A change of profession from Accountant to Vigneron was unfolding for Owen, and Robyn has enjoyed the opportunity to facilitate her catering and hospitality expertise.

Pursuing a long time desire to make wine, Owen planted 1000 grape cuttings of three varieties. Never doing things by half measure, he also undertook a course in viticulture with Charles Sturt University, Wagga. The vineyard quickly developed to a small commercial size of 5 acres (6000 vines).

The small collection of farm sheds used as the winery soon became inadequate, and a 200 square metre winery was built in time for the 1993 vintage. Tasting and sales facilities were completed in time for the issue of the liquor licence in early 1993. Recent years has seen the addition of a temperature controlled barrel room, under cover work area and verandah.

Three white wines - riesling, chardonnay and traminer and three red wines - pinot noir, shiraz and cabernet are grown, vintaged and bottled on the property. Public acceptance has been overwhelming, most varieties sell out quickly. The Vineyard has now expanded to 8500 vines and the winery also imports select grapes from other Gippsland and Yarra Valley vineyards to maintain its growing demand. In addition, contract winemaking is performed for a number of other wineries. Lyre Bird Hill wines have rapidly established an award winning reputation of consistent intensity and unique quality that is the result of Owen Schmidt's experience and understanding of viticulture and wine making in cool climates.