In this episode, you'll meet the woman behind the newly opened, architecturally stunning gin distillery that now stands proudly among the vineyards on the edge of Clare.

The Clare Valley Distillery, along with its beautifully designed tasting room, officially opened its doors in March 2025. Behind this exciting new venture is Katherine Nugent — a lawyer, teacher, and proud Clare Valley local.

Known affectionately as "Karks" to most, Katherine has been nurturing this dream for the past seven years. She developed the concept alongside Guy Parkinson, former chef of Seed, and her beloved aunt and godmother, Di Mayfield — both now her business partners.

Karks is passionate about gin and community. Her vision was to create a welcoming space in the Clare Valley — not just for gin lovers, but as a creative hub, especially for writing retreats. That makes sense, because she’s also in the midst of writing a book.

But there’s far more to Karks than distilling botanicals. Originally from the Adelaide Hills, she takes us on a rich and colorful journey through her life — from the Hills to Denmark, with career chapters in journalism, law, teaching in Galway, and ultimately, finding home in Clare.

This episode is packed with inspiration, reflection, and storytelling. So whether you're brewing a cup of tea or heading out for a long walk — settle in. This is Katherine's story.

https://www.clarevalleydistillery.com.au/

https://operationflinders.org.au/

https://www.kademacdonaldfoundation.org/

Find out more about Annabelle Homer and her communications business Voice it:

https://voiceit.me/