming, seasonal produce, regional history and the unique environment that makes the Southern Forests one of Western Australia's premier food and wine destinations. Through seasonal events, shared meals and genuine hospitality, the Radomiljac family has become an ambassador for the region, helping visitors develop a deeper appreciation of the people and industries behind every glass and every plate.

For Lisa, one of the greatest joys of farming is the rhythm of the seasons. The first truffle harvest of winter, hand-picking pinot noir during vintage and watching the vineyards transform into vibrant autumn colours each year are reminders that no two seasons are ever the same. Those seasonal experiences shape not only life on the farm, but also the experiences shared with visitors through food, wine and agritourism events.

That commitment to promoting the Southern Forests has long extended beyond the farm gate.

For decades, David and Monica have dedicated countless hours to strengthening agriculture and the wine industry through leadership and advocacy. Monica has served multiple terms as Chair of Southern Forests Wine Region, helping guide the growth and reputation of the region's wine industry, while also serving as Chair of the Southern Forests Food Council, where she worked alongside fellow producers to strengthen collaboration across the region's diverse agricultural sectors. Her commitment to representing growers reached the state level when she became the first female Chair of the Western Australian Agricultural Produce Commission, advocating for supporting agricultural industries and regional communities across Western Australia.

Alongside Monica's industry leadership, David has helped build both the family business and the region's reputation, sharing his knowledge through decades of farming and his long-standing commitment to the Southern Forests’ Pemberton and Manjimup wine community.

That commitment to industry leadership continues with Lisa, who has become an emerging voice for the next generation of producers. Through her involvement with Southern Forests Wine Region, the Rootlings youth wine network and the Next Crop: Emerging Leadership Program, she is helping shape the future of the wine industry through advocacy and leadership development.

These leadership roles have never been viewed as personal achievements, but as opportunities to contribute to something much larger than the family business. They reflect a long-held belief that strong regional industries depend on people who are willing to share their knowledge, invest their time and work collectively to create opportunities for others.

That philosophy continues with Jordan and Lisa, who are leading the next chapter of Pemberley while contributing to their community and industry. While expanding the family business through initiatives such as the farm's truffière and the development of a commercial kitchen to support larger events and experiences, they are actively involved in local initiatives including junior football, community childcare, arts organisations and industry leadership programs. Their involvement reflects a shared understanding that the future of the Southern Forests depends not only on successful farms, but on strong leadership and a willingness to work together.

More than a century after the Radomiljac family first farmed the soils of Pemberton and Manjimup, Pemberley continues to evolve through each generation. While the business has diversified, the family's purpose remains unchanged: to care for the land, strengthen their community and help shape the future of the Southern Forests. It is a legacy measured not only by what they grow, but by the lasting contribution they continue to make to the region they proudly call home.

Inspired by the Radomiljac family's story? Visit the Pemberley of Pemberton website to explore their award-winning wines, book a unique food and wine experience, discover upcoming seasonal events and plan your visit to the cellar door. You can also follow Pemberley of Pemberton on Facebook and Instagram to experience life in the vineyard, the changing seasons and the family behind the wines.

Photography by Tristan Mckenzie, Victoria Baker Photography and Pemberley of Pemberton.