10/05/2026
On this Mother’s Day, we’re honouring the pie-oneer of our story, Helen Conway, who passed away recently, but her memory lives on in our hearts. We’re taking a moment to remember her incredible contribution to Conways and the journey that brought us here.
Helen’s determination, love and support were the secret ingredients that made our business a recipe for success. Beginning in 1975 when Helen and husband Harry took a leap of faith and purchased the Hopetoun bakery. Never afraid of hard work, regularly working seven days a week while raising two children under the age of three, Helen would often put the kids in the car as she went about making bread deliveries to surrounding towns - balancing motherhood and business with her usual determination and practicality.
After 10 years of building a successful bakery, and a strong work ethic, the decision was made to take on a new adventure, in 1986 opening ‘Conway Pies’ in Horsham. It was yet again a bold step but one they embraced with the same determination and hard work that had carried them through all their previous ventures. The business quickly became a well known and much loved part of the community. Early mornings, long days and constant demand were all part of the rhythm, but Helen met it all with her usual strength, energy and no nonsense approach. She worked tirelessly alongside Harry, building not just a successful business, but strong connections with customers who returned time and time again.
As the business grew, so did the sense of family within it. In 1993, son Michael joined them, bringing another generation into the fold. It became more than just a workplace-it was a true family effort, built on shared commitment, resilience, and pride in what they had created together. With Michael currently at the reins and Helen’s grandson Jonty showing keen interest in the family business, the future of Conways is set to continue from the strong foundation Helen and Harry built on 50 years ago. Helen would be so proud, and, her impact on our business will never be forgotten.