Woolmers Estate Archer family descendant and benefactor Nigel Peck died on April 1, 2017

The great-great-grandson of Thomas Archer, who built the estate in 1817, died on April 1 2017 at his home in Mount Eliza in Victoria.

Woolmers Estate chairman Peter Rae said Mr Peck was an adventurer who always “had a twinkle in his eye and an impish [sense of] humour.”

He travelled to both the North and the South poles and aspired to be the first Australian tourist to visit space.

Mr Peck was selected by Space Expedition Curacao to be its first tourist in space in 2012 but unfortunately that dream never came to pass because the spacecraft was unable to be built in time.

He received an AM for his service to industry and for his philanthropy efforts – he was the benefactor to Melbourne Grammar School and other institutions and established the Nigel Peck Centre for Educational Excellence in Melbourne.

However, despite his adventures, Mr Peck always found his way back to Woolmers.

Mr Rae said Mr Peck and his wife Patricia visited Woolmers several times each year and attended key events such as the Festival of Roses.

Mr Peck was a long-time benefactor to the Woolmers’ Estate and spent about $5 million to help with the restoration of the estate as well as to secure the future of the historic site.

The Nigel Peck visitors centre has been constructed and is expected to open later in the year.

The long gallery in the centre is named the Nigel Peck long gallery in Mr Peck’s memory.

Without the contribution of Mr Peck, the visitors centre would never have become a reality.

“It was his vision and without his significant contribution it wouldn’t be here,” Mr Rae said.

In addition, Mr Peck also contributed significantly to the restoration of Woolmers Cottage on the estate.

Mr Peck was an avid adventurer and keen sailing enthusiast.

He is survived by his wife Patricia and two children.