A New Zealand father, Vaughan Campbell, hailing from Whanganui, embarked on a remarkable journey that saw him transform the concept of birthday cakes into a unique business venture involving alcohol production. Campbell’s story is one of resilience and innovation, born out of a challenging period in his life.

At 34, Campbell faced a daunting diagnosis of leukemia, which shook the foundation of his world. Determined to pursue his long-held dream of owning a distillery, he found inspiration in an unlikely place – a news report highlighting the environmental repercussions of food wastage. This revelation sparked his ingenious idea to repurpose surplus baked goods into spirits.

Driven by his passion for brewing, Campbell delved into the realm of distillation, leveraging his expertise in crafting beer and spirits since his teenage years. Despite the hurdles posed by his health condition, he remained resolute in his ambition to create a legacy for his family. The adversity he faced only fueled his determination to forge ahead with his entrepreneurial vision.

In a stroke of fate, Campbell’s path intersected with the Innovate Whanganui competition, offering a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas. With unwavering dedication, he meticulously outlined his proposal to produce premium craft vodka while championing the cause of reducing food and packaging waste. This marked the inception of his venture, aptly named Good Bones, symbolizing his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

Following an intensive accelerator program and a compelling pitch to a panel of judges, Campbell clinched victory in the competition, securing a substantial prize fund of $10,000. This triumph paved the way for him to realize his dream, setting the stage for his foray into the world of distillery operations.

Through strategic collaborations with local breweries and bakeries, Campbell’s innovative approach saw him breathe new life into discarded bread and cakes, transforming them into delectable spirits. The meticulous process of fermentation and distillation culminated in the creation of premium alcoholic beverages, each bottle a testament to his ingenuity and perseverance.

As Campbell navigates the dual responsibilities of managing his distillery and pursuing his career in engineering, he remains steadfast in his commitment to his craft. The culmination of his efforts materialized in the form of his inaugural batch of vodka, a tangible symbol of his unwavering determination and the unwavering support of his family.

Looking ahead, Campbell’s journey continues to unfold, with the promise of new beginnings on the horizon. As he prepares to welcome another child into his family, he stands as a beacon of resilience and creativity, exemplifying the transformative power of turning challenges into opportunities. Amidst the chaos of balancing his roles, Campbell finds solace in the sweet rewards of his labor, embodying the essence of a true innovator and entrepreneur.