Bruce Rosewarne, a 77-year-old grandfather of 10, laughs at the mention of retirement. “Why would I want to?” asks the master jeweller, lacrosse legend and talented musician. It’s a good question.

Bruce’s zest for life is palpable. Recently returned to Victor Harbor after two decades in Queensland, he says there is still strong demand for his brand of lovingly hand-crafted, custom-made jewellery. Plus, he says, “I just like doing things.”

Mastering the craft of jewellery

Bruce's professional journey began in 1963 with a six-year apprenticeship as a diamond ring maker and precious gemstone jeweller, complemented by a Diploma of Gemmology from Adelaide University in 1967.

Since then, his dedication to his craft has led to numerous accolades during a stellar 60-year career. An award-winning designer, his work has been showcased internationally alongside renowned brands like Tiffany and Bulgari.

Bruce is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his commitment to bespoke, handcrafted pieces. He says this approach stands in stark contrast to modern practices that often rely on computer-aided design and mass production.

For him, the key is taking the time to talk to the clients and understand them. “I want to know what they want, not what I think they want,” he says. “The saddest thing in this industry is hearing about people having pieces made that they then go away and put in a drawer because they don't like them.”

Always passionate about nurturing future talent, Bruce successfully lobbied the state government to establish a training school for South Australian jewellery apprentices to ensure they were taught the skills for creation rather than just repair. He also took on the role as the school’s off-site manager for 15 years during the 80s and 90s.

Lacrosse legacy: beyond the field

In parallel to his career as a jeweller, Bruce has had a significant impact on the lacrosse community as a player, coach, and administrator. His involvement with the sport began unexpectedly during high school when he was introduced to it by chance. “I was playing soccer at high school and then along comes a man with these wooden sticks.”

This chance encounter ignited a lifelong passion, leading him to volunteer extensively in the sport across three states for over fifty years. Bruce’s dedication to lacrosse earned him an Australian Sports Medal in 2000, recognising his contribution to the sport.

Rhythms of life: music as a lifelong obsession

Music has also played a big role in Bruce’s life. He started his first band at 18 and became a top-notch percussionist and drummer, regularly gigging around Adelaide clubs with his band during the 60s, 70s and 80s. Since his move back to the Fleurieu he has rekindled his love of music by joining the Victor Harbor City Band and the Fleurieu Male Choir.

Reflecting on his return to the south coast, Bruce is enthusiastic about the substantial development in the region, particularly the growth of the McLaren Vale vineyards and the new residential developments. "It’s good to see all the new people living down here now: it's not just the holiday destination for families from Adelaide anymore," he says.

Bruce is certainly set to stay put on the Fleurieu. "This is home. The children and grandchildren are here. It’s not far from Adelaide, and we’re by the ocean."

Surrounded by family, with the sea at his doorstep and music in his ears, Bruce continues to find joy in every aspect of his multifaceted life.

The Pink Lady Jessica Watson, an exact replica size of the boat, which Bruce made & gifted to her for her achievement desire and attitude to prove that a young person could actually achieve sailing around the world solo.