Bill and Ingrid are long-term grape growers who converted their mixed farming property into a vineyard during the industry’s growth phase. Together they undertook the physical work, planning, and development of the vineyard, building a strong emotional connection to the land.
As market conditions shifted, tightening grape demand and falling prices created increasing financial strain. Determined to maintain cash flow, the couple diversified by processing their own grapes into bulk wine and later bottling under their own label. Initially, this approach generated some success, but oversupply in the wine market and falling bottle prices soon made it unsustainable.
The combination of ageing, physical health concerns, and worsening cash flow began to take a toll on their mental wellbeing. Despite their pride in always honouring commitments, the couple realised they could no longer continue as before. After months of anguish, they contacted RBS seeking help, describing feelings of being “fogged in” and overwhelmed by mounting debt and uncertainty.
Their Rural Financial Counsellor (RFC) began by listening to understand the full picture—both emotional and financial. Through empathy and rapport-building, the RFC helped Bill and Ingrid identify realistic forward goals. Together they built a structured action plan that included a detailed budget, a breakdown of monthly living costs, and future scenario planning to demonstrate the potential outcomes if no changes were made.
An application for a South Australian Government Wine Grower’s Support grant enabled the completion of overdue tax returns and strengthened negotiations with their financial institution. The RFC’s advocacy and the quality of the supporting information led to manageable repayment arrangements, easing financial pressure and restoring a sense of stability.
As clarity replaced confusion, Bill and Ingrid began making decisions from a position of strength rather than fear. They learned to question long-standing business practices, shifting from “working in the business” to “working on the business.”
With renewed confidence, they refocused on efficient vineyard management, reduced non-essential expenditure, and explored practical pathways to maintain viability without overextending themselves physically.
Bill and Ingrid’s outlook and behaviour transformed. They moved from reactive to strategic decision-making, gained a clearer understanding of their personal and business finances, and embraced open discussions with family and professional advisers. For the first time in many years, they reported feeling financially free and in control of their choices.