Winemaker dies in windsurfing accident

Respected winemaker Simon Burnell, 44, has died after a windsurfing accident in Margaret River.

Police found the man in water near Rivermouth Point this morning.

He had gone missing after windsurfing at a surf break, known among locals as “Cow Bombie”, in the Prevelly Park area yesterday.

Mr Burnell was the chief winemaker at Ferguson Valley winery Willow Bridge Estate for five years and had worked in the industry for about 15 years.

Willow Bridge owner Jeff Dewar praised Mr Burnell and described him as “one of the most passionate winemakers we have seen in the West”.

“He came over from South Australia and he has forged a path in WA that will be missed by all,” Mr Dewar said.

“His dedication and passion to his wine and the industry was second to none.”

Margaret River police launched a search for Mr Burnell after he went missing.

He was last seen at 4.45pm yesterday windsurfing in rough conditions.

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.

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