Trusted advice through generations of family and business change 

This is a story of longevity, trust and continuity. The Berkelouw family’s relationship with King & Whittle spans approximately 30 years and began with Paul Berkelouw’s father. Over time, it evolved into a deeply personal and trusted advisory relationship with King & Whittle Director Robert Barrese. 

Throughout periods of business restructuring, family change, audits and significant commercial transformation, King & Whittle has provided more than accounting support. The firm has acted as a trusted adviser and sounding board, bringing an understated, considered and relationship-led approach that closely reflects the family’s own values. 

                    “It’s a very trusting relationship. Robert has entire insight into my affairs, and this gives tremendous strength                                    to a person’s business when they have those types of relationships.” 

A family enterprise with deep roots 

Leo Berkelouw acquired Bendooley Estate in the 1970’s. This 200-acre property in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, enjoys a rich history of more than two centuries.  A fifth-generation antiquarian bookseller, Leo relocated his family and the Berkelouw book business to the property, establishing the Berkelouw Book Barn and creating the foundation for what would become a much broader family enterprise. 

Paul Berkelouw joined his father’s business as a young man and has been involved in the family enterprise for decades. The family originally operated predominantly in retail bookstores, alongside a property portfolio. Approximately 13 years ago, as technology transformed the retail environment, the family made the strategic decision to diversify and significantly expand its hospitality interests. A family property, originally used as a private home, became the foundation for what has grown into a substantial hospitality enterprise. 

What began with a small number of weddings to help offset the cost of maintaining the property grew into a substantial undertaking. Under the leadership of Paul and Katja Berkelouw, Bendooley Estate is now recognised as one of Australia’s premier rural destinations. Today, the business includes: 

• hosting hundreds of events each year 
• restaurants and a winery 
• accommodation and conference facilities 
• events and hospitality experiences 
• the continuing Berkelouw Book Barn. 

Across the broader business, more than 250 people are employed. 

The family’s challenge has been to preserve the heritage, character and identity of the Estate while continuing to adapt and build for the future. King & Whittle has supported the family throughout much of this journey, providing continuity and trusted advice as the business has restructured, diversified and grown. 

                                         “It has been quite a journey, and Robert has been very supportive and very available                                                      in regard to direction and advice over that period of time.” 

How the relationship began 

The relationship with King & Whittle began through family connections approximately 30 years ago. What first attracted the Berkelouw family was the firm’s long-term approach to working with families. Paul describes his family as reserved and understated and says King & Whittle’s style aligned naturally with their own. Rather than being flashy or transactional, the firm offered a discreet, conservative and personal approach. 

Paul’s relationship with Robert has since developed well beyond that of a conventional accountant and client. Robert had a close relationship with Paul’s father, and following his passing, that connection continued with the next generation. This continuity has become an important source of confidence across both the family’s business and personal affairs. 

Navigating complex family and business matters 

Over the years, King & Whittle has supported the family through several significant and often sensitive matters, including: 

• a major restructure of the family business 
• ongoing taxation and accounting requirements 
• legal matters in conjunction with other advisers 
• audits and compliance matters 
• personal counsel through complex family and business decisions 

“The value of the relationship lies not only in technical advice, but in having a trusted adviser with a deep understanding of the family, the history of the business and the circumstances surrounding major decisions.” 

The impact 

The Berkelouw story illustrates King & Whittle’s understanding that, in family enterprises, financial decisions, business decisions and family dynamics are often closely connected. 

• Trusted across generations.  A relationship that began with one generation and continued naturally into the next. 
• Advice grounded in understanding. Deep knowledge of the family’s history and business circumstances provides valuable context for sound advice. 
• Support through complexity. King & Whittle has been present through restructuring, audits, family change and significant business transformation. 
• A relationship beyond transactions. The relationship has become deeply personal while remaining anchored in professional trust. 
• An understated approach. Discretion, consistency and considered advice strongly align with the family’s values. 
• Continuity through change. While the business has evolved significantly, the advisory relationship has remained constant.