Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley General Manager, Melanie Watson.

Victoria’s Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley has elevated long-serving employee Melanie Watson to the role of General Manager, the property announced this week.

Watson brings more than 25 years in hospitality to her new role, of which eight years have been as the Sales and Marketing Manager at the estate, located around 60 kilometres northeast of the Melbourne CBD.

The property is preparing to relaunch its brand to market complete with a new look and branding and upgraded restaurant, reception, function space and cellar door experience. The new 1309 Balgownie restaurant can now cater for up to 100 patrons per seating, with the menu featuring a broad selection of local produce coupled with vineyard views.

Balgownie Estate will soon feature a new cellar door experience for guests and visitors.

Speaking of her appointment, Watson said she would utilise her sales and managerial experience to improve the standard and productivity of the property to ensure Balgownie Estate makes the most of its resources and achieves continued growth.

“Being part of the team that recovered from a fire that ravaged our restaurant and cellar door area- during mid-2020 – in the midst of the Covid lockdowns – I am pleased to take the helm as we opening our new cellar door and restaurant in October 2021,” Watson said.

“It is an exciting time to be part of the Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley team.”

As leader of the business, Watson’s new duties will include overseeing and managing the wider team, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of the operation and growing the brand name of the property as a prominent destination for luxury food, wine and accommodation.