Hele Family History

It Began in Denmark

The family’s hospitality story began in Copenhagen, at one of the city’s most iconic addresses. Philip’s great-grandfather, Ernst Weinold, owned the Grand Hotel from 1935 to 1970. The hotel sat right beside Copenhagen’s famous Tivoli Gardens, placing it at the heart of the city’s cultural and social life during the golden age of European travel.

The next generation, Wibrand and Elli Kesby, continued this tradition. They operated Hotel Eyde during the turbulence of World War II and later built the celebrated Richmond Hotel Copenhagen, praised internationally for its cuisine, elegance and service. Their reputation grew so strong that the Danish Royal Family entrusted them with catering major royal occasions, including the wedding dinners of Princess Margrethe in 1967 and Princess Anne-Marie in 1964.

A New Chapter in Australia

Julian and Anni Helé, who met while working at London’s Dorchester Hotel and later married during a posting in Montego Bay, Jamaica, moved to Australia in 1964. They quickly became known for redefining the Australian dining scene through their landmark hotels and restaurants across Sydney and Newcastle, including The Ascot, the Sackville Hotel, Bel-Air Hotel and the iconic Fox and Hounds at Wahroonga.

Their focus on fresh ingredients, warm service and genuine hospitality became a hallmark of the Helé family name.

The Next Generation: Expanding the Legacy

The family’s commitment to hands-on, independent hospitality continues through the next generation.

Philip’s sister, Karina, and her husband, Brian Barry, created their own chapter of excellence with Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel and Pretty Beach House, one of Australia’s most exclusive retreats and a member of Luxury Lodges of Australia. Their award-winning approach to luxury, food and tailored service reflects the same family values of authenticity, care and connection.

Together, the siblings have shaped two distinct but equally celebrated Australian destinations, united by a shared heritage of genuine hospitality.

From Copenhagen to the Hunter Valley

In 1991, the Helé family found their home in the Hunter Valley. What began as a small country motor inn has grown into today’s Hunter Valley Resort + Farm: a resort, a farm, an adventure centre, a wine and cooking school campus, and a partnership with 4 Pines that brings fresh craft beer and generous food to the region.

Through every evolution, the heart of the business has remained the same. It is still family owned. It is still family run. And it is still driven by the same passion that began beside Tivoli Gardens almost a century ago.