You and Larry are the owners of Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery on Kangaroo Island. Please tell us a little more about your business.

Larry and I founded Emu Ridge in 1991 just over 30 years ago due to the down turn in wool prices. We manufacture Eucalyptus oil, a range of natural products, and support other local producers products in our shop and online. We are both passionate about our business and farming our natural resources in a sustainable way.

Have you always been into Eucalyptus farming? What inspired you to start the distillery?

We were 4^th generation sheep farmers and it was the downturn in wool prices that sparked the idea, Larry loves building and fixing things.

I know you also have another passion, of the furry kid. Please tell us more.

Yes I've been a carer of orphaned wildlife birds and animals for over 30 years, I love watching them grow and eventually when they are ready leave home and go back into the wild.

On a more personal note, tell us a little about Bev and what she loves to do out of work.

Out side of work I love being with my gorgeous grandchildren, I do love our beautiful beaches and Emu Bay is one of our favourites to go for a paddle and swim in the summer.

Did you grow up on Kangaroo Island? Please tells us a little more about your background.

My Dad was Post Master so we moved around a bit. I was born in Burra, and have lived in Canberra, Wirrabara Kingscote where I lived from age 9 to 16. Then Kadina and then back to Kangaroo Island at the age of 23, so I guess by now I'm a local. When younger my passion was horses.

I know you are very passionate about Macgillivray and surrounds, and involved in the community. Please give us some insight to other things you are involved in.

I had brain surgery for a tumour 2 years ago so these days I’m not involved in much at all, we have a daughter who plays sport for Wisanger and some of our grandchildren play for Kingscote so these days just the community clubs.

What is it that makes you proud to live and work in this special part of the world?

I'm so proud that we have saved a large part of Kangaroo Islands history and heritage, and we certainly live in a place that is full of beautiful fresh air, nature and wildlife, a very beautiful and unique Island.

Bev's TOP TIPS

Best place to....

• Grab a quick bite… Amandas takeaway and of course Emu Ridge Cafe

Have a more serious feed… If your looking for a beautiful meal Wanderers Rest at American River have a restaurant called The Glossy Black Restaurant I highly recommend this gorgeous place.

• Get a cuppa… I don’t drink it but Emu Ridge of course
• Have a beer (or cold drink)… Queenscliffe Hotel
• Taste some wine (or just enjoy the winery atmosphere)... False Cape Wines
• Go for a dip… Emu Bay
• Explore nature… Hansons Bay and Western River cove are 2 of my favourite places

When I’m on the Fleurieu and/or KI, I…

• feel… happy
• always make sure I visit… too many great spots to mention
• stock up on… Fleurieu milk it’s the best and all we use in our coffee at Emu Ridge to

Weirdest thing that’s happened to me here:

People ask the strangest questions like they think I’m a doctor! Just because we sell natural products and believe me there’s some weird ones!

Best memory of being here:

All the fun we had as kids at the local tidal pool in Kingscote.

Most colourful character I’ve run into:

That has to be my husband!

My best piece of advice for anyone heading to the region: 

Stay longer than two days!

Find out more about Emu Ridge Eucalyptus here:

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