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the bunbury geographe magazine

autumn/winter

TRAIL BLAZERS Find some of Australia's most accessible mountain bike trails right here

STANDING GUARD Discover stunning sculptures, vibrant street art and passionate artists in the BunGeo

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TREE CHANGE Experience the incredible kaleidoscope of colours at Golden Valley Tree Park

Editor’s Letter

the bunbury geographe magazine

FOUND autumn/winter

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Published by PREMIUM PUBLISHERS 26 John Street Northbridge Perth WA 6003 (08) 9273 8933 EDITOR Gabi Mills gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au

Find your perfect place Autumn and winter in the BunGeo region mean it's time to change gear - literally. Out with bikinis and shorts and on with rugged up jumpers and socks. It's also the chance to change gear in another sense too. When you visit the region, you'll find the change of pace refreshing. That doesn't mean, though, that it'll be all sitting around doing nothing: if you're a keen mountain biker, then you'll find some very helpful locals keen to introduce you to some of the most accessible MTB trails in the land.

It's also the kind of place that people who have passion make their home. Those passions can be as diverse as art and sculpture - make sure you visit the stunning new edifice at Koombana Bay. Called Wardandi Booja, this proud depiction of a Noongar man's head is sure to become an iconic part of the Bunbury landscape.

And then there are the passionate winemakers and food producers – meet the men and women behind award-winning Geographe wines and the Halls family who have created a divine creamy cheese from their herd of Normande cows. There are farmers who follow the organic path, and an artisan bakery which produces the most perfect bread and butter (it's to die-for).

The newly redeveloped Dolphin Discovery Centre is sure to be a big hit with young and old - it's the perfect place to meet and greet some very friendly residents of Koombana Bay. The dolphins aren't the only creatures you'll encounter there; leave plenty of time to make the most of a visit to this fantastic venue.

The region's natural environment is a very precious commodity and as you enjoy exploring trails, tracks and forests, read about the young Indigenous rangers who have been tasked with helping protect these assets. The Golden Valley Tree Park is one such destination that's not to be missed - especially at this time of year. And if you're in Harvey on April 27, join all the fun of the town's 100-year old country fair.

They say a change is as good as a rest - we couldn't agree more.

Happy reading,

DESIGNER Cally Browning cally@barecreative.com.au SALES MANAGER Natalie du Preez (0426 752 352) natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Norman Burns, Tom de Souza, Fergal Gleeson, Ara Jansen, Joanne Marriott, Matthew Mills, Jennifer Morton, Janine Pittaway, Lizzy Pepper.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Frances Andrijich, Bianca Turri Photography, Tom de Souza, Jennifer Morton.

COVER IMAGE Chris Himing - 360 World Photography (360worldphotography.com) ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au Printed by VANGUARD PRESS All rights reserved. No material published in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written authority. Every endeavour is made to ensure information contained is correct at time of going to print. ©2018 FOUND is published bi-annually by Premium Publishers on behalf of the Bunbury Geographe Tourism Partnership.

Visit premiumpublishers.com.au

@visitbunburygeographe

Gabi

DID YOU KNOW? Just two hours from Perth, you will find the Bunbury Geographe region or BunGeo as we call it. Lose yourself within a vibrant seaside city and discover a captivating wine region, amazing produce, beautiful scenery, a banging arts scene and quaint towns. #BunGeo #VisitBunburyGeographe @VisitbunburyGeographe

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PREMIUM PUBLISHERS visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

the bunbury geographe magazine

autumn/winter 03

ADVENTURE & NATURE

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Welcome Events 48 hours in . . . the Collie River Valley

ART & CULTURE

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All the fun of the fair Steering committee Art in the BunGeo Country pride Culture shock

FOOD & DRINK

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The big O Meet the maker: Halls Family Dairy Winemakers of Geographe Beer Necessities

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Gold class Go your own way Big dippers and flippers Tales of the trails

DESTINATIONS

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Bunbury Donnybrook-Balingup Dardanup-Ferguson Valley Capel region Collie River Valley Boyup Brook region Harvey region

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DIRECTORY Bunbury Geographe map

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events

AUTUMN | WINTER

Art among the trees Join a free community art event through the Tree Street area of Bunbury. The selfguided walking trail will take visitor through a unique area of Bunbury where artists, designers and makers live and work. // Tree Streets Arts Safari, Bunbury, March 23. Visit stirlingstreetarts.com.au

/ MARCH / Bringing the harvest home You’ll discover all the vibrancy of Italy at the LiveLighter Harvey Harvest Festival this year. Set in the picturesque gardens of Snell Park in Harvey, the festival offers a feast for the senses with arts, culture, food, wine and markets.

Local produce will be transformed in true paddock to plate style cooking demonstrations, with many of

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Harvey’s iconic brands – Harvey Cheese, Harvey Fresh, Harvey Beef and many more. Expect loads of music and entertainment including rides, street theatre, fairy workshops, the LiveLighter Grape Stomp (right) and an animal petting farm. // LiveLighter Harvey Harvest Festival, Snell Park, Harvey, March 17. Visit harveyfest. com.au

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

John Paul Young heads west with one of Australia’s most incredible songbooks in his pocket. He tells Ara Jansen about Vanda and Young.

Dancin’ like it’s . . .

1979!

W

hen John Paul Young performs the songs in his latest show, they’re not just a bunch of tunes. These ones are personal.

The Vanda & Young Songbook show brings back a pivotal era for the much-loved Australian singer.

Harry Vanda and George Young are responsible for Australia unique musical soundtrack during the 60s 70s, 80s and had everything to do with how we get our rock sound. Through their label, Albert Productions, the Vanda & Young list of hits includes Friday on My Mind, Evie (Parts 1, 2 & 3), I Hate the Music, Yesterday’s Hero and Love is in the Air. They also wrote and produced for acts like AC/DC, Grace Jones, Ted Mulry, Rose Tattoo, The Angels and Stevie Wright.

Alongside his Allstar Band, Young brings these songs to the stage, for a night which will leave you dancing and singing like it’s 1979.

“This is more than just a bunch of covers for me, there’s a real connection to them,” says Young. “I’m from the inner sanctum of Alberts.

I was with them for a long time and these songs were all around me. I’m really happy to be able to pull them all together and perform them.

“George and Harry were reluctant stars in The Easybeats, so they were never going to hit the road, but they were amazing songwriters.”

Young says while the songwriting duo wrote hundreds of songs, in this show and apart from a couple, he’s sticking to the ones most people would recognise. It’s also a chance for Young to tell a few stories about his experience with both the songs and the men behind them. He says if you loved the ABC TV series Blood + Thunder: The Sound of Alberts, this will be right up your street.

“Pasadena is my sentimental favourite because it got me involved with George and Harry. I never thought I would get to record that song.

It changed my life and kept me from a life as a sheet metal worker.”

The other song which changed Young’s life was 1977’s Love is in the Air, also written by Vanda & Young. It was a hit at the time and then gained a whole new life as the lead single for the classic Australian film, Strictly Ballroom. Released in August 1992, it hit the charts again, climbing to No 3 and worming its way into the hearts of a whole new generation.

“I wish I’d written Love is in the Air. That’s a perfect pop song for me.” // The Vanda & Young Songbook show will be at Bunbury Entertainment Centre on March 22 and the Astor on March 23.

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events AUTUMN | WINTER

/ APRIL / Meet the farmers Ever wondered what it’s like to be a farmer? The Balingup Small Farm Field Day is set to showcase all aspects of small farming; caring for the land and animals, growing trees and food, cooking with fresh local ingredients and creating fashion and crafts with natural products. With over 300 trade and market stalls, along with a wide range of farm machinery and equipment, agricultural and nursery supplies, there is something for all the family to browse, learn and enjoy.

Let your taste buds be surprised by the array of delicious local produce that the field day brings together. Taste the wine, cheese and gourmet delights. Get the little ones busy too, learning about cooking with fresh ingredients in the Kids in the Kitchen workshops (bookings essential). // Balingup Small Farm Field Day, Balingup Sports Oval, April 6, 9am to 4pm,

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adults $15, children under 16 free with an adult. Visit balingupsmallfarmfieldday. com.au Show time Head to the Bunbury Show for a full day of food, artisan and trade stalls, displays by community organisations, laser tag, horse events (over two days), side show alley, a wearable art competition and a seniors ‘have a go’ event.

This is a free event organised each year by the volunteer committee at the Bunbury Agricultural Society.

The Bunbury Show, Hay Park, April 13 and 14. Visit bunburyshowcom.au

Sail away The National Hansa Sailing Championships, an annual event hosted by sailing clubs throughout the country, has chosen Koombana Bay for this year’s Championships, the first time this event has been held in Bunbury. There are four classes of boats and focuses on the competition of all age groups both male and female. It promises to be a wonderful event in a beautiful setting, with plenty to see and do for onlookers. // National Hansa Sailing Championships, Koombana Bay, Bunbury, April 19 to 22. Visit koombanabay. com/hansa-nationalchampionships

FAST FACTS:

The Hansa Class in the sport has been in operation for 26 years and it is one of the fastest growing classes in sailing.

A stitch in time The annual airing of the quilts is on again this Easter Weekend at the Cellar Door at Vineyard 28.

Owner Pippa has been making quilts for over 20 years, and you will get to see not only her latest creations, but also those of other local Quilt Artisans from around the region.

So take a trip to Italy this Easter, here in the Geographe, no passport required.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Experience and taste wonderful wines made from Italian grapes grown here at Vineyard 28.

Quilts of all shapes, styles and sizes will be on display and for sale. A great opportunity to purchase a gorgeous handmade keepsake. // Vineyard 28, Cellar Door, April 20 to 22, 10am to 4pm daily.

Apples a-plenty The Donnybrook Apple Festival - Harvest and Arts is a feast for the senses. Don’t miss this

HAVE A BALL A record number of beach volleyballers are set to descend on Bunbury’s Koombana Bay for a six day fiesta.

Volley By The Bay will include two national events, introducing many onlookers to this fast-moving sport. On the sand, Team WA will be stepping up to challenge, and are sure to thrill local crowds and produce some exceptional volleyball. // Volley By The Bay, Koombana Bay, Bunbury, April 13 to 18. Visit volleyballwa.com.au

Open 10am to 5pm 7 days a week and Wildside Café

www.bunburywildlifepark.com.au Prince Philip Drive, Bunbury

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events AUTUMN | WINTER

opportunity to indulge in all that the Donnybrook region has to offer. There are a range of activities providing nonstop entertainment for the whole family, including produce displays, fruit stalls, face painting, pony rides, agricultural and machinery displays, wine tastings, live music, animal exhibits, street parades, market stalls and a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday night.

The Apple Festival remains a major event in the calendar for the Donnybrook community, with the aim of promoting the town, the district and the diverse array of produce on offer. // Donnybrook Apple Festival - Harvest and Arts, Donnybrook, April 20 and 21.

Visit visitbunburygeographe. com.au/event/donnybrookapple-festival/

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On the trail of the artisans The inaugural 2019 Capel Makers’ Trail is a local makers and artisans trail runing over four days and taking in the towns and localities of Capel, Peppermint Grove Beach, Boyanup, Dalyellup and Gelorup.

The Trail is a framework in which community groups, individual makers and artisans can showcase their artistic and cultural diversity. Representing the very best that is handmade within the Shire of Capel. The Trail starts in the heart of each town in their community centres and will branch out to include artist studio visits.

Visitors will discover artists workshops that share skills and knowledge with handson experiences and the opportunity to witness makers and artisans at work. Along the Trail there will also be many

/ MAY /

opportunities to network, to meet the maker, learn their stories and to buy art and artisanal products. // Capel Makers’ Trail, various locations, April 26 to 29. Visit facebook.com/ capelmakerstrail/

Road racers The Tom Lowry Memorial is in its 77th year and is one of Western Australia’s most prestigious road cycling races.

Hosted by the Collie Cycling Club, the 2019 event will once again include a Saturday afternoon criterium on one of the safest and fastest courses in WA. Sunday will see the traditional road race. Both events will start and finish at the Collie Motorplex. // The Tom Lowry Memorial

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Race, Collie Motorplex, May 4 and 5. Visit element.asn.au/ tom-lowry/ Laughing gas If theatre and stand up comedy met one night in a smoky bar and after a few drinks found themselves in a compromising position in the back of a clapped out ’67 Volks Wagon, the result of this sordid tryst would be The Big HOO-HAA. In the style of “Who’s line is it anyway” and “Thank God You’re Here” The Big HOO-HAA! sees two teams of fearless comedians take the stage to do battle in a competition of wit,

humour and bad mime skills in an effort to win the coveted Horse’s Arse Trophy. // The Big HOO-HAA!, BREC, Bunbury, May 10. Visit bunburyentertainment.com Groovers unite Groovin’ the Moo is back in Bunbury with a banging line-up who visit regional Australian venues, including Triple J favourites Billie Eilish, Hilltop Hoods and Aurora. Expect a fun and value-packed day complete with with a twist of country hospitality and inclusivity. // Groovin’ the Moo, Hay Park, May 11. Visit gtm.net.au

Located opposite the Collie River on the Eaton Foreshore and only 8kms from the city of Bunbury, Riverside Park is ideally located for family holidays or travellers that are passing through. The park offers clean, well-equipped cabins, as well as large grassy powered sites.

For those looking to explore Bunbury and surrounding areas in more detail, our park will offer all the comfort you need to relax after a long day out and about.

Tel: 08 9725 1234 Email: info@riversidecp.com.au Website: www.riversidecp.com.au 11

events AUTUMN | WINTER

/ JUNE / Stick around The South West Smarter Than Smoking Junior Hockey Championships are being held in Bunbury over the June long weekend.

The Championships, first run in 1991 by a handful of Bunbury Volunteers, was started in the hope that the event would go on to promote and develop Junior Hockey.

Starting only with a handful of teams it has grown into one of the biggest carnivals of its type in Australia with over 140 teams participating with teams having to be accommodated in Donnybrook and Busselton areas. Teams come from areas including Central Great Southern, Mandurah, Upper Great Southern, Collie, Perth, Lower Great Southern, Esperance and Busselton so come along and watch the highly competitive game in full flight. // South West Hockey Carnival, Bunbury, June 1 to 3. Visit bunburyhockey.org.au Double header high jinx A huge double header weekend of racing with the Round 2 State Junior Championship

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and Round 3 State Senior Championship will see barbanging action as a deep pool of talented junior and senior riders vie for championship points.

Stockton Park is home of the Collie Motorcycle Club consisting of a 1.6 kilometre track which is set on the banks of the picturesque

Stockton Lake, offering an ideal opportunity for members and spectators to camp at the on-site facilities, watch the clubs events and enjoy Collie’s natural surroundings.

WA Motorcross Championships 2019 - Double Header” State Junior and Senior Championship, Stockton Park, Collie, June 15 and 16.

Visit motorcyclingwa.org.au High flyers Jump First, Ask Later is a high-octane multi awardwinning portrait of Australia’s urban parkour and street style community, and they’re

bringing their special skills to BREC. Urban freestyle, parkour and dance intersect to create a killer theatre experience about finding your path by jumping over life’s obstacles. Featuring members of the Dauntless Movement Crew and directed

by Byron Perry, tells the stories of six young champions of parkour from Fairfield in Western Sydney.

See every flip, trick and drop of sweat in this celebration of the will to succeed of those growing up in one of Australia’s most vibrant areas. // Jump First, Ask Later, BREC, June 21. Visit bunburyentertainment.com

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Rally ready Watch Tarmac Rally Cars compete on roads closed for competition, with cars starting at 30 second intervals and racing against the clock with the winner being the car that is fastest over the eight runs of the Halifax stage.

On Saturday, there will be over 100 cars on display in Victoria Street between 5.30pm and 8.30pm during the Shannon’s Show n’ Shine. The Rallysprint competition kicks off on Sunday morning at 9am, finishing around 3.30pm.

GT Fabrication Targa Bunbury Sprint, Bunbury, June 22 and 23. Visit targabunburysprint.com.au Saddle up More than just a trail ride, the Capel 200 Trail Bike Rally is a non-competitive event that offers a full day of quality offroad riding on some of the best trails in WA. Ride at your own pace and the mix of trails and optional full-on endure sections mean you can ride it as a casual trail ride or as serious training for your next enduro.

The Capel 200 loop is a 70km mixture of 4WD tracks, flowing pine firebreaks and

single track trails, with optional ‘Enduro’ sections. Its open to experienced adult riders on A or B Class registered trail or enduro bikes. You can ride as many laps as you want, and most riders do two or three laps. For riders who want something more serious there will also be a number of Enduro sections at different points on the course. // Capel 200 Trail Bike Rally, Capel, June 29. Visit bunburygeographe.com.au

Open 10am to 4pm 7 days a week www.brag.org.au

64 Wittenoom Street Bunbury WA 6230 |

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events AUTUMN | WINTER

for the past nine years and this year’s event promises to be as involving as ever. It’s an annual children’s literacy and storytelling event for schoolaged children from four to 14

/ JULY /

years, held in beautiful Balingup.

A host of published WA authors and illustrators will present interactive workshops to audiences throughout the weekend. Everyone is

encouraged to dress up, get into character and join in the fun of the parade and activities. // Balingup Telling Tales, Balingup, July 7 to 8. Visit tellingtalesinbalingup.com.au One for the teens Steampunk is coming to Harvey and the Harvey Local Drug Action Group youth are introducing the latest craze by hosting an alcohol- and drug-

Dirt demons Watch dirt fly as the Kirup Stages Rally races around the challenging course in the Grimwade tree plantation near Balingup. There will be a mix of fast and flowing as well as tight and twisty sections that will provide adrenaline pumping action for spectators. // Rally WA Kirup Stages Rally, July 6. Visit rallyaction. com.au/rally-wa/ Time for a story Balingup Telling Tales has been introducing kids to the brilliance of books and reading

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free Steampunk gathering for young people aged 12 years to 17 years. // Steampunk Youth Event, Harvey Recreation and Cultural Centre, Tom Latch Drive Harvey, July 19.

/ AUGUST / Jewels perform The Sapphires is a multiple award-winning musical play and film coming live to the BREC stage for the first time. The Sapphires tells the incredible

journey of four young women from regional Australia who love singing country music. They get the chance to change their tune and their lives when they begin singing Motown soul hits.

Set against the backdrop of personal change and massive social upheaval, inspired by the true story of writer Tony Brigg’s mother, The Sapphires is an energetic, fun and engaging play that affirms life and the realisation of dreams. // The Sapphires, BREC, August 10. Visit bunbury entertainment.com

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events AUTUMN | WINTER

In their element The Collie to Donnybrook and Return Cycling Classic is one of Australia’s road cycling classics, rich in tradition and raced over a tough and challenging course. // Collie Cycling Club, Collie, August 17. Visit westcycle. com.au/roadevents

Fire and fun The largest and oldest medieval carnival in WA is back again with a full weekend of medieval splendor. Dress up and step back in time with a weekend of colour and family fun at the Balingup Medieval Carnivale.

The event begins on the Friday night with the medieval feast, then the carnivale opens on Saturday with music and dance, medieval combat and horseback archery. There’s a grand parade each day and the burning of the dragon on Saturday night. With over 100 variety stalls including local food and wine, there’s plenty to see and do for the whole family. // Balingup Medieval Carnivale, Balingup, August 24 and 25. Visit balingupmedievalcarnivale. com.au Movie magic CinefestOZ is a unique festival experience; Australia’s

best new films are screened as they compete for the richest film prize in Australia. Bunbury event screenings are held cross the city, from the Grand Cinemas to small bars and cafes. Program will be updated closer to the event’s opening. // CinefestOZ, various locations, August 28 to September 1.

Visit cinefestoz.com

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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Got a couple of days to spare?

Find yourself in the Collie River Valley and discover one of the south west’s most underdiscovered towns.

DAY ONE Perth To Collie Say goodbye to the working week and leave the city in your rear view mirror. Take the easy route to Collie via Forrest Highway, or the scenic route along South Western Highway.

Allow two and a half hours from Perth.

48 hours in . . .

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COLLIE RIVER VALLEY

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Where to stay If you’re looking for a real country-style experience, enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast, nestled in a 10-acre property surrounded by forest, only minutes from Collie’s town centre.

For those that would rather be in the centre of the action, there are several accommodation providers in the central business district to choose from Collie River Valley Tourist Park who will even set up a tent for you.

If you prefer the outdoors, the Collie River Valley is stunning to camp in the winter, just make sure you rug up as the nights can get quite chilly.

There’s a choice of locations near town, near water or in the Wellington National Park Campfires are allowed at most visitbunburygeographe.com.au

NATURALLY AMAZING Below, Black Diamond Lake is beautiful, whatever the weather.

Right, in winter, the rivers and streams are full and opposite, there are plenty of walks to enjoy in the Collie region.

campsites in the cooler months, so don’t forget to bring some marshmallows.

Table for two While you’re in town, you just have to try the authentic cooking at 8 Thai Ladies. As the name suggests, the restaurant is run by a local Thai family who also own a blueberry farm. We recommend the pad kra poa – the perfect balance of heat and freshness in this chilli and basil dish, with a choice of chicken or pork. While you’re there, make sure you pick up some of their to-die-for jams and relishes for a treat to take home.

DAY TWO Get Cracking!

You’ve got a full day to explore the region. Start the day

right with a hearty breakfast at Wagon 537, a converted train carriage café located in the heart of town. The Wagon is open from 6am with great coffee, cold-pressed juices and gourmet food. Arrive hungry is our advice.

Explore the Wellington National Park on foot with a camera in hand to capture moody misty mornings, dreamy sunsets, mossy logs and forests so dense you will be able to smell the eucalyptus through the images when you get home.

Insta fame The Collie River Valley region has already inspired many an Instagram post at well-known hotspots such as Honeymoon Pool and Black Diamond, but there are so many more magnificent spots lining up to take over the limelight. Get lost amongst the weeping peppermint trees at Long Pool along Lennard Drive.

Don’t forget your inflatable for that perfect Insta snap, but be warned . . . the water is chilly this time of year.

Try the trails With more than 20 trails for beginners and pros, there are plenty of opportunities to get your cogs turning. New trails have popped up including the recently opened Collie Wagyl Biddi trail network, named after the mythical rainbow serpent.

These are a fun and easy collection of tracks, starting and finishing at Soldiers Park in the centre of town.

The Arklow Trail Network is 4km north of Collie on the Harris River Road, and best of

all, it’s near the Harris River Estate Winery. Coincidence?

Maybe, maybe not. Try the Dead Cats trail, which links from Mornington Road to Ray’s Trail.

It is flowing and fun, suitable for beginners and pros alike.

Don’t have cycling gear? Then hire a bike from the CRV Tourist Park or the Kiosk in the Dam in the Wellington National Park and tackle the nearby Mount Lennard Tracks or pick up a bike at Crank’n Cycles in Collie where the guys know everything there is to know about bikes and the trails around Collie.

Need for speed Spend the day out at the Collie Motorplex, the home of regional motorsports in Western Australia. There are plenty of great viewing points around the track, and the open layout often allows spectators to get up close and personal with the drivers and their vehicles.

With an event on nearly every weekend, there’s something for every variety of motorsports buff. Spectator entry is free for most events so if you're a rev head, it's all good. There are no EFTPOS facilities at the venue, so remember to bring cash for food and drink. |

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Wine time By now, you’ve no doubt worked up a thirst. Stop in for a tasting at the Harris River Estate Winery. You'll find a beer and cider micro-brewery along with the chance to try their wines. They’re open Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 3.30pm – perfect for an afternoon on the deck overlooking the vines and jarrah forest.

Pub grub Get yourself settled and head into town for a relaxing cold pint and generous pub meals.

Go old school and choose from 20

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one of several historic hotels on the main street. There's a magnificent marri bar at the Crown Hotel, locally produced craft beers at the Victoria Hotel, or the Federal Hotel with its lush green-grassed alfresco area.

DAY THREE Discover A Vintage Mecca Take a wander through the centre of Collie where you’ll find a hotspot of art, history and culture.

Vintage Vibes If you love the hunt for a good visitbunburygeographe.com.au

provides a unique glimpse into Collie’s early days. The 1900 and 1930 historic Road Board buildings that house the collection are deceptively large. Inside you’ll find a wide variety of treasures on display, including bottles, radiograms, phonographs, gramophones, wirelesses, mining equipment, many historical photos and military memorabilia.

Wander around the beautiful steam locomotives on display outside the Collie Visitor Centre. While you’re there, take a tour through the Replica Underground Coal Mine. Call ahead to arrange a tour guide or view the interpretive displays at your own pace.

Stop by the Replica Railway Station to see the miniature railway display, and just around the corner, take a look at the Leopard AS1 Battle Tank on display at the Collie-Cardiff RSL.

ONE FOR THE ROAD // Try a unicorn megashake from The Colliefields (opposite inset).Visit the Harris River Estate (opposite right) or the Coalfields Museum (right) before you head home.

vintage find, check out Retro Respection. You’ll find a little bit of quirk, pop culture, something classic and lots of kitsch and vintage vibes. This vintage store was formed by self-confessed vintage pickers duo, Storm and Joleen. Their stock includes home decor, jewellery, accessories, toys, books, tools and much more.

More than one shop owner in Collie has caught the vintage bug. Make sure you pop into Collie Vintage and Second Hand Wares, with a selection of vintage homewares, collectables, furniture and antiques.

Shake it off Prepare for your journey home with a visit to The Colliefields for an extreme milkshake experience. Try the fabulous unicorn megashake for the ultimate sugar hit. For healthier options, there's Rawsome guiltfree, raw tasty treats to pack in the car as you head for home, ready to plan another visit to the Collie River region.

Step back in time The Coalfields Museum

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Art & Culture

From the early years of the orchards to the successful dairy and beef industries of today, the Harvey Agricultural Show has witnessed many changes over the years. Joanne Marriott explores what the 100-year celebration means to the Harvey community.

All the fun

of the fair

L

ittle did Jack Lowe realise when he became President of the newly founded Harvey Agricultural Society in 1919, that the annual show he introduced one sunny day in October 1920 would become a longstanding tradition for decades to come. This year the Harvey Agricultural Society is celebrating its 100th year anniversary with the Agricultural Show on 27th April, remembering the strength and resilience of the community over the years.

The Agricultural Show evolved from the original Harvey Citrus Show, which began in 1905. Reflecting the nature of agriculture in those early days of settlement, it focused on showcasing fresh produce and promoting the local orchards. The first Citrus Show was attended by over 300 people in the Harvey Agricultural Hall and prizes were awarded for the best citrus fruits and the best packed case of oranges as well as vegetables, flower

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COUNTRY WAYS// The Harvey Agricultural Show has been a part of rural life for the region for 100 years.

Opposite, below, , a shot from 1938 as farmers show off their livestock.

Opposite, top, the show in 1967 and left, the carousel was always a popular ride (Images courtesy Harvey Historical Society).

displays, homemade jams and preserves, scones and cake, eggs and poultry, the best orchard horse team and for children, handwriting and sewing. It was a way of bringing people together and celebrating the achievements of the community. The show was heavily advertised in the South Western Times and excursions organised from Pinjarra, Bridgetown and Bunbury, with day trips offered to the local orchards and the nearby weir.

The Lowe family made valuable contributions to the establishment of the irrigation scheme and the orchard industry in Harvey. Originally

from Cheshire in the UK, Isaac Lowe immigrated to Victoria and then moved to Harvey in 1897, when Jack was seven years old. As one of the first settlers in the district, he bought a block by the river and planted four acres of apricot trees, which gained a reputation for their prolific growth.

Eventually Jack took over the orchard, planting another six acres of apricot trees and became intimately involved in the business and agricultural activities of the district. He served in the First World War and when he returned to Harvey in 1919, he took on a role managing the Haywards

Store on Uduc Road.

The orchardists struggled through the war years with a depleted labour force but the Harvey Citrus Show soldiered on and in 1918 held their most popular show with over 800 visitors. It was to be their last though as the energetic young chairman, John Grieves, passed away just weeks before it took place. In 1919, the Harvey Agricultural Society was formed, reflecting the district’s gradual transition away from orcharding and introduction of more dairy farming, sheep raising and cereal growing.

The show was resurrected as the Harvey Agricultural Show visitbunburygeographe.com.au

under Jack Lowe’s leadership.

It was attended by around 900 people, included the muchloved events of the original Citrus Show and was followed with a ball in the evening. It was downsized and suspended during the years of the Second World War, but then returned in force in 1946, breaking all previous records of attendance with 2,500 visitors.

Over the years, families in Harvey have come to look forward to the show as a major event in the community calendar. Children would save up their pocket money for weeks to pay for the rides and stalls at the fair, families would get dressed up in their best new clothes especially for show day and everyone would go rushing into the hall to see

which prizes had been awarded.

Harris Thompson from Venturon Livestock has been attending the show with his family for as long as he can remember, exhibiting cattle and poultry and winning last year’s award for supreme animal.

“It’s important to support the local agricultural shows before they’re gone” says Harris. After being awarded

the state’s Rural Ambassador of the Year in 2018, he presented on the importance of WA’s regional agricultural shows.

“The show is a great opportunity to connect with the rest of the farming community and support local producers.

Sometimes it feels like there’s a big divide between city and country people and the show really brings everyone together.”

At 21 years of age, he is leading the way in the agricultural industry as vice president of the Upper Blackwood Agricultural Society and introducing innovative new ideas to the state.

His energy and passion shine through, inspiring confidence that the future of rural agriculture is in safe hands.

Join the Harvey community for this centenary celebration, indulge in the traditions of the show and learn more about the history from the exhibition in the Old Town Hall. Gates open at 9am on April 27 and the fireworks display starts at 7.30pm. Visit harveyshow.com.au

Getting there is half the fun Kick back, relax and discover Australia’s Bunbury and Geographe region on our iconic Australind train or one of our luxury road coaches.

We operate five-star road coach services to destinations including Bunbury, Boyup Brook, Capel, Collie, Dardanup, Donnybrook and Harvey. Or, why not catch our Australind train to Bunbury. All services are fully accessible and equipped with on-board entertainment, air conditioning, charging ports and toilet facilities.

With 50% discount for Seniors and WA Pensioners and up to 75% for families when you travel with between two and four children*, there has never been a better time to travel with us.

Don’t forget, WA Pensioner Concession cardholders and Veterans’ Gold cardholders receive four free trips on Transwa services every two years.

To book your next holiday, or to see where Transwa can take you, call 1300 662 205 or visit transwa.wa.gov.au. *Terms and conditions apply.

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Art & Culture

Time travelling Are you a history nut? Read on: here's our list of places to visit if going back in time is your thing.

Local history preserved The Bunbury Museum Heritage Centre is the perfect entry point to find out more about Bunbury and its rich history. In a way, it’s a microcosm of so much Australian history, all in one place. You’ll learn about the Indigenous people who lived in the region for thousands of years before white settlers, and the trials and tribulations they suffered at the hands of those who came to their land. The Noongar people are unusually well-represented in the museum: it’s the first of its kind to enable an Indigenous group to speak for themselves, 24

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telling their stories and sharing their language. Take a trip back in time and discover more about the first European settlers and how they began farming the land in 1838. The development of Bunbury is linked to its proximity to the sea, and its port was mostly excavated by convicts who worked on draining swamps, building the timber jetty and constructing roads and bridges.

There are wonderful archives of old photographs, collections of locally-donated artefacts and historic items of interest. Some objects are really redolent of a bygone age, like the film

projector from the Mayfair drive-in cinema. This huge projector, on its cast iron stand, reminds visitors of the days of “come as you are in the family car”, when dozens of cars lined up in front of a giant screen to enjoy the latest movies.

The Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, 1 Arthur Street, Bunbury, Tues to

Sun, 10am to 4pm. Visit bunburymuseum.com.au Once upon a convict . . .

Head to Australind and follow in the footsteps of one of the region’s most infamous convicts, John Boyle O’Reilly.

There’s a wetland trail named in the Irishman’s honour. He escaped, along with another visitbunburygeographe.com.au

60 or so Irish political prisoners from Fremantle Prison in 1869. His extraordinary ability to evade capture led him to escaping WA altogether aboard a ship bound for the US, where he would go on to become a poet, humanitarian and writer.

Proof that sometimes that even the worst of starts end well . . .

Head to the Harvey Visitor Centre which can provide guidance for those keen to follow the Australind Heritage Trail which takes in John’s memorial monument.

Visit harveyvisitorcentre.com.au

own taste of the allure of that intoxicating precious metal. A census of 1901 shows over 200 gold miners were seeking their fortunes in the fields around Donnybrook in that year, but, just like a flash in the pan, the rush was over just two years later. Stone quarrying took over as a source of revenue, and Donnybrook stone proudly adorns many significant buildings in Perth, including Freo railway station and the Police Courts in Beaufort Street.

Small beginnings Founded by one of WA’s first white settlers, Sir James LeeSteere, quaint Boyup Brook was just a dot on the landscape until 19 families joined him, creating a township in 1900.

Civic pride was clearly an early feature of those who made it their home. The Boyup Brook Visitor Centre, built in 1910, is the oldest standing public building in the town – and the second oldest in the whole shire. That civic pride remains;

there are plinths dotted around town explaining the story behind original buildings and businesses.

Boyup Brook Visitor Centre, Bridge Street, cnr Abel and Bridge Sts, Boyup Brook. Visit boyupbrooktourism.com.au

HISTORY IN ACTION Culture vultures will be well served by a visit to the BunGeo region with many historic buildings and attractions to learn more about the state's rich past.

War stories While you’re in Harvey, make time to visit the unique internment camp memorial shrine on the South Western Highway in Harvey. More than 1,000 migrants living locally from Italy, Sicily and Germany were interned during the Second World War in Camp #11. The shrine was created to honour this dark time in the nation’s history, and, in 1992, a chapel was built to enclose this one-of-a-kind roadside edifice.

To visit, pick up a key from the Harvey Visitor Centre, cnr 285 South Western Highway and James Stirling Place.

Pioneer path Dardanup has the feel of a proper historic town and it’s a great place to wander around, putting yourself in the shoes of early pioneers in a 2km heritage trail. Start at the Ferguson Valley Visitor Centre and Memorial Rose Gardens and this historic walking tour will easily fill up and hour or two as you learn more about Dardanup’s early residents.

Follow the Heritage Trail using the map available from the Ferguson Valley Visitor Centre, 5 Ferguson Road, Dardanup.

Golden time If you’re a fan of the gold rush era, head to Donnybrook where BunGeo had its very |

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Art & Culture

A sense ofplace Artists and artisans in the BunGeo are making their mark in more ways than one, as Janine Pittaway discovers.

Wardandi Boodja sculpture The Bunbury foreshore at Koombana Bay now has a permanent guardian looking out for the land and people.

He is not one person, but represents all Noongar people.

He’s firmly grounded but floats in space and time, reflecting the ebb and flow of the landscape.

Wardandi Boodja is a 5.5m high and 6m long steel bust sculpture created by talented Australind artists Nicole and Alex Mickle, and engineer Mike Kimble.

It celebrates the oldest living culture on the planet and seeks to celebrate and pay deep respect to Wardandi Country and its first people, the Noongar nation. It represents the resilience and spirit of a proud Noongar man. He is a reminder we all live on and in Wardandi saltwater country.

The Noongar word ‘Boodja’ 26

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means country/place. It describes the landscape as alive and full of life. Boodja is all encompassing including the whole ecosystem and human culture interwoven.

Nicole and Alex came up with a generic male image after collecting many photos of Noongar people primarily in South Western Australia dating from the 1870s until now. Proud features, strong brow ridge, high cheekbones, broad nose.

“This was our starting point,” Alex said. “From here we took facial moulds of two men. It was decided by many in the local Noongar community that an older man would best represent the wise custodian we all wanted to portray.”

Alex said the project had been a real team effort. “It would not have happened without the continued support of our

Noongar families and wider community. We are extremely proud of the team effort and that it has been very warmly welcomed by our town and communities here and beyond.”

He said the City of Bunbury was looking for an iconic piece that represented a part of the history of this place.

“Themes like industry and the many shipwrecks were up for interpretation within the brief but we decided it was high time we recognised Noongar people. This place was once the firegrounds, with much fishing and ceremony along the edges of these freshwater arteries and saltwater bays. The waters here were also a special place for the Roelands Mission kids who enjoyed spending time here at Koombana Bay.” Find the majestic Wardandi

Boodja at Koombana Bay foreshore in Bunbury.

Dardanup Arts Spectacular With increased prizes and more than 250 art entries, this year’s Dardanup Arts Spectacular (DAS) will live up to its name when its exhibition and art trail opens on 4 and 5 May.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

DAS committee member Fiona Moriarty recommended visitors start their experience with the exhibition at the Dardanup Hall and then follow the Art Trail through the region during the weekend, enjoying a variety of work from talented local artists.

“Visitors can look forward to visiting venues that might not normally be available to the public, and be surprised and delighted by the works displayed,” she said.

“Many of the trail venues will have smaller items for sale as well – everyone likes to take home a memento or a gift. And everything will be original and unique.”

Art enthusiasts will have the chance to meet local artists in their studios along the Art Trail along with visiting artists working from other venues.

Jenny said popular stops were likely to be the Sculpture Trail at Peppermint Lane Lodge, Jenny Doherty’s Studio, Elliot Smith’s Glass and Sculpture Studio, Ferguson Hart Estate wine and gallery and many more to come.

The 15th year of DAS will include an array of paintings, sculpture, photography, jewellery, glass, pottery, upcycling and more.

IMPOSING ADDITION Opposite, the incredible sculpture at Koombana Bay Wardani Boodja - was created by artists Nicole and Alex Mickle and engineer Mike Kimble (photography by Frances Andrijich courtest of City f Bunbury). Below, Yvonne Chapman's mural in Harvey.

The DAS Exhibition and Art Trail will be held on May 4 and 5 (entry to the exhibition is by gold coin donation). Art lovers can also attend the opening night on Friday 3 May (tickets $20 at the door, $35 per couple or $50 per family). For more information visit dardanupartspectacular.com.au.

Red Tailed Black Cockatoo Mural, Harvey, WA A beautiful series of black cockatoo murals now adorns the old Harvey goods shed thanks to a combined community effort.

Harvey artist Yvonne Champan said the mural project started in September 2018 with funding from the Alcoa Harvey Sustainability Fund.

“It was a question of where to put such a large project. The goods shed was mentioned, as it had large blank walls, and its location meant travellers on the Australind train would see the artwork, raising a bit of curiosity,” she said.

Youth input on the project was a priority, so Yvonne and the Harvey Art Society approached Harvey Senior High School.

“The cockatoo was my idea,” Yvonne said.

“They are on the endangered list and I had just painted a couple which had proven very popular.

Harvey also has quite a connection with the Korijekup, a housing development and road named after the bird. I thought if we could carry on the Australian bird theme, we could connect all four murals. The male and female red tailed black cockatoo feathers are designed to lead the eye from one mural to the other.

“The student art work was really good, and their murals are very vibrant and detailed, a great addition to the project.”

The murals will be a permanent fixture on the goods shed, and Yvonne said the feedback so far had been great, with people coming up to her in town to tell her how lovely they are.

The project also helped to raise awareness for the 50th Harvey Art Prize, held earlier this year.

Find the goods shed by the railway line at the end of Snell’s Park on Hayward Street, opposite the Harvey Fire Station and the Harvey Hospital. Parking is available for RVs.

Balingup “Experience the Magic” Come and experience Balingup’s events: BALINGUP ART & CRAFT AFFAIR May 11, 2019 Open Studios: 11 & 12 May, 2019

TELLING TALES IN BALINGUP July 13 & 14, 2019 BALINGUP MEDIEVAL CARNIVALE August 24 & 25, 2019

BALINGUP NIGHT MARKETS November - December, 2019

This ad is proudly sponsored by 27 | FOUND | autumn • winter 2019 Balingup Progress Association www.balingup.asn.au/Events.html

Art & Culture

COUNTRY PRIDE

A new generation of young Indigenous rangers are being trained to care for the country they call Gnaala Karrla Boodja.

By TOM DE SOUZA. Images by BIANCA TURRI PHOTOGRAPHY.

T

o the Noongar people of Western Australia’s South West, the BunburyGeographe region is known as Gnaala Kaarla Boodja. Many millennia of Noongar people have cared for and maintained this country and today some local Noongar youth are continuing on that work while also building the capacities of their community through meaningful employment.

This has been made possible through the Noongar ranger program, which began in 2018. It’s run by the South

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West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council with the support of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) to employ six young Noongar men and women to work and learn with the department over an 18-month paid traineeship program.

There are two rangers, one man and one woman, in each of the six Noongar regions in WA’s south west, including two rangers working from Collie in the Bunbury Geographe region.

Program co-ordinator Jai Wilson says the program's success lies in its work to restore cultural

connections and the inherent motivation in Aboriginal youth to work as rangers.

“It’s multi-layered,” says Jai. “Colonisation has had a significant impact on people, and some people have been removed from country and disconnected from language and culture because of government policies. Other people have been lucky and maintained strong connections through their families, and they have been taught about the cultural and traditional sides of managing the land.

“This program is helping

people to maintain those links, and building capacity within the Noongar community.”

With a Native Title settlement approved for registration in 2018, 320,000 hectares of land in the south west will be handed back to Noongar ownership for development and cultural purposes, and Jai says this program is helping to equip young rangers with the skills to lead their community forward.

“This is about capacity building within the Noongar community,” he says. “It’s about building up a trained work visitbunburygeographe.com.au

SPECIAL PLACE Left, Philip and Natasha Ugle, two young Indigenous rangers,visit Honeymoon Pool, a place of significance to local Noongars. They will learn about how to look after the land and other important conservation work during their traineeship.

force so that when that land does come back to Noongar ownership under the native title settlement there will be Noongar people who are trained up to care for that country.”

Jai says while some of the program is based on the Indigenous Rangers model in the top end of the country, which is widely regarded as one of the most successful Aboriginal-employment policies, the south west presents its own unique challenges nevertheless.

“Yeah, look there are a lot of different models, the country is very different around the

place. The Noongar country is pretty big.

The majority of national parks and colonial settlements are in the south west, so that presents its own challenges. And we learn what we can from the successes other groups have.”

A cultural mentoring faculty is also built into the program, and Indigenous elders working within the department help to guide the young rangers through any issues and cultural sensitivities they may be dealing with, says Jai. “We make sure that if the rangers are having any troubles or concerns, then they have Noongar mentorship in the department. Outside of that we have a small budget we can put towards some elder camps, so once the fire season is done, we will have a men’s cultural camp and women’s cultural camp where all the trainees will come together and do some

work with some elders.”

Some rangers have also gone on to further employment with the department, and DCBA spokesperson Rhonda Murphy says Indigenous rangers bring a unique set of skills and knowledge to a job as a department ranger.

“We are actively trying to recruit Indigenous rangers,” says Rhonda.

“We have a number of Aboriginal rangers around the state, and the department has

an Aboriginal employment strategy, so we are acting around recruiting and increasing the representation of Aboriginal people in this department.

“This program is great because people can follow on from their traineeship with our department, or end up with skills where they can apply for other jobs and, eventually, once the settlement goes through there will be opportunities in Aboriginal corporations for land management jobs.”

For more information visit dbca.wa.gov.au/

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Art & Culture

Culture Shock The annual Bunbury festival – Groovin' the Moo – arrives in May. Ara Jansen checks in and talks to Perth DJ and producer ShockOne. By

ARA JANSEN.

W

hen ShockOne hits the stage at Groovin' the Moo, it will be the first chance for a home crowd to hear the finished tracks from his new album.

“It’s always awesome playing for a local crowd,” says ShockOne. “Plus, I can have a slightly bigger production and can bring all my vocalists with me.

This will be one of the first opportunities to play the new album in its finished state.

That’s going to be really cool.”

At the annual Bunbury festival, this year ShockOne will be sharing the bill with the likes of A$Ap Twelvyy, Holy Holy, DMA’s, Angie McMahon, Coolio, Duckworth, Billie Eilish, Flosstradamus, Spinderella

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and Hilltop Hoods.

Starting in 2005 and consistently selling out, the festival features a combination of community engagement, artists, local food and beverages alongside a diverse musical bill. Groovin' the Moo’s increasingly recognised trademark is about having fun and enjoying a valuepacked day complete with a twist of country hospitality and inclusivity.

“I think I ask a lot of my audience, but for me, if the song is good, that’s all that matters,” says ShockOne about taking the stage.

“I expect people to appreciate that and be open-minded and have as eclectic tastes as I do. I want to challenge drum and bass

heads and hope they can appreciate a song for what it is rather than what you think it should be.”

Due for imminent release, his A Dark Machine album contains pieces of dubstep, drum and bass, a “13BPM pop-techno thing” and some ambient pieces.

While it might seem like a mixed bag, the producer says he’s the common link tying it all together.

Also, after a slew of singles and EPs and a debut album, it was time to write the songs ShockOne knew he would regret if they

Coolio (left), Billie Eilish

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

were ignored in his creative process.

“As I’m getting better at my craft, I’m learning to tell that story in a more focused way, with the least amount of clutter and noise. The difference for me, compared to the first album, is that this one is much more considered. Sonically, it sounds much bigger but I’m also cutting away layers just to have the bare things that tell the story of the song.

“I’m way more productive now,” he explains after

having worked on the album at the same time as becoming a first-time dad.

“I’m a lot less neurotic and self-indulgent, especially if I want to be home for bath time. It’s also meant that when I was forced to let go of being so precious, I started making better work.

I no longer have time to have writer’s block.”

SAVE 10% *

Groovin’ the Moo kicks off on May 11 at Hay Park in Bunbury. Visit for gtm.net.au full festival information.

Hilltop Hoods

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Food & Drink

If the organic lifestyle is important to you, then look no further than the Bunbury Geographe region.

Anna Pellegrin Hartley reports.

O Additional reporting by Tom de Souza and Jennifer Morton.

Images by BIANCA TURRI PHOTOGRAPHY

THE

BIG

O

rganic produce is special. It’s required to meet more stringent safety standards than regular produce, it tastes better, and it’s better for the environment and local economies. It's only growing in popularity and, as locals of the Bunbury Geographe region, we are perfectly positioned to enjoy it. Each year, more local business owners who are passionate

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about making quality products – from what we eat to how we treat our health and wellbeing and even what we wear – are sharing their work with the community. We profile a handful

of our favourite locals who are taking a holistic approach to the good life.

The Holistic Lifestyler After a stint working with the Seattle Mariners baseball team in America, and touring with the WA state junior cricket team, Bunbury-based chiropractor Jeremy Princi, aka The Holistic Lifestyler has settled in WA to share his recipe for living well. Passionate about organic and biodynamic farming, he aims to bring together food, farming, fitness, and healing into a holistic health model that anybody can benefit from. He offers chiropractic consulting at his practice in Bunbury, regularly hosts fermentation workshops (think kombucha, kimchi and kaffir water) around

Australia, and also sells a small range of trendy The Holistic Lifestyler organic cotton hoodies and organic cotton shirts and singlets.

Dr Jeremy Princi The Holistic Lifestyler Tel: 0439 892 352 Email: info@holisticlifestyler.com Visit holisticlifestyler.com Redtail Ridge Since 1998, when owner Peter Gaebler planted his first batch of organic olive trees, Redtail Ridge has been synonymous with quality, local, sustainable organic produce.

Since then, the Mumballup farm’s offerings have expanded from organic olives and olive oil to include organic grass fed beef and lamb, organic visitbunburygeographe.com.au

THE TEAM AT BREAD AND BUTTER WOOD FIRED BAKERY SELL BREAD AND BUTTER, AND OTHER EXTRAORDINARY BAKED GOODS . . .

chicken, biodynamic free range eggs, and raw honey which is harvested in Donnybrook. As proudly Western Australian as the redtail black cockatoo that it’s named after, the farm offers online ordering, weekly delivery, and is also present at local organic markets.

Peter Gaebler Redtail Ridge Tel: 0428 933 939 Email: sales@redtail-ridge.com Visit redtail-ridge.com Bread and Butter Wood Fired Bakery The team at this Bunbury

bakery sell bread and butter, and other extraordinary baked goods with no preservatives, no additives and with only 100% organic ingredients. After years of running the neighbouring Café 140, the couple behind Bread and Butter - Alex and Kristy Garbelini – decided to try their hand at the bread side of things. Their loaves now bring customers from far and wide, and come hot and fresh out of the bakery’s unique wood-fired oven, which can reach temperatures of up to 1000°C - and is the brainchild

GOOD STUFF Opposite, Bread and Butter is the place to go in Bunbury for artisan-made bread and baked goods.

Above, the Holistic Lifestyler (aka Dr Jeremy Princi) shares his recipe for living well. Dugite Farm, above left, use a biodynamic approach to growing crops

of German baker Gotthard Baller, of Yallingup Wood Fired Bread fame. Because the bread is handmade with the highest quality ingredients, even many gluten-intolerant customers are able to enjoy a slice or two.

The butter part of the business is organic, non-homogenised butter which sells out faster |

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APPLE OF THEIR EYE Diana Robb (above) takes her delicious produce to Subiaco and Kalamunda Farmers Markets, and also takes visitors on tours of her farm (images by Tom de Souza).

than it can be made.

Bread and Butter 130 Victoria Street, Bunbury Dugite Farm Brett Kirkpatrick and Leonie Inger have been into biodynamic and sustainable farming since way before it was cool. The couple planted the first crop of biodynamiccertified potatoes at their Donnybrook farm in 1994 and added cabbage, cauliflower and pumpkin four years later.

Getting consistent yields year after year at the small, 34

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hilly farm while adhering to organic farming principles has not been an easy task, but one of constant adjustments and learning for the fourthgeneration farmers. These days, Brett shares their hard-earned knowledge at biodynamic farming seminars, and the small farm has succeeded in remaining successful, profitable, and in demand.

Dugite Farm Charley Creek Road, Donnybrook Tel: 0407 651 215 Email: Minninup7@gmail.com

Bossy Boots Farm Tom Benson's farm is one of the few that offers certified organic produce. A passionate organic advocate, Tom grows all manner of vegetables, including tomatoes, capsicum, eggplants, celery, leeks, broccoli, black and curly kale as well as summer veg like zucchini, cucumber and beetroot.

"We're picking 400kg a week at the moment," said Tom in late February. "The eggplants are looking great and we'll be picking more beetroot, kale and beans."

Tom Benson, 284 Jayes Road, 6253 Balingup.

Spring Valley Organic Orchard Diana Robb is 66, with bright cheeks, a set of glittering blue eyes, and a brilliant smile. Of her four vegetable gardens, the main strip is a sight to behold. Rows upon rows of vegetables, at least two tennis courts-long, blooming with flowering artichokes, leeks and kale and wild parsley.

Every weekend, Diana travels to the Subiaco and Kalamunda Farmers Markets in a truck laden with her produce.

“People at the Farmers Market, they love it – they can look straight over the stall and we tell them what the food was grown in, when it was picked, who picked it, what it’s had added to it," she says. "What it hasn’t had added to it. It really is important, I believe, to develop a relationship with the people you buy your food from. Food is not visitbunburygeographe.com.au

a product. It’s produce.”

At most times throughout the year, Diana opens the orchard for visitors to come and pick their own fruit. She also opens up her farm to volunteers, who help her run the orchard in exchange for food and lodgings.

“It really is a reciprocal exchange,” she says.

“They help us with work on the farm, and the experience they have out here really can't be taught; the value of fresh foods, of knowing where things come from, and knowing the people who produce them. It’s one of the many fruits of life. It’s such a joy to be able to share that experience with people.”

“A lot of our visitors are urban dwellers, and they really have no control over their own food. Somebody will ship it to someone who puts it in a shop, who sells it to them, and they choose it, but they really don't know what they're choosing,” says Diana.

She and her husband Geoffrey offer tours of their Donnybrook farm and orchard, which includes an opportunity to pick your own apples and plums.

The couple bought the 15-hectare property 13 years ago and have been welcoming

visitors ever since. Diana says her Pick Your Own orchard tours are popular, especially with tourists and families who want an educational, naturebased experience.

“The whole idea is to educate the next generation where the apples come from,” says Diana. “People say 'oh, apples come from the supermarket.' No, they don't.”

Apples, and many varieties of stone fruit grow on the trees of Donnybrook. The region has a long history of producing and exporting fruit overseas but over the past 15 years, a decline in exportation (and an increase of importation) means there's more fruit to be distributed nationally and locally. It also means there is more fruit left for Pick Your Own orchard adventures.

Diana's organic orchard tours start with a matter-of-fact talk about what it means to be organic.

“People think organic means expensive. My feeling about organic is maybe you live longer and maybe you live better, so we do that.”

Diana's down-to-earth and often humorous banter is all part of the charm and appeal of a Spring Valley orchard tour.

The tour continues into the

garden where Diana lets visitors pick and taste vegetables and herbs before traipsing to the apple and plum orchards.

Everyone is welcome to a taste of fruit and to fill their bags.

The excursion ends back in the shed with a demonstration of the vintage apple sorter, which is a fascinating thing to watch in its own right.

The tour includes one kilogram of fruit to take home.

Before leaving the shed, bags are weighed and overages are charged accordingly. It's a small price to pay for an authentic experience. Everyone always

leaves happy and Diana loves that.

“It's the joy on the faces of people who look at an apple tree and look at me and say, 'You know, all my life I've eaten apples, I've never seen them on the tree.' They never really understood apples, until they came here..

Diana Robb Spring Valley Organic Orchard, 19724 South Western Highway, Newlands.

Tel: 0447 316 214 Spring Valley Organic Orchard tours - $10 per adult, children are free. Visit organicorchard.com.au

Free Entry 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Sunday bunburymuseum.com.au 1 Arthur Street, Bunbury

your museum, your stories |

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Food & Drink

Say Cheese, Please There’s a new cheese tempting tastebuds and creating smiles in the BunGeo region. Jennifer Morton meets the makers of Hall’s Suzette.

Images BIANCA TURRI PHOTOGRAPHY

t

here’s a new cheese on the block, and it’s causing quite the stir among foodies, chefs, and dairy lovers. Hall’s Suzette is a soft, creamy, and rich Pont L’Évêque-style cheese made from the milk of Normande cows at Halls Family Dairy in Harvey, the main dairy region in the BunGeo region.

When Philip and Suzanne Hall took over the family farm in 1999, they were continuing a dairy farming tradition of more than 100 years. Together with their son Tavis, the family works hard to produce some of the region’s highest quality milk for commercial use.

With cows at the forefront of their daily life, the Halls decided to expand their herd

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by introducing Normande cows, a breed from the Normandy region of northern France.

“Philip saw a photo of a Normande cow in 1995 and became fascinated by these unusual looking bovines,” says Suzanne.

Intrigued, they began the long process of importing Normande semen from France to Australia. In 2013, the farming couple travelled to France to visit Normande dairy farms, which led to the importation of Normande embryos. Today, they have six generations of Normande cows, including two heifers.

Creating Hall's Suzette It’s not uncommon for the WA dairy industry to wobble, which gives farmers a sense of

stress and instability. It was this instability that led to the creation of Hall’s Suzette.

“In 2016, we started to think of ways to include some value-add products because we felt the dairy industry was quite unstable,” says Suzanne. “We wanted to secure our business for the next generation: for our son and his family, so we branched out with a new product.”

During their research, Philip and Suzanne consulted chefs who offered their thoughts and ideas about what to do with the beautiful Normande milk.

“We thought why not use the milk as they do in France: to make cheese,” says Suzanne.

“The Normandes are such a unique breed, and their milk

has such amazing qualities.”

Qualities such as high protein, high butter-fat, Omega-3 fatty acids, and richness that creates some of BunGeo’s most delicious artisan cheese.

Happy cows, delectable cheese Made with tender care from beautiful, contented cows that graze on green pastures at the family farm, Hall’s Suzette is making a name for itself.

Although the first batch was only produced in late 2017, the creamy cheese was the state winner in the 2018 delicious.

Produce Awards.

The Halls were thrilled to receive this prestigious gong from the country’s top visitbunburygeographe.com.au

food awards, especially in the cheese’s inaugural year.

“It was an honour for us. Just to be nominated was a great opportunity. We just found out that we’ve been nominated for 2019 too,” says Suzanne.

With only 30 blocks of Hall’s Suzette made each week, there’s not an abundance of it.

So if you’re lucky enough to get opportunity, Suzanne has some suggestions.

“Our Suzette is deliciously creamy with a fine smooth texture and a robust aroma,” says Suzanne.

“It's best enjoyed at room temperature with a fresh, crusty baguette, a few slices of pear and a crisp chardonnay or cold cider. Delicious with honey too.”

Where to taste Hall’s Suzette is now available

at 35 restaurants and wineries between Yallingup and the Swan Valley with more suppliers wanting to add the awardwinning cheese to its menu.

Although there’s no tasting room at Halls Dairy Farm, Suzanne encourages everyone to buy local and welcomes direct purchase from their farm (by appointment).

“There are so many amazing wineries and places between the Ferguson Valley and Donnybrook. There’s amazing produce locally; you don’t have to buy soft cheese from Interstate. There’s nothing wrong with cheese from other places but when you can get it fresh from a farm down the road, why wouldn’t you?” she asks.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ HallsFamilyDairy/

CHEESY SMILES Below , Suzanne and Philip Hall are the farmers behind Hall's Suzette cheese.

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Food & Drink

Crushing on

GEOGRAPHE

The winemakers of Geographe are a diverse bunch, and the wines they’re making are making waves far beyond their region.

By

FERGAL GLEESON.

G

eographe’s winemakers are a creative collection of characters. A common denominator of the region is that most wineries are family owned and there’s a good chance you’ll meet the founders when you visit the cellar door. Heading from north to south I speak to five winemakers about their stories.

Harvey River Estate Kevin Sorgiovanni owns and operates two wineries in Western Australia’s southwest, Harvey River Estate in the Geographe region and Fishbone Wines in Margaret River. The Sorgiovanni family have a long history within the south west’s agricultural industry. In 1928 Kevin’s father, Giuseppe (Joe), emigrated from Italy and began farming on the banks of the Harvey River, planting a large citrus orchard and later keeping sheep and cattle. Of course, like many of his fellow countrymen, Joe made his own wines.

Growing up in the family business, Kevin’s childhood dream was to be a farmer.

Kevin’s winery business evolved from vineyards into the Harvey River Estate label in 1999.

The first commercial vintage was produced in 2000 and the business went on to be awarded the Jimmy Watson award for its 2009 Joseph River Cabernet. They’ve since expanded into new markets

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

including the UK and China.

“Our winery cellar door is in the middle of our orange orchards, and yes it does have a ‘Big Orange’ but I just love that we were able to develop our wine brand while retaining our connection with the property and with my father in this way”, said Kevin.

In 2018, Kevin opened a second cellar door in the main street of Harvey. The GeoVino wine store offers tasting flights paired with gourmet produce to enjoy on the premises.

Customers can select from a range of gourmet cheeses, charcuterie and olives to enjoy with their wine flight. GeoVino

staff plate up the produce and serve it alongside the wines.

Visit harveyriverestate.com.au St Aidan Wines Phil and Mary Smith bought a plot of land that had citrus trees and vines for table grapes when they moved from Busselton to Ferguson. Phil is an anaesthetist, but always loved wine. So in 1997 wine grapes were planted. They wanted a name for the label that was representative of the area so St Aidan Wines was named after the iconic little multidenominational church that adjoins the vineyards. St Aidan had their first vintage in 2000.

Phil planted muscat grapes,

identified as suitable for the area because of the warmer climate, which find their way into a highly-awarded solera muscat, a moscato and a dry muscat. St Aidan was also one of the first to plant tempranillo.

“The varietal has great potential in the area given the similarity of our climate to Rioja in Spain,” Phil tells me. St Aidan also hosts a tempranillo tasting each year with 18 tempranillos on tasting (six each from Spain, Geographe and the rest of Australia). They’ve recently upgraded their dining offering with a menu that changes regularly focusing on local cheeses, meats and vegetables,

including some from their own garden.

Apart from regular trophy success for their fortified muscat, they have also won gold and ‘best in class’ for their 2015 sparkling chardonnay.

Visit saintaidan.com.au Mandalay Road Wines Husband and wife Tony and Bernice O’Connell had a quiet country life in mind when they bought a little property in Geographe. Tony worked at the CSIRO and Bernice was at TAFE at the time. They had plans for some home winemaking. On being advised that there was as much work in

RICH PICKINGS Above, Tony and Bernice O’Connell from Mandalay Road Wines.

Top Left, St Aidan Wines have planted tempranillo grapes. Left, Harvey River Estate has been making wine since 1999.

growing half an acre as 10 they scaled up their ambitions with their first vine plantings in 1997.

“Chardonnay and cabernet do well here,” Tony says.

But Tony sees the future for Geographe in alternative varietals. “Durif is one of our best sellers. We are one of just four growers in Western Australia. It’s a highly respected |

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Food & Drink marron as having a superior flavour to crayfish because it has softer texture. The restaurant is popular with visitors from Bunbury and Perth who enjoy the laid back, rustic setting and the panoramic water views.

His bestselling wines are Rob’s Block cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel of which he has the oldest commercial plantings in the region.

“I notice the public are becoming more knowledgeable and adventurous when it comes to trying alternative varieties,” says John.

“Geographe, because of its northerly location, is the most reliable of the West Australian regions for ripening fruit.”

Visit smallwaterestate.com

TOP DROPS Smallwater Wines (above) was founded by John Small. Left, the range of wines by Smallwater Wines is billed as the most awarded boutique winery in Geographe. Opposite, Ria and Wayne Hammond from Oakway Estate Wines.

grape in Rutherglen in Victoria and well suited to an inland region because of its late ripening style.” Mandalay also do zinfandel in a table wine, a desert wine and a port.

A peruse of their website shows that their wines are highly awarded from leading wine shows. Their tasting notes also show their easygoing sense of humour. A key to Mandalay’s success is its location, deep in the valley of the South Preston River, which leads to long ripening times developing intense flavour. Tony says that they are typically still harvesting two weeks after most of the rest of Geographe has finished their vintage.

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Oakway Estate Wines Ria and Wayne Hammond bought their property in Geographe 27 years ago. They lived in Perth and wanted to bring up their young children in the country. They bought the property because it had an apple

Smallwater Wines Owner of Smallwater Wines John Small jokes that he never thought he would own a winery.

He wanted to farm marron (a large freshwater crayfish) but needed another source of income. The adjoining property sold grapes to Cape Mentelle so he thought he would plant grapes himself and things have grown from there. After selling his grapes to Cape Mentelle for a number of years, he started Smallwater Wines which is now billed as the most awarded boutique winery in Geographe.

Marron, sourced from the dam on the property, is the signature dish at the estate restaurant where it’s served three ways in a pie, croquette and a cocktail. John rates visitbunburygeographe.com.au

The ancient art of winemaking

G

reen Door Vineyard and Winery is a small boutique winery in the Ferguson Valley which takes care of each and every grape that it nurtures.

Ashley and Kath Keeffe purchased the run-down vineyard in 2006 and set about restoring and replanting the plot, with the existing grenache and planted tempranillo, both Spanish varieties, finding near perfect conditions.

“I was very conscious of soil health so the vineyards are managed with a minimal intervention ethos,’ says Ashley. This creates fruit with great flavour and wines are made on the property by Ashley with consultant winemaker Vanessa Carson.

“All our grapes are hand-picked and basket-pressed,” says Ashley. “We use various winemaking methods including the use of amphora pots, cold-soaking on skins and addition of whole bunches to ferment.”

Green Door have a Cellar Door Café on the property with a Spanish theme matching the predominantly Spanish/ European characteristics of their wines.

“Kath and I take great satisfaction in being involved in the whole process of growing, making and sharing the enjoyment of our wines,” says Ashley.

The cellar door is open Thursday through to Sunday from 11am to 4.30pm and serves a selection of share plates for light lunches and a unique take on wine tasting.

Visit greendoorwines.com.au

and stone fruit orchard on it.

They started with cabernet and shiraz. Like many pioneering winemakers in Geographe they didn’t have a background in the industry. They learnt by researching how to do things and then trying them out. Their chardonnay is their most awarded wine and their sauvignon blanc semillon has been previously been awarded

one of the top four blends in Australia by the Wine and Viticulture Journal. Since then they have progressed more towards alternative varietals such as vermentino, nero d’avola, malbec and muscat.

“I can understand why consumers are confused when they see so many unfamiliar varieties at the bottle shop," says Ria.

“But I’ve seen when they try a sample at our cellar door they are very confident to buy alternatives.”

Oakway Wines also offer a variety of craft beers on site which are brewed by Wayne and his son. They are named Ned’s Brew after the family dog. Ned’s handsome face also appears on the label.

“People want an experience

when they visit a wine region, not just to try a few wines. Our café has lovely views. People sit down with a pizza or a platter and a bottle of wine for hours.”

“Sit down and watch the world go by!” Ria jokes, “But nothing goes by, except the Capel River.”

Visit oakwayestate.com.au Visit geographewine.com.au for more information |

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Food & Drink

Beer NECESSITIES B is for Bars, Beers and Brews and whether you’re a foodie, a beer geek or happy to go with the flow, there’s something to tantalise even the fussiest tastebuds in BunGeo. By

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NORMAN BURNS.

Images BIANCA TURRI PHOTOGRAPHY.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

POUR ME ONE Bush Shack Brewery is a favourite place to enjoy a beer and a plate of delicious food (imges by Frances Andrijich). Opposite and left, Mash Brewing has great views to go with the beers.

T

he days are growing shorter, the nights longer and the mercury beginning to fall – but the fact that the balmy summer days are fading there's no excuse not to check out some of the great bars, pubs and boutique breweries around the region.

From Melbourne-styled bars to quirky micro-breweries and traditional pubs, the BunGeo hospitality scene is thriving.

So, do yourselves a favour; nominate a non-drinking skipper (or, in the case of the fabulous Wild Bull Brewery, take advantage of their free shuttle bus) head out and explore some of the best food and drink options in Western Australia.

To get you started, here are some of the great venues available . . .

Bush Shack Brewery Coralie and Danial Wind are relative ‘newbies’ in BunGeo but dead-set veterans when it comes to running a microbrewery.

Their Bush Shack Brewery was a Yallingup favourite for years, but last October they

took up a lease for the Moody Cow Brewery (which still operates on a wholesale basis) in the Ferguson Valley.

Coralie says they had outgrown their Yallingup operation and, having known Moody Cow owner Grant McClintock ‘for years’, it was mutually agreed Bush Shack Brewery would be a great fit for the purpose-built Ferguson Valley premises.

“We are excited, not just about our future here, but for the Ferguson Valley area as well,” says Coralie.

“We know we have a strong and loyal customer base and many have stopped in to see us here over the summer months.

Coming from the Margaret River region we understand that tourism is a vital market for us all, however we realised that Ferguson has a strong sense of community for the people who call the valley their home. We’ve been warmed by the support we’ve received from the locals,” she says.

With the Winds concentrating on producing great brews (“we’ve a range of 14 brewed products and flavoured alcoholic beverages,

our newest brew from early 2018 – SmaSH Ale – is proving popular,” says Coralie) their partners and long-time friends in the venture, Mik and Kristiina Silvestri from Aquaviva Catering, will be taking care of the foodie side of things.

Coralie recommends firsttimers check out their ‘picket’ – a tasting paddle of brews – as a great introduction to the Bush Shack range.

In May, the brewery will be participating in the Ferguson Valley Art Trail.

“This is our first autumn/

winter in the Valley, so we are looking forward to joining in as many events to entice people to explore the area,” says Coralie.

As for the future?

“For the next 12 months we are settling in and finding our groove,” says Coralie.

“As demand grows in the region we look forward to increasing our trading days to suit – and we don’t discount any possibilities for what the future holds.”

791 Ferguson Road, Ferguson, (08) 9728 3553, bushshackbrewery.com.au |

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Food & Drink

Mash Brewing With its beautiful waterfront setting, Mash Brewing is the perfect venue to kick back and catch a few rays with a coldie at your side. And you’ve got plenty of choice – Mash has a range of core beers (among them the Guv’Nor Pale Ale and Freo Doctor WA lager) plus around eight times a year allows the creative juices of its brewing team to run wild with imaginative offerings such as a Cheesecake IPA and Copy Cat French Vanilla Barrel Oak Fermented (a 6.8% alcohol by volume ‘reworking’ of Mash’s original Champion Australian Beer winner Copy Cat American IPA).

2/11 Bonnefoi Blvd, Bunbury (08) 9721 6111, mashbrewing. com.au/bunbury/ Small’s Bar Why should you have to travel thousands of kilometres to get the Melbourne bar vibe?

That’s what the creatives behind Small’s Bar, Ben Small and Michael Prosser, thought too – so they did something about it.

The result is the funky and innovative Small’s Bar (which is anything but ‘small’, capable of seating 250 people).

“First and foremost we wanted to bring a little bit of Melbourne to the south west in the style of dining and design and at the same time take advantage of the fact we have the best 44

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or credit cards now so why not cut the cost of cash to our business and pass that saving onto the customers through lower pricing?”

They did and, as they say, the rest is history with the move not only being a financial success but helping speed up service.

Small’s Bar is also perfectly set up for hosting functions.

Shopping Centre, 48/2 Recreation Drive Eaton, (08) 9707 3285, smalls.bar.

“We have a private mezzanine level which is great for engagements and other functions and we hold events for all the major milestones like Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day, sporting events and the like,” says Michael.

With plans to introduce a new app that will allow patrons to order from their tables (and gain discounts and rewards), Small’s Bar isn’t resting on its laurels either.

Town Square, Eaton Fair

Add in an in-house cider (made, naturally, from Donnybrook apples), a limoncello made from Harvey lemon peel and even forays into whisky, beer schnapps and a citrus vodka, and you’ve got a destination with something for every taste.

You can even book a beer tour (minimum of 15 people) where Andrew will show you the ins and outs of making his award-winning beer.

Regular live music, a big

The Old Coast Brewery Former pharmacist Andrew Harris is going from strength to strength with The Old Coast Brewery, which now boasts one of the largest range of micro-brewed beers in Western Australia.

TOP TUCKER The food on offer at Mash Brewing (above) is the perfect accompaniment to their range of beers. Right, Small's Bar has made an artform of serving share plates and allowing punters to go cash-free in the bar.

produce in the world right at our doorstep,” says Michael.

On the drinks front, Small’s Bar sources the best craft beers (and wines and spirits) from the region while the menu is eclectic (and delicious, natch) ranging from share plates to stone baked pizza and more (there’s even a ‘Surprise Me’ option).

Small’s Bar has also opted to become the first ‘cashless’ venue in the South West.

“When we first opened in October 2017 we accepted cash. We found very few customers were transacting with it but it was a significant cost to our business through insurance, bank runs, theft, counting takings and accounts reconciliation,’’ says Michael.

“We did our research and found that almost everyone has debit

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

lawn for the kids to run around on and an excellent menu are the icing on the cake for what is one of the region’s gems.

Lot 1238 West Break Road & Forestry Road, Myalup, 1300 792 106, ocrb.com.au Wild Bull Brewery Funny how things can pan out.

When long-time hotelier and restaurater Danny Drummond got a tip from his electrician that a long-closed brewery in the Ferguson Valley was up for sale, he hadn’t planned on entering the craft brewery scene.

But fate had other ideas and Danny says he now has “no regrets’’ about buying the Wild Bull Brewery, which is going from strength to strength.

“The Wild Bull Brewery was the first brewery in the Vvalley and it was known as a boutique brewery by virtue of its location next to some great vineyards,” says Danny.

And, he says, there are big

ALSO CHECK OUT...

Bull and Bush Tavern, 104 Bridge St, Boyanup (08) 9731 5911 bullandbush.com.au Brunswick Hotel and Tavern, 22 Ommaney Road, Brunswick, (08) 9726 1354

plans to take Wild Bull to a whole new level as an entertainment and hospitality venue.

“We are in the middle of plans for the construction of a mini golf course, we are also looking to build accommodation and possibly eco-style tents on our 5.5 hectares of beautiful country and forest property.

We are also working on an ‘art walk’ through the grounds of the brewery that will capture the talent of our local artists,” he says.

Currently producing six beers, ranging from a porter to lager, wheat beer and more (plus pear cider), Wild Bull plans to introduce new brews over the cooler months and launch events including a Foodie Fair, a BBQ & Blues Weekend and more.

Wild Bull has long been a favourite among the mountain biking fraternity (“we refresh the dehydrated bikers when they come off some of the best mountain bike tracks in Australia nearby,” says Danny) and Wild Bull hopes new free shuttle bus service will attract an even bigger customer base.

“We’ve a complimentary bus transfer that will operate daily shuttling visitors from Bunbury to and from the brewery.

With over 30 years of food experience, we offer the very best quality and local menu; food is truly our passion – along, of course, with beer.”

562 Pile Road, Dardanup, (08) 9728 0737, wildbullbrewery.com

W.A. based local family-owned and managed business.

Only locally sourced fruit from the surrounding orchards Vegan and Gluten-free Orchard to glass, unfiltered, keeping the goodness in!

Support WA business.

Silver and Bronze winner at the Perth Royal Cider Awards - 2018 sales@custardco.com.au • manager@custardco.com.au Find us:

45 | FOUND | spring • summer 2018 www.custardco.com.au

Adventure & Nature

Gold

CLASS

Soak up the sunburnt shades of autumn with a stroll through Golden Valley Tree Park, where a diverse collection of trees forms a sanctuary in the hills of Balingup.

Joanne Marriott talks to founder Dr Chrissy Sharp.

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very leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree,” wrote Emily Brontë in her poem Fall, Leaves, Fall inspired by the changing face of nature as the seasons swept through northern England.

The sun hanging low in the sky, landscapes on fire with a spectrum of sunburnt shades, crisp carpets of foliage underfoot and blustery winds sending spirals of confetti dancing into the air; it’s an experience we don’t really get in Western Australia, where summer extends long into the year and hardy eucalypts prevail. But nestled in the rolling hills of Balingup, is a place where you can witness autumn

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unfold in all its splendour, with a colourful chorus of deciduous trees.

Golden Valley Tree Park is a 60-hectare arboretum with impressive collections of both native Australian and international tree species.

It began in 1980 as a collaborative project between the local community and the government department for forests, but the first trees were planted over a hundred years ago when the land was settled for farming and the Golden Valley and Yungerup homesteads were built.

After the Second World War, many farms were bought by the government for development as pine plantations. The same

fate awaited Golden Valley until Dr Chrissy Sharp and partner Andrew Thamo offered an alternative solution in the 1970s.

“Andrew and I had moved to Balingup and used to go to this place, to pick fruit from the old orchard there,” says Chrissy.

“We started noticing all the old ornamental trees that had been planted on the site, so we did an inventory. We discovered that there were over 30 species of interesting exotics, and it

started to resonate for me that we had the beginnings of an arboretum.”

Both passionate environmentalists and advocates for forest conservation in Western Australia, Chrissy and Andrew have dedicated much of their lives over the past 40 years to the protection and development of Golden Valley Tree Park.

It has now grown to be the

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

TREE CHANGE The incredible foliage of Golden Valley Tree Park has an amazing collection of trees, including (this page) an avenue of Chinese pistachio trees.

largest arboretum in Western Australia and boasts over 3,000 trees, representing more than 500 species from around the world. It receives over 60,000 visitors a year – and that’s increasing rapidly.

“I think we are one of the oldest and most successful

collaborations between the department and the community,” says Chrissy.

She and Andrew were awarded Volunteer of the Year in 2018 for their longstanding contribution to the management of Golden Valley Tree Park. “It's a collective

effort” says Chrissy.

“We couldn’t do it without the generous support of the community and our enormous cohort of volunteers.”

Visitors can make the most of the park by exploring the network of trails, ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. Almost all of

the tree species are labelled for ease of identification, and the history of Golden Valley unfolds with the help of signposts along the way. Three trails wind through the Australian Collection, through wattles, mallee woodlands, tall eucalypts and sandalwoods. In the World

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Adventure & Nature

AUTUMN LEAVES The scarlets and oranges you'll see during autumn are memorable; make time to visit the Yungerup homestead and Pear Tree walk during a visit (below).

Collection, another three trails take in the oak grove, the giant sequoias and redwoods and picturesque views from Pear Tree Lookout. This is the place to witness the carnival of autumn colours as it sweeps through the landscape between late March and early June.

Autumn in Golden Valley flows like a procession, with waves of colour passing through the park as different tree species intensify into radiant displays and then fade

into dormancy. The avenue of Chinese Pistachios along the Oak Grove Track is one of the highlights in the World Collection recommended by Chrissy. “It’s one of the loveliest little walks. They always colour up scarlets and oranges in autumn and are absolutely beautiful.”

She has many more favourites. Fruits that hang like earrings from fiery orange persimmon trees in the garden of the old homestead, the swamp cypress that grows lonely on an island in the middle of a pond blazing a henna red colour and the Dawn Redwoods that turn a flamboyant apricot pink.

“Autumn is the most popular time of year for visitors, but each season has its charms” explains Chrissy. She describes with fondness the mysterious misty landscapes of winter mornings, the vivid greens and pastel pinks as spring welcomes new leaves, and the delight of finding a cool spot under the old oak trees to escape the heat of summer.

Visitors are invited to join an autumn guided tour through the World Collection on May 5. Visit goldenvalleytreepark. org.au

SPECIAL OFFER

Misty mornings and mellow evenings

I

f you’ve fallen in love with spending time among the trees and nature, consider booking a night or two at the award-winning Balingup Heights Hilltop Forest Cottages. High in a hilltop forest above the mist line, this magical 46-acre natural bushland property is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and truly get away from it all. Nestled among native jarrah and marri trees you’ll find six cosy bush cottages. Set apart for privacy, each cottage overlooks picturesque and breathtaking vistas below. Take in spectacular views, breathe in nature and, whatever the weather, you’ll find your own natural paradise.

Special offer* -

Weekend Indulgence – three nights for only $690 (save $165) Come and enjoy some stunningly fresh air, huge expanses of blue sky and indulge in your own slice of heaven at Balingup Heights. Stay three nights in one of the delightful and secluded timber cottages, each with air-conditioning and their own cosy wood fire. You’ll be perched high in the forest above the mist line in 46 acres of nature’s finest. Be welcomed with a scrumptious breakfast hamper on arrival, later you can spend some quality time together over a long lunch at the award-winning Smallwater Estate boutique winery.

What’s included:

• Three nights accommodation in your own fully self-contained cottage valued at $705 • Complimentary gourmet breakfast hamper valued at $100; • Smallwater Estate Winery lunch voucher valued at $50. *Offer is not available long weekends or special event weekends.

To enquire, phone (08) 9764 1283 or email info@balingupheights.com.au or book direct at balingupheights.com.au 48

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

From free camping to pet-friendly wineries, the Bunbury Geographe region has everything to make your road trip extra special.

By

C

JENNIFER MORTON

amping and caravanning in Australia is a favourite pastime.

The freedom of road travel. The lower cost. The ability to take your dog. If this sounds like your idea of a great vacation, you’ve come to the right place. The BunGeo region is a treasure trove of scenic hot spots and pet-friendly wineries that are perfect for caravanning nomads and nature-loving campers.

GO YOUR OWN WAY

Sip and stay When the Caravan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) contacted Terry and Pam Foster of Thomson Brook Wines about offering free overnight stays at their winery, they said sure, why not.

“We’ve got the space, and it’s a chance for people to taste our wines,” says Terry. “It’s safer, after drinking wine, for guests to stay.”

Terry and Pam encourage and welcome wine patrons to park their caravan for the

night, as long as they are selfsufficient.

“We don’t offer any facilities, just a nice piece of green grass,” says Terry. “Good-mannered dogs are also welcome.”

Thomson Brook Wines, 131 Thomson Road, Donnybrook (08) 9731 0590 City of Bunbury The City of Bunbury opened three rest areas to attract more travellers to the BunGeo region.

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Adventure & Nature

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contained with your own toilet facilities and water onboard to stay at these rest stops.

There’s a maximum stay of 48 hours, and users must obtain a permit from the Bunbury Visitor Information Centre.

Coming in first is Wyalup Rocky Point at the corner of Ocean Drive and Upper Esplanade. This beachside area allows a maximum of four vehicles and is not suitable for expanding caravans. The picturesque camp is close enough to walk to the Bunbury CBD. The second site is at Ocean Drive, near Scott Street. This spot is partially sheltered from the sea breeze. There’s a nearby lookout that offers fantastic sunset views.

FAMILY FRIENDLY Below left, Lee and Cherry Murtagh with their kids Kye and Tate enjoyed free camping at Rocky Point while travelling around Australia.Below, Vineyard 28. Opposite, Maidens Reserve and Oakway Estate's dog, kd (after kd lang).

The third free overnight stopover in Bunbury is at the entrance to Maidens Reserve, a popular walking trail that offers sweeping vistas from high-set sand dunes.

Head to visitbunburygeographe.com. au, (08) 9792 7205 or bunbury. wa.gov.au Stockton Lake, Collie Stockton Lake, about eight kilometres from Collie, is a favourite waterside location for travellers and families who like a laid-back getaway. The former mine site left a giant, gaping hole in the ground, which is now filled with water for pleasure boating.

Swimmers should take note of the risks of entering the acidic water. People with sensitive skin may have adverse reactions. There are toilet blocks but no delegated campsites.

Camping is on a first-come, first served basis.

Piavanini Road, Collie.

Visit parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au

Pets welcome Upon arriving to Vineyard 28 in Harvey, you’ll most likely be welcomed by Jasper, a gorgeous red cloud kelpie who just loves having company.

“He’s our concierge, the official meet and greet. He loves having other animals around, therefore, why not?” says Mark Cumbers, winemaker.

Mark says as long as your dog is well-behaved, friendly and likes other dogs, they’re welcome to wander around and socialise with 13-year-old Jasper.

“Being dogs, they just run around and mark everything, as all dogs do, and Jasper follows them around. He just wants as much attention as he can get,” he says.

The cellar door at Vineyard 28 is opened daily for people who love to taste Italian wines over a good chat. Mark welcomes visitors to bring a picnic lunch and stay for a few hours in the sunshine.

“We get a lot of people come through on their way south to

pick up wine and let their dog have a run around; it’s a good break,” says Mark. “There’s always a bowl of water for your dog at Vineyard 28.”

Vineyard 28, 270 Bagieau Rd, Harvey (08) 9733 5605.

Visit vineyard28.com.au Pooch friendly Oakway Estate happily welcomes dogs on a leash to their family winery.

575 Farley Rd, Donnybrook or call (08) 9731 7141.

Visit oakwayestate.com.au

DON'T MISS: Discovery Parks have two holiday parks in Bunbury. Both properties offer pet-friendly cabins, powered, and unpowered sites. Visit discoveryholidayparks. com.au

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Adventure & Nature

BIG DIPPERS and flippers Meet the Koombana Bay dolphins at the revamped Dolphin Discovery Centre. Lizzy Pepper took her family to check it out.

B

unbury’s Koombana Bay foreshore is looking fantastic following a massive redevelopment.

The jewel in the crown, the Dolphin Discovery Centre reopened in December and it’s a great hands-on experience for adults and kids alike.

With so many dolphins living in Bunbury and the bay, this is the perfect place to get up close and learn more about these beloved cetaceans and other marine creatures.

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Meet wild dolphins in the Interaction Zone Arrive early around 8am for a beachside dolphin experience.

A pod of up to five dolphins visit most mornings, swimming into the shallows around the line-up of tourists’ legs. The interaction zone experience is free, and you can learn and ask questions of the volunteers who know each dolphin by name based on their fin markings.

Being wild animals, and no longer lured by food, there is no set time for the dolphins to visit.

It's not a guarantee they’ll be there, but it’s generally best to arrive between 8am and 10am.

It’s a beautiful beach; relatively flat with fine sand and calm water protected

by the headland. Bring your bathers and towel in case you’re tempted to have a swim.

Discover and learn at the Interpretive Centre Clad in sculpted streaks of aluminium, the building glimmers like a briny fish set against the deep blue of Koombana Bay. The new facility has six times the display space and a whopping 14 aquariums, where you can admire and sometimes touch the creatures which call the Indian Ocean home. We saw marron, tortoises, turtles, fish, lobsters and more.

There are plenty of natural and technology based interactive displays; a

spinning wheel shows how local dolphins are identified by their distinctive fin markings.

We held live starfishes in our hands in the touch tank, then observed them under a microscope. You can also watch dolphins feed and face a shark in a 360-degree movie theatre.

There is a strong focus on conservation; a tank full of turtles are being nurtured after washing up on the beach last year. Each measuring about 30cm, they were half the size when they were rescued, and will continue to grow until they are deemed strong enough to return to the wild. In the meantime, they’re fed fish and prawns twice a day by a volunteer who talks about their life cycle. visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Dolphin research and monitoring Behind the scenes, the team monitors the local dolphin population, recording numbers, movement patterns and behaviours. The information is made available to the community and considered in any development proposals, says CEO David Kerr. “This is particularly relevant in a busy port and growing urban environment where we can help ensure that man-made and natural environments co-exist.

Our involvement in cetacean, marine turtle and other marine animal stranding and rescue activities provides specific knowledge and can help ensure their survival.”

Swim or sail with the dolphins Jump aboard a dolphin eco cruise for the chance to see dolphins frolicking, playing, sleeping or feeding. Again, being wild animals there’s no absolute guarantee of a sighting, but the

skipper knows the most reliable dolphin-spotting places and provides excellent commentary along the way.

During the warmer months of November to April you can swim with the wild dolphins, accompanied by experienced guides and volunteers. The dolphins may approach and interact with swimmers, and you might feel the buzz of their echo location as they check you out!

WONDERS REVEALED The newly developed Dolphin Discovery Centre will introduce young and old visitors to the amazing marine inhabitants of Koombana Bay. Images by Frances Andrijich.

Brunch or lunch with amazing views The downstairs café extends onto an outdoor terrace with stunning beach and bay views. Keep an eye out for dolphins on the shore as you tuck into a delicious burger!

Upstairs, a second restaurant space opens for breakfast on weekends and for conferences and group bookings.

Whether you’re lucky enough to see dolphins or not, you’re guaranteed an entertaining and educational visit.

Australia’s Premier Wild Dolphin Experience

Your Dolphin Destination Whether you want to swim with the dolphins in their own environment, interact with them from the beach, educate yourself on the marine environment in our brand-new interactive Interpretive Centre or enjoy a meal with spectacular bayside views, the Dolphin Discovery Centre has something to engage and delight visitors of all ages and capabilities.

dolphindiscovery.com.au A Lot 556 Koombana Drive, Bunbury WA E info@dolphindiscovery.com.au | T +618 9791 3088 lateralaspect.DDC3159

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Adventure & Nature

Tales

of the

trails

Listen . . . we’ll let you into a secret. The BunGeo is home to some of the best – and most accessible – mountain biking country in Australia. But don’t take our word for it; bring your bike (or hire one), don that helmet and hit the trails with the locals.

By

NORMAN BURNS.

urfing on land?

It’s a great analogy for mountain bike racing according to Graeme Adams, or Grizzly as he’s better known as in mountain biking circles in the the Bunbury region.

‘Grizzly’s’ reputation as a mountain biking ambassador is impeccable; after all the main trail in the region’s Pile Road network is named after him and he’s spent decades getting out and about on his bike – and encouraging others to do so too.

“I love that feeling you get when you ride through the bush on a nice windy trail with the trees and shrubs rushing past you while the adrenaline is pumping as you try to negotiate the various obstacles you’re riding over,” he says.

“Mountain biking is very addictive; it’s just you against the trail, similar to surfing where it’s you against the wave and you’re looking for that perfect ride.”

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There probably isn’t an aspect of mountain biking (or cycling in general) that Grizzly isn’t involved in and in his day job at the very groovy Melo Velo cycling/coffee shop in Bunbury he has plenty of opportunities to spruik up the region’s best trails.

“I can’t recommend him highly enough,’’ says Melo Velo owner Maggie Arangies-Grimbeek.

“He loves talking about the best places to ride but he’s involved in everything from selling the bikes and gear, to repairing them to trail maintenance and much more.”

Says Grizzly: “At Melo Velo we can give new or experienced riders tips on how to enjoy their riding more and staying safe while doing so. We also encourage riders to get behind the South West Mountain Bike Club, the oldest in Western Australia, and help this club grow and maintain and build

the trails we ride on.”

The region also provides the ideal training ground for another mountain bike challenge in the State, the fiveday 660km Gibb Challenge that Peppermint Beach local and owner of Bunbury’s The Natural Temptation Café, Annie Malone proudly sponsors.

The Gibb Challenge is not just a test of mountain biking prowess – it’s all for a very worthy cause, raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

“For our training we do

four to five rides every week and three days riding to and from work – at least two hours each time. It’s a great way to start and finish the day riding through the bush,’’ says Annie who got into mountain biking when she was training for triathlons and then really got the bug when she and her husband took part in the Cape to Cape MB race from Augusta to Dunsborough.

Riding ‘fat bikes’ with extrawide tyres so you can travel over sand, Annie says there

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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PEDAL POWER Mountain biking is a big drawcard to the BunGeo region, with plenty of trails to explore. Left, Graeme Adams (or Grizzly to one and all), owns Melo Velo, a cycling shop/cafe. Opposite below, Annie Malone, a sponsor of the 660km Gibb Challenge and keen rider herself.

is no shortage of great, easily accessible trails.

“We ride around the Capel area where we can access the Mundabiddi trail near Donnybrook or Boyanup.

There’s loads of backroad, forest trails through the Tuarts and firebreaks to get to this trail.

“There’s also the beach from Bunbury to Busselton and we live at Peppy Beach, which is right in the middle.”

There’s another big plus for riding mountain bikes, says Annie.

“Mountain bikes are great riding because you can ride over curbs, steps if you are really good – and you don’t have to wear lycra. Mbikers wouldn’t be seen dead in lycra (at least on the outside)...cool baggies are the go.”

A mere 58km away as the crow flies (or as the mountain biker rides), the passion for mountain biking,

be it competitively or just for the sheer joy of it, is no less palpable, as Crank’n Cycles Erik Mellegers attests.

“I’ve been mountain biking since I was a kid; we lived a couple of km’s north of Collie when I was growing up and had a block of State forest across the road. It would have been late 80’s and early 90’s and I had a great time riding out there in the bush.”

That childhood fun led Erik to full-time work in the cycling industry in the 2000s.

“The growth in mountain biking has been fantastic. The bikes, the trail development, the number of trail networks being opened up – it’s incredible.

And Collie is right at the heart of it.

“To see carloads of people with bikes on the rack on the back coming into Collie every weekend – and more and more coming monthly – is super

exciting,’’ says Erik.

“There’s something about being out on a bike in the bush, surrounded by beautiful nature and forest, being out in the fresh air, the rarely interrupted ride (road rides tend to be interrupted by cars passing) that keeps you focused on the ride.

“Plus, there’s the ‘serenity’ of the whole experience. Birds, kangaroos, wallabies, the odd lizard and emu. You never quite know what you might see out in the forest,” he says.

“In Collie you can literally go from the park in the centre of town and ride some genuine mountain bike trails within a very short distance with the new Wagyl Biddi Town trail,” says Erik.

Visitors are welcome to join a regular Wednesday night ride (“it’s been going 15 years,” says Erik) – check with Crank ‘n’ Cycles, the Collie Visitors Centre or the Collie MTB Facebook page for details.

“Crank’n Cycles has been heavily involved in promoting trails in the area since the early days of the business. We’re working with land owners/ managers such as Parks and Wildlife and the Collie Shire and building a community of

like-minded mountain bikers (such as the Collie Mountain Bike Club) to move forwards in developing sustainable and sanctioned trails in the area.

It hasn’t always been easy but we’re at a place where we have really good synergy with the land managers and can move forwards quite easily with new trails.

“It still takes time but the reward at the end – having properly designed built and sanctioned trails that are marketable will be well worth it.

It will bring people to town and they’ll have a really good ride on quality trail – and bring their friends next time.”

Grizzly Adams sums up the lure of mountain biking in three words – Enjoyment.

Challenging. Freedom.

And that’s something the Bunbury Geographe region can offer in spades.

Melo Velo, 66 Victoria St Bunbury and 8 Warren Road, Nannup. Visit melovelo.com.au Crank ‘n Cycles, 77-81 Steere St, Collie. Visit crankncycles. com.au For more details on mountain biking events, visit wamba. org.au |

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Destination

Bunbury offers some of the best dining and drinks in the state coupled with a vibrant arts and culture scene.

In short, it’s the ultimate combination.

Australind

BUNBURY

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Bunbury BUNBURY, THE CITY of 3 Waters, is a vibrant seaside port city undergoing an energetic renaissance. Surrounded by beautiful waterways, the city’s rhythm is laid-back and low-key yet at the same time it’s edgy with a banging arts scene and an ever-growing collection of independent boutiques, small bars and cafes with an obsession with providence and seasonal produce.

Must-dos 1

Art-astic - Take a walk in the sunshine to track down inspirational urban art and whimsical characters painted by leading WA artists on 20 electrical boxes scattered through the CBD. The city is also home to the striking Wardandi Boodja at Koombana Bay, Bunbury’s latest piece of public art. The 5.5m steel bust reflects the resilience and spirit of a proud Noongar man and stands as a reminder to visitors and locals alike that Noongar culture is vibrant and strong.

Fin fun - Be one of the first to explore the new-look Dolphin Discovery Centre at Koombana Bay which re-opened at the end of 2018. It’s the perfect place to learn more about these incredible creatures – and don’t worry if it’s chilly outside; you can stay dry and still see 2

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dolphins in their natural habitat on one of the Dolphin Eco Cruises within the bay.

3 Work up an appetite Visit Victoria Street for a feed and a shopping spree. One of Bunbury’s most-loved streets, it’s known for cute, independent shops, restaurants and small bars and is the perfect place to take refuge from the weather for a cosy feed. Offering contemporary Italian cuisine, Nicolas Ristoranté is a warm, inviting restaurant with a mouth-watering menu. Foodies should head to the Marlston Hill Waterfront or Austral Parade dining precinct near the iconic Parade Taphouse.

Enjoy heart-warming favourites at Rose Hotel or overlook the Jetty Baths at Vat 2.

4 Time travel - Soak up Bunbury’s past on a Heritage

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

FIND A LOCAL BUNBURY VISITOR CENTRE Freecall 1800BUNBURY A Old Railway Station, Haley Street, Bunbury, WA 6230 T 08 9792 7205 E welcome@bunbury.wa.gov.au

Sip and relax - Make time to enjoy tasting quality, locally-produced Geographe Wine in the cosy comfort of Bunbury’s CBD restaurants like the award-winning Mojo’s and Market Eating House.

This stunning addition to the Bunbury foodie scene is a perennial, local favourite, while Mojo’s boasts the deepest wine list in Bunbury. Local chefs are gaining attention for their focus on hyper-local ingredients, and relationships between restaurants and surrounding farms are becoming the norm.

Bunbury is the epicentre of the restaurant scene in the BunGeo, and for a good reason.

9

Building Trail. The streets of Bunbury’s CBD are filled with history and mystery, with plenty of stories to discover. Make sure you stop at the Bunbury Museum & Heritage Centre and King Cottage too. Finish up at the Marlston Waterfront Precinct – see the bust of French explorer Nicolas Baudin and read about the city’s rich maritime history.

5 On two wheels Bunburians love the outdoors so the city has a plethora of bike and walk trails. You can hire a bike from Spinway WA & Gecko Bike hire at the Visitor Centre or pick up a supercute retro bike from Rentabike Bunbury. For an epic ride, take a Fat Bike Beach Tour with Melo Velo. If you’re in the mood to explore on foot, enjoy a snakefree bushwalking adventure in Manea Park and Maidens

Reserve which are just as beautiful in winter (as is the long Back Beach coastline).

6 Short and sharp - Head up the steep path to the Marlston Hill Lookout. It gives you a 360-degree view of the City of 3 Waters. Connected to Victoria Street by a timber stairway, it sits on the site of Bunbury’s first lighthouse.

For a rigorous climb, Boulters Heights between Wittenoom Street and Haig Crescent also offers fabulous city views.

7 Culture club - If you’re a culture vulture, you’ll be wellserved by Bunbury - it’s a hot spot for world-class theatrical, cinematic and artistic events.

CinefestOZ, the richest film festival in Australia, kicks off in August, while BREC holds its annual winter film festival later in the year. Melbourne’s

International Comedy Festival roadshow arrives in May while world-renowned theatre company Bell Shakespeare’s production of Much Ado About Nothing opens in August. Finally, for opera buffs there’s a real treat in store in August as Madame Butterfly is set to break hearts in the city.

10 Pantry fillers - Stock up on fresh produce at Bunbury Farmers Market. This place is legendary; so much so, many Perth ‘golden-triangle’ residents travel the two-hour drive to shop. The produce here – much of it sourced from surrounding farms – is mostly organic and explodes with flavour. Grab gourmet pies, the most amazing local and French cheeses, handpressed juices to go, and so much more. Alternatively, whet your appetite at a wonderful fortnightly celebration of all things fresh and artisanal at The Bunbury Markets at Queens Gardens.

Selfie snaps - Take a pic in front of the muchloved chequered lighthouse at Wyalup-Rocky Point (it’s awesome at sunset) or within the mysterious paperbarks at the Big Swamp Wetlands. Head over to the nearby Bunbury Wildlife Park for a selfie with a kangaroo or feeding the birds.

Bunbury’s Mangrove Walk is a truly spectacular way to stretch your legs and get a cool pic or head to the top of the Maiden sand dunes for a selfie with the city.

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Destination

Australind BUNBURY

You’ll find the DonnybrookBalingup region among the picturesque Preston and Blackwood River valleys is bursting with fresh produce, historic towns and hamlets.

Gelorup Stratham

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Must-dos 1 Core values - apples are plentiful in autumn/winter as are oranges and other citrus fruits. Check out the farmgate stalls or the Fruit Barn in Donnybrook. In autumn, you can pick your own at Spring Valley Orchard. Avocados make an appearance towards the end of winter.

2 Play time - Australia’s biggest free-entry playground, the Apple Fun Park in the heart of Donnybrook is a great place to take the kids. There are

Yabberup & Mumballup ➛ Lowden

Capel DONNYBROOK Busselton

Donnybrook Balingup region COLLOQUIALLY KNOWN AS the apple capital of Western Australia, Italian and Irish settlers brought their love of great food to Donnybrook in the 1900s. Today, you can eat your way through the region with quaint roadside stalls selling seasonal local produce, like the summer stone fruits the area is now known for.

Modern-day fossicking - this was originally a gold town - is also encouraged in the many local shops, antique stores and more.

A little further down the South West Highway is Balingup. It would have to be one of the prettiest towns in Western Australia, surrounded by rolling hills, forests and orchards. Laid-back, a little bohemian and creative, Balingup’s super-cute shops fill the main street, and there is always a quirky event on offer, with the Balingup Medieval Carnivale, the Small Farm Field Day and Telling Tales in Balingup festivals among the perennial favourites. The Donnybrook Balingup region also includes the quaint historic towns and hamlets of Brookhampton, Kirup, and Mullalyup, plus Yabberup, Mumballup and Lowden in the Preston Valley.

Boyanup

toddler and preschooler areas with many low ride-on animals, kiddie swings, climbing and slide areas. Older kids will love the four-level towers with slides, rope bridges and flying foxes, log rock climbing walls, swings and space net, and two 9.5m towers. Older kids (aka teens or parents) have some fitness areas and a lap track to keep occupied as well. There are free gas barbeques and shade areas to make a day of it.

River walks - The Preston River Loop Walk Trail traverses a lush wetland river ecosystem 3

Brookhampton Kirup

BALINGUP

encompassing a suspension bridge and weir crossing, incorporating the Preston River Indigenous Walk Trail and the Waugyl Sculpture Park – all in the town centre of Donnybrook.

In Donnybrook you also find beautiful Donnybrook Stone buildings and fences including the Soldiers Memorial Hall (1919) and All Saints Church (1906). Venture down to Balingup to follow alongside the Blackwood River and search out secluded swimming holes at the Wrights Bridge Walk Trail.

4 Grape expectations and cold brews - Donnybrook boasts the best up-and-coming wineries in the Geographe Wine Region. James Halliday four and above rated wineries offer noble and alternative varieties to satisfy the most discerning palates. Donnybrook Cellar Door Journey wineries Barrecas, Barton Jones, Mandalay Road, Oakway Estate, Smallwater Estate and Thompson Brook Wines all offer tastings and sales. Experience some incredible alternatives like barbera, zinfandel, durif, malbec, vermentino, nero d’avola and moscato. Ned’s Brew Club, Donnybrook’s first beer brewery is conveniently situated inside Oakway Estate Wines and

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Shed Café or across the road at the Mushroom at No 61 Balingup, and why not indulge in a tipple from the Birdwood Park Fruit Winery while you are there. If picking your own seems too much like hard work, Newy’s Vegie Patch in Kirup has the best selection of fresh fruit, veg and local produce in regional WA, including Tasty Edibles amazing sourdough bread. The South West Highway has an amazing selection of trendy places for a caffeine fix, don’t miss the funky fit-out at JT’s Coffee Barn – perfect for a caffeine refuel.

offers a range of craft beers on tap that change throughout the seasons. Custard Cider, although not open to the public, offer their ciders in local licensed premises, wineries and eateries.

5 Rug up - During winter stay in the undulating hills of Balingup, Lowden, Mumballup, Paynedale and Upper Capel.

A range of accommodation options are available. Close your eyes and inhale the crisp, fresh scent of the morning. If you are high in the hills, the view will be a blanket of white until the mist dissipates. At night clear skies give stargazers an awe-inspiring view of the constellations. Sitting by an open log fire with a cuppa and sweet treats will make you feel hugged from the inside; and it’s super romantic too.

6 Shop til you drop - Stock up on handmade herbal products at the TinderBox, find pottery and timber products at the largest art and craft centre in WA – the Old Cheese Factory Craft Centre, or rummage through Donnybrook’s superb new and secondhand book collection. Visit Donnybrook Artisans in Central Arcade for some locally created treasures

and must-haves, open 7 days a week and staffed by the artists themselves. There is always something unique at The Treasure Fox or Hidden Treasures just out of town.

You can’t miss Ginger Gold’s Vintage for antiques, or Rumble through my Jumble for that rustic rarity. Invest in alpaca knitwear from Jalbrook or stunning hand-crafted jewelry at Balingup’s Goldsmith and lavender products from the Balingup Lavender Farm.

kangaroo and emu sightings are common so keep your eyes peeled. Just as you leave Balingup make sure you stop at Balingup Heights Scenic Lookout for stunning views of the town and orchards. Tip - go early on a foggy morning to capture the sun rise. Take the scenic Donnybrook-Goodwood Road to Capel, especially after some rain, to check out Ironstone Gully Falls. There’s even a winery/brewery nearby for a pit stop.

7 Tree huggers welcome - Wander through the Golden Valley Tree Park, Western Australia’s largest arboretum.

There are 60ha of exotic and native trees and it’s famed for being one of the top five locations in Australia to see autumn colours. On the way, take a quick detour to Balingup’s beautiful Avenue of Honour, with its majestic oaks that honour the 154 local men and women of the region who enlisted for service during WW1.

Immerse yourself in nature in the local National Parks and State Forests that are brimming with native flora and fauna.

9 Filling station - Try the scrumptious cakes from Lady Marmalade, tapas and marron from Smallwater Estate, gourmet tasting plates and pizza at Oakway Estate, cheese platters and lighter fare from Barton Jones, or authentic flavours at the Donnybrook Indian Restaurant and Asian fusion at the Village Harvest Restaurant. For an Italian influence try the Riverside Restaurant. The main street of Donnybrook abounds with great cafes and coffee. The Donnybrook Bakery is also open 24hrs Monday to Friday and Midnight to 2pm Saturday and Sunday, so you can eat no matter the time of day. In Balingup, grab a great Aussie pie on the terrace at the Old

8 Go for a drive - The Balingup-Nannup Road is one of many scenic drives, native

10 On the right track Walkers can tackle a section of the Bibbulmun Track that passes through the region near Balingup. Mumballup is another great rest point, surrounded by Preston Virgin Forest, a walkers and cyclists paradise. Walkers can tackle the Bibbulmun Track that passes through Mumballup to Balingup and the Preston Forest. Mountain biking enthusiasts can hit the worldclass Munda Biddi Trail that passes through Donnybrook and heads west toward Ironstone Gully Falls before turning south. Alternatively, stay at MTB meccas CycleTrek Lowden or Linga Longa near Balingup. Most local accommodation properties offer a pickup and drop-off service

FIND A LOCAL DONNYBROOK VISITOR CENTRE A Old Railway Station, South Western Hwy, Donnybrook, WA 6239 T 08 9731 1720 E donnybrookwa@westnet. com.au BALINGUP VISITOR CENTRE A South Western Hwy, Balingup, WA 6251 T 08 9764 1818 E balinguptourism@westnet. com.au

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Destination

Australind BUNBURY

The Ferguson Valley produces some of Australia’s best alternative wine varieties intermingled with stunning vistas over the lower coastal plains to the Indian Ocean.

Eaton

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Burekup

FERGUSON VALLEY Dardanup Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Ferguson Valley region AN INFLUX OF tree-changers has helped transform this region from agricultural towns into a go-to for wine producers, artists, musicians and small creative businesses. Dairy farming is still prominent, but lifestylers have moved in for the bucolic simplicity of country life and, as you move up the mountain to the Ferguson Valley, the land is peppered with vines, wineries, and the odd brewery too.

Eating and drinking isn’t all that there is to do here – a large section of the region is covered in dense, ruggedly beautiful jarrah forest and includes part of the very popular Wellington National Park.

The area also packs a mighty punch in the festival and event stakes, with the likes of the Dardanup Art Spectacular and Trail, Dardanup Bull & Barrel, St Aidan’s Shakespeare Among the Vines, and Ferguson Valley Open Gardens, pulling in crowds of thousands annually.

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Must-dos 1 Plenty of choice - Wine tasting is a must in the Fergie Valley with more than 20 vineyards and wineries producing awesome smallbatch wines. Perhaps the most impressive winery in the region is Willow Bridge Estate - a 5-red star James Halliday awardwinning operation. However, don’t discount the small guys.

Boutique producer Ferguson

Hart is taking the award-scene by storm, and many others are hot on their heels. On your wine journey, don’t expect to drink and dash; our winemakers are passionate souls who love sharing their time with you.

For beer lovers, Bush Shack Brewery and Wild Bull Brewery will tantalise your tastebuds.

2 Name a gnome - You must pay a visit to the very quirky Gnomesville, a community

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

7 Let’s eat! - Here are a few foodie options to get you started: for a fab five-course degustation head to Hackersley Estate. Low key and a little arty, Hackersley overlooks a lake with cows grazing in the background. Down the road is St Aidan’s Winery - their European trained chef has a resume that will blow your mind.

If you’re after something simple, visit Ferguson Falls Wine Cafe, home to WA’s Best Pizza Gold Plate Award. Or, if you’re a pielover, Dardanup Bakery is one of the best. A short drive to Eaton you will find a talented team at Smalls Bar who have scoured the region for the best of the best local produce..

driven-gnome village with over 7,000 little inhabitants. Bring along a gnome and add it to the collection. Before you go, pick up a copy of the recently released, super-cute children’s illustrated book, Gnomesville – the real story by Lesley Geers.

3 On your bike - Get the cogs turning at the Mount Lennard Mountain Bike Network, near Pile Road in the Wellington National Park. Mount Lennard, or Pile Road as it’s known to the majority of mountain bikers, is a fun area of trails that are for the most part built on a very gentle slope. The single track Grizzly Trail is one of the more popular and technical trails of the collection; it weaves through the jarrah forest providing more than enough obstacles, jumps and berms to keep even the most experienced riders on their toes.

4 Tall timbers - Be awed by nature with a visit to the King Jarrah Tree – it is the most accessible, largest tree in the BunGeo. This majestic jarrah

tree is estimated to be between 300 and 500 years old.

Standing about 36 metres tall, it has survived bushfires, storms, lightning and insect attack.

5 Creative country - Go in search of artists hiding in the hills. Visit one of the local galleries for unique artwork, ceramics, glassware, and jewellery. Visit Lyndendale Gallery showcasing unique local artwork and maybe even meet an artist-in-reisident, or during the Dardanyp Art Spectacular when acclaimed artists such as Russell Sheridan and Linda Skrolys open their galleries and studios to the world.

6 History lives - The Dardanup Heritage Park houses one of Australia’s finest collections of historic agricultural and industrial items with more than 20 sheds full of beautifully restored gems.

Make time to wander through the 15 heritage sites on the 2.5km Dardanup Heritage Trail, including the first Catholic

8 Get lost - Eaton Foreshore Walk meanders for 5km along the picture-perfect Collie River.

You’ll quickly forget you are so close to urban influences.

Between Dardanup and Boyanup are the ever-popular Crooked Brook Trails. The Forest Path is a hidden jewel for those with limited mobility, providing easy access to an area of natural bushland with interpretive signage about the flora and fauna.

church in Western Australia outside the metropolitan area. Stop for lunch along the way at the historic Dardanup (aka The Dardy) Tavern built in 1905; it has bags of character.

FIND A LOCAL FERGUSON VALLEY (DARDANUP) VISITOR CENTRE A 5 Ferguson Road, Dardanup WA 6236 T 08 9728 1551 • W www.fergusonvalley.net.au

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Destination

Australind BUNBURY

Dalyellup

Gelorup

Stratham Peppermint Grove Beach

Capel region

CAPEL

Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Get ready to find the world’s last remaining tuart forest, quiet seaside hamlets, and bucolic country towns in the Capel region.

NESTLED ON THE Capel River, you’ll find Capel, a town with a quirky sense of humour. Where else in Australia would they send you to hunt for the troll under a historic bridge? The creative journey continues down the main street, with walls of murals reflecting the stories of the town, and into the newly redeveloped Erle Scott Reserve, which boasts skateable elements, nature playground, BBQs and picnic tables. Nearby, Boyanup is a quintessential dairy and cattle town with lots of tree-changers thrown in for good measure. Its farmers market, held every fourth Sunday of the month, is one of the best in the region.

Many locals are history buffs with a passion for trains, and the driving force behind the South West Rail & Heritage Centre.

Alternatively, pay a visit to the ultra-modest contender for the title of WA’s most alluring coastal town, Peppermint Grove Beach. Peppy Beach (as the locals call it) is home to white sandy beaches and fabulous holiday houses; it’s your ultimate hammock and chill destination. A little further north, Dalyellup is a new, outer coastal suburb adjoining Bunbury with awesome beaches, 50ha of parks and gardens, 25km of cycleways and walking trails and its own piece of preserved tuart forest. Get ready to find the world’s last remaining tuart forest, quiet seaside hamlets, and bucolic country towns in the Capel region.

Must-dos 1 Tree change - Uncover the world’s only remaining tall Tuart Forest in the Tuart Forest National Park. It’s also home to the rare western ringtail possum.

Go bushwalking, have a picnic or check out the Tuart Discovery Trail.

2 Wine time - Visit the beautiful Capel Vale Winery.

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James Halliday agrees with the Australian Wine Companion, nominating Capel Vale as among the top 100 wineries in Australia.

Enjoy a late lunch at Match Restaurant where it’s all about ‘matching’ food perfectly with wine. The view is pretty special too. Finish with a cheese platter and a glass of their delicious Geographe merlot. If you have a sweet tooth, we suggest you

book a high tea. It’s a delicious and decadent tradition that never disappoints.

Sunset feels - Watch a sunset at Peppermint Grove Beach. Feeling the cold? Stay locally and call into Peppermint Grove Beach Holiday Park – their shop is stocked with cosy handmade beanies to help get you snuggly – or pop into the 3

bottle shop for a nice drop of local red to ease the chill. If you brought the marshmallows, remember to pre-book a fire pit and get toasting.

4 Push yourself - Have some super-awesome paintball fun at Paintball Pursuit near Stratham, where groups and individuals can fight it out. Entertain the kids and those young at heart at Gravity Etc in Dalyellup. Bounce, tumble, balance, flip, party and fly your way around 1,800sqm of indoor high-energy trampoline excitement. Boyanup also connects to the world-leading Munda Biddi Mountain Bike Trail. Play a challenging round of golf at the Capel Golf Course under the gaze of the grazing kangaroos. Check out the newly developed skateable links at Capel’s Erle Scott Reserve, as well as the skate bowl in Boyanup.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

FIND A LOCAL CAPEL REGION VISITOR INFORMATION A c/o BUNBURY VISITOR CENTRE T 08 9792 7205 • E welcome@bunbury.wa.gov.au OR Capel Library T 08 9727 0290 • W library.capel. wa.gov.au

Where else in Australia would they send you to hunt for the troll under a historic bridge?

5 Sweetie pies - Indulge your sweet tooth with the most scrumptious cheesecakes and cake (gluten free) from The Fat Birdie, served with Margaret River Yahava coffee, while Capelberry do a great breakfast bruschetta designed to fill up the hungriest of travellers. They also have a massive selection of herbal teas, Rubra coffee and chutneys by Peppy Beach producer The Fat Hippo. Stock up on homemade pies and sourdough bread from the Capel Bakery, where you can also pick up some great in-season local farmgate produce and a range of handmade and natural olive oil soaps and skincare balms.

6 Let’s pack a picnic Dine al fresco at Ironstone Gully Falls and discover the wildflowers. Following winter, the stream, having tumbled through one of the region’s many fine jarrah forests, crosses under the road and gently rambles over a series of rapids. The falls drop over a ledge of nine metres.

In spring, the surrounding countryside bursts into colour with a stunning display of wildflowers. So whatever the season, this is a magical spot.

7 Sweet tooth - Go in search of the Gingerbread House. Let your kids decorate gingerbread men and explore the wall-to-wall

shelves of lollies, while you sit back and relax with a coffee and a tasty home-baked treat.

you search through its unique French finds and, if you are looking for a lunch spot with old-world charm, try The Bull and Bush Tavern.

8 All aboard - The South West Rail & Heritage Centre in Boyanup opens its doors with a special theme every fourth Sunday of the month. View the historic trains and carriages, and the blacksmiths working.

9 Charm and craft Hunt down curiosities and collectables. Visit the Quirky Den, a cute little shop on the main street, Tree Memories Gallery, which hosts fine wood craft, and the Jalinda Orchard and Art Gallery. During your wander there are plenty of refreshment stops including the Boyanup Bakery as well as the French brocade store, Rustic French Living, which is housed in a beautiful old church in Boyanup. Enjoy morning tea as

10 Trail Blazing - The Capel region offers the space to discover yourself and explore nature and cultural history on urban walk trails. The Preston River Ramble in Boyanup is a delightful 1,300 metre stroll which showcases significant aspects of both the natural and cultural history.

The Boyanup Heritage Trail interprets the major sites and stories from the early settlement history of the town.

The nearby Joshua Lake Walk trail circumnavigates the lake, and takes walkers through a mix of revegetated woodland and pleasant open grassy spaces.

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Destination

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY Allanson Collie

Australind BUNBURY

Gelorup Stratham

Climb the mountain to the top of the Darling Scarp and Busselton discover the beautiful Collie River Valley, which is quickly becoming Western Australia’s mountain biking capital.

Boyanup

Capel

Donnybrook

Collie River Valley region ONCE THE LURE OF THE mountain has brought you here, there are endless outdoor experiences waiting for you. Tracks and trails are in abundance, so whether it is a kayaking trip down the Collie River, a hike on the Bibbulmun Track, casting your line in rivers and lakes or an afternoon bike ride through beautiful jarrah forests, you are sure to leave with a new-found appreciation for the beauty of this region.

The area was originally considered ideal for timber production and as pasturelands. However, the discovery of coal along the Collie River in 1883 changed its fortunes. Nowadays, Collie has a rich emerging diversity, including arts and culture with a fabulous little gallery that punches way above its weight.

Must-dos 1 Off-road adventures Get on a MTB track and crisscross through the beautiful Collie River Valley. With more than 20 trails for beginner and pro, there’s plenty of opportunities to get your cogs turning. New trails are popping up too including the recently opened Collie Wagyl Biddi trail named after the mythical

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rainbow serpent; a fun and easy flow trail on the edge of the town centre. For the ultimate challenge, attempt to Beat the Biddi – the world-class Munda Biddi Trail diverts through Collie.

Don’t have gear? Hire a bike from the Kiosk in the Dam in the Wellington National Park and tackle the nearby Mount Lennard Tracks or pick up a bike at Collie’s Crank’n Cycles where the guys know everything

there is to know about MTB. Walkers aren’t forgotten either with the famous Bibbulum Track traversing the region.

Refuel on the road Cyclists and other caffeine addicts should pay a visit to Wagon 537 - a pop-up cafe, located in a heritage train wagon. Another local coffee haunt is the historic Colliefields Hotel – its purple exterior 2

makes it hard to miss. If you fancy some good honest pub grub then you’re spoilt for choice – the Feddy (Federal Hotel) and The Vic are among our favourites. Don’t miss 8 Thai Ladies who have moved into town. Their authentic Thai food and bulletproof coffee have a cult following.

3 Stay a while - Head to the Harris River Estate Winery

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

and eat to your heart’s content from the tapas menu. You can stay here too, overlooking the vines, a beautiful dam and jarrah forest.

This amazing, family-run property includes a 24-hectare vineyard and winery, cider-making operation, micro-brewery, equestrian agistment centre, restaurant and self-contained chalets.

4 Best in show - The Collie Art Gallery opened in 2015 and

was the first fit-for-purpose A-class gallery to be built in Western Australia since the Art Gallery of WA was opened in 1979. It showcases a diverse and impressive exhibition program – think Arthur Boyd, Howard Taylor and Guy GreySmith. Oh, and by the way, it has one of the biggest art prizes in regional Australia – the $50,000 Collie Art Prize (CAP).

5 Top gear - Get your adrenaline fix by zooming around a top class motorplex track. The recently expanded Collie Motorplex circuit hosts weekend events; see burning rubber at the Gazzanats in February or try it yourself, with regular Champion’s Ride Days and V8 Supercar hot laps.

Park is an Instagram hot spot for good reason. It’s a wide natural pool surrounded by graceful peppermints and jarrah and marri forest along the Collie River.

Find your inner child and try out the swinging rope. Be prepared to be invigorated - the water is always cool and refreshing, even on a hot summer day. Not far away is another Instagrammable favourite - Black Diamond Lake - with vibrant, blue waters just begging for a selfie.

6 Water, water, water - You may be inland, but there’s no shortage of aquatic adventure playgrounds in the Collie River Valley. Start at picturesque Minninup Pool, where the Collie River is at its widest, ideal for swimming, canoeing or picnicking. Follow the Collie River in Wellington National Park to uncover an array of natural swimming pools and, if the water's course is high, it's an ideal place to kayak. Or try water skiing on the intense blue waters of Stockton Lake.

8 Black gold - Step back in time and gain an insight into the lives of Collie’s rugged underground miners. The Replica Coal Mine at the Collie Visitor Centre was constructed in 1983 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of coal discovery.

Immerse yourself in a tour with a past miner (by appointment) and check out the restored locomotives while you are there. Pop across the road and pay a visit to the Coalfields Museum – it’s a real local history treasure trove.

Secret sanctuary - The beautiful, serene Honeymoon Pool in Wellington National 7

FIND A LOCAL COLLIE VISITOR CENTRE A 156 Throssell Street, Collie WA 6225 T 08 9734 2051 E info@collierivervalley.com.au

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Australind BUNBURY

Destination

Collie

Gelorup Stratham

Boyanup

Capel

Donnybrook

Busselton

Balingup

It may be the country capital of WA but you’ll also find rolling hills, rivers and farmland in this beautiful part of the world.

BOYUP BROOK

Boyup Brook region WHERE AN ICONIC RIVER, undulating valleys, and rare flora and fauna meets broad-acre farming plains, Boyup Brook on the tranquil Blackwood River is the heart of Western Australia’s country music scene. Each year, thousands upon thousands of fans descend on this small community to attend the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival. But it’s not all cowboy boots and guitar twangs; Boyup Brook is also a rural community brimming with talent. From creative artists to some of WA’s best food and wine producers, this town will win you over with its warm hospitality and spirit.

Highlighting the fact is Boyup Brook’s obsession (in a good way) with collecting. From a world-famous rare jewel beetle and butterfly collection, an amazing doll collection, a record and music memorabilia that will blow your mind, to one of Australia’s largest collection of teapots, the people and things of Boyup Brook will intrigue and delight.

Must-dos 1 Grab your boots and hat - This is country music country and home to WA’s iconic Country Music Festival (February). Throughout the year, you can visit the Hot Country Music Shop and stock up on all things country. Make sure you don’t miss the Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre. This entertainment shed is decorated wall-to-

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wall and floor-to-rafter with memorabilia spanning 100 years. See life-sized sand sculptures of Elvis and Johnny Cash and the ‘record room’ contains hundreds of records including an extensive Elvis Presley exhibit. The Harvey Dickson Rodeo is an iconic rodeo, music and camping Festival held in the last weekend of October.

2 The butterfly effect Visit the beautiful Carnaby Beetle and Butterfly Collection, regarded as the best outside the British Museum of Natural History, at the Boyup Brook Visitor Centre. Keith Carnaby was a leading light in the field of entomology. The Visitor Centre also showcases the impressive Krandal Doll Collection, the Little Art Gallery, and locally-made produce with Boyup Brook olive oil a must-buy.

3 Paddles up - Hire a canoe from the Flax Mill Recreation Complex and paddle down the

majestic Blackwood River, the longest river in the south west.

Peaceful stretches meander through farming country. To experience magnificent flora and birdlife, take a picnic and stop off along the way. For the more adventurous, the river and surrounds are suitable for longer treks that incorporate camping at various spots along the banks. Prefer to be on land?

Take the Bicentennial Trail for an ultra-pleasant walk beside the Blackwood River.

Artfully done - Explore the streets of Boyup and be amazed by the holograms and sculptures, plus murals and a giant gnomon by acclaimed local artist Sandy Chambers.

Boyup Brook’s public art also encompasses impressive, largescale metal works by Len Zuks and Harvey Dickson.

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5 Historic stories - One of Boyup’s first settlers was Sir James Lee Steere, a prominent politician and a member of the WA’s powerful Six Hungry

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Families. At the Pioneers’ Museum, see displays of historic agricultural, commercial and domestic equipment such as the first clover-seed harvester, developed by Boyup Brook local, the late PD Forrest, in 1910.

Afterwards, take the Heritage Walk following 23 plaques around the town centre. If you’re lucky, you may also be able to visit one of the district’s first farms and the heritage-listed Norlup Homestead, built for Commander Scott with convict labour.

FIND A LOCAL BOYUP BROOK VISITOR CENTRE A Cnr Abel and Bridge Sts, Boyup Brook 6244 T 08 9765 1444 E bbvisitor@wn.com.au

6 Award-winning wines - Boyup Brook is probably not where you’d expect to find a James Halliday 5-star rated winery with a clutch of international medals, but that's what it's got. Located in the Blackwood Valley, Dickinson Estate (by appointment only) first planted vines over 40 years

ago and have been producing quality fruit and wine ever since. Beulah Wines is a small, family wine producer sourcing premium fruit and dedicated to making wines that express the unique qualities of the Nield family’s Boyup Brook vineyard (by appointment only).

7 Wild things - Surrounded by the 56,000 hectare TonePerup Nature Reserve, Perup Nature’s Guesthouse is one of the best places in the south west to see native wildlife,

including rare numbats, ringtail and brushtail possums, quenda, woylies and chuditch. From a family weekend away to large scale-group event, a stay at Perup is an awesome natureimmersion experience.

Horsing around - Since the first campdraft in 1991, the Mayanup Campdraft association has been showcasing Western Australian talent and successfully holding campdrafts every year since.

The spectacle of this unique 8

relay race held annually in October. The Marathon is a unique event where competitors enter in teams of five, or as a single ironman and ironwoman. Starting in Boyup Brook and finishing in Bridgetown, the competitors run, canoe, swim, horseride and a cycle across 60km of picturesque Blackwood River Valley countryside. Get involved or soak up the atmosphere and watch from the sidelines, it is great time to visit the Boyup Brook area.

Australian sport involving a horse and rider working cattle is held annually. Competitors test their skills and vie for prizes in several different categories, including juniors. It is a great family event celebrating country culture, held in Mayanup, a short 15 minute drive from the Boyup Brook town centre on the second weekend in March annually.

9 Unique view of the Blackwood -The LiveLighter Blackwood Marathon is a

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Destination

Yarloop

Brunswick Junction

Australind

The largest and most diverse area in the BunGeo, the Harvey region benefits from multiple visits to see all that it offers.

BUNBURY

IMAGE Overland Media

HARVEY

Myalup Binningup

Roelands

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Harvey region FERTILE COASTAL IRRIGATED plains and gently rolling meadows are adorned with the occasional charmingly dilapidated barn, a white fenced equestrian stud, or an impressive heritage property that would be equally at home in an Australian Country Style magazine. Many of the big guys in food are based here – from Harvey Beef to Harvey Fresh; the list is impressive.

As you head east, the region changes from farming land to ruggedly beautiful jarrah forest and natural waterways for the outdoor fanatics to explore. Toedippers, seaside lovers, anglers and skippers find themselves in water heaven in Australind and the seaside hamlets of Myalup and Binningup.

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Must-dos Wonderful Waterways - Delve into the Leschenault Waterways Discovery Centre in Australind and take the Jetty Walk to view the 14km-long waterway or grab a kayak and view the ecologically-diverse estuary from the water. Just a little further along the estuary in Australind is the Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park, a nature-lovers paradise encased by the Indian Ocean on one side and the Leschenault Estuary on the other. Get back to nature and camp the night at the Belvidere Camp Grounds..

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2 Follow the Heritage Trail Step back in time on the Harvey and Australind Heritage Trails.

Follow the map and read all about the interesting history and iconic buildings of the Harvey and Australind areas. While

on the trail, visit the smallest church in Australia, St Nicholas's Church. It measures a cosy 8.2m x 3.6m in size. This heritagelisted building began its life as a family home in 1844 and was later converted into a chapel to service its local community.

complete with a viewing deck and staircase with incredible views. Access to the Big Orange is through the cellar door at Harvey River Estate, on the edge of the beautiful Harvey River and nestled amongst an orange orchard.

3 Lest we forget - Come and learn more about Harvey's fascinating history and involvement in WWII at the only road-side shrine in Western Australia. The Harvey Internment Shrine is a beautiful tribute to the thousands of men interned and the mateship they created in the midst of war time.

Open to the public seven days a week, you can collect the key from the Harvey Visitor Centre before heading to the site.

5 Mosaic marvel - Get your hands on a copy of the Mosaic Trail Map and discover the stunning mosaic artworks created by local artist Anthea Ward, that highlight Cookernup, Clifton Park, Australind, Myalup, Binningup and Harvey. While you’re travelling, call in to HaVe Cheese and treat yourself to a delicious ice-cream, or stock up on award-winning cultured butters and cheeses from this world-renowned cheese maker.

4 Climb the big orange Harvey’s landmark Big Orange is a 17m high steel structure

6 Meet May - The Harvey Tourist Precinct is home to the replica of Stirling Cottage,

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

to the coast, Cathedral Ave is a beautiful drive.

owned by Governor Stirling and the childhood home of renowned Australian children's author and artist May Gibbs.

She's the creator of Australia's iconic characters Snugglepot and Cuddlepie. Be sure to call in to the Harvey Visitor Centre to learn more about May and view the Gumnut Baby Display.

Wine Escapades - Come exploring Harvey's amazing wineries including Vineyard 28, Moojelup Estate, Skipworth Wine Company, and Harvey River Estate. Learn about the incredible processes behind high quality wine production at Vineyard 28 on their Taste of Italy Tour. Bookings are essential and well worth securing on your next escape to the Geographe wine region.

After a day of exploring and sampling the state's finest drops, call into Geovino in 7

Harvey's main street to enjoy local wines paired with delicious cheese and great company.

to be able to take care of all your booking requirements.

Simply phone 9729 1122.

8 Say 'I do' - The Harvey Region Boasts some incredible locations and facilities to give your day the wow factor it deserves. If you’ve always dreamt about a wedding amongst the stunning flowers and orchard at the Stirling Cottage Gardens, or had grand aspirations to marry upon the stone stage at the Gibbs Pool Amphitheatre, the Harvey Region has it all at your disposal. Say 'I do' in a relaxed wedding with a fun and casual ambience at the Old Coast Rd Brewery and Function Centre.

This region has some stunning accommodation options such as Chalbury Park B&B, Harvey Homestead, Austin's Harvey, just to name a few. The Harvey Visitor Centre staff are excited

9 Harvey's Hidden Valley The Harvey Dam has unique origins which can be explored further in the Hidden Valley Room at the Harvey Visitor Centre. Or take the short drive to the Harvey Dam and marvel at its enormity and beauty. Walk along the base of the dam at the Gibbs Pool Amphitheatre.

11 Terrific timber - Nestled in Treendale's industrial area is an oasis of stunning quality timber artworks, furniture, showroom pieces, gallery and museum. Anyone appreciating truly amazing timber craftsmanship will have their breath taken away when they enter John's Featured Wood Gallery and museum on Piggott Drive.

FIND A LOCAL HARVEY VISITOR CENTRE A Cnr James Stirling Place and South Western Hwy Harvey 6220 T +61 8 9729 1122 E info@harveytourism.com

10 Road trip - The Beela Valley Scenic Drive takes you through steep hills with beautiful flora and lush farming country and open paddocks. . If you have a 4WD venture a little further to find Australia's largest jarrah tree hidden deep in the Mornington State Forest. The Jarrah Hadfield is more than 10m in circumference and more than 260 years old while closer

AUSTRALIND INFORMATION CENTRE Cnr Paris Road and Old Coast Road Australind 6223 T +61 8 9796 0122 E info@harveytourism.com

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Advertising Directory Bunbury Wildlife Park

Eden Grove Community Precinct A unique and hands-on Australian experience awaits you at the Bunbury Wildlife Park. With over 60 varieties of native animals in an open parkland setting, there is so much to see and do. Feed the birds in our walk through aviaries, pat the kangaroos and stroll through the native gardens. Enjoy a light lunch in our cafe or bring your own and have a picnic in the park!

Phone: (08) 9721 8380 Prince Philip Drive, Bunbury wildlifepark@bunbury.wa.gov.au WILDLIFE www.bunburywildlifepark.com.au

25 James Stirling place, Harvey (08) 9782 4000 www.edengrovefunctions.com

Conferences - Weddings - Retreats Exhibitions - Accommodation

BUNBURY

PARK

HARVEY HOMESTEAD

Family owned, Capel Vale has established mature vineyards, and produces wines that reflect the distinct climate and soils of the region.

Let our friendly staff guide you through our award winning wines from estate planted and grown vineyards in Margaret River, Geographe, Pemberton and Mount Barker.

Match Restaurant will take you on a journey with each Match plate specifically matched to our award winning wines. Each specially selected item will highlight a different character in the wine.

Match restaurant is open for lunch Thursday to Monday.

Cellar Door open 7 days from 10am to 4:30pm.

More than just a place to stay…

Come and experience country life at its best!

Harvey Homestead offers fully self-contained accommodation, warm, cosy and comfortable set in stunning surrounds.

If you are after a relaxing country getaway, you are going to love Harvey Homestead! ✆ 0400 238 299 • 85 Fourth Street, Harvey (on the outskirts of the town of Harvey) email: enquiry@harveyhomestead.com.au

LAKE BROCKMAN TOURIST PARK Lake Brockman Tourist Park overlooking Logue Brook Dam is the perfect weekend getaway!

We have cabins, powered and unpowered sites.

We are dog-friendly (except for our cabins) and our café is open 7 days a week serving breakfast, lunch, coffees, Devonshire teas and homemade cakes.

Logue Brook Dam is a water-lover’s paradise ... where you can waterski, fish, canoe, kayak or go for a swim in the fresh water (shark-free).

Capel Vale Wines & Match Restaurant Phone: (08) 9727 1986 118 Mallokup Road, Capel W.A. cellardoor@capelvale.com www.capelvale.com

To advertise in the Spring/Summer issue of

The Bunbury Geographe Magazine

Contact Natalie

0426 752 352 (08) 9733 5402 | lakebrockman@gmail.com Book online today

natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au

www.lakebrockman.com.au

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HERBIE’S SHUTTLES

Reliable . Affordable . Comfortable Herbie’s Shuttles provides a safe and reliable premium airport shuttle service between Cowaramup and Perth airport. We cover areas including Vasse, Busselton, Capel, Bunbury, Eaton, Australind, Binningup, Harvey, Waroona and many other suburbs between Cowaramup and Perth Airport.

Drivers are accredited by the Department of Transport so your transfers to and from Perth Airport,

Fremantle Cruise Terminal or any other destination are both safe and comfortable.

We also provide services to most hotels, motels & holiday accommodation in the Busselton and Bunbury regions and our services are also available for charters, tours and group bookings. Our bus services are suitable for sporting events, wine tours, social functions, weddings, conferences and more.

✆ 0497 354 100 | info@herbiesshuttles.com.au | herbiesshuttles.com.au

BUNBURY REGIONAL ART GALLERY

Bunbury Regional Art Gallery presents a dynamic and ever changing roster of exhibitions by local artists. With six different gallery spaces, BRAG is able to present a wide range of exhibitions, ensuring there is always something for everyone to get excited about.

Located in the central heart of Bunbury, BRAG is a must visit for all culture lovers.

Phone: (08) 9792 7323 64 Wittenoom Street, Bunbury artgallery@bunbury.wa.gov.au www.brag.org.au

ROYAL GALA TOURS

Bunbury Day Tours to outlying regions Day Tours – Extended Tours – Private Charters

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Experience what life was like for the King family during the late 1800s to early 1900s.

King Cottage Museum in Bunbury is a living piece of our heritage. Come and discover what it was to be a pioneer in our city over 100 years ago.

Open 10.30am ~ 12.30pm daily New members welcome ✆ 08 9721 7546 77 Forrest Avenue, South Bunbury email: bunburyhistoricalsociety@gmail.com www.bunburyhistoricalsociety.org.au

Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre

The Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre tells the unique stories of how the South West’s regional centre was developed, and the colourful characters who made it the vibrant port city that it is today. Shipwrecks, the struggles of early settlers, convicts, the Bunbury port, and the people of the town have all contributed to this city’s rich history.

The South West offers many unique experiences found absolutely nowhere else in the world.

Join us at Royal Gala Tours to explore Busselton, Margaret River, Harvey, Collie, Boyup Brook, Balingup, Greenbushes and Bridgetown.

BUNBURY HISTORICAL SOCIETY INC.

✆ 1300 233 556 royalgalatours@bigpond.com www.royalgalatours.com.au

Phone: (08) 9792 7283 1 Arthur Street, Bunbury museum@bunbury.wa.gov.au www.bunburymuseum.com.au

bunburygeographe.com.au

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Yarloop

Lake Preston

Cookernup

Louge Brook Dam

Perth

Yalgorup National Park

Perth via Pinjarra

Myalup State Forest

Harris River Forest

Harvey

Forestr y Rd

Harvey Dam

Myalup

Munda Biddi Trail

Wokalup Stirling Dam

Fo r rest Hwy

Binningup

Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park

Harris Dam

Clifton Rd

re Rd

Picton Rd Preston Bridge

y Rd Railwa

Peppermint Grove Beach

Capel

Honeymoon Pool Potters Gorge

n Rd

Wellington National Park

Collie River Valley

Muja

Collie

Wellington Dam

Ferguson Valley

Stockton Lake

Wellington Discovery Forest

Rd Gnomesville

Crooked Brook Forest

Glen Mervyn Dam

Boyanup State Forest

Preston Valley

i

Black Diamond Lake

Pile Rd

Bo yan up

Boyanup

Boyanup Rd West

Allanson

Dardanup i

Moo

sse

Bu

Tuart Forest National Park

Hwy stern th We Sou Picton

y Hw rn este th W

Stirling Beach

Stratham

Burekup

wy st H

Fergu so

lds Hw y

d ty R H en

ll H wy

e Forr

Gelorup

C oalfie

Roelands

Eaton

Sou

Dalyellup

Harris River State Forest

Australind

Leschenault Estuary

Bunbury

Brunswick

ie P res ton

i

Co ll

GEOGRAPHE BAY

Koombana Bay

Bibbulmun Track

Mornington

Benger

Yabberup Donnybrook Boyup Brook Rd Lowden

Donnybrook

Mumballup McAlinden Noggerup

Go o

Brookhampton dw oo d

Rd

Busselton

Grimwade

Ironstone Gully Falls

Kirup

Wilga State Forest

Mullalyup Jarrahwood State Forest

To Nannup scenic drive Golden Valley Tree Park

Balingup i Bridgetown

i Boyup Brook

Southampton Bridgetown

Albany

STRIP AD - UNSOLD

74

|

FOUND | autumn • winter 2019

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www.bartonjoneswines.com.au Cellar door: Thur - Sun 11am - 4.30pm Phone: 0409 831 926

www.greendoorwines.com.au Cellar door: Thur - Sun 11am - 4.30pm Phone: 9728 0907

www.smallwaterestate.com Cellar door: Fri - Sun 10am - 4pm Phone: 9731 6036

www.harveyriverestate.com.au Cellar door: Daily 10am – 4pm Phone: 9729 2588

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S A I N TA I DA N . C O M . AU

www.oakwayestate.com.au Cellar door: Sat/Sun 11am - 5pm and most public holidays Phone: 9731 7141

www.staidan.com.au Cellar door: Mon - Fri 11am - 4pm Sat & Sun 11am - 5pm Phone: 9728 3007

www.moojelup.com.au Cellar door:

By Appointment Phone: 9733 5166

www.willowbridge.com.au Cellar door: Daily 11am - 5pm Phone: 9728 0055

|

www.vineyard28.com.au Cellar door: Daily 10am - 5pm.

Phone: 9733 5605

FOUND | autumn • winter 2019

75

WE SEE A SAFER WORLD

O M TA N K E , W E W E L C O M E Y O U T O T R Y I T.

76

VolvoFOUND Cars Perth |

| autumn • winter 2019 9 Frobisher Street, Osborne Park

T 1300 856 406 www.volvocarsperth.com.au

DL2061

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