Following a search of far west NSW for a property with water, David looked toward Cowra after hearing from geologists that there was a large underground river running under the farm.

In December 1959, David O’Dea, with the blessing of his father, purchased the 320-acre Windowrie property. He employed a manager to run the property as he was still completing his studies in Agriculture.

David immersed himself in the community, captaining the Cowra Rugby team and later, coaching and presiding over the local club.

In 1988, the O’Deas planted 30 acres of vineyard. A number of years later, David purchased and restored the old flour mill in Cowra, using a myriad of recycled building materials. On returning to the property after a weekend away, David was somewhat bemused to see that his cattle yards had been dismantled. “We needed some more timber,” explained his son Jason casually.