In New Zealand, a father named Vaughan Campbell embarked on a remarkable journey after facing a life-altering diagnosis. At 34, living in Whanganui, NZ, Vaughan’s world turned upside down when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Determined to make the most of his situation, Vaughan decided to pursue his long-held dream of opening a distillery. This decision was not only driven by his personal aspirations but also by a newfound awareness of food waste’s environmental impact.

With the support of his wife, Emma, and a burning desire to leave a legacy for his three children, Vaughan delved into the world of distilling. Having dabbled in brewing as a hobby since his teenage years, Vaughan saw an opportunity to repurpose surplus baked goods into high-quality spirits. The idea was born out of a desire to combat food wastage by transforming discarded bread and cakes into premium alcoholic beverages.

Navigating the challenges of his leukemia treatment and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Vaughan’s determination only grew stronger. He seized the opportunity presented by the Innovate Whanganui competition, where he proposed a business model centered on sustainability and waste reduction. After an intense 10-week accelerator course and a nerve-wracking pitch to a panel of judges, Vaughan’s vision for a distillery focused on repurposing food waste materialized into reality.

Branded as Good Bones, Vaughan’s distillery not only symbolizes his resilience in the face of adversity but also stands as a testament to his commitment to creating a better future for his family and community. By partnering with local bakeries and breweries, Vaughan turned discarded bread and cakes into unique spirits, showcasing his innovative approach to addressing social and environmental issues.

As the first bottles of vodka rolled off the production line, Vaughan’s sense of accomplishment was palpable. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by his medical condition, Vaughan remains dedicated to his craft, balancing his distilling endeavors with his work in engineering. His story exemplifies the power of determination, creativity, and a steadfast belief in turning obstacles into opportunities.

Looking ahead, Vaughan’s journey continues, with a new addition to his family on the horizon. As he prepares to welcome another child, Vaughan’s entrepreneurial spirit remains undimmed, embodying a spirit of resilience and optimism that defines his remarkable transformation from adversity to triumph.