When Pt. Leo Estate first opened its doors eight years ago, it quickly became known for more than just its Estate grown wines. Within months of opening, its dining rooms were regarded world-class, its Sculpture Park was heralded as a national icon, and both media and visitors could not get enough of the property’s sweeping vineyard and coastal views. But to General Manager Roger Lancia, this milestone is about far more -it’s about people, place and perseverance.
“Reflecting on the past eight years, what fills me with pride isn’t just what we’ve built, but who we’ve built it with,” Roger reflects. “We’ve faced our share of challenges, from navigating the pandemic to recovering from a fire, but the one thing that has never wavered is the incredible support from our local community and our team.
More than 100 of our staff call the Mornington Peninsula home, and their warmth, passion and resilience define who we are. For me, it’s more than pride, its true gratitude for the many hands who make it happen, and the many people who make the decision to visit the estate.”
To mark this milestone, Pt. Leo Estate will host a community celebration on Saturday 25 October featuring “Lost in Music”, a day of live music, art, food and family fun set within its 16.5-acre Sculpture Park.
From 11am, visitors can explore the Sculpture Park, join a 30-minute Express Sketch session, and enjoy a free sausage sizzle supporting the Point Leo Surf Lifesaving Club. Children under 12 will receive a birthday activity pack in addition to being welcome to participate in fun interactive activities. From 12pm, guests can wander the park to the sounds of Lost in Music, with live performances filling the air and guided Sculpture Park tours departing hourly until 4pm.
For Roger, the event is as much about gratitude as it is about celebrating. “We’ve always seen ourselves as part of this community,” he says. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you. It’s about families, friends and locals coming together to share in everything that makes this region special – its beauty, its hospitality, and its love of great food, wine and art.”
That philosophy runs through every aspect of Pt. Leo Estate. From the two-hatted Laura Restaurant, to the one-hatted Pt. Leo Restaurant, the family friendly and relaxed Wine Terrace, and the dusk-inspired Vespre Bar, each venue reflects the estate’s hospitality DNA – refined, yet welcoming. Wherever possible, the menus champion the Mornington Peninsula’s seasonal produce, celebrating local growers and producers who share the Estate’s commitment to excellence.
“Everything we do is shaped by our surroundings,” Roger adds. “Our kitchen celebrates what’s local and in season; our vineyard captures the character of this coast; and our wines and wine list which have been recognised nationally showcase our passion for craftsmanship.
As Roger reflects on the Estate’s journey, he’s particularly moved by the memories created there. “It’s incredibly humbling that people choose to celebrate their most meaningful moments with us,” he says warmly. “We’ve hosted everything from wedding proposals, engagements and anniversaries to birthdays and family reunions.
We’ve welcomed locals from Merricks to Mount Eliza, guests from across Australia and visitors from around the world – from families and travellers to well-known figures like the Obamas. That diversity is what makes Pt. Leo Estate so special – everyone finds a connection here.”
As Roger concludes, his tone remains humble and full of gratitude. “To see how much our community has embraced Pt. Leo Estate over these eight years means the world to us. This place was created to be shared and that’s exactly what this birthday celebration is about.”
Tickets are required for all guests who wish to enter the Sculpture Park, and once inside all activities are complimentary. Don’t miss out. Book online at www.ptleoestate.com.au and be part of the Peninsula’s most vibrant day of art, music, food and community.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 22 October 2025
