Speakers 2025

Paul is the owner and CEO of Heytesbury Pty Ltd, a private group of companies based in Western Australia. Heytesbury’s two distinct parts are a cattle division centred on northern Australia, and a wine division in Margaret River.

The cattle division’s core asset is Heytesbury Pastoral, a leader within the Northern Australian pastoral industry since the 1980s. It runs over 150,000 head of Brahman cattle across six stations that cover some 27,000 km2 in the East Kimberley and Northern Territory, including the famed Victoria River Downs. An early pioneer and proud supporter of the livestock export industry, it sells up to 40,000 head of quality export cattle annually to a range of Asian markets.

The other significant asset of the cattle division is the MV Ocean Swagman, one of the world’s leading livestock vessels. Purpose built, its age, size and versatility make it a true workhorse of the industry, predominantly servicing Asian trade routes, but able to operate in virtually any market or route in the world.

At the core of Heytesbury’s wine division is Vasse Felix, the original vineyard and winery established in Margaret River. It is recognised globally as a producer of exceptional cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay wines, and within the region as a leader in hospitality and tourism. Sitting alongside Vasse Felix is Idèe Fixe, an all-new, dedicated blanc de blancs house in southern Margaret River.

Complementing these wine estates is the recently acquired Margaret River Hotel. Constructed in 1936, it is an architectural and historical icon of the region. It is currently undergoing a major restoration and is scheduled to open in early 2026.