He built a punt to cross the Murray followed by another to cross the Campaspe to ferry stock and goods. With his vision, energy and enthusiasm, those crossings become the thriving town of Echuca; the closest point on the Murray River to Melbourne.

By 1857 Henry and his wife Charlotte had planted their first 5 acres of vines, along with a magnificent 50-foot long winery and cellar dug into the banks of the Campaspe River. A number of the varieties he chose then are only now becoming appreciated throughout Australia, of particular interest is the variety Verdeilho aka. Verdelho. Echuca in particular is recognised for growing quality wine from this variety. Henry was 140 years ahead of his time!