Who Was Norm?
Norman Victor Kies was born on July 21, 1900, in the original family home, now the old stone building located next to what is now known as Norm’s Farm. Norm represented the second generation born on his family’s estate. He passed away on December 23, 1979.
Norm was known for his generosity and strong work ethic, often assisting community members in establishing their own businesses. He played a significant role in helping his son Ken set up Karrawirra Wines in 1969, a winery renowned for its robust, full-bodied red wines. This winery, located just south of Norm’s Farm, was sold by the family in 1986.
On December 15, 1928, Norm married Olga Nita Mattner, also known as Nita, in Tanunda. Norm and Nita had two children, Kenneth Ivan Kies and Clyde Geoffrey Kies. In 1922, they constructed their new home, which is now affectionately referred to as Norm’s Farm.
The couple spent their entire lives in Lyndoch on the family estate, where they cultivated vines and managed livestock, including sheep and cattle.
Norm Kies is the great-grandfather of Billie-Jo, who is your host.
A Historic
Location
Norm’s Farm sits in the picturesque Hoffnungsthal Valley, which means “Valley of Hope”.
This very spot is where the first German settlers made their home in the Barossa Valley. On the northern end of the property, you’ll find a historic church site adorned with a plaque honoring the families who settled here.
The early settlers chose to build their town on a dry lagoon, despite warnings from the local Aboriginal people about the risks of flooding. As the years went by, their worst fears came true—every decade or so, the “big rains” would flood the area, and one morning, the settlers woke up to find their homes submerged under a few feet of water. Faced with this challenge, they decided to move to new locations within the Barossa and beyond.
In the 1860s, the Kies family came into the picture, initially leasing the property before purchasing it. They wisely chose higher ground for their home and began planting Shiraz grapes, citrus, and vegetables. Their efforts transformed the estate into a thriving agricultural hub, and it remains a working farm to this day, proudly employing local staff and continuing the tradition of farming excellence.
