Your Margaret River Region Magazine Autumn 2018

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09 | AUTUMN 2018

Light fantastic

CAPE NATURALISTE LIGHTHOUSE IS MORE BEAUTIFUL THAN EVER

In this issue

• celebrate our food heroes • see world famous writers • bag a wine bargain for $25 • go on an Easter egg hunt

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Your Margaret River Region magazine

EVENTS THIS AUTUMN Your pull-out guide to what’s on this autumn margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2018 1

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IMAGE Sean Blocksidge

Editor’s Letter The road less travelled

W

e’re embracing doing things differently in this autumnal issue of Your Margaret River Region magazine. It might be something as simple as trying a new type of coffee to get you up and about in the morning, booking a camping holiday to sort out your disrupted sleep patterns, or booking an alt-tour to explore the region.

The Margaret River region has always been something of a trend-setter, from its award-winning wine who this time of the year are in their vineyards at night, to the many food heroes who’ve made the area their home.

There’s a bumper crop of new cafes, bars, food vans and businesses popping up all over the region – make sure you drop in to say hello. And because Easter’s just around the corner, we couldn’t go past including a story about the talented artisan chocolate makers who live and work in the region.

There are some unmissable festivals and events also happening in autumn – the Readers and Writers Festival promises world-famous names sharing their ideas and views at the new venue of Voyager Estate. Emergence Creative also attracts global creatives right here in the Margaret River region; why not join the conversation? And for foodies who see the cooler temperatures as an excuse to rug up and tuck in, Cabin Fever is just around the corner.

Make sure you make time to visit Lake Cave – it really is an extraordinary subterranean wonderland, while above ground our cover star Cape Naturaliste lighthouse has undergone a make-over, and the attraction is now more stunning than ever.

So, more than ever, the region’s leading from the front and doing things their way. We hope you have a wonderful visit.

Gabi

magazine Published by PREMIUM PUBLISHERS 26 John Street Northbridge Perth WA 6003 (08) 9273 8933 EDITOR Gabi Mills gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au DESIGNER Cally Browning cally@barecreative.com.au SALES MANAGER Natalie du Preez (0426 752 352) natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au PHOTOGRAPHIC Cover image by Tim Campbell (timcambellphoto.com) Elements Margaret River(elementsmargaretriver.com.au) Bianca Turri (info@biancaturri.com) CONTRIBUTORS Dianne Bortoletto, Cassandra Charlick, Zoe Deleuil, Fergal Gleeson, Melanie Hearse, Matthew Mills, Jennifer Morton, Lizzy Pepper, Janine Pittaway, Trevor Paddenburg.

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 YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION MAGAZINE is published quarterly by Premium Publishers on behalf of the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association.

Visit premiumpublishers.com.au

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Plan and book your holiday with Your Margaret River Region local experts.

Find us at the Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and Augusta Visitor Centres, email welcome @margaretriver.com or call (08) 9780 5911, seven days a week!

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PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

WHAT YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION GOT UP TO IN

A young Undalup Birak Festival dancer in action.

y Race Week The Geographe Ba mpetitors. co conditions for the

saw great sailing

Summer enup

d at Carb is parrot spotte Gorgeous high-v natureman he nt ba by @esta

Mountain biking is one of the most popular pursuits in the region @kittyk8

A full moon rises over the Indian Ocean @francesandrijich.

The Margaret River Dairy Co smashed record for cheese eating @timcampb the world ellphoto

Check out those ocean blue colours @elementsmargaretriver

Friendly stingrays are a common sight at Hamelin Bay @surfndirtadventuretours

We'd love to share your instagram pics!

Take a pic, make sure you use #margaretriver by May 1 2018 for your chance to see it featured in the next issue.

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Eat at Yarri p16 Busselton Pride p11

See classic cars at Aravina Estate p9 Bag a wine bargain p48

Watch the Margaret River Surfers Pro p72

map key

All aboard Blackwood River Houseboats p74

PICK UP YOUR MAP AT THE VISITOR CENTER!

FOLLOW YOUR NOSE, LISTEN TO THE WORD OF MOUTH AND WATCH THE SIGN ALONG THE WAY, SO YOU FIND... WOODFIRED BREAD In Yallingup off Balmoral Dr and in Margaret River on Boodjidup Rd, both open on Mon 3pm to 6pm, Tue to Sat from 7am to 6pm. Hot bread straight from the oven at 3pm.

BREAD

Yallingup Bakery 08 9756 6306

•

At the Gugelhupf in Yallingup, next to Caves House, we offer sandwiches from our woodfired bread, freshly brewed coffee, sweet and savory treats and foodlovers’ essentials.

Margaret River Bakery 08 9758 79779

•

Gugelhupf Bakery 0477 427 770

GUGELHUPF

Contents AUTUMN 2018

Nature & Environment 54 Ask a local - Go fishing with Josh Whiteland 56 Slave to the rhythm - Recalibrate in the great outdoors 60 Lighting the way - The revamped Cape Naturaliste lighthouse 62 Water world - The magical underground world of Lake Cave

Eat & Drink

64 House ahoy - Living sustainably, the sea container way

16 Fresh faces - Head to a new venue for a feed

Active & Adventure

20 Easter Hunt - The region’s best chocolate treasures

68 Swim sisters - Diving underneath the Busselton jetty

26 Full of beans - Long macs, hot chocs and the finest flat whites

70 Dhu the right thing - The dhufish season is in full swing

30 Mellow yellow - Reach for a decadent cheese platter

72 Crest kings and queens - The Margaret River Pro

33 Mobile marvels - The food truck revolution

74 Alt tours - Do things a little differently this autumn

36 Chill out and warm up - Cabin fever is coming 38 Five food heroes - Our favourite foodies and events

80 Concrete Kings - Kick flip your way around the region

78 X factor holidays - Exploring Busso in style with BMWs X3

Wine & Wineries

Arts & Wellbeing

41 The night shift - Wine picking by night

82 Flights of fancy - Artists in action at MRROS

44 Labour of love - The Brookwood family estate

86 Let’s go to . . . - Historic Witchcliffe

48 Bang for your buck - Our pick of the best wines under $25

90 For the love of words - MR Readers and Writers Festival

51 Surprise package - Inside Clairault Streicker

92 Welcome to the jungle - Take home a living souvenir

52 The art of wine - Flor Marché's artistic cellar

96 Opposites attract - Emergence Creative comes to town

AUTUMN REVIVER Energise, Rejuvenate or Nourish with your choice of three new autumn packages for $165* per person.

BOOK AT PULLMANBUNKERBAYRESORT.COM.AU *Offer valid until 31 May 2018, subject to availability. Conditions apply - see website for details.

TO DO LIST

What shall we do today?

DIANNE BORTOLETTO HAS PUT TOGETHER SOME SUGGESTIONS OF NEW AND INTERESTING THINGS TO DO IN THE REGION.

RIGHT ON TARGET Channel your inner Robin Hood at Forest Adventures South West's new 15-lane archery range in the Tuart Forest, Busselton. Qualified staff will take you step by step through safe shooting techniques while you experience your confidence increase and the adrenaline charge with every stretch of the bow. Book online for a 45-minute session that starts on the half hour during school holidays and long weekends.

Minimum age is seven years and children must be accompanied by an adult.

While you’re there, why not take the fun factor to the highest level by participating in one or all of the 77 activities Forest Adventures South West offers on their eight-acre property?

There’s more than 500 meters of flying foxes, an up-high unicycle on tarzan ropes, a 13-metre base jump, BMX on wire, giant rope spiderwebs to climb and more.

Six different rope and wire challenges await starting from three metres high to 18 metres high in the trees tops. Climb the ladders, balance on the suspended bridges and jump on up to 11 flying foxes with some over over 150 meters long.

Bookings are essential.Visit forestadventures.com.au for more.

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A WANDER IN WITCHCLIFFE Witchcliffe is a quirky little hamlet just nine kilometres south of Margaret River on the Bussell Highway. Once a timber and dairyfarming town, Witchcliffe or ‘Witchy’ as locals affectionately call it, charms with its interesting little finds.

Call into the new Yardbyrd Café, tucked alongside the bottle shop on Bussell Highway

and see why it’s quickly earning itself a legion of fans. It has great coffee by Pound, a West Australian roaster, local Geo Organics milk, a cosy indoor seated area, the big outdoor area and beautiful gardens growing produce used in many of the café’s dishes.

Dog-friendly, with enough space for kids to run around and mums with prams to manoeuvre with ease. Popular dishes include the brekkie

n m u t Au AT THE WATER’S EDGE

burrito, house-made bircher muesli, granola, omelettes, carrot cake, lemon cake, banana bread and savoury muffins. Open every day from 7am weekdays and 6am weekends until 4pm.

Antique, retro and second-hand lovers and collectors will find joy in The Flying Wardrobe. There’s a clear passion for all things vintage and quirky with an eclectic mix of crockery, books, furniture, kitchenware, copper pots, clothing, vinyl records, glassware, ceramics, toys, garaganalia (for the motoring enthusiast), jewellery, chandeliers, canisters, tools, wooden crates, cameras and much more. Take your time, there’s a lot to appreciate here - it's the perfect place to find a gift for those hard-to-buy-for friends and family.

Hardware Creative is a co-working studio and workshop hub that includes a gallery, designers' HQ, a photography studio, bespoke jewellery, high-end styling and clothing hire, portrait studio hire, web design and graphic design and casual hotspot desks for creative types.

Be ready for your mind to be blown at the Bellview Shell Museum. Owners Peter and Kathryn Ignoti have the largest known private collection of shells in the southern hemisphere, quite possibly the world. With over 30,000 rare and beautiful shells and coral specimens collected from all around the world, it's a treat for all the family. Open 9am to 5pm Friday to Wednesday (closed in August).

Read our special Witchcliffe feature on page 86.

BECOME A WINE CONNOISSEUR Margaret River Unplugged has launched new wine appreciation education courses that deliver unique experiences for amateur wine enthusiasts starting from a one-day course to four days of total wine immersion.

To create the best learning opportunities, Margaret River Unplugged has combined interactive presentations, vineyard and winery

DELICIOUS NEW SEASONAL MENUS experiences, wine and food tastings, hands-on activities, fun-filled wine games and delicious wine-paired lunches and dinners prepared by chefs using local produce. This combination of experiential learning ensures that the knowledge remains embedded in the memory of participants.

To book, visit margaretriverunplugged.com/ wine-courses/

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT DINING

PLAY TIME In the Dawson Estate, the new nature playground features a range of exciting play equipment, climbing obstacles, walk and cycle paths, seating spaces and a BBQ area (pictured opposite).

The trunks of marri trees have been saved during various subdivision work feature in the area, ensuring that there’s plenty of shade.

Corner of Napoleon Promenade and Amberjack Avenue,Vasse.

HOT RODS AND SLICK MOTORS Got a motoring enthusiast in the family? Head over to Aravina Estate’s incredible collection of highly desirable motors - it’s one of the most valuable in Australia.

And if you’re around on May 19 or 20, the South West Indoor Motor Show at Georgiana Molloy Anglican School will showcase some of WA’s finest hot rods, custom and muscle cars.

Visit aravinaestate.com and facebook.com/ events/118090358909011

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BUNKERSBEACHHOUSE.COM.AU

08 9756 8284

Autumn highlights

How to spend autumn in your Margaret River region FIND THE LATEST EVENT LISTINGS AT MARGARETRIVER.COM/EVENTS

Butter Factory where the museum is housed, and the early farming settlement of the Busselton area. Be entertained by local musical artists and historical skits by the Acting Up Repertory Group, have lunch from one of the food vans and sit by the Vasse River under the trees.

The Heritage Butter Factory and Busselton Museum has 10 display rooms packed with photographs, equipment and memorabilia which trace the family, social, civic, commercial and maritime history of Busselton

MARCH A CENTURY OF LOCAL HISTORY

Celebrate 100 years of history at the fascinating Busselton Museum.

On March 11, the museum will be holding a special open day for the public to celebrate this milestone in Busselton’s history.

There will be many historical exhibits, demonstrations and photos of the Old

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Tim Seddon and Gene Brutty, creative directors at Google Japan

Everything from agriculture to whaling; from crockery, clocks and cameras to sewing machines, travel and transport included.The one-hectare site is nestled on the banks of the picturesque Vasse River.

A replica of the Jetty Rotunda enhances the vista and the exhibits demonstrate Busselton’s diverse agricultural, forestry and maritime history. Special attention is focused on the famous 1920s Group Settlement Scheme which shaped much of the development of the south west. // Busselton Museum, Old Butter Factory Complex, Peel Terrace, Busselton, March 11, from 10am to 4pm, $2 entry fee.

Visit busseltonmuseum. org.au.

NIGHT FEASTING

Tuck into food from around the globe at the hugely popular night markets. You’ll find dumplings and noodles, curries and wraps - the perfect way to spend the evening tucking into delicious, locally produced food. // Margaret River Night Market, Memorial Park, Margaret River, March 16, 4.30 to 9pm. Visit facebook.com/ worldfoodtwilightmarketsmargaretriver

LET’S GET CREATIVE

Emergence Creative throws the region’s hotbed of creativity into sharp focus again, with world-renowned creative professionals descending on Margaret River and surrounds for the now annual three-day event.

Dubbed the ‘anti-conference’, the south west's idea’s fest is an influential celebration of creativity where ideas get off the ground.

Highlights include award-winning creative directors at Google Japan Tim Seddon and Gene Brutty who are some of many must-see presenters, both of whom are from WA originally.

Festival Director Erin Molloy said the event provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to get face to face with some of the best in their industries.

“We have some incredible creative talent coming out of WA, and each year we are able to put the spotlight on and bring home some of those that are making waves internationally,” said Erin.

“Last year we had Matt Eastwood (NYC), the year before we had Russell James (NYC) and Ned McNeilage (LA), amongst others return to the state, and in 2018 it’s fantastic that we have Tim and Gene in the mix to share their journey, which started in WA.” // Emergence Creative, various locations, March 21 to 24. Conference passes start at $650 for the three-day event, with Early Bird AAA passes costing $790.

Individual workshop passes from $50.

Passes are available for purchase at emergencecreative.com

GIDDY UP

Enjoy three days of equestrian show jumping competition at the 2018 Yalambi Show Jumping Classic. It’s WA’s premier equestrian event and attracts horses and riders from all over the state.

// 2018 Yalambi Show Jumping Classic, Yalambi Farm, 771 Yelverton Road, Wilyabrup, March 23 to 25. Visit facebook. com/Yalambi-Farm-Stud

PRIDE RULES

Join Busselton’s first ever LGBT and Pride event and dress to thrill. As you’d expect, there’s fabulous free entertainment, live bands, performing arts, burlesque dancers, drag queens and headline act, The Tommyhawks. // Busselton Pride, Art Geo Cultural Complex, Busselton, March 24, 2.30 to 6.30pm. Visit facebook/busseltonpride

SCITECH GOES DOWN SOUTH

Take the little ones to see cool science shows at Lake Cave and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. // Lake Cave, Bubble Show, March 17, from 9am, 4 to 9 year olds or Element of Surprise, for 10+ year olds at 10am; Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, Bubble Show, at 2pm, 4 to 9 year olds or Element of Surprise, for 10+ year olds at 3pm. Bookings essential, $7.50 per child.

Call Lake Cave 08 9757 7411 and Cape Nat 08 9755 3955.

APRIL PANTRY FILLERS

Head to the Augusta Community Market and stock up on delicious jams, relishes, pickles, cakes and more. You’ll also find gorgeous handmade woollen products, beautiful photography, fresh produce, second hand goods and jewellery. // Blackwood Avenue, April 1, from 8am to noon.

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Autumn highlights

WAVE MASTERS

The Margaret River Pro forms part of the World Surf League (WSL) World Championship Tour (WCT), where the top ranked 34 male and top ranked 16 female surfers compete over a 12-day period.

This is one of 11 WCT events globally, which occur at iconic destinations including O’ahu Hawaii, Lower Trestles California, Jeffreys Bay South Africa and Teahup’o Tahiti.

The event, now in its 32nd year, is a celebration of sun, surf, food and arts in an extraordinary natural environment. So head down to Surfers Point, Prevelly to watch the best surfers in the world battle it out. // Margaret River Pro, Surfer’s Point, April 11 to 22. Visit surfingaustralia.com.au

DON’T MISS . . .

One of the major sponsors for the Margaret River Pro, Aravina Estate, is the top spot for a refill while taking a break from watching the

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action on the water during the World Surf League World Championship Tour. Pop in for a bite to eat and a glass of wine and set aside an afternoon for some serious surf history in the WA Surf Gallery at the estate Launched in December in collaboration with Surfing WA, the gallery features some incredible memorabilia and charts the history of the growth of the surf culture in Western Australia. A special Surf Pro retrospective at the WA Surf Gallery is the exhibit not to miss while the world’s best are riding the waves.

Featuring boards, photos, posters and rashies from previous years of the competition all the way back to its earliest beginnings, this is definitely not one to miss for grommets young and old. // Visit aravinaestate.com

LEST WE FORGET

Honour those who gave the ultimate sacrifice this ANZAC Day (April 25).

Margaret River – dawn service from 6am, Memorial Park and ANZAC Day march at 11am on the main street.

Augusta – dawn service from 6.20am, Memorial Park and main service at 11am.

Busselton – dawn service at 5.45am, ANZAC Day march from Signal Park at 8.30am Busselton War Memorial, main service at 9am, Dunsborough –Dunsborough Foreshore, ANZAC Day march from Lions Park at 10.30am, service at 11am.

ARTISTS IN ACTION

Margaret River Region Open Studios is the largest open art studios event in Australia.

More than 130 artists from Busselton to

amaze’n MARGARET RIVER

Augusta in the south west will open their studios to welcome in visitors for a behindthe-scenes experience, making it the largest event in its five-year history.

Margaret River Region Open Studios celebrates and shares the wealth of artistic talent located in the beautiful Margaret River region.

By inviting artists to open their studios and homes, art lovers have the opportunity to meet the people behind the amazing art, and get a peek into their creative lives and inspirational spaces.

Local artists are the stars of the show and talent this year includes renowned landscape artist Douglas Kirsop for the first time, as well as returning artists Rachel Coad, Leon Pericles, Rebecca Cool, Mary Lynne Stratton and many more.

MARGARET RIVER MAZE, GARDENS, MINI GOLF & CAFE

// Margaret River Region Open Studios, various locations, April 28 to May 13, free.

Visit mrros.com.au

LOUNGE AROUND

Over the three weeks of MRROS, join some of the artists who are opening up their studios to the public in Margaret River Gallery’s relaxed lounge space. Spend an afternoon with unprecedented yet relaxed access to artists at work. Drop in, view an exhibition of local artworks and interact with artists like Sam Broadhurst, Deidre Bruhn, Kate Debbo, Alice Linford Forte, Francesco Geronazzo, Sarmarie Higgins, Natasha Hill and photograher Martine Perret. Salli Coppin, owner of the gallery and artist in her own right, will also be exhibiting her beautiful jewellery, showing how her cast rings are

Giant Hedge Margaret River Maze, 18 Hole Mini Golf and 5ha Botanical gardens, 4km south of Margaret River More mazes, games and puzzles amongst the gardens | Unusual WA native plants, attracting abundant birds and wildlife | BBQs, picnic ground, playground | Amaze’n café overlooking Amaze’n gardens and lake for lunches, coffee and cake | Wheelchair-accessible paths Tel: 08 9758 7439 9978 Bussell Highway, Margaret River findus@amazenmargaretriver.com.au margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2018 13

www.amazenmargaretriver.com.au

Autumn highlights

APRIL made from wax to casting to finished pieces.

There’s also a free program of refreshments, talks, workshops, demos and conversations. // Lounging with the Artist, Margaret River Gallery, Charles West Avenue, Margaret River, April 28 until May 11. Visit margaretrivergallery.com.au for information.

MAY PACK YOUR RUNNERS

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon boasts 80 kilometres of magnificent trail running through the beautiful Margaret River region.

It will take runners on a journey through a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes, starting at Hamelin Bay in the south and finishing at the Cheeky Monkey Brewery and Cidery at Wilyabrup in the north, on May 5.

The 80km point to point course can be completed by solo runners or relay teams of up to five people who each run a different leg of the route.

Along the way the competitors will traverse an incredible range of landscapes including awe-inspiring karri tree forests, cliff top trails with endless ocean views, white sandy beaches, quaint coastal villages and rolling hinterland terrain.

Runners from across Australia and

overseas are expected to travel to Margaret River for this extraordinary event which has been designed as an achievable challenge for all levels, from elites through to trail running newcomers who can divide the 80km distance into a relay with the five different legs varying between 10km and 20km. // Margaret River Ultra Marathon, Hamelin Bay to Wilyabrup, May 5.

Visit MRUltramarathon.com.au

JUNE BOOKWORMS WELCOME

Those who attend this year’s 10th annual Readers and Writers Festival are in for a treat. The festival’s line-up of literary talent includes more than 50 authors and presenters spanning over 50 events. Geraldine Brooks, who has written three works of non-fiction and five novels, including the 2006 Pulitzer Prize-winning March and the ABIA Book of the Year, People of the Book, is the headline writing star, and she’s in good company.

The festival’s line-up of literary talent also includes one of Australia’s most respected journalists and television presenters, Tony Jones, and Rosie Batty, the outspoken and dynamic crusader against domestic violence, a vocarion which led her to be named

Australian of the Year in January 2015. Rosie will talk about her profoundly moving and inspiring memoir, A Mother’s Story.

Also joining the festival is one of Australia’s 100 National Living Treasures, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, who will be talking science and Nikki Gemmell, the bestselling author of thirteen novels and four works of non-fiction. // Readers and Writers Festival, Voyager Estate, June 1 to 3. Visit mrrwfestival.com for the full programme of events,.

BAYSIDE TUNES

Tune in and drop out of the rat race over the long weekend as Jazz By The Bay returns to the region. Enjoy music across over 20 venues from Dunsborough to Busselton and Margaret River. Last year had a seriously impressive line-up, including performers from

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the Buena Vista Social Club, and this year’s looks just as promising. It’s a great way to enjoy the region’s food and wine venues while listening to international-standard live music.

There are heaps of free events too if dollars are scarce. // Jazz By The Bay, various venues, June 1 to 4. Visit jazzbythebay.com.au.

south west environment and the world-class Margaret River wine region.

“I began SouWester Spirits with the simple ethos of creating spirits of provenance. As no one else in the world makes an ice-pressed chardonnay, this gin is unique and rare,” says Danielle.

“I have taken no short cuts with this barrelaged gin, sourcing locally-grown organic native finger limes (and having the cuts to prove it) and biodynamic saltbush.

“Trials of these botanicals in particular have led to a beautifully balanced product.

REST, RELAX, RECONNECT Romantic, secluded, self contained chalets with candlelit sky-view spas, kingsize double beds and tranquil forest outlooks, on 240 acres of natural beauty.

POP UP FOR WINE TREASURES

Another event for the long weekend (June 2 and 3) from 10am to 5pm gives visitors to Fraser Gallop Wines their a once-a-year opportunity to taste and buy an incredible array of current release and museum wines.

When each vintage is nearly sold out the owners of the estate hold back just a small quantity for future wine dinners and this annual event. Many wines - some going as far back as 2010 - will be available at this keenlyanticipated pop-up event. // Fraser Gallop Estate, 493 Metricup Road, Wilyabrup. Call (08) 9755 7553 or visit frasergallopestate.com.au.

GIN O’CLOCK

If gin’s more you’re thing, a new brand SouWester Gin - has launched. It’s a gin aged in ice-pressed chardonnay barrels from Fraser Gallop Estate, and it’s this extra special inclusion to the spirit’s creation which has resulted in hints of vanilla and toasty oak.

Founder Danielle Costley set out to create a gin that paid homage to the remarkable

The barrels reside only metres from the surfing beaches in Margaret River, further adding to the gin’s coastal influence.”

Each bottle is individually numbered and hand bottled in Margaret River. It is a smooth, elegant and textural gin that is best enjoyed either neat, over ice, or with a clean tonic mixer. // Visit souwesterspritis.com or info@ souwesterspirits.com to find out where SouWester Gin ($130 RRP) is stocked.

R E ST, R E L AX, R ECO NNEC T Romantic, secluded, self contained chalets with candlelit sky-view spas, Kingsize

double beds and tranquil forest outlooks, on 240 acres of natural beauty.

231 Yelverton Road, Yelverton Margaret River Wine Region Phone (08) 9755 7110 or email reception@forestrise.com.au

231 Yelverton Road, Yelverton Margaret River Wine Region Phone (08) 9755 7110 or email reception@forestrise.com.au

WWW.FORESTRISE.COM.AU

Eat & Drink

Fresh faces

LITTLE BROTHER

THE WARMER MONTHS HAVE SEEN SOME EXCITING ADDITIONS TO THE REGION. TO HELP YOU TICK OFF THE LIST OF MUST TRIES, READ ON FOR A FEW SUGGESTIONS RANGING ONE END OF THE CAPE TO THE OTHER AND WITH PLENTY OF PIT STOPS IN BETWEEN. BY CASSANDRA CHARLICK. 16

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Dunsborough welcomed a number of venues while the summer sunshine was out casting her rays. Little Brother is the latest offering from the team behind Black Brewing Co located on Caves Road. The newest bar in the hub of town, pop in for a bevvie on your next afternoon or evening off and enjoy the roof garden while sampling their selection of share plates and the drinks list. Local beer and Margaret River wines round out a classic cocktail selection. With guest DJs on select weekends and fun vibes a plenty, Little Brother may be younger than its bigger and older family member down at the Caves Road brewery, but it’s definitely not lacking in spirit and good times vibes for the cool cats of Dunsborough.

239 Naturaliste Terrace, Dunsborough.

Call (08) 9750 5070 or visit littlebrotherdunsborough.com.au

YONDER “Yonder is a small bar with a big, loud heart,” says owner/operator Leon Carroll. Small indeed – it’s easy to miss if you don’t know about the coolest kid in town, hidden in the Coles car park just off the main street in Margaret River. Once you’ve found it though, be prepared to stay. A warm welcome from staff adds to the relaxed

and cosy vibe from this Melbourne-esque small bar filled with authentic furnishings and jarrah framework. Rock and roll vibes resonate from the playlist filled with classics like Black Sabbath, Nirvana, The Stooges, The Black Lips and others pumping loud and playing until it closes. A ‘tight and tasty’ cocktail list is constantly being refreshed and,at the time of writing,Yonder is the home of ‘Frank’: a local favourite jalapeño and coconut tequila cocktail that warms you up and cools you down. The full back bar is stocked with over 40 spirits, including a few surprises and the fridges are bursting with both local and international beers that are generally exclusive to Yonder. Open seven days from 5pm till late, the venue is the perfect size for smaller functions and is one of the few places in Margaret River that is available for hire in its entirety. This is definitely worth hunting out and keeping pinned on your favourites list.

124 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River. Visit yonderbar.com

YARRI RESTAURANT + BAR Yarri Restaurant + Bar, the region’s most anticipated new restaurant, is Aaron Carr’s (pictured above) first venture as chef and operator after 21 years at the helm of the kitchen at Vasse Felix’s restaurant. One of the state’s most respected and awarded chefs, Carr’s vast experience, combined with the expertise of co-founders Snake + Herring’s Redmond Sweeney and Sal and Tony Davis, is a match

made in heaven for what is bound to be one of the region’s leading restaurants. The restaurant and cuisine are rooted in the south west, Carr explains: “Yarri honours nature, seasonality, and the south west – its people, produce and place.”. A frequently updated beverage program is curated by Sweeney and Davis, the wines are selected to perfectly pair with Carr’s contemporary and accessible food, where seasonal WA produce is elevated with simplicity and subtlety. The ever-changing menu reflects the six seasons of the Nyungar people and almost all dishes are ‘touched by fire’ in a custom wood-burning oven to enhance the natural characteristics of the ingredients. From a full à la carte menu, through to the ultimate degustation experience or a quick drink and bite to eat at the bar,Yarri is for families and fun, or treats and date nights; it’s for Sunday sessions and quick bites; or long lunches and making memories.

6 Cyrillean Way, Dunsborough. Call (08) 9786 5030 or visit yarri.com.au

AMELIA PARK LODGE A lodge in the traditional sense, Amelia Park Lodge offers boutique accommodation alongside its restaurant in the historical building previously known as Newton House. December saw a new addition to the property as doors officially opened on the purpose-built tavern. The stunning building oozes European elegance but is also casual and family-friendly with woodfired pizzas in the alfresco beer garden with a strong local wine list. The regular events calendar features live music several days of the week, cocktail nights and outdoor cinema screenings.

As the new favourite spot for a Sunday session with locals, be sure to get there early and secure one of the comfortable lounges for an afternoon the whole family can enjoy.

5850 Bussell Highway. Call (08) 9755 4431 or visit ameliaparklodge.com.au

THE RIVER HOTEL The River Hotel opened its front doors to

an eager crowd in 2017 but it’s only over the summer that the newly renovated beer garden and function space has seen its paint dry and the pints poured. Formerly known at The Knights Inn and the Margaret River Resort, the venue has undergone a serious renovation and been transformed into one of the town’s most popular watering holes and restaurants for a causal meal.

The stunning front bar has one of the best spirit collections in the region which are matched with a fresh and flavoursome menu focused around small plate sharing and a few heartier mains for those who’ve been busy working up a sweat all day in the surf or the local mountain bike paths. Open from noon until late, seven days a week, the beer garden has already been host to some of the top touring music acts visiting the south west, as well as regular specials and events such as Tuesday Gin Club, Burger Mondays and Sunday Sessions. There’s no need to worry about the trip home after enjoying the temptations at the bar - why not stay overnight with recently

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Eat & Drink AS THE NEW FAVOURITE SPOT FOR A SUNDAY SESSION WITH LOCALS, BE SURE TO GET THERE EARLY

renovated rooms in the hotel ranging from queen rooms through to king size spa suites and villas?

40 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River. (08) 9757 0000 or visit theriverhotel.com.au

OLD KENT RIVER Summer saw the official opening of the new Margaret River cellar door for Old Kent River Winery, previously located in Denmark. This change in locality offers the best of both worlds: the multi-region vineyard portfolio ensures premium cool climate pinot noir, chardonnay and sparkling wines from the Great Southern along with the addition of classic Margaret River semillon sauvignon blanc and cabernet merlot blends. A small selection of local cheese and produce is available to purchase and ‘make your

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own’ platter to enjoy with a glass of wine in the beautiful surroundings of the estate.

687 Ellenbrook Road, Cowaramup. Call (08) 9755 5999 or visit oldkentriverwines.com.au

Aravina Estatre, 61 Thornton Road, Yallingup.

Call (08) 9750 1111 or visit aravinaestate.com.au

RIVIERA BAR

WORK LIFE DUNSBOROUGH

While Aravina Estate isn’t a new kid on the block, pop in to check out their new Riviera Bar with a retro chic style that Bridget Bardot would feel right at home in. Complete with a vintage rowing boat hanging above the entrance and cool posters lining the walls, the snack menu complements wines by the glass and local beer Honest Ale by Taj Burrow. Aravina’s restaurant is also under the helm of new Head Chef Ben Jacob with his first menu at the estate released this autumn, so expect new flavours coming from this kitchen.

Not a bar or restaurant, but a new shared work space, Work Life Dunsborough offers a stylish and relaxing shared co-working and event space for Dunsborough residents and visitors. Perfect for those who bring their work with them when down on holiday, why not open the laptop, bring in morning tea and a coffee and enjoy home away from home in a space that inspires creativity and a healthy work life balance?

During the day, the shared space provides for up to 12 individuals where visitors and members can quietly sit and work at one of the individual

And something a little different . . .

You’re invited RISING STARS Opposite, Amelia Park Lodge and Tavern is a new favourite for locals. New Margaret River bar Yonder (far left) and Old Kent River (above and below) offer new places to imbibe. And if you need somewhere to work while in town, give Work Life Dunsborough a go.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Discover the vineyards Explore the wines Experience food pairings Daily tours at 11:30am (except Thursdays and Sundays).

331 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Call (08) 9757 0888 or email cellardoor@capementelle.com.au “hot” desks or collaborate with like-minded professionals at the shared desk or sitting area.

If peace and quiet is needed, duck into the quiet zone in the enclosed meeting room. For evenings and weekends, Work Life can convert into a large room for up to 20 individuals as a versatile event space.

Visit worklifedunsborough.com

Eat & Drink

On the HUNT

Easter’s just around the corner so that means you’re all given permission to go on a hunt for the region’s best chocolate treasures.

By CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

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hile autumnal hues and falling leaves herald the upcoming festivities of Halloween and Thanksgiving in the Northern hemisphere, in Australia the impending holiday season is one filled with treats of a different kind. The Easter weekend in April is one of the most popular in the region for both tourists and locals alike. It’s the perfect time to loosen the belt a notch and get ready to hunt down some of the best chocolate producers in the south west. So all in the name of research, I’ve had the tough job of planning the perfect chocolate trail before the Easter bunny arrives.

Starting my search in the heart of Margaret River, I wake up bright and early on Saturday for the first chocolate bean-fuelled stop. The Margaret River Farmers market is situated on Bussell Highway at the top of town every Saturday morning and is a dream for chocolate lovers. Nadia Haskell’s Harlequin Chocolate and Calvacade Desserts will set your taste buds up for the day. Her small-scale, handmade delights are made with fine French and Italian couverture in decadently flavoured truffles, pralines and bonbons. A gourmand’s dream, ginger and black sesame, lemon and basil are just a couple of the inspired flavour combos.

For a limited time only, be sure to take home some of the hand-painted chocolate eggs, honey macadamia Easter truffles or passionfruit fudgefilled eggs. The Easter Bunny would have to be very busy indeed to come up with indulgent temptations to rival such masterpieces but he can buy them online if he needs a bit of help before the Easter hunt.

While at the markets look out for a sneak

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Jahroc Galleries is situated in the hear t of Margaret River and is the largest contemporar y galler y in the South West showcasing a diverse range of Fine Furniture, Fine Ar t, Jeweller y, Glass, Ceramic and Sculpture. It is home to award winning furniture designers/ makers JahRoc Furniture who use local specialty timbers to hand craft their bespoke designer furniture. Visit Jahroc Galleries and f ind out why all that do, leave inspired.

BUNNY LOVE The Margaret River Chocolare Co (left) has a special range of Easter treats, while Temper Temper (above) offers an eclectic collection of choccy combinations.

preview of the next trail stop at Temper Temper’s market stall where they have a small selection showcasing their range of premium chocolate creations. With sustainably sourced couverture and options including organic, healthy and sugar free varieties it’s time to jump in the car for a quick five-minute drive and be whisked into chocolate heaven upon entering their choc headquarters. Brace yourself for a sensory overload with chocolate to taste, smell, and gaze upon at every turn in the chocolate paradise dreamt up by owners and chocolatiers

Roz Koeppen and Georgia Aughton. Meeting in 2015 through a love of food at Roz’s wedding, the shared passion for chocolate has led to the two being kept busy with over 180 shelves of chocolate in store. This is in addition to the online orders from chocoholics throughout Australia, and an in-store café filled with hot chocolates and fresh cocoa laden baked goods from the onsite kitchen.

Watch the master chocolatiers at work through the kitchen window on your visit and see how molten chocolate is transformed into

Open daily 10am-5pm 83 Bussell Highway, Margaret River Ph. (08) 9758 7200 E. info@jahroc.com.au margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2018 21

www.jahroc.com.au

Eat & Drink handmade culinary creations filled with dried fruits, nuts, berries, spices and other delectable goodies. Flavour combinations range from traditional, such as chocolate and raspberry, mint and dark chocolate and salted caramel, through to exciting options for adventurous palates – try the milk chocolate and Vegemite, milk, grapefruit and fennel or turmeric and ginger. Think you can come up with a flavour combo that tops those ideas? With their new DIY Chocolate Bar Experience, it’s time to don an apron and chef ’s hat and try them out. Choose your flavourings and chocolate base and get to work in the kitchen. Newly apprenticed chocolatiers can then name and take home their masterpiece, though no promises how long they will last – taste testing is part of the job remember.

It’s time to hit the road again and aim for

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The Margaret River Chocolate Company, about 20 minutes north. On the way, pop

by Bettenay’s Margaret River Nougat Company for a sample of their chocolate nougat range and Nougaretto liqueur. For Easter they have a special four-pack featuring their most decadent chocolate nougat bars that can be bought in-store or online through Qantas Epicure. The Margaret River Chocolate Company was opened in 1999 and has been a must-visit in the region for visitors ever since its earliest days. Take a quick break from tasting

and refuel at the café with a range of light snacks and drinks, or dedicated chocoholics can get stuck straight into the chocolate range. With over 200 products, there are too many to try in just one visit but why not join their chocolate club to keep chock-full of updates and specials and go in the running to win a years supply of the food of the gods (that’s chocolate to us mere mortals? Easter is easily the busiest time of the year for the factory and the team are already busily making more than 20,000 Easter quokkas, bilbies, bunnies, eggs and Easter truffles. Fun for the whole family is bound to be had during your trip with free Easter egg hunts each day, visits by the Easter Bunny, colouring competitions and games, as well as free chocolate tastings and displays.

The afternoon brings me to the last two

stops on my trail. While there is not currently a storefront for Bahen & Co, no Margaret River chocolate journey would be complete without a mention of the small-scale chocolate producer.

Founded by former winemaker Josh Bahen, he lovingly creates his chocolate at the family farm and sources cocoa beans direct from farmers around the globe. Using traditional vintage equipment for each step of the process, every bar is a labour of love from the stoneground beans through to the artwork on the individually wrapped bars of single origin and house blends.

Purchase at local stockists such as The Larder, Blue Ginger,Vasse Virgin and Leeuwin Estate or online on their website.

Find the perfect spot to end a hard day's work on the hunt at Gabriel Chocolate,

nestled among the vines in Yallingup. Western Australia’s first bean-to-bar chocolate Maker, Gabriel Myburgh began making chocolate when he became increasingly frustrated at the lack of access to good quality chocolate and to satiate his curiosity about the magic of transforming a simple bean to one of the world's most exquisite foods.

From sweet milk through to the darkest 99% chocolate, make sure you leave quality time to taste the wide range of single-origin bars and explore the subtle variances in flavour that come from the choice of bean and the country it is sourced from. Before the drive home one last sugar hit will help keep your focus behind the wheel – the café at Gabriel has sublime choices in their series of different hot chocolates and silky smooth home made ice-cream flavours.

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE OLIVE OIL EXPERIENCE SOPHISTICATED TASTES Bahen & Co source cocoa beans direct from farmers around the world (left). Head to Gabriel Chocolate for unusual chocolates made to the highest standards.

SOAP | GOURMET FOOD | SKIN CARE | WORKSHOPS

SOAP FACTORY & WORKSHOPS 135 Puzey Road, Wilyabrup WA | Ph. (08) 9755 6111

Open daily (bookings essential for workshops) margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2018 www.vassevirgin.com.au

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Eat & Drink

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Bodhi Spa ad

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FULLof BEANS. W

hether you like your coffee with an ocean view, surrounded by forest or while people-watching in the main street of Margs, you’re never far from an excellent brew down south.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

The Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage Café – Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse I worked here as a lighthouse guide many moons ago, so it was a thrill to visit the café just days

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IF YOU CRAVE COFFEE AND YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A FIX, LIZZY PEPPER HAS SIPPED HER WAY AROUND THE REGION AND FOUND THE FINEST FLAT WHITES, LONG MACS AND HOT CHOCS Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER/SUPPLIED

after it opened in a newly renovated lighthouse keeper’s cottage. The team from The Goose in Busselton are serving up cakes, biscuits and seriously yummy toasted sandwiches alongside great coffee.

They’ve decked the limestone cottage out beautifully with flea market finds – collectible tourist teaspoons, a 1960s wireless radio and mismatched retro china. There are puzzles and jigsaws plus a nautical-themed playground outside for the kids.

Take a lighthouse tour and look out for blue wrens in spring and summer, and whales during

the winter migration. Treat yourself to a coffee and toastie afterwards and see if you can finish that kangaroo puzzle.

Open 9.30am to 4.30pm daily. 1267 Cape Naturaliste Road, Cape Naturaliste, Dunsborough

Yardbyrd - Witchcliffe Rob Mayberry, the man behind Little Willy’s, Bookend and Dancing Goat in Perth, opened this great little café in Witchcliffe in late 2017.

The coffee is made with Pound beans, local Geo Organics unhomogenised milk and rainwater. “It’s the little tiny things that add

KICK START YOUR DAY Left, the ever-popular White Elephant Cafe. Below, Busselton's Brew + is a new drive-through option and, bottom, Witchcliffe's Yardbyrd..

up to a different experience” says Rob, and he’s absolutely right. The breakfast burrito is on a homemade tortilla, there’s fresh pressed apple juice in the bircher muesli – everything is made inhouse, from scratch except the Margaret River woodfired bread.

Open 6am-4pm weekdays, 7am-4pm weekends.

10413 Bussell Highway,Witchcliffe

The Good Egg – Busselton Not just a café – Deb Hallyburton and Amy Ovans have built a community, and a space where book clubs and mothers groups meet,

and locals hold workshops and cooking classes.

It’s an industrial space with a mezzanine floor, comfortable velvet couches and a great ambiance.

Coffee is from Micrology, an independent roaster in Perth. My flat white was strong and creamy, just how I like it.

Breakfast is served till 11.30am and all day on weekends. I had traditional French toast and a side of bacon, all drizzled with maple syrup. The menu has clean eating options, and everything is available gluten free.

Open 6.30am-5pm weekdays, 7am-4pm weekends.

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Eat & Drink Brew+ - Busselton Brew+ is a new drive-through liquor and coffee shop serving Yahava coffee in West Busselton. It’s locally owned and operated by the same team behind Dunsborough and Cape Cellars, so you can pick up a great coffee and find a new craft beer or local wine too.

Coffee 6.30am-4pm weekdays, 7.30am-2pm Saturdays. 231 Bussell Highway,West Busselton

COFFEE WITH AN OCEAN VIEW Bunkers Beach House

Nestled in the sand dunes is this modern caférestaurant. They do a roaring breakfast and lunch trade, and it’s popular with weddings too. Inside the café there’s ocean glimpses but arrive early for an outdoor table on the deck with a sweeping view of Bunker Bay. This is one of the loveliest beaches in the south west – the sparkling turquoise water and fine white sand is hard to resist, so bring your bathers.

Coffee is by Margaret River Roasting Co, and teas from the local Seven Seas Tea. Our flat whites and soy lattes were perfect. We shared chachouka (eggs baked in a flavoursome tomato stew) and vanilla waffles, but next time we’re coming back for lunch – there’s a mix of Middle Eastern inspired dishes and pizzas on the menu.

Open 8.30am-3pm daily. Farm Break Lane, Cape Naturaliste

there, and you’ll want to jump in.

White Elephant café is perched above Gnarabup beach, in front of some spectacular limestone cliffs. It’s popular with locals and tourists alike who flock here for the great food and awesome views. Most of the tables are outdoors on the deck, but there’s an indoor space for cooler days.

The coffee is made with Rubra beans, expertly roasted in Perth. We had iced coffees and brekky burgers before hiring stand-up paddle boards from the beach hut to explore Gnarabup bay.

Open 7.30am-3pm daily. Gnarabup Rd, Margaret River

The White Elephant Café – Gnarabup

TRIED AND TESTED

You may have seen the photos on Instagram – delicious food and coffee served on the deck with the glorious blue ocean right behind it.

Bring your bathers because the beach is right

This place is awesome – from the barista’s cheery ‘hello’ to the seriously good coffee, the people

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Sidekick Café - Margaret River

HONOURABLE MENTIONS The Goose, Busselton for its beachfront view of Busselton Jetty Margaret River Bakery – great coffee and the best raspberry Danishes Maker Espresso, Dunsborough – outstanding coffee and salads Evviva Café, Dunsborough – quality coffee and all-day breakfasts The Equinox, Busselton – lots of play equipment for the little ones while you chill with a cuppa

-watching and the café’s push for sustainability.

Karen and Rob Gough have worked hard at Settlers Tavern since 2003, and opening Sidekick Café in 2014 was “like a second honeymoon”.

They’d followed coffee trends around the world and sorely missed having inspired, quality coffee in Margaret River. They describe the building as like a fish bowl and hence engaged an artist to create the fish logo and artwork on the only wall.

I’ve had coffee here many times and it’s always fantastic – quality is high and consistent.

Beans are organic, fair trade from Dukes Coffee Roasters. Hot chocolate is made with Bahen & Co chocolate, and teas are from Chamellia and Whistleblower.

Sustainability informs everything they do, they were the first business in town to use compostable paper straws, they recycle everything and use Enjo cleaning cloths rather than chemicals.

A lot of care has gone into the food and beverages at Sidekick; there’s nitrate-free bacon, free range eggs, no white sugar or white flour in the baked goods. There’s a printed ingredient list of all their dishes and cakes, brilliant for anyone with food intolerances. I love their bagels with a jalapeño cream cheese schmear,

or the pecan macca tart which is made with local nuts.

Tip: buy a $10 teatowel; 100% of proceeds go to the Margaret River Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service.

Open 7am-4pm daily. 5/110 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River

Café Boronup, Augusta Set in the majestic surrounds of the Boranup Karri forest, this gorgeous cafe will please both parents and kids. A fantastic menu with wholesome food cooked on site, and offering smoothies and fresh juices as well as great coffee, Café Boranup has a wonderful relaxed feeling of just being away from it all. Kids will enjoy the life-sized chess and snakes and ladders, and parents can wander through the gallery next door for locally-made arts and crafts.

To complete the experience, follow up your trip to Café Boranup with a tour of Lake or Mammoth Caves nearby.

Café Boranup is also a breastfeedingfriendly zone so perfect for new mums..

Open 8am-4pm. 7981 Caves Road, Forest Grove. Call 08 9757 7279 or visit cafeboranup.com.

EGG-CELLENT Head to The Good Egg in Busselton for industrial chic surroundings and coffee from Perth roasters, Micrology. Opposite, Sidekick Cafe and newbies in Witchciffe, Yardbyrd.

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HIGGINS STREET

BUSSELL HIGHWAY

85 BUSSELL HWY, MARGARET RIVER WA

To Busselton

Eat & Drink

Autumnal weather means reaching for red wine and decadent cheese platters, both of which are in plentiful supply in the Margaret River region. By LIZZY PEPPER. Images by TIM CAMPBELL.

W

hen the warm weather begins to make way for cooler days and nights, dinner becomes something wholly more comforting than its summertime version.

When we go camping we eat like kings – fresh seafood on the barbie, creamy camembert cooked in the coals and an extravagant chardonnay to wash it all down.

There’s no better way to welcome the new season than giving you and yours a virtual hug with a delicious platter of cheese, olives and a loaf of fresh bread.

Food enthusiast Lucy Neal from Margaret River Dairy Co shares her tips for packing a truly delicious picnic esky – perfect for sunset drinks or a camping adventure.

TIPS FOR PACKING THE PERFECT AUTUMNAL PICNIC Keep an ‘emergency picnic pack’ on standby, for quick deployment in those spontaneous picnic situations. Keep wine glasses, a cheese board

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and knife, tea towel, tablecloth and wetwipes in a box in your car boot or garage, and fold-up chairs and table nearby. Just add wine, cheese and crackers and head to the beach.

Curate delicious things from your travels.

The Margaret River region is packed with amazing artisan food and wine producers – and you’ve probably picked up some tasty treats in your travels. Bring it all together for dinner – local ham and salami, cheese, bread, fruit and chocolate – and that bottle of awesome chardonnay.

Be generous with the food. As Nigella says, “never knowingly under cater”. Nothing worse than going home hungry, so be sure to pack a diverse range of food to graze on, plus something sweet for dessert. When camping, we love to take a Le Creuset pot of slow-cooked beef cheeks or a tasty curry. While picnicking, a loaf of Yallingup Wood Fired fruit bread or treats from the Margaret River Chocolate Company will always be well received.

Location, location, location. In the south west, we love Yallingup main break or ‘the lookout’ above Rabbits surf break, Surfers Point and Prevelly for sunset drinks. Meelup and Castle Rock are lovely bayside locales too. Check out our list of camping spots.

Crank up the BBQ. Some of these picturesque seaside spots have free BBQs, too. So why not throw a shrimp on the barbie – or melt a Camembert – for the ultimate indulgence.

Be the friend that brings people together.You know that friend, the organised one who always initiates catch-ups? Simply text a few pals with a time and place, and take it from there. Create those memorable moments!

THE ULTIMATE CHEESE BOARD OR CAMPING ESKY Lucy loves food – she beams as she talks about what constitutes an excellent camembert, and all the amazing food on offer at the Margaret River Farmers Market. Her ‘ultimate picnic esky’ reads

like a who’s who of local artisan food producers.

• Soft cheese – Brie or camembert from Margaret River Dairy Co • Cheddar or a farmhouse cheese – a semisoft, flavoured cheese that melts beautifully • Prosciutto, ham or salami from The Farm House Margaret River • Fresh figs (when in season) • Honeycomb to place atop the camembert • Olives – we love Olio Bello’s olives and EVOO • Plain crackers – let the flavour of the

Strawberry Balsamic Baked Brie

This decadent recipe can easily be adjusted to the BBQ or camp fire.

Look out for the lidded ceramic dishes for sale at the Margaret River retail outlet – specially made for this recipe.

200g wheel of Margaret River Dairy Company Brie 1 punnet strawberries, roughly chopped 2 tbsp balsamic glaze 1 tsp fresh lemon juice Preheat the oven to 180C. Combine the strawberries and balsamic glaze KICKER cuptate and set aside. Place the cheese venet aut intiis on a baking tray and into the oven volo magnatemquam officiist faccusand et, explit for about 10 minutes.

Remove aborpor very gently lift it on to autplate.

Topuptatia eseritaes alique vitam with the strawberry aboremporrum mix and serveesequi immediately with crackers or fresh pita bread.

cheese sing • Bread from Yallingup Wood Fired Bread or Margaret River Bakery • Grapes or raspberries – you’ll find locally grown at the farmers market when in season • Onion Jam or Battlers Relish – available exclusively at Margaret River Dairy Co • Sundried tomatoes • Vegetable chips - especially sweet potato or parsnip • Dark chocolate from Margaret River Chocolate Company

STORING AND SERVING YOUR CHEESE Lucy says it’s important to bring your cheese to room temperature to really enjoy the flavours.

Bring it out of the esky an hour before you’re ready to serve, but leave it wrapped till you’re ready to eat.

Start with a beautiful wooden board. Place the cheeses first, add meats, crackers, relish pots and olives, placing the crackers last. Look to local cheese board artists Hide and Feast for inspiration – they top the camembert with honeycomb, fresh figs or raspberries and it looks (and tastes) sensational.

MARGARET RIVER DAIRY COMPANY You’ll find Margaret River Dairy Company on Bussell Highway just north of Cowaramup. Pop in, taste countless cheeses and yoghurts, treat yourself to an ice-cream or pick-me-up coffee and fill a cooler bag with cheese for your sunset picnic.

It’s a truly local product; they use 100% local milk from the Margaret River region, and their cheese-making workshop is just behind the retail tasting space.

The brie and camembert is hand crafted right here in Margaret River in a classic French style.

The milk is pasteurised, culture is stirred in and hand poured into moulds. They’re brined and matured over 10 days to build the white mould bloom. Each cheese is lovingly hand wrapped, ready for sale.

Always innovating, they try new recipes each month, and Lucy treated me to a tasting of something top secret but totally delicious. She says there’s always new products on the horizon, and they sound exciting to me.

Margaret River Dairy Company is open daily from 9.30am to 5pm except Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day for cheese and yoghurt tastings, ice cream and coffee.

8063 Bussell Highway, Metricup.

Call (08) 9750 6600.

Look for their cheese and yoghurt at Bunbury Farmers Market and your local supermarket.

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acebook, emails, Twitter, Instagram, text messages, Snapchat and even the odd phone call . . . modern life is certainly operating at much faster pace than the good old days. Sometimes there’s just not time to cook dinner, sit down for a long lunch or to hunker down in a coffee shop with a cuppa. It’s time to grab a bite on the go and, with the rise in fresh, fantastic offerings from food trucks, there is no excuse for eating badly.

Here’s our pick of the best.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all looked after in Margaret River. Hit up the Farmers Markets on Bussell Highway every Saturday morning with more than 50 regular stalls and food trucks. Try a coffee or two from Combi Coffee (also found at River Mouth car park on other days of the week) or from the Yahava truck and be sure to borrow a reusable ceramic mug from the wash-up station for an environmentally friendly latte.

Whether it is breakfast, brunch or lunch MaLa Dumplings will hit the spot. Crafted by dumpling addicts Matt and Teesh, the team lived in Beijing and honed their skills to a fine art before developing their flavour bombs and homemade sauces from local produce in Margaret River. After one taste you will definitely be on the hunt for their blue and white van again; their avid following of dumpling lovers in the region echo Matt’s words: “There are two types of people in the world; those who are addicted to dumplings, and those who haven’t tried them yet.” Find the

marvels

Food trucks are definitely having a moment and you’ll be glad to hear there are some of the best feeds on four wheels right here in the Margaret River region.

By CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

van at the regular night markets about town or popping up at their car park on Station road on Thursday evenings.

The monthly Margaret River World Food Night Market is filled to the brim with gastronomic delights and live music. Paella, dumplings, BBQ, pizza, curry, crepes, artisan chocolate . . . the hardest part is choosing what NOT to have. A firm favourite is Claudio Biscotti’s Italian street food. Feast on slowcooked porchetta and follow it up with a host of traditional baked sweet treats for dessert. South American BBQ from Grillin and Chillin are perfect for those that like the smoky goods from the grill, and the paella from Paella On The

Move often sells out so it’s a smart move to arrive early.

Be sure to pack a rug and enjoy one of the best views in the south west for another dining option at Surfers Point. Hit up Hooked Up Fish and Chips for some seafood with your sunset – be warned though, the fish tacos may have you back for seconds. Also serving up the goods at the point is the Margaret River Chef truck. Previously known as Margaret River Yakitori, the menu is heavily Japanese-inspired and now features a range of favourite dishes.

Those that are closer to the other end of the cape can still be treated to seaside dining. The Old Dunsborough boat ramp plays host to the margaretriver.com

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SWAP YOUR DAILY COFFEE FOR A REVITALISING JUICE BY RAW LIFE JUICE BAR

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Silver Bullet Espresso on regular mornings from 7am in a cool vintage airstream and on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings curry lovers can get a fix with The Spice Odysee Indian Food truck. Catch them at other times in Margaret River and Busselton's Rotary Park for a fresh flavoursome spice fix.

Mandalay Holiday Resort are further along the coast towards Busselton and have a foodie focus on different days of the week with a variety of options. Burgers, pancakes, pastries, curries and

coffee are some of the temptations with a firm favourite being Salento Pizza serving woodfired pizza on Saturdays from 5.30pm. Claudio Biscotti sets up next door so that a proper Italian meal can be finished off with some homemade treats just like Nonna used to whip up.

Busselton locals have been in the know for some time now with Eat Street running at The Shed Markets from Thursday through to Sunday each week. Swap your daily coffee for a revitalising fresh juice by Raw Life Juice Bar

or go in search of a way of sating lunch time cravings from food truck offerings. Recent options have included juicy burgers from Burger Bones, bite-sized dumplings from Yellow Reddish and lip smacking smoked meats from Billy Hills.

Remember to check up online for current updates on truck locations, the very nature of meals on wheels mean they might be visiting another spot.

MR Farmers Markets Every Saturday all year round : April through to the end of October ~ 8am - 12pm November through to the end of March ~ 7:30am - 11:30am

Night Twilight Markets

Monthly on Friday evenings at Memorial Park 5:30 pm-8:30 pm See their FB page for upcoming dates - facebook.com/pg/ worldfoodtwilightmarketsmargaretriver/ about/

The Shed Markets Eat Street 4 Skiff Way, Abbey

Thurs 10-6, Fri 10-8, Sat/Sun 9-3

MR Chef -

visit facebook.com/margaret-riveryakitori

The Spice Odysee visit spiceodysee.com.au

The Shed -

visit facebook.com/theShedMarketsi

Salento Pizza-

visit salentocatering.com.au

Hooked Up -

visit facebook.com/ Hookedupfishandchips

Ma La Dumplings-

visit facebook.com/MaLaDumplings

margaretriver.com

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CHILL OUT AND WARM UP ESCAPE THE DAY-TO-DAY AND ENJOY 10 DAYS OF INDULGENCE OF THE FOOD AND WINE KIND. JENNIFER MORTON CHATS TO BRIANNA DELAPORTE ABOUT WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CABIN FEVER 2018.

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ast year, Cabin Fever warmed our hearts and bellies just when we needed it the most: middle of winter. The 10-day winter celebration is host to an array of unconventional food, wine and craft beer sessions that’ll excite the most modest of foodies and social butterflies.

The festival concept was cooked-up over a glass (or two) of wine on a cold winter’s night many moons ago. Now, co-festival directors Erin Molloy and Brianna Delaporte have a muchanticipated annual event to organise.

Brianna shares the best of last year’s Cabin Fever and what to expect this year.

YMRR If you missed last year's Cabin Fever festival, how did it go down with visitors?

Brianna Delaporte We were overwhelmed with the positive response to the festival. Local businesses were extremely supportive and jumped at the opportunity to be involved. We were thrilled with the exciting event concepts

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that they put forward. We had visitors from as far afield as Queensland and in fact we know some of them are returning again this year.

YMRR How does the festival work?

BD More than 40 venues between Busselton and Augusta host events over a 10-day period.

Those events range from degustation dinners and beverage sampling to bonfire nights and cheese, chocolate and coffee appreciation. Events range from free entry to all-inclusive ticketed, so it’s very accessible for everyone.

YMRR What’s special and unique about Cabin Fever?

BD Cabin Fever isn’t your average food and wine festival. We try and put a unique spin on each event, and offer a program full of experiences that only happen during the 10-day festival period. Events are a little edgy, a little tongue-in-cheek, and a lot of fun.

YMRR Which events were the most popular?

BD The cheese, chocolate and coffee events got plenty of hits on social media last year, but most of the events were a huge hit, with many selling out weeks before the festival.

YMRR What was the highlight of last year’s event?

BD We were stoked with how locals and visitors got behind some of the events last year. The Secret Speakeasy at Margaret River Distilling Co was the first event to sell out, and almost every guest dressed up in costume; the local costume hire ran out of 1920s-themed gear. The Chocolate and Wine Pairing at Providore was also popular (we’re told the salted caramel and sauvignon blanc combo is a winner).

YMRR It’s still early days but can you tell us what’s on the menu for this year?

BD Some festival favourites will likely be back again, including Fondue by the Fire at Howard Park, the Settlers Tavern Carpark Collective and Blazing Brews at the Beer Farm. Plus there will be some awesome new venues joining in the action. Think burlesque, cheese toasties, popup bars, espresso martinis, and a bit of James Bond.

LAUNCHING THE FESTIVAL this year at Aravina Estate, it will kick off with a bang at the hottest new event space in the region, The Barrel Room, featuring suppliers and contributors to the fantastic line up of events this season.

Learn the art and styling of canapes at Aravina Estate with Head Chef Ben Jacob. Be the hostess with the mostest for your next soiree and treat guests to some seriously divine canapes. Learn the tricks of the trade from Ben and wow with six different canapes as he shows you how to prepare and plate up like a pro. Once the hard work is done enjoy your creations with matched wines and take home a recipe booklet along with a beautiful hydrangea cutting from the estate’s gardens.

YMRR What can people expect from attending Cabin Fever 2018?

BD People can expect a collection of events that they definitely cannot experience at any other time of the year in the Margaret River region.

We’re working with some amazing venues on really quirky event concepts. There will be some affordable dining options (including food trucks) and more arts and culture tied in too this year.

YMRR What are your hopes for this winter festival?

BD We hope the festival shines a spotlight on how amazing the south west can be during winter. Most West Australians are familiar with the region in summer, but winter is a truly beautiful time down south, with plenty of reasons to visit (say hello to red wine, comfort food and cosy fireplaces).

We would love to see Cabin Fever become one of the region’s largest food and wine festivals with a

Visit aravinaestate.com

RICH PICKINGS Foodies in search of winter warmers will be spoiled for choice in July when Cabin Fever returns to the regioni

big cultural element.We love the vibe of some of Australia’s best cultural events like MONA’s Dark Mofo and Perth’s Fringe World, and we’d like to incorporate some of that energy into Cabin Fever, but at the same time retain an authentically south west feel.

Cabin Fever, July 13-22 various locations.Visit cabinfeverfest.com.au

THE FESTIVAL SHINES A LIGHT ON HOW AMAZING THE SOUTH WEST CAN BE IN THE WINTER

New World Winery of the Year TASTING BAR • WINE LOUNGE • RESTAURANT • THE VAULT • ART GALLERY • TOURS Open Daily 10AM - 5PM Caves Road (Cnr Tom Cullity Drive), Cowaramup WA 6284 margaretriver.com Phone 9756 5000 Restaurant Reservations 9756 5050

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They could be

HEROES GAINING A REPUTATION FOR

BEING ONE OF WORLD’S BEST FOOD TOURISM DESTINATIONS DOESN’T HAPPEN ALL BY ITSELF. DIANNE BORTOLETTO CHATS TO SOME OF FOOD AND DRINK’S BIG NAMES IN THE REGION – THE ORIGINAL INFLUENCERS.

AARON CARR owner/chef, Yarri Restaurant + Bar Aaron Carr (above), first arrived in Margaret River in 1990, attracted by the surfing lifestyle.

He was head chef of Vasse Felix for 21 years and left to realise a dream of having his own restaurant. He has joined forces with Snake + Herring Wines and recently opened Yarri in Dunsborough.

Yarri is a smart-casual restaurant and small bar with a menu catering to different clientele – a drink and bar snacks, some share plates, a charcuterie board or a degustation menu.

Yarri has a big charcoal oven, like Fire Door in Sydney, and the food philosophy is to keep it simple with a strong focus on West Australian produce.

“I don’t think people come to Margaret River to eat Tasmanian salmon. I’d like visitors to

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look at our menu and say ‘I’ve never had marron’ or ‘I’ve never had Arkady lamb’,” Aaron said.

“Food tourism is huge and I’ve learnt a lot from how they do things in Copenhagen; they use what’s indigenous to the area.”

Aaron has worked alongside the world’s best chefs including Massimo Bottura (Osteria Francescana, Modena), Peter Gilmore (Quay, Sydney) and Matt Orlando (Amass, Copenhagen) and hosted esteemed dinners in Los Angeles, London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney and Melbourne.

Regarded ascone of Australia’s best, there’s little doubt that Aaron’s culinary talent has contributed to Margaret River’s reputation as a gourmet destination.

He’s a regular star at food festivals including, the Margaret River Gourmet Escape, and the Truffle Kerfuffle in Manjimup that celebrates the Southern Forests' truffle industry, to name two.

TONY HOWELL consultant chef, Cape Lodge Tony Howell, pictured right, is Tourism Australia’s ambassador as the Western Australian face of ‘Restaurant Australia’, an international campaign that promotes our shores as a vibrant food destination. He regularly travels and represents both the state and the country at trade shows and conferences and hosts visiting media. When I spoke to Tony, he was about to jet off to LA to cook alongside Curtis Stone at a dinner for 30 influential journalists.

Tony’s friendly and outgoing demeanour makes him a media favourite. He has appeared on numerous television cooking shows hosts Channel 7’s hit lifestyle program, Fresh TV, and appeared in MasterChef Australia 2011.

Articles featuring Tony have been printed all

over the world in leading titles including Condé Nast Traveller (USA), Forbes, Gourmet Traveller, The Guardian, Traveller, The Telegraph (UK), The Herald (NZ), Travel and Leisure, Qantas inflight magazine and many more.

As a Margaret River Gourmet Escape ambassadorial chef for the visiting chefs from around the world, Tony has cooked for and alongside Heston Blumenthal, Alex Atala, Rene Redzepi and Sat Bains.

Tony discovered his passion for cooking as a bright-eyed 14-year-old when working to pay for surfboards in a Mexican restaurant in Perth.

Fast-forward 30 years and in that time Chef Tone, as he is affectionately known, has garnered a reputation as one of Australia’s best chefs. He has worked in the finest restaurants in Western Australia, helping them win a multitude of awards with his culinary creations.

Tony’s career flourished during his 15-year tenure at five-star boutique hotel Cape Lodge in Yallingup. With a menu he changed daily to take advantage of the best produce available, Tony won a legion of fans and received many awards and accolades, most notably Conde Nast Travellers Gold List Best Food Category in 2005, 2008, 2011 and 2012. After a three-year break working in other regional restaurants, Tony is back at Cape Lodge as a consultant chef.

Tony is passionate about local, sustainable, seasonal produce and his approach to food is uncompromising. He has built long-standing relationships with the best suppliers and producers in the Margaret River region and sees that as a critical component of his craft.

STARS ALIGN Hannah Pike and IMG Culinary has brought superstar chefs like Rick Stein, Nigella Lawson and Guy Grossi (below) to the Margaret River region.

HANNAH PIKE Managing Director of IMG Culinary Australia There’s no doubt that the Margaret River Gourmet Escape has been a game changer for the region.

Not only has it attracted the biggest names in the food world to Margaret River – think Nigella Lawson, Curtis Stone, Heston Blumenthal, Rick Stein and Antonio Carluccio to barely scratch the surface – it’s been covered in media across the globe and the region’s ingredients and wines are appearing on menus in some of the world’s most influential eateries.

The 2017 edition was Gourmet Escape’s biggest yet with the largest crowds (in excess of 19,000 people), had an extra day added, attracted more than 60 chefs and talent and included 50 events in 25 event locations including vineyards, in a cave, nestled in the forest and out at sea.

Since its inception in 2012, over 95,000 visitors have travelled to the region for the event and millions around the world have seen it through global media coverage.

In 2016, the reach of the Margaret River Gourmet Escape nationally and internationally was 33.75 million people via national media coverage, and a staggering 165 million people v ia international media coverage.

There’s no other food festival in the country that can boast such numbers.

Over the past six years, 160 of the world’s best chefs and culinary luminaries have entertained crowds and made lifelong friends with local chefs, producers and venue owners.

Importantly the event has also introduced some of the world’s top restaurants to West Australian wines and produce.

IMG Culinary Managing Director Hannah Pike said that the vision of the Margaret River Gourmet Escape was to create a ‘Glastonbury

for food’, to make Margaret River synonymous with excellence in food and wine.

“At the first Gourmet Escape, watching Rene Redzepi, whose restaurant Noma in Copenhagen held the title of world’s best restaurant, and Peter Gilmour from Quay in Sydney discover dhufish together was a really special moment,” Hannah recalled.

Dhufish is endemic to Western Australia, which means it can’t be found anywhere else, is part of the glaucosomatidae (pearl perch) family and is a superb eating fish.

“These days when Renee meets with other chefs at a cooking demonstration or festival in Europe or around the world and asks ‘are you going to Margaret River this year’, what he means is ‘are you going to the Gourmet Escape’.

The event and the region have become well known among the world’s best chefs.

Held each November, this year, the Margaret River Gourmet Escape enters its seventh year.

With the Gourmet Escape putting the spotlight on Margaret River, in a few short years it has been labelled the best Australian food and wine region by Luxury Travel Magazine’s annual Gold List Awards, awarded Gold at the WA Tourism Awards, won ‘Best Tourism Event’ in Australia at the 2016 Australian Event Awards and has become the biggest festival of its kind in the Asia Pacific region.

Gourmet Escape aside, Hannah is a big fan of the region.

“Driving to Margaret River, all my stresses seem to melt away as soon as I get to Caves Road,” Hannah said.

“The luxury of world class wineries and the proximity to the beach is so unique and so special.

Beach to winery in ten minutes, what’s not to love?” margaretriver.com

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JOSH BAHEN owner/chocolate maker, Bahen & Co

VIRGINIA WILLCOCK Chief Winemaker, Vasse Felix In 2014,Virginia Willcock (above) was one of five vintners in the world nominated for the International Wine Maker of the Year award offered by esteemed US magazine Wine Enthusiast.

More recently she was named Winemaker of the Year in the 2017 Australian Women in Wine Awards.

Virginia’s list of accolades is as long as Australian summer and she is one of the most awarded female winemakers in the country. Her goal is to make wine that people adore, wine that people fall in love with.

She’s been doing just that since 2006 as Chief Winemaker at Vasse Felix, Margaret River’s founding wine estate.

“I want to make sexy wine. It’s about satisfaction of a beautiful drink,”Virginia said.

“My philosophy is to make the wines you love to drink. As winemakers we scour the world to find those rare and precious wines we will most love. So at Vasse Felix, with our pristine environment and historic vineyards, we must strive to make just that. To perfect a distinctive style that is unique and special, that people all over the world will recognise.”

A respected authority on Margaret River winemaking,Virginia has been named

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Winemaker of the Year in 2013, ‘Gourmet Traveller WINE Australian Winemaker of the Year’ in 2012 and was a finalist in 2010.

Virginia said that what she loves most about winemaking is the constant learning and creativity.

“There’s a base line in winemaking and that is technically sound wine. Really, anyone that can read a book can make technically sound wine - just follow a step-by-step guide.

“To me, technically sound wine is fine, but quite boring. The challenge is to improve every year, try something different that pushes the boundaries so more of the vineyard flavours come through the wine.

“In Europe, their wine making techniques aren’t as clinical as ours. It’s like cooking with feel and smell rather than following a recipe.”

Virginia has completed 26 vintages in Margaret River and worked in Albania, Northern Italy, Sicily, Abruzzo and New Zealand.

Back in Margaret River,Virginia said that the region is still relatively young in wine terms.

“We’re only 50 years old - Bordeaux is two thousand years old; the Barossa Valley is a couple of hundred years old.

“In such a short time we’ve all learnt and improved as a region, and it will be exciting to see how much Margaret River will be blowing the world’s socks off with our cabernet in the future.”

It all started when Josh Bahen (left) travelled to Burgundy, France, to perfect his craft as a winemaker. After one bite of chocolate made the traditional way by a fifth-generation French chocolate maker, a new love affair with chocolate began.

“It was like eating fruit, I couldn’t believe the flavour,” Josh said.

Since then, he has travelled to San Francisco and Italy to train in traditional chocolate making techniques.

“Making chocolate from bean to bar with just two ingredients is hard. Sourcing good quality cocoa beans is paramount to getting great flavour,” he said.

“I can proudly say that one hundred per cent of our beans are bought directly from the farmer for a fair price. This benefits the farmer, instead of multiple cocoa brokers.”

Peeling back the pretty wrapper of a Bahen & Co chocolate feels like opening a Christmas present. On the back of the pack of the unflavoured bars, you’ll find just two ingredients listed: cocoa and raw cane sugar.

Bahen & Co chocolate tastes as good as it looks, but best of all it’s the sort of chocolate that is actually good for you.

There’s eight types of 70 and 80 per cent chocolate including single origins from Brazil, Madagascar, and Papua New Guinea, delectable flavoured varieties such as chilli and salt, almond and sea salt, and cracked coffee as well as two house blends.

You can find the beautiful bars in speciality gourmet stores in Margaret River, throughout WA, across Australia, and in nine countries around the world including USA, Canada, Singapore, Japan, Netherlands and New Zealand. Stockists include Harrods in London, Jason Fine Foods in Asia and the prestigious La Grande Epicerie de Paris.

There are big plans for the future with a chocolate factory in development due to open in 2019 that will focus on education and offering visitors a unique chocolate experience.

“The new chocolate factory will stock over one hundred products,” Josh said.

Watch this space.

Wine & wineries

THE NIGHT SHIFT Picking grapes at night isn’t as crazy as it sounds - it ensures the best possible vintage as Fergal Gleeson discovers.

1-4 JUNE 2018

I

f you’re gunning down a road in wine country around midnight in early autumn, the lights you see are probably not a UFO’s.

It’s unlikely to be a rave. Nor are you seeing a weirdo cult ritual.You are observing in their natural habitat the nocturnal movements of the winemaker.

Vintage is the time of year when vineyard managers and winemakers put the pedal to the floor. Many work through the night during this period. I spoke to two winemakers and a viticulturist from Margaret River to understand this curious practice a little better.

So why pick grapes at night?

Janice McDonald, chief winemaker at Howard

Park Wines, one of Western Australia’s leading wineries explains why.

“We pick at night because it’s the coolest part of day. Usually that is just before sunrise.

When we talk about night picking we are talking about machine picking, as it is not possible to hand pick at night. Pickers would lose fingers!”

Janice explains the science behind night picking. “We are trying to minimise the oxidative impact of the enzymes in the grapes. There can be a particularly strong reaction in white grapes with strong aromatics such as riesling or sauvignon. We want to slow down the activity of enzyme.’’

Leonard Russell, viticulturist with

Get down to Dunsborough and the south west for hot jazz, sultry soul and foot stomping funk this June long weekend and enjoy performances by local, Australian and international artists at a range of fabulous venues.

Wine & wineries

the apple out it turns brown. The equivalent with grapes would be a sultana flavour. By picking at night when it’s cool, we are slowing down this effect. Otherwise fermentation could start before the grapes reach the winery.”

So picking grapes at night when it is coolest, allows the winemaker to benefit from a natural chilling effect which protects the freshness of the grapes and the purity of the fruit flavour.

Leonard explains how a machine harvester works. “The machine straddles the row of vines and uses what look like shepherds' hooks to move the vine left to right. The berries fall off the vine onto a conveyor belt. Only the ripe berries fall off. The fruit passes through a series of fans where the leaves and stems are removed and the fruit goes onto a trailer which is checked for weight before being taken on to the winery.”

Ryan Aggiss, chief winemaker at Aravina Estate agrees citing the favourable impact on colour, flavour and the aromas from night picking.

Are red grapes also picked at night?

NIGHT SHIFT Picking grapes at night gives winemakers the best chances of harvesting the fruit under optimum conditions. Above, Aravina Estate.

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Watershed Wines, the highly awarded Margaret River winery, adds “It’s about the optimisation of the fruit. When a machine picker shakes the berries off the vines it slightly damages the fruit.

Like if you take a bite from an apple and leave

Leonard says that Watershed sometimes pick shiraz at night or in the early morning if it’s being used for rosé because these grapes are picked earlier in the season when it’s still hot.

For cabernet and merlot, which are harvested in March or April, night picking is less of an issue because the temperatures are getting cooler.

PICKING GRAPES AT NIGHT ALLOWS THE WINEMAKER TO BENEFIT FROM A NATURAL CHILLING EFFECT. cool. For Aravina’s table wines, they start with picking the chardonnay grapes, then it’s semillon, chenin, and sauvignon blanc through to shiraz, merlot, cabernet and tempranillo.”

Vintage

Janice agrees that there is nowhere near as big an impact with red grapes because reds are not as aromatic.

Interestingly at Aravina Estate all machineharvested grapes are picked at night including red grapes. Ryan does this partly for pragmatic reasons because a wine worker's biological clock is set to night-picking during vintage, because the vineyards and winery is quieter, and also because of the value of having the fruit nice and

“It’s a very exciting time,” says Leonard. “The year's work is coming to an end.You are picking the grapes at the time when they are going to be the best they will ever be. The winery runs 24-7 during vintage. We work 12-hour shifts. People then have 12 hours break to get some sleep and food.Vintage is a magic time of year. Margaret River is a hive of activity during this time. There are trucks taking grapes to the wineries in the mornings. There’ll be harvesters and chaser tractors.You’re going at it hammer and tongs.”

Ryan echoes this. “The smell of the fresh grapes and pulp in the winery. The heady aromas of yeast. There is high pressure.Your logistical and organisational skills need to be en pointe.

The machinery all needs to work optimally." He goes on to emphasise the importance of good diet and getting some snatches of sleep to get through it.

Janice picks up the same theme:“The adrenalin starts flowing and everyone is really pumped for vintage“. She jokes that they send the coffee machine in for a pre-vintage service

each year because everyone is drinking lots of it come harvest time. “Harvesting in our Margaret River vineyards is typically from mid-February to late March. It starts later in the Great Southern. Depending on conditions at midnight sometimes it’s too warm to start. In early season, it’s hard to plan. For a small block we’d start at 3 or 4am, for a bigger block we’d start earlier. We look closely at the temperatures and if it’s a hot night in late summer we’ll cancel it. It’s very much a day-by-day schedule. We have our own harvester, which means that we have more control around start times and have more flexibility.“

And when Vintage is all over?

“It all stops with the last block and the last row," says Leonard. "It’s the end of the year from a viticultural point of view. Everyone pauses to take a breath.You’re fried. It’s like after your last exam at uni.”

“Vintage is physically and mentally very demanding but it’s rewarding.," says Ryan. "I couldn’t give the same intensity and tenacity to another career.”

The next time you’re sipping on a glass of wine, spare a thought for the vineyard workers who’ve done weeks of nightshifts so that your wine dances in the glass.

CELLAR DOOR OPEN 11AM - 4PM 4 9 3 M E T R I C U P R OA D, W I L YA B R U P, WA 6 2 8 0 | P H : + 6 1 8 9 7 5 5 7 5 5 3 F R A S E R G A L L O P E S T A T E . C O M . AU margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2018 43

Wine & wineries

THIS FAMILY POURED THEIR HEART AND SOUL INTO BROOKWOOD – AND YOU’LL LOVE WHAT THEY’VE CREATED. BY LIZZY PEPPER.

Labour

love

This is delicious – and this is yummy too – I love all these wines!” says the lady tasting wines at Brookwood’s rustic cellar door. It’s music to owner-operator Lyn Mann’s ears, as it’s cellar door visitors, not wine critics, she wants to impress.

“Back in 1999 we had our first vintage. I remember making three different styles of each wine – three styles of chenin, three styles of SBS and so on – and I’d line them up on the counter and ask everyone which style they loved best.

Most people agreed on their favourite, and that’s how I made the wine the following year.”

This sums up Brookwood Estate perfectly

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Cellar Door | CafĂŠ The Clairault | Streicker Estates have been producing some of the finest wines in the Margaret River region for over 40 years and we invite you to visit our cellar door to taste the fruits of our labour. Open daily from 10am until 5pm.

Clairault | Streicker Estate 3277 Caves Rd, Wilyabrup 6282 +61 8 9755 6225 clairaultstreicker.com.au

Wine & wineries – a family owned winery where it’s all about delicious wines and giving customers a fantastic, all-round experience.

Lyn and husband Trevor established Brookwood Estate in 1996. They transformed a “bare paddock – with 250 sheep” into a lush winery with five varietals in the vineyard and a peaceful café-restaurant.

I asked what inspired the move from Perth to Margaret River. “Trevor won a weekend at Burswood Casino which he swapped for a weekend in Dunsborough," says Lyn.."We had an incredible lunch at Cullen Wines, drinking wine and gazing longingly at the vineyard. He looked at me and said, 'we could do this'. We called the real estate agent and listed our Perth home for sale that very weekend.”

It took a year to sell their home and find the right land to grow wine – it needed water, healthy soil and to face north – and that’s when the real work started.

Trevor and Lyn didn’t have a lot of money, so did all the hard work of gathering cuttings from other vineyards, putting in posts, wires and fencing themselves.

“We couldn’t have done it without our [then]

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15-year-old daughter. She prepared dinner and did the washing – after walking home from school. That daughter – Bronnley Cahill – is now their winemaker, having studied viticulture and oeneology before working at Houghton in the Swan Valley, Amberley Estate (now Aravina) and doing vintages in Canada, Italy and France.

“Other winery owners generously allowed us to take cuttings from their vines which we propagated and planted – 10,000 vines in all.

Albert Haak from Amberley Estate gave us chenin blanc, Barry Thompson taught us how to prune and train vines and Neil Gallagher from Woody Nook taught me how to make wine,” says Lyn. “We didn’t have lots of money or experience; we had the determination to do it and we didn’t quit,” says Lyn, of all the blood, sweat and tears that have gone into creating the estate.

The Brookwood Cellar Door and CaféRestaurant is a humble little gem highly rated in the Margaret River Region on social media– built out of a three-sided farm shed and finished with polished timber, you can sit on the veranda and enjoy the sunshine and pleasant view across the vineyard and hills opposite.You’ll get a warm

welcome from their loyal team. Maybe you’ll see some blue wrens – they tend to come out at the end of lunch service, looking for crumbs.

I had a light entrée – three delicate bites of crushed green peas, asparagus and goats cheese on crostini. Decorated with tiny pink rose petals, it was a flavoursome treat.

The Brookwood Estate NV Bubbles was light and fruity, great for a warm day on the balcony.

There were so many beautiful main course menu choices. I had the slow-cooked duck leg, which came with a generous pile of crunchy bok choy, broccolini and flecks of red chilli. It had a sticky soy caramel sauce and an aroma of sesame oil, and the delicious meat easily fell off the bone..

Brookwood Estate is a lovely spot to come and relax, enjoy a glass of wine and lunch with friends. It feels authentic, homely.

You might just find yourself, on a weekend getaway from Perth, looking across to your partner and saying “we could do this”.

Cellar door wine tastings daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm, restaurant from 11am to 3pm daily.

430 Treeton Road, Cowaramup.Tel 08 9755 5604.

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Wine & wineries

Bangbuck FOR YOUR

GOT $25? THEN YOU’LL FIND YOURSELF A TRUE BLUE BARGAIN WITH FERGAL GLEESON’S PICK OF THE BEST MARGARET RIVER REGION’S WINES IN THIS PRICE BRACKET.

EVERYBODY HAS THEIR price, so the saying goes. Wine marketers refer to it as your “price point” and, put simply, it’s the amount of money that you are prepared to spend on a bottle of wine before you get the guilts. Commerciallyminded winemakers attempt to make the best wines they can to particular price points to meet consumer expectations.

So what’s the price of a decent bottle of wine? There are people who don’t want to spend more than $8 on a bottle of wine. If you are reading a wine article like this, and spending your holiday in the Margaret River region, you are probably not one of them.

There are super premium wines for those that want the very best. Margaret River now has about 20 wines (cabernets, cabernet blends and chardonnays) that sell for over $100 a bottle and can compete with the best of Bordeaux, Burgundy or Napa. They are the best of breed, they are age-worthy, they are Australian icons, but they are beyond the reach of many.

The $25 per bottle price point is a happy hunting ground for wine buyers focused on value.You can find great tasting wines of quality and interest that will stick in your memory. Their quality is much higher than cheap, massmarket commercial wines. They are good enough to stop conversations to say, “mm that’s nice!” And the best news of all? The Margaret River region makes many of these wines.

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ARIMIA VERDELHO 2016

25

$

Verdelho is unfashionable among wine critics but is loved by many wine drinkers.

Why so? It’s soft and approachable and many novice drinkers would favour it over chardonnay. The back story… it’s of Portuguese origin and most Australian plantings are in the Hunter Valley and Margaret River. Arimia Verdelho is an excellent example – it’s crisp and dry with subtle tropical hints. If you like sauvignon blanc, verdelho will be for you. I call it an unsung hero.

Visit arimia.com.au

ARAVINA SAUVIGNON BLANC SEMILLON 2017,

25

$

Aravina Estate’s wines have been on a sharp upwards arc since the arrival of Ryan Aggiss as winemaker, with a five-star Halliday rating and high points across the range. The A Series SBS is 70% sauvignon blanc and 30% semillon and gets everything right. It has a crisp refreshing acid and a rounded mouth-filling palate to create a dry and refined white. Margaret River have cornered the market with this white blend. Here’s why.

Visit aravinaestate.com

MIKI'S OPEN KITCHEN

Miki Miki uses uses local local seasonal seasonal ingredients ingredients based based on on Japanese Japanese tempura tempura techniques techniques served served Miki's Miki's way way

CAPE MENTELLE SAUVIGNON BLANC SEMILLON 2017 (CELLAR DOOR)

25

$

Cape Mentelle are one of the region’s pioneers and their SBS blend is one of the best known examples. The nose is highly tropical. So far so normal . . . then the departure - the taste is bone dry with an impressive intensity and a long finish which makes a mockery of the low price. Part of an impressive stable of new releases from their free-spirited French winemaker Frederique Perrin.

Visit capementelle.com.au

GOON TYCOONS ‘SMOKING GUN’ CHENIN BLANC 2017

25

$

Chenin vines were widely planted in the region in the 90s to make sweet Amberley chenin. Most have been pulled in favour of the region's more familiar varietals.

Those that remain are being reinterpreted by a new band of winemakers such as Goon Tycoons, tripe.Iscariot, LAS Vino and Aravina Estate. This wine is made in the style of a high-end chardonnay- whole, bunch-pressed with time spent on lees and barrel-fermented. I asked Julian Langworthy, winemaker, to describe the flavour for those who haven’t tried a chenin before? “Like Margaret River chardonnay and Frankland River riesling had a love child.”

There you go!

Visit goontycoons.com.au

Tuesday to to Saturday Saturday from from 6pm 6pm Tuesday Shop22 131 131 Bussell Bussell HWY HWY Shop

08 9758 9758 7673 7673 08 www.facebook.com/mikisopenkitchen www.facebook.com/mikisopenkitchen

Wine & wineries HOWARD PARK MIAMUP ROSÉ 2017

FRASER GALLOP ESTATE CABERNET MERLOT 2016

Howard Park have an extensive range of wines from iconic wines like the Abercrombie Cabernet to the entry level Madfish, which often delivers great value. The Miamup range sits in the middle and this rosé is a delight. It’s pale in colour and made from free-run juices given minimal skin contact. It's a blend of 55% shiraz and 45% pinot noir from the cool Karridale area of Margaret River. Creamy and smooth, it has a gentle acid kick on the finish. Just the ticket with lunch or on a warm evening.

Visit burchfamilywines.com.au

25

$

25

$

CULLEN WINES DANCING IN THE MOONLIGHT ROSÉ 2017 Vanya Cullen’s rosé doesn’t play from the Provence playbook but dances to its own drum. There is an intensity of fruit to this blend of merlot, malbec, cabernet and petit verdot from the Cullen and Mangan vineyards not seen in some contemporary rosés which are merely dry. More copper than pink in colour, it has the red fruit richness of the first two varieties and the savoury finish courtesy of the latter two. The title is a playful reference to biodynamic winemaking and to wine inspired revelry. Thoroughly delicious, it has a David Copperfield like ability to disappear.

Visit cullenwines.com.au

25

$

DEEP WOODS SHIRAZ ET AL 2016 (CELLAR DOOR)

20

$

ROSILY VINEYARD MERLOT 2014 No discussion of value wines in Margaret River would be complete without Rosily wines. Rosily’s wines are made with hand-harvested, certified organic, estate grown fruit. When you consider that all their range, except their two reserve wines, are priced between $20-27 you’ll understand what I mean. But enough about price, this is a smooth and savoury merlot that is medium weight and refreshing. The tannins provide a satin texture. I wish more Australian merlot was this good. 2015 now available.

Visit rosily.com.au

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The classic Margaret River red blend from a winery that is consistently excellent. This is a fresh and vibrant wine with blackcurrant and plum to the fore. My wife sometimes hides behind the couch when I pull out a cabernet.

She fears the tannins! Here they are light in a wine that showcases the fruit. Great value and very interesting to try alongside the Fraser Gallop Estate parterre cabernet, its more structured, Bordeaux-like big brother.

Visit frasergallopestate.com.au

Margaret River shiraz is no lightweight. This has plenty of power and focus with dark fruit flavours and tannins. The et al refers to small amounts of malbec and grenache. Deep Woods Shiraz et al is a consistent medal winner vintage after vintage and it’s easy to see why. The 2016 was awarded a gold at the Wine Show of Western Australia 2017. It has lots of depth and intensity, characteristics you associate with more expensive wines.

Visit deepwoods.wine

WATERSHED SENSES ZINFANDEL 2013

25

$

Zinfandel is a hero grape in California but a rarity in Australia. It’s a muscular grape and the Watershed zin has plummy, Christmas pudding flavours without any jammy notes.

Watershed’s zinfandel is now five years old and is showing some of those savoury, bottleaged characteristics. Well worth exploring for fans of full flavoured, gutsy reds looking for some adventure.

Visit watershedwines.com.au

Clairault Streicker is one of the Margaret River region’s most beautiful wineries - but that’s just part of the story says Janine Pittaway

Surprise package T

hey say it’s the quiet ones you have to watch.

Clairault Streicker Wines are doing some great things, quietly going about the business of making fantastic wines, but also creating a terrific visitor experience.

For more than 40 years, the Clairault Streicker Estate has produced some of the finest wines in the Margaret River region, originally as Cape Clairault and more recently through a range of both Clairault and Streicker vintages.

They are producing wines typical, and not so typical, of the region in a range of price points, and available for tasting at their cellar door.

Their vineyards are spread across the region – in Yallingup, Wilyabrup and Karridale – which means they are able to grow an impressive range of Margaret River wine varieties.

Actually, the Cellar Door is a great place to start your Clairault Streicker journey. Accessible from both Caves Road to the west and Henry Road (off Puzey Road) to the east, visitors are greeted by acres of vines and a lush green lawn that begs for a picnic rug. The good news is you won’t have to beg, as rugs, cushions and lawn games are readily available to enjoy.

I learned there are many ways to enjoy a visit to Clairault Streicker and I’d recommend allowing a decent amount of time to enjoy both wine AND food.

Launched in December 2017, the cellar door has created a new Private Tasting Experience that provides a wonderful introduction to Margaret River region wines for first-time visitors or those wanting to get a greater understanding of why this is such a special part of the winemaking world.

Enjoy being guided through seven carefully selected vintage wines across both labels,

carefully matched with mouthwatering morsels complementing the wine varieties. Included in the experience is a stroll to the original A1 vineyard block to see where it all began in 1976.

Taste and learn about the wine, and eat delicious food – think grilled southwest octopus, rabbit terrine, house-made fetta, pressed lamb with cous cous and smoked salmon croquettes. The menu will change seasonally.

Bookings for the Private Tasting Experience are required 24 hours in advance and the cost is $85 per person for groups of up to 10 people or as little as two. Stay for lunch (if you still have room) and enjoy a complimentary glass of your favourite wine from the tasting.

The food presented by the winery is based on their philosophy of great produce served simply.

And they serve it with care and precision too.

Chef Matt Almond and his kitchen team make their own cheeses, cured meat and sausages which provides an indication of the attention to detail.

What’s lovely about the Clairault Streicker lunch menu is the option to tailor it to the way you like to eat and where you’d like to eat it.

Choose from the five-course $50 Long Lunch menu or a combination of small and large plates depending on your hunger level. Select a combination of four small dishes to enjoy as a picnic on the lawn for $72, which could easily feed two people. Sides, cheese and desserts complete the choices available. There are plenty of tables inside and out and a roaring fire in winter.

CLAIRAULT STREICKER SURPRISES: They need a bigger trophy cabinet!

Clairault Streicker has retained its rating as a red five-star winery by the Aussie wine bible - the James Halliday Wine Companion. The ‘bible’ this year rated 9 out of 12 of the Clairault Streicker wines at 95 points or higher.

They were also named Margaret River Winery of the Year at the 2017 New York International Wine Competition, plus they were awarded a number of medals in the 2017 Decanter World Wine Awards. The list goes on!

The food – it’s hearty, fresh and delicious – and they make their own sausages and cheese (try the fetta!)

New Private Tasting Experience – a great way to learn about Margaret River wine Their protea farm Stop in at the cellar door to buy a bunch when in season The oldest vines on the property have been in the ground for more than 40 years.

A kids menu offers more than the standard. For the non-wine drinkers there’s local Black Brewing beer, plus juices, soft drinks and coffee.

You’ll need to plan a return visit to work your way through the menu.

If you love the wines you taste at the cellar door, there’s a cellar club to join, offering up to 30 percent discount on a range of wine, plus a special annual cellar club lunch. Keep an eye out for a cheeky new release coming out soon and don’t forget to buy a bunch of freshly picked proteas grown on the property, along with local gifts and gourmet food.

Clairault Streicker staff love what they do.

It’s evident in the way they talk about the wine, the labels, the food, the vineyards and the brand.

Pop in and have a chat to them to find out for yourself and while away an afternoon in the relaxing surrounds. margaretriver.com

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the art of

wine

HEAD TO THE FLOR MARCHÉ CELLAR DOOR IF YOU’D LIKE TO INDULGE YOUR TWIN PASSIONS FOR ART AND WINE. BY FERGAL GLEESON.

re you a lover of wine? Are you passionate about art? Then Flor Marché’s new cellar door could be the place to visit. Their wines can be tasted at Wilyabrup Dreaming, a local pottery, located off Caves Road. The cellar door is in the gallery section but this is also a working pottery, so you can watch Bill Meiklejohn at the wheel as he crafts his unique forms.

Liz Reed, owner and wine maker at Flor Marché, filled in the background to this collaboration. “I know Bill through diving. We free-dive together. I was at stage in my business where I wanted to open a cellar door so it was symbiotic for us to partner.”

Bill established Wilyabrup Dreaming in the 1990s and he makes a variety of conventional pottery forms as well as designs inspired by the sea, perhaps as a result of being a keen surfer and diver.

Liz continued telling me her wine journey. “After graduating in oenology, I spent my time jumping hemispheres, chasing summer in California, Israel, France and I had a project in Spain. The first vintage of Flor Marché was in 2010. I was living in the Porongurup in the Great Southern and I bought some fruit to make riesling and some shiraz from Mount Barker. Since then I’ve expanded and now have 10 different wines under the Flor Marché label.

They are mostly made from Margaret River fruit but I also source grenache from an 85-year-old grower, who has 60-year-old vines in the Swan River and I get riesling and pinot noir from Pemberton.”

Flor Marché are part of a growing band of winemakers in the region including Dormilona, Blind Corner and Si Vintners, using natural winemaking techniques.

“My experience in Spain and California inspired the interest in natural winemaking. The winemakers I worked with, were intuitive and trusted their palate. They were not technical winemakers. It was not based on

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numbers in a lab. They responded to the fruit. The approach to wine is part of a wider way of life. I eat wholesome foods, I drink rainwater. Flor Marché wines are made using natural winemaking techniques. All yeast used is naturally derived from the vineyard. No acid or additional tannins are added. I have bad allergies so I’m cautious about additives!”

I ask Liz what wines should people particularly look out for. “Well that’s like asking a parent to pick their favourite child! The ethos is to work with varieties that are best from each region," she says. "I make wines that I like to drink. After Spain I wanted to make a grenache in the joven style (no oak). Then there are the premium wines that see more time on skins and in oak and are made to put down. So the different varieties make different wines for different situations.”

Liz is hoping Flor Marché will go from strength to strength.

“Setting up the cellar door was a big ambition for me to build relationships with my direct customers.Visitors have the opportunity to visit the gallery and see some beautiful crafts as well as enjoy a wine experience. Bill is an artisan and a craftsman so it fits with my philosophy.”

The Flor Marché cellar door is open Thursday to Sunday 10-4pm, or by appointment, and is located at 49 Willyabrup Road, Willyabrup.

Visit flormarche.com and wilyabrup-dreaming.com

a unique wine experience. japanese inspired summer cuisine with award winning wines, located in the heart of margaret river. w w w. f i s h b o n e w i n e s . c o m . a u 422 Harmans Mill Road, Wilyabrup WA | Open Daily Phone: 08 9755 6726 | Email: cellardoor@fishbonewines.com.au

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Nature & Environment

SHARING A FISHING TRIP WITH LOCAL CULTURAL CUSTODIAN JOSH WHITELAND GIVES VISITORS A UNIQUE INSIGHT INTO THIS SPECIAL LAND.

BY LIZZY PEPPER.

CAST AWAY Ask a local

J

osh Whiteland is in his element when fishing barefoot on white sand in Wadandi country. So, after 10 years of running the successful Koomal Dreaming and Cape Cultural Tours at Ngilgi Cave and Cape Naturaliste respectively, he’s adding a beach fishing experience to his tour portfolio.

Josh grew up in Busselton and is a Wadandi cultural custodian within the local Indigenous people. He has fantastic memories of fishing Meelup and surrounds with his grandfather and uncles foraging for greens, learning to care for country.These are the experiences he’s willing to share with visitors; beach fishing, exploring Meelup regional park and surrounds, bringing it all together with a delicious barbecue lunch on location.

The coastal fishing tour will run February to May and differs to his existing tours in that it concentrates on the magnificent beaches and

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coastal bushlands. “You’ll get your feet wet and have sand between your toes, while enjoying the beautiful coastline," says Josh.

Josh is said to be able to spot a school of salmon from his car window, and it’s his ability to read the weather and the ocean that makes this tour such a unique experience.You might even spot a pod of dolphins or whales during your walk through Meelup and the capes area.

Josh will share local stories about migrating fish and whales, and the six Aboriginal seasons: “The six seasons are really important, as is the interconnectedness between plants, animals and the weather. For example, the marri trees blossom around February which indicates that the herring are here and salmon are coming.”

Local salmon are absolutely delicious when they’ve been prepared and cooked fresh, you’ll have the opportunity to catch them, herring or bream among many local species - on Bunker

The six seasons are really important, as is the interconnectedness between plants, animals and the weather...”

‘Djiljit’ coastal fishing experience Explore the wonders of the Meelup regional park and surrounds with a cultural custodian, hear stories about ‘Wadandi boodja’ - local people and country, swim in crystal clear waters or fish for herring, salmon or bream.

Take a guided walk along the pristine coastline, spot dolphins, whales and schools of fish. Learn about the local flora and fauna and discover the six seasons and how they influence what is gathered foraged and hunted. Enjoy a “catch and cook” BBQ lunch, learn how to prepare your fish and forage for your salad.

Available: February to May Cost: From $265 Bookings: 0412 415 355 or Visit capeculturaltours.com.au

Koomal Dreaming Ngilgi Cave cultural tour This is an introduction to local geography and topography, Wadandi language and history going back over 50,000 years. Start with a bush walk, then descend deep into Ngilgi Cave for a captivating didgeridoo performance. Josh has won three consecutive gold medals at the WA Tourism Awards, 2013-2015 for his Koomal Dreaming tours.

REEL ADVENTURES Fishing with Josh is an unforgettable experience - especially if you're lucky enough to catch some of the abundant local species that call the Indian Ocean their home.

Bay or Smiths Beach within the capes region, depending on weather conditions. After fishing, Josh will prepare lunch, your fish (if you catch one!) and whip up a salad of foraged greens to be enjoyed with cold drinks.

Josh has been involved with the Gourmet Escape festival, sharing the abundant local produce with chefs from around the world.

He has a knack for matching flavours and is a passionate cook, with a deep respect for country.

“I want to share this incredible coastal area, but I want to show people about caring for country sustainably too. Take enough for a feed and only collect the greens that you need.”

Available: 9am Thursday to Sunday, year round Cost: Adults $78, children $44.

Duration: 2.5 hours Visit koomaldreaming.com.au

Cape Cultural Experience Based at Cape Naturaliste, near the lighthouse, you’ll learn about the deep connection the Wadandi people have to the cape to cape region. Start with a Welcome to Country then take a 2.5km walk around the tip of Cape Naturaliste; spectacular bushland surrounded 270 degrees by ocean.

See artefacts, hear the didgeridoo.

Available: September to June Cost: Adults $78, children $40.

Duration: 2.5 hours Visit capeculturaltours.com.au

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Slave to the rhythm If you suffer from disrupted sleep or find yourself staring at the ceiling at 3am, here’s a solution: go camping in the great outdoors.

By GABI MILLS Images by LAUREN TRICKETT (WILD GOOSE CAMPING); FRANCES ANDRIJICH (OLIO BELLO).

ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER (TURNER CARAVAN PARK).

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t was another night spent sitting huddled under a blanket in the dismal hours between 3 and 4am that did it for me. I had to sort out my sleep patterns and fast. Stress, work pressures, the usual clutter of life weren’t leaving me alone when I headed to the land of Nod, and despite my best efforts, more often than not, I’d wake up like clockwork when everybody else in the house was slumbering peacefully.

During one of those pre-dawn solitary sessions, I tried to Google myself back to sleep.

Why am I awake, I asked Siri. Helpfully, my virtual companion pointed me to the Sleep Foundation website.

“Your circadian rhythm is basically a 24-hour internal clock that is running in the background of your brain and cycles between sleepiness and alertness at regular intervals,” it told me.

“It’s also known as your sleep/wake cycle.

When it’s dark at night, your eyes send a signal to the hypothalamus that it’s time to feel tired.

Your brain, in turn, sends a signal to your body to release melatonin, which makes your body tired.

"That’s why your circadian rhythm tends to coincide with the cycle of daytime and night time.”

So my circadian rhythm was out of whack.

How could I fix it? Go back to the Stone Age or, if a time travelling device isn’t available, go camping.

Getting back to nature can help reset your internal clock to a more natural sleep routine.

There’s even been academic research into this very subject. Professor Kenneth Wright from the University of Colorado Boulder has discovered that camping in autumn and winter (when natural light is less plentiful) may have even more of an effect.

Our body’s internal clock, says the prof, responds strongly and quickly to the natural light-dark cycle, re-establishing a healthier circadian rhythm.

“As little as a weekend camping can reset it.”

The following morning, I booked a break with Wild Goose Camping at Taunton Farm near Margaret River. I brought with me a couple of teens, Daisy and Chloe, who could sleep for Australia.

It’s no wonder that Taunton Farm is one of the top five campsites in Western Australia.

On arrival, the girls and I felt immediately at home after a friendly welcome from the lady behind the desk at reception. We found our Wild Goose tents beautifully set up, complete with a welcome basket of goodies, all the equipment you

could need and so much comfort to be found in furnishings that wouldn’t be out of place in a hotel. It’s such a friendly site; the girls (usually too cool for school) ran off to leap about on the bouncing pillow with a bunch of brand new instant friends, while I unpacked and then sat with a cuppa at our very own outdoor table and chairs area. It was late afternoon, and the smell of snags on the communal barbie began to drift over.

I already felt immensely more relaxed than this time yesterday. Little kids zoomed around on go karts (available to hire from reception) and bikes.

All was right with the world.

By nightfall, the whole campsite seemed to be in pyjamas, the low hum of conversations and the occasional burst of laughter punctuating the darkness you only get in the middle of the countryside. I yawned. The girls said they were going to bed. It was half past eight. I fell asleep round about an hour later and slept as if tranquilised.

By the time the rose fingers of dawn were making their presence felt through the thick canvas of my tent, I found myself waking gently, not like usual in a befuddle of confusion and exhaustion. I could hear my fellow campers were gradually getting up too. It felt incredibly natural

COMFORT AND JOY Let the Wild Goose Camping team take the hard work out of camping: they'll put up your tent and fully furnish it for you (above), at any campsite you choose. Below, Olio Bello's glamping bungalows are next-level luxury.

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SLEEP THERAPY Below right, head to Mandalay Resort to revive and rejeuvenate your internal body clock.

Sleep under canvas at Olio Bello in style (right). Augusta's Turner Caravan Park (opposite) is the perfect choice for nature lovers.

to be up and peeking over the top of a steaming mug of coffee so early, the birdsong and distant mooing of cows so much better than a TV blaring or cars whizzing past. There’s something to be said for this caveman living after all.

Taunton Farm has a very civilised approach to camping. The shower and toilets block were absolutely spotless and generously proportioned. Around 8.30am a bell would ring offering guests the chance to buy some fresh croissants from a local baker. On other nights, a wood-fired pizza-maker would do a roaring trade, giving us the night off from cooking dinner. And every day and night we got closer to a circadian rhythm that our ancient ancestors would recognise.

Packing up on the last day (but leaving the heavy lifting like tent removal etc to the Wild Goose team - it is glamping, after all), we all felt refreshed and that 3am solo wakefulness had disappeared. Here’s hoping my new rhythm sticks.

Visit tauntonfarm.com.au and wildgoosecamping.com.au

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OLIO BELLO LAKESIDE GLAMPING So close to Gracetown you can hear the waves crashing on a still night, this beautiful spot is the perfect place to head to if you're keen to leave all thoughts of modern day stress behind.

The six luxury safari-style tented bungalows, designed by Eco Structures Australia (the same team behind Ramada Eco Beach in Broome) really take glamping to the next level.Yes, you're technically under canvas but once inside, the level of attention to detail and design is extraordinary. Each bungalow has a private ensuite bathroom with rainforest-style shower, kitchenette, deck with chairs and table and deckchairs to enjoy that stunning lakeside view and deliciously indulgent little touches, like high quality linen on the double bed, an ingenious fireplace should the nights turn chilly and locally crafted artistic touches like a twisted wooden hat stand. I spotted a hammock near the lake's edge and a little bag of breadcrumbs for guests to feed the resident ducks and wildfowl that call the lake their home. As night falls, the light show above the lake as the sun sets is spectacular; who needs wifi when you've got this kind of free entertainment? If you're staying for a few days make sure you eat lunch in the cafe - it's really something else.

OLIO BELLO LAKESIDE GLAMPING 36 Armstrong Road, Cowaramup.

Call 08 9755 9771 or visit oliobell.com.

Open 7 days, 10am to 4.30pm, lunch served from 11.30am to 3.30pm.

MANDALAY HOLIDAY RESORT It's hard to think of how Mandalay Holiday Resort could be more appealing to the littlies - a rainbow-coloured water slide, a flat-calm bay crabbing and sailing and lazy days beachcombing in the winter. The fact that the resort is connected to town via cycleways along the beach and the huge variety of accommodationstyles. Enjoy all the advantages of a resort-style holiday with the relaxed camping vibe that the Margaret River region does so well.

MANDALAY RESORT 652 Georgraphe Bay Road, Broadwater.

Call 1800 248 231 or visit mandalayresort. com.au for more information.

TURNER CARAVAN PARK, AUGUSTA If you're in search of a stunning holiday spot for fishing, boating, swimming and kitesurfing, head to this friendly caravan spot situated at the picturesque surrounds of the Blackwood River mouth.You can often see visiting dolphins cruising the river in front of the park and large stingrays and pelicans are often happy to share

your catch of the day near the filleting tables. There are new chalets sleeping five people available too if you prefer to sleep under a roof.

TURNER CARAVAN PARK 1 Blackwood Ave, Augusta.

Call (08) 9780 5633 or visit turnerpark. amrshire.wa.gov.au for more information

Best Family Holiday Parks in WA (visit holidayswithkids.com.au) 1. Mandalay Holiday Resort and Tourist Park 2. RAC Busselton Holiday Park 3. BIG4 Beachlands Holiday Park 4. Taunton Farm Holiday Park

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Nature & Environment

Cape Naturaliste lighthouse has undergone a make over - and now the popular attraction is ship shape for more visitors than ever.

By ZOE DELEUIL. Images by TIM CAMPBELL/BIANCA TURRI.

G N I T H LtheIG

WAY

A

STAR STRUCK Join the Cape Nat team and the enigmatic Astrophil for an evening under the stars. See the galaxy from one of the giant telescopes on site and be prepared for a hugely informative evening under the night skies.

April 7, 6 til 8pm, $15, kids $10 (kids under four get in for free). Bookings essential – call 08 9755 3955.

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lways an incredible experience, particularly in whale watching season, the Cape Naturaliste lighthouse and grounds in Dunsborough have recently re-opened with a new boardwalk allowing panoramic ocean views, and a welcoming café in the former lighthouse keeper’s cottage, plus a kids’ playground.

“We wanted to make the whole experience better for visitors, and we’ve had a really great response to the restoration of old lighthouse keeper’s cottage. We’ve expanded the entrance and gift shop, and we’re also working on a new museum and interpretive centre that will tell stories of keepers' lives and early colonial history,” says site manager Tod Kearns.

The main attraction is, naturally, the lighthouse itself. Built in 1903 from limestone quarried in nearby Bunker Bay, it’s 123 metres above sea level and offers a rare opportunity to get inside a working lighthouse. With just 59 steps, it’s accessible even for small children or older folk, and tour guides are happy to talk about its history and answer questions while you take in the views.

Once back on the ground, the new café and playground encourage visitors to linger. Run by the team behind The Goose in Busselton, The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage Café is a cheerful revival of a building that has been unused since the last keeper left in 1996. Serving coffee, toasted

sandwiches and cakes, it’s a handy refuelling stop for walkers on the Cape to Cape trail.

The cottage’s original character has been kept alive with cosy interiors of 1950s furniture, vintage books, and local artwork, with puzzles featuring lighthouse images left half-completed on wooden dining tables. Outside, a new deck, shaded by umbrellas, overlooks a nauticalinspired playground.

The new wheelchair accessible boardwalk

came about by chance after a bushfire cleared the scrub and started a conversation about making the new vista permanent.

Now, visitors can take in sweeping views across Geographe Bay and the Indian Ocean without climbing to the top of the lighthouse.

It’s a peaceful, windswept spot for spotting some of the 35,000 humpback and blue whales and their calves that pass every year on the way back to Antarctica, after giving birth and raising their young in the tropical waters of the Kimberley.

“It’s a whale highway here from September to November,” says Tod.You see them with their calves, breeching, rolling and slapping the water with their fins.”

While you’re here . . .

Walking trails around the site allow for more glimpses of whales and dolphins, and wildflowers in spring.

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse marks the southern end of the Cape-to-Cape walk, and you will receive a discount if you book tickets for both.

Consider a Kaya Tour with Indigenous guide Josh Whiteland, who offers an opportunity to learn about the Wadandi people and their deep connection to this region. His tours begin at the lighthouse and are wheelchair accessible, but need to be booked in advance at capeculturaltours.com.au.

See our interview with Josh on page 54.

Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse 1267 Cape Naturaliste Road, Dunsborough Open 9am to 5pm daily (last tour at 4.30pm). Closed Christmas Day Visit margaretriverlighthouses.com or call 08 9757 7411.

Nature & Environment

Lake Cave is a magical underground world of natural wonders. Zoe Deleuil meets guide and site manager Andrew Green.

Water world S

tep beyond the visitors’ centre of Lake Cave and you may find yourself gulping as you contemplate the 50-metre drop from the timber viewing platform to a distant, narrow gap that leads into the cave itself.

You’re looking at a huge crater, or doline, that was once the main chamber of the cave. The first recorded sighting of it was back by a European settler was back in 1867 when Francis Bussell, of the pioneering Bussell family, rode up to it on her horse while searching for lost cattle in the bush.

She reported the find to her family that night but was unable to locate it again. Some 30 years later, her brother John and his friend Tim Connelly happened upon it by chance. They lowered themselves down by rope to the cave entrance and explored it with nothing more than some candles and a box of matches for lighting.

A few years later, they began giving the first cave tours by lamplight.

Today, cave access is safer, but no less enchanting. Australian Geographic recently named it the country’s best cave, describing it as “a crystal wonderland with still waters reflecting the pristine caverns above”.

I spoke to Andrew Green, site manager and guide since 2009, about what it’s like to work here.

Zoe Deleuil Lake Cave was recently named best cave in Australia.What do you think makes it so special?

Andrew Green “Which cave is best?” is a question we get asked all the time and it’s the one we really struggle to answer as they all have their own beauty. What makes Lake Cave unique is that it’s the only one with water year round, and has really delicate crystal formations that you see twice, once on the roof and once reflected in the water, which is like an otherworldly lake.

Also, the entrance it's a huge sunken forest and as you walk down the timber steps it’s like you are stepping back in time through layers of geological history, built up over a million years. Then you get to the bottom and you’re standing on ancient granite that is the base of the whole system, surrounded by karri trees high above you. It gives me a thrill every single time I explain to visitors that if they'd been standing with me on that spot in the base of the doline 100 or 200 thousand years ago, they would have been standing in darkness in what was one of the biggest caverns in the region.

ZD What feedback do you get about the cave from tourists?

AG They are always blown away by the view looking up. It’s not often

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EXTRAORDINARY SIGHT Lake Cave is unique because it's the only one in the region to have water all year round - and the entrance is like a huge sunken forest. Left, cave guide Andrew Green.

you get to stand under a karri forest. And being inside the cave is quite an intimate experience, like discovering a secret river you can’t see from the outside. It’s like descending right back through history to the start of it all.

ZD Do you know if Indigenous people visited Lake Cave prior to white settlement?

AG There’s no evidence at Lake Cave, but there are other caves in the area, closed to the public, with evidence of Indigenous people having used these natural shelters. The Devil’s Lair Cave for example is a Museum of WA site where archaeologists have dug down and found evidence of fire hearths going back more than 45,000 years, which possibly dates back to the first human habitation in the south west.

ZD The descent into Lake Cave is nicely laid out with decking and handrails, but there are a couple of low-hanging rocks at the entrance. Do people ever turn back at that point?

AG Actually, it surprises me how few people turn around at that point – maybe only one in every two or three hundred visitors.

ZD What would you like visitors to gain from their visit to Lake Cave?

AG It is such a great opportunity for people to see the connection between ‘above’ and ‘below’. It’s

all linked, and water is just such an important part of the creation and the health of this linked environment.Water carved away the limestone, creating the cave and crystal decorations inside.

The water flowing in the stream comes from the rain that fell within the catchment area several years ago, and whatever it picks up from the land on the way will eventually make its way through the cave.

Karri trees above the cave send their roots down through more than 50 metres of limestone to reach the water in the cave stream – you’ll see one of the holes or ‘solution pipes’ left by these tree roots in the cave roof.

There are also several species of tiny organisms called ‘stygofauna’ that are totally dependent on the water in Lake Cave – some of them have been found nowhere else, and may be relics from an ancient time.

Morning is always a good time to come as you can catch the forest as it’s still waking up. Winter is also very pretty as it’s so green and lush, and spring is beautiful with all the wildflowers, including some rare orchids.

ZD What are your favourite places to go when you're not working?

AG I spend my weekends surfing or just disappearing into the Boranup Forest with bare feet and a GPS. Visit margaretriver.com/attractions/caves/

Nature & Environment

If you’re in the market for sustainable housing, consider investigating the brave new world of making your home in a shipping container. By ZOE DELEUIL.

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he global trend for converting shipping containers into homes arrived down south almost by chance when Simon Howard, who owns Naturaliste Balustrades in Dunsborough, was looking for a side project to keep his employees in work over the slow winter months last year.

“We got to work converting a shipping container into accommodation on my property in Quindalup. It was something I’d thought about doing for a while. I have a trade background as a sheet metal worker and have always loved building and designing, ever since I played with Lego as a kid. This was a sort of natural progression from that,” he says.

A container home offers people the opportunity for a dwelling here at a fraction of the cost of a traditional holiday house, says Simon.

“I liked the idea of producing something that was transportable and didn’t require putting down concrete, and I’ve also been inspired by minimalism and the whole Tiny House movement – that idea of doing more with less.”

As well as the one on his own property, Simon installed a prototype outside his workshop in Dunsborough for potential clients to wander through. It is tiny by luxury holidayhouse standards – six metres long, roughly 2.5 metres wide and 2.9 metres high. “These are the slightly higher shipping containers that tend to go on the very top of pile, so give you a bit more headroom,” says Simon.

Similar to being inside a caravan, but with bigger windows and modern, built-in cabinetry

and plywood finishes, it’s more than adequate as a starter holiday home or additional space alongside an existing house – and, of course, location is everything. Simon’s own container apartment overlooks Toby Inlet and has a timber deck for taking in the views, and has been positioned, optimal natural light and warmth, which reduces running costs further Inside, one end holds a sofabed that can be used as a couch during the day. The kitchen area has a sink and microwave oven, there’s

G L A M P I N G G E TAWAY

Email glamping@oliobello.com

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Phone +61(08) 97 55 9771

ARMSTRONG

some storage, including a small wardrobe, and a composting toilet with a shower over it.

“Having one on my own property, I’ve been amazed at how comfortable and versatile they are. If you already own some land down here you could rent it out as holiday accommodation," says Simon.

“The other benefit of a container is that it is completely transportable, so easy to install, and you have the option to sell it or take it with you if you move.

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WA

Nature & Environment “We’ve just had an enquiry from a wedding venue in Margaret River who want to add some extra guest accommodation, so it’s also an option for commercial operations.”

As well as being cost-efficient, shipping containers are fire-resistant and virtually indestructible. They are also a sustainable option as they re-use a container that has come from China on a one-way, one-use journey.

With insulation, solar panels, a rainwater tank and a composting toilet, they are simple and inexpensive to run and offer the option to go off the grid.

So far, what started out as a winter side

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project is showing promise. Simon’s own home has proved popular with guests on Airbnb and enquiries are coming in.

“I think they really come into their own in the Margaret River region,” says Simon. “There’s so much to do here, and often all you need is a base to come back to at night.”

NO PLACE LIKE HOME The cost-efficient solution to the housing solution could be sea containers, like Mipod Shipping Container Homes. They are sustainable and super economical too.

Fast facts Call Simon Howard on 0438 911 200 or visit mipodcontainerhomes. com.au

A BRIEF HISTORY OF SHIPPING CONTAINERS The humble shipping container is credited with making the global economy bigger and the world smaller by simplifying the shipping process and, being lockable, greatly reducing the volume of cargo that vanishes en route.

Malcolm McClean, a transport business owner in North Carolina, came up with the idea when he noticed how much time was spent unloading and loading cargo at port. He came up with a standardised shipping container that was stackable, lockable and easy to move, then modified an oil tanker to transport it – and in 1956 the container ship was born.

So how much does a container cost?

A base model with electricity and internal fittings including cabinetry, insulation and windows is approximately $30,000.

Plumbing can be added retrospectively.

This option is ideal for adding an extra guest room or bedroom to an existing home.

A fully fitted model is around $45,000, and includes wiring, plumbing, a shower and a composting toilet.

Getting there is half the fun Kick back, relax and explore the scenic Margaret River region on one of our luxury road coaches.

Leave your car at home and enjoy WA’s stunning South West with Transwa instead. You get to unwind and enjoy the scenery while we do the driving.

Our five-star road coaches are fully accessible and air conditioned, with on board entertainment, USB ports and toilet facilities.

We travel between Margaret River and Perth 12 times a week, and offer a variety of concession discounts.

Plan your journey by visiting transwa.wa.gov.au or call 1300 662 205.

Bringing WA closer

Swim sisters

Active & adventure

CHECK IN TO THE DIVE SHED IN BUSSELTON AND SISTERS ALECIA AND MEGAN MACDONALD CAN SHOW YOU THE MAGICAL UNDERWATER SIGHTS OF GEOGRAPHE BAY.

BY NORMAN BURNS. IMAGES BY ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER/THE DIVE SHED.

B

usselton sisters Alecia and Megan Macdonald know the ocean. The pair grew up around beautiful Geographe Bay and as children were always out on boats on crabbing and fishing trips with their dad Peter, and brother, Justin.

Peter was a keen diver and eventually turned his hobby into a full-time business, opening The Dive Shed near Busselton's jetty in 1991. It prospered and in 2012, he handed the reins to the sisters.

“We basically grew up on the ocean,” says Alecia. “The beach was our babysitter in the school holidays, my brother with his fishing gear, me with my pink snorkelling set and later Megan in her soggy nappy.”

It was, she says, always a given that she and

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her siblings would become divers.

“I started in 1993 at 11 years old and Megan in 2002 when she turned 12,” she says.

“I wouldn't say that diving was a passion then, it was so normal to us. I also suffered terrible seasickness as a child and I would often be curled in a ball on the boat while my dad put my gear on me to throw me overboard - because I always felt better in the water.”

Megan, however, can pinpoint the moment that diving went from a happy distraction to her raison d’etre. “I was going through a difficult time in my life and I came back to Busselton straight into the open arms of my sister and started diving again,” she says. “I went on a night dive to the Busselton Jetty and it was like I was welcomed back to the ocean, the dive was so

BIG BLUE The Dive Shed's Alecia and Megan Macdonald are more familiar than most with the underside and underwater - parts of Busselton Jetty.

amazing I can hardly put it into words.

“I looked up at the moonlight shining onto the abundance of life laid out in front of me, watched my bubbles break the surface of the water and knew that this is exactly where I belonged.”

Now Alecia and Megan work to share that dive magic' with locals and tourists young and old.

“One of the unique things about Geographe Bay is that most of the season it is sheltered from strong winds and with no tide or surf to worry about any day is a potential diving day,” says Alecia.

“We cater for all levels of experience due to the variety of dive sites we visit and the range of services we provide. We have the Try Scuba Diving Experience for complete novices but can train divers from Open Water Diver right through to becoming a Dive Professional. We have sites like the Busselton Jetty and 4 Mile Reef that suit newbie divers as well as The Swan Wreck which is an advanced dive site and great for extended range tech diving.”

And the range of sea life in the bay is simply dazzling.

“The Swan Wreck gives us a great opportunity to see big schools of pelagic species and the reefs and jetty are ideal for 'critter hunting', particularly nudibranchs. I have dived with a seal under the jetty and put my head under a ledge on the reef only to wake a sleeping turtle. I am also currently ‘training’ a colony of local cleaner shrimp to clean my divers as well as the fish at their cleaning station,” says Alecia.

The sisters are passionate about taking an active role keeping their neck of the woods in pristine condition.

“Marine protection and conservation are part of The Dive Shed’s core values,” says Alecia. “As a local dive business, a healthy marine ecosystem is central to the viability of our business, it benefits our local economy, local livelihoods and the reputation of the South West region as a nature tourism destination.”

Over the past three years, The Dive shed has contributed as key stakeholder in the Federal Government's Commonwealth Marine Reserves review, advising Canberra on how best to protect the marine environment. And since 2012, the sisters have run their “conscious diver” Busselton Jetty Eco tour, which focuses on diving with minimal impact on the environment and reducing their carbon footprint, among the many different tour options available through The Dive Shed.

The sisters also offer their skills to Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory, cleaning the windows to keep them crystal clear, as well as to the occasional distraught visitor who accidentally drops something off the jetty and into the briny. “Engagement rings and wallets are most common,” says Megan.

And their advice for anyone wanting to try diving?

“If you're feeling nervous just get out of your own head and focus on the tasks ahead of you. Almost anyone can be a diver . . . we have taken eight-year-old kids to 70-year-old retirees, paraplegics and amputees. What stops people from succeeding is purely worry or fear.You may be out of your comfort zone to begin with but with the right frame of mind you will relax into it and realise what an incredibly amazing experience you are having,” says Alecia.

The Dive Shed, 21 Queen St Busselton, (08) 9754 1615.Visit diveshed.com.au margaretriver.com

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Active & adventure SOME SAY IT’S THE KING OF FISH - AND NOW THAT THE DHUFISH SEASON IS IN FULL SWING, TREVOR PADDENBURG SEES NO REASON TO ARGUE.

E H T U H thing Dright F

laky and delicate yet rich and full of flavour, dhufish is one of the most prized species for anglers in the Margaret River region.

And with autumn here, dhufish season is in full swing. Endemic to Western Australia, they are found nowhere else on Earth, reaching up to 25kg and 40 years of age.

But bagging one of these marine beauties is no easy feat. One of the best in the business at finding and catching dhufish is Legend Charters game fishing skipper Luke Thom, whose biggest “dhuie” was a 17.6kg whopper caught off Dunsborough.

“There’s nowhere else in the world where you can catch these fish. As well as being damn good to eat, they’re some of best targeting fish for the fight you get and the size they can go to,” he says.

Here are Thom’s tips for bagging a dhufish:

LEAVE THE LAND You’ll need a boat to bag a dhuie. WA’s fisheries department says dhufish are “typically found on reefs 20m-50m deep”. That means launching at one of the region’s boat ramps and heading out

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to sea. Thom says the best ground “depends on the size of your boat and how far you’re heading out”. Search for coral bombies, large rocky outcrops, ledges and caves.

FRESH IS BEST When it comes to bait, dhufish are fussy. “They love herring, octopus and squid but above all it’s got to be fresh,” says Thom. “If you can, get out the morning before and catch 15 herring to take out in the boat, which is better than buying your bait.”

DANCE A JIG In terms of equipment, there are two choices.

“There’s the old school way of using bait and an 8-10kg rod with 40-50 pound braid,” says Thom.

“Or you’ve got the new school way of jigging.”

Jigging involves using a soft plastic lure designed to flutter to the seabed and attract the fish’s attention. “You bring it up 5m, then drop it back down and repeat. For jigging, you need a lighter rod and lighter line,” he says. Thom reckons combining both approaches is the sure-fire bet.

CHART YOUR COURSE

Veteran fishermen have spent decades finding and fishing the best dhufish ground and honing their techniques, but for the rest of us it’s hard to beat the added know-how on a fishing charter.

Legend Charters caught the bag limit for dhufish on four out of every five charters last season.

“The crew and the deckhands will show you the rigs to use and organise the bait, plus you’re on a bigger boat which is a lot more comfortable than fishing out of your tinny,” says Thom. Legend Charters also guarantee a feed of fish at the end of the day.

SOUND ADVICE For those with their own boat (or even better: a mate’s boat), Thom reckons a quality sounder is

essential to spot dhufish and identify good ground. “It’s pretty much essential to be running a good sounder set up.You need at least a 1kw transducer with a quality sounder. The sort of equipment you’ll need is worth around $1,000 but catching dhufish is pretty difficult without it,” he says.

TIME IT RIGHT Thom says time of day is not a crucial factor for catching dhuies, but timing fishing with the tides can play a big part in success or failure.

“The change of tides definitely seems to be the best. Coming in and then when the tide is running out again is when they can be more active, although it doesn’t always go that way,” he says.

REEL 'EM IN You’ll know when you hook a dhufish: they have cavernous mouths designed for ambushing prey and striking with plenty of power. The first few seconds after the strike are crucial, says Thom. “You want to reel in hard at the start to get him off the bottom,” he says. But it’s a delicate balance because “you don’t want to go too hard or you’ll pull the hooks out”. After those first crucial seconds, Thom says reel in slow and steady.

JUST A LITTLE PATIENCE Patience and persistence are other key factors to catching dhufish. “If you do the time, you’ll catch the fish,” Thom reckons. “They move with the tides and the time of year.You’ve got to work out where they go and what they feed on. It takes years, not days.” Regardless, enjoy the experience of being out on the sea. “Some days they’re there, some days they’re not,” he says.

SIZZLE THAT FILLET Back on dry land, Thom reckons there’s no better way to eat dhufish than crumbed and lightly pan-fried. “Add a bit of parsley and salt in the crumb, and serve with potato salad and coleslaw. Just talking about it makes me hungry,” he says.

Dhufish season runs December to mid May. Size and bag limits apply to dhufish and other species, while anglers fishing from a boat need a licence. See fish.wa.gov.au for all the details or visit legendcharters.net.au.

OPEN EVERYDAY FOR EVERYONE 11am - 5pm ph:08 97553554 |

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eaglebaybrewing.com.au margaretriver.com

Active & adventure

Crest kings queens The Margaret River Pro attracts world class talent and, for a week at least, becomes the centre of the surfing world.

By DIANNE BORTOLETTO. Images by SURFING WA.

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ts consistent and spectacularly big waves have made Margaret River a mecca for surfers. It’s officially considered one of the world’s top 10 surfing destinations and has been named Western Australia’s first national surfing reserve.

Each autumn, the region hosts the World Surf League (WSL) Margaret River Pro that attracts the best board riders on the planet – names such as Kelly Slater, John John Florence, Joel Parkinson, Stephanie Gilmore, and WA’s only WSL World Championship Tour surfer Bronte Macaulay. Each year, the event is streamed live to millions of viewers around the world, literally projecting the region right in front of the world.

The Margaret River Pro is the third event of the 11 events in the WSL World Championship Tour (WCT) where athletes earn valuable WCT points towards the World Championship title.

It’s certainly come a long way, from a bus parked at Surfers Point which doubled up as the

makeshift judges’ office and event HQ over 30 years ago to the celebrated event it is today.

Surfing WA CEO Mark Lane recalls the first surfing competition called the Margaret River Masters back in 1985.

“It was amazing,” the 54-year-old said. “I went down with some mates to watch the event and got to see in the flesh some of my surfing idols that I had only ever seen pictures of or read about or watched in surf movies.

“It was easily the biggest surfing event I had ever been to then. It’s funny to look back at old photos and see how things have changed funnily enough it still remains way bigger in my memories.

“I still remember that feeling of amazement and I see kids looking at the big names nowadays with that same sort of look of wonder on their faces.”

Top tier events have other lasting and positive effects that can’t always be measured by economic impact or view statistics.

“The Pro generates a buzz, watching the best surfers ride waves in the locations we grew up surfing and the flow-on effects that has on the groms watching.

“It’s had a massive positive effect on our young surfers certainly – there’s a big difference to seeing it live as opposed to watching on TV. “I also think that surfers are great role models and I think they provide a super positive example of what being a good human is all about.”

Mark said that there are measureable benefits that the Pro brings to the region.

“It would have injected $50 million over the past 10 years and probably in excess of $100 million over the event's history since 1985, which is particularly important as the event is held in off-peak tourism season.”

The Margaret River Pro is regarded as the best organised event on the World Championship Tour and continuously sets benchmarks that other events follow.

It was one of the first events to adopt live online streaming some 10 years ago, set the standard for surfer and sponsor hospitality and was also one of the first events to implement multiple event locations.

What that means is that there’s a choice of surf breaks on which to hold the competition, allowing the WSL commissions the option to choose the best waves on any given day.

Gracetown local and homegrown surfing hero Bronte Macaulay said wave quality is paramount.

“Wave quality is at the very top of the WSL’s

CT event components - ask any of the CT men and women surfers - and North Point has wave quality in spades,” the 23-year-old said.

“I loved seeing the pro surfers blazing in my home town of Gracetown at North Point – it’s my sister Laura’s favorite wave.”

North Point was used for the first time last year during the Margaret River Pro. “I’m proud to fly the West Aussie flag in the World Championship Tour and would love to see the continuation of this iconic event adding to its rich history for many years to come,” Bronte said.

Mark said that one of his proudest achievements as Surfing WA CEO is gaining and maintaining the Pro’s World Championship Tour status and being able to make the event free for spectators with free parking.

From April 11 to 22, the world’s top 34 ranked male and top 17 ranked female surfers will compete for world title points at the third stop of the World Surf League Championship Tour in Margaret River. Known as one of the world’s most consistent big-wave surf breaks, thousands of spectators are expected to flock to the Margaret River Pro at Surfers Point in Prevelly.

The Surfing WA Trials, which is only open to West Australian surfers, will take place on April 10, with the top finishing male and top finishing female surfers earning a place to surf in the main event alongside the world’s best.

Margaret River Pro, from April 11 to 22.Visitsurfingwa.com.au for information.

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL RESTAURANT | CULINARY RETREAT

NEW A LA CARTE MENU

French-influenced country fare showcasing fresh seafood and local produce

AUTUMN MENU DU JOUR SPECIAL $ 89 per person

SAMPLE MENU Double baked seafood soufflé Steak Frites with truffle café de paris butter Tarte or Fromage

COOKING CLASS DEMONSTRATION WITH CHEF TONY HOWELL Working with seasonal local produce discover some kitchen tips and recipes before sitting down to a superb three course long table lunch with wines served in the Cape Lodge Restaurant Demonstration and Lunch with wines | $145pp Long Table Lunch only with wines | $95pp CALENDAR 17th March 21st April 19th May 16th June

French Bistro Classic Cooking with Marron Cooking with Seafood Black Truffle and Shrooms!

SUNDAY HARVEST DINNERS $89pp with a glass of wine

Every Sunday our chefs will prepare a 3 course share menu created from the best of local and estate grown produce.

Special BYO Sundays - $10 per bottle Every Sunday from 6pm Reservations Essential FURTHER INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS T: 08 9755 6311 E: stay@capelodge.com.au www.capelodge.com.au margaretriver.com

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Active & adventure

Alt-to u rs Whether you like to do things a little differently or have already done one of the more traditional food and wine tours, there are plenty of alternative ways to explore the Margaret River region.

By CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

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SKY HIGH For those that like a shot of adrenaline with their lunch, take to the skies and arrive in style by helicopter after a bird’s eye view of the coastline and undulating vineyards of the region. Take a wine tour and lunch experience at one of the luxurious dining venues in the region with friendly team at The Flying Corkscrew. Tours are intimate and personalised, with private tasting rooms and stunning settings guaranteed. Scenic Helicopters offer a once-in-a-lifetime option to tour the entire stretch of cape to cape coast by air, or for those looking for the ideal romantic treat, book a flight to your very own secluded

beach and treat your loved one to a gourmet picnic hamper and champagne on ice.

SEA LIFE Head up to the Dunsborough foreshore and spend a morning paddling the clear waters of the Geographe bay on a tour with South West Water Sports. In addition to catamaran hire, stand up paddle boards, double and single kayaks and pedal boats, they have recently launched a range of guided tours with the newest addition to their stable of sea vessels - hobie kayaks.

They ensure a comfortable cruise, propelling through the water with foot pedal power which

means you get a hands-free experience – perfect for taking snaps along the journey. Operating from November to April, cruise the coast from Dunsborough to Meelup or take a Busselton jetty snorkel drive to see the secrets of the sea and abundant natural beauty from below.

Qualified scuba divers could fit in a chance for a scuba dive if they prefer and see the south west from a new angle out in the water.

Travel further down the coast and stay out at sea with Margaret River Kitesurfing and Windsurfing. Learn this exciting sport in some of the safest water in the region and see the coast from a totally different point of view. margaretriver.com

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Active & adventure

Experience life at a slower pace travelling along the beautiful Blackwood River

ADVENTURE TIME Whether you want to explore the region on water, in the sky or on land, there are plenty of new, cool tours to satisfy the most demanding adventurer.

Still keen on seeing the lay of the land from the water’s edge but not much of a thrill seeker? Then Blackwood River House Boats might be the answer. Combine a relaxing tour up the river and accommodation with a choice of four boats, ranging from two to eight berths. Experience life at a slower pace travelling along the beautiful Blackwood river from Augusta, through 20 kilometres of pristine national park filled with native wildlife.

SADDLE UP If you prefer having both feet firmly on the ground why not try a two-wheeled tour? Dirty Detours Mountain Bike Adventures are based in Margaret River and love nothing better than taking visitors out to see the sublime beauty of Boronup Forrest on bike. Or try one of their wine tours with a twist on a sip n’ cycle tour (they’ve just introduced E-bikes in case you run out of puff easily). Surf ‘n Dirt Adventure Tours also provide a chance to jump on a bike and see the forest’s natural beauty, along with learning to surf under expert tuition and kayaking through the peaceful silence of the untouched south west for a full day of outdoor activity.

ALL ABOARD Hitting the road with the help of some old-

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Fast facts fashioned engine power, head back up to Busselton and learn about the historic town sites on a tour with the Busselton Tram Company.

Take a trip down memory lane and enjoy a leisurely-paced journey back in time on their lovingly restored trams (they will be running twice a day at 10am and 2pm until the end of Easter and then will close until the warmer months return). They are also available for weddings and private charter. If you want to stick to the roads of the region and enjoy the element of surprise, check out new tour company Due South. Let their guides take you on a trip around the hidden gems of the wine region on their Boutique Baby winery tour.

Finally, if luxury is the name of the game then look no further than MR Chauffeurs and the range of services they provide. Explore the best of the region with your own private driver to look after your every whim. They’ll even transfer you to your choice of destinations either from Perth or from within the south west. Whether it’s a romantic trip for two or a whole family affair they have a range of luxurious vehicles including a new Range Rover Sport with in-car facilities such as iPads, hand towels, chargers, newspapers and chilled refreshments. The progressive lunch experience is one for the serious foodies out there. Enjoy each course at one of the region’s famed restaurants starting the day with coffee and finishing with cheese and chocolate.

The Flying Corkscrew visit flyingcorkscrew.com.au or call 0403 847 607 Scenic Helicopters visit scenichelicopters.com.au or call 0428 058 157 South West Water Sports visit southwestwatersports.com.au or call 0456 704 040 Margaret River Kitesurfing and Windsurfing visit mrkiteandsail.com.au or call 0419 959 053 Blackwood River House Boats visit blackwoodriverhouseboats.com.au or call 0439 959 638 Dirty Detours visit dirtydetours.com or call 0422 343 341 Surf ‘n Dirt Adventure Tours visit surfndirtadventuretours.com.au or call 0458 191 469 Busselton Tram Company visit busseltontramco.com.au or call 1300 523 000 Due South Tour Company visit duesouthtourcompany.com or call 0450 542 820 Margaret River Chauffeurs visit mrchauffeurs.com.au or call (08) 9759 1612 margaretriver.com

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Holidays

with the

factor

Matthew Mills packed the wife, kids and luggage into a BMW X3 for a trip down to Busselton. And that was just the beginning of the family’s adventures.

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he long road down south has become pretty familiar to me, my wife and the kids. With luck, we’re on it two or three times a year, on our way to some beautiful holiday spot in the getaway haven that is the Margaret River region.

Our regular trips, then, mean we know what to expect on that long, long stretch of blacktop and, while familiarity doesn’t quite breed contempt, the less enthralling bits of the drive have definitely brought us to the point where the getting there is definitely better with than the going.

Or so I thought.

Yes, thanks to BMW I have found a cure for the driving down south blues – and that is the remarkable, recently revamped X3. This car, I

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now know, is the ultimate machine to take you a long way in style and comfort.

The X Series has, of course, taken the motoring world by storm since the first of its kind, the massively popular X5, hit the roads two decades ago. Today, the series is the pinnacle of SUV excellence, boasting perfection in all styles, from the compact X1 to the superb seven-seater X7.

The good people at Auto Classic loaned me the X3 xDrive30d for our three-day break in Busselton, knowing I’d be bowled over with it.

This new version is a little bigger than its previous incarnation and as we loaded up for the trip it was quickly apparent that we would be doing the drive in extreme comfort. The big

boot easily swallowed all our bags and the three kids in the back seat had more than enough room to stretch out and guarantee a squabblefree journey.

The tech is quite staggering and before we set off we hooked up an iPhone and explored the iDrive 6.0. Our eldest was most preoccupied with the sound system, which gave his Spotify list fantastic resonance. I meanwhile programmed the oh-so-simple navigation to show us the way to our destination – The Sebel, Busselton Once on the road I engaged cruise control knowing the safety features such as auto braking and drift sensors would keep us all out of harm's way.

Cruising south, then, is a joy – especially once the kids in the back fall asleep – and the big gas tank coupled with a combined fuel consumption of six litres to every 100km means there’s no need for a pit stop.

When we arrived, then, we were all refreshed and ready to go – none of the long-journey hangover that so often mars day one of a holiday – which was a real benefit as The Sebel is a resort that simply begs to be explored.

First, the kids ran excitedly around our lovely three-bedroom apartment, bagsying rooms and marveling at their new home from home. The space was wonderfully airy and cool – a blessing on the blistering weekend we pitched up. The boys claimed the upstairs, a stylish, attic style bedroom with two single beds and ensuite, while

we’d love to tell you about our gourmet traveller and good food guide awards, but we’d rather you experience it for yourself.

our daughter unpacked her bags in the lovely room at the front of the apartment. The master bedroom was for me and my wife, a beautifully comfortable bed and lovely en suite with an inviting shower and bath. An added bonus was that we all had our own TV. The main living area was just perfect – spacious but packed with everything a family could need. The lounge area was comfy, the little patio out the back perfect for a barby.

Leaving mum to unpack, then, we quickly changed into swimmers and headed to the pool, a perfect family area boasting not one but two

voyagerestate.com.au JOLLY HOLIDAYS The Sebel Busselton's pool (above) was a focal point for Matthew and family.

Left, the BMW X3 was the perfect way to arrive in style down south. Left, Matthew and son Oliver on their way to The Stilts restaurant for dinner.

places to dive into, one indoors one out. The spa in the indoor pool complex was a regular draw for both kids and grown-ups. The nearby games room held a ping pong table, air hockey and some wonderfully retro videogames, ready to give the kids their gaming fix.

The Sebel Busselton is also perfectly positioned, just two minutes walk from the beautiful beach – and the welcoming Stilts restaurant where we feasted every night, without breaking the bank.

Most of our trip was spent, then, soaking up the rays by the pool and on the beach, but we did get a chance to take the X3 into Busselton itself, where, as we nipped around the narrow streets, I discovered the big BMW is surprisingly

nimble – and that the automatic parking assistant is just wonderful when there’s only one bay left on Main Street.

We also took it down to the historic Jetty, giving the kids the chance to live it up on the fun-tastic inflatables in the sea before a lovely lunch in The Goose Bar. Our journey back was just as stress-free, the only downside being that our trip was over and Auto Classic were going to want their now quite sandy X3 back. Still, we left with a lot of good memories and the knowledge that we had found the ultimate car to tackle Australia’s many long drives and one of the ultimate places to take it.

Visit autoclassic.com.au and margaretiver.com for visitor information margaretriver.com

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Concrete kings Towns from Busselton to Augusta have embraced modern skate culture by creating gnarly community skateparks.

Jennifer Morton gets the low-down.

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kateboarding has come a long way since the days when American kids rode in dehydrated swimming pools to hone their radical board skills. Today, skateboarder culture is so popular it even has a sub-culture: scooter riding. The Margaret River region has embraced the skate lifestyle by providing towns with purpose-built skateparks.

Skateboarding is more than a way for youth to pass time. For some, it’s a passion. It certainly is for Luke Ward, owner of the south west’s only core skate shop, Soggybones, located in central Dunsborough. Luke grew up idolising professional skateboarders. While classmates had pictures of pop stars on their bedroom walls, he had posters of skateboarders.

“There were no skateparks when I grew

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up. I learned in driveways and car parks,” says Luke. The 30-year-old skateboarder owns the Soggybones brand with his brother, Justin.

The Perth-born siblings come from boardsport stock; their grandfather was one of the original surfers catching waves at Yallingup, back in the day. It’d be safe to say that surfing and skateboarding is in their blood.

Luke passes on his skill and passion for skateboarding by coaching, mentoring and sponsoring up-and-coming skaters. His Tailtap Skate Clinics, which teach skateboarding technique and etiquette, are held at skateparks around Western Australia.

The Margaret River region boasts five skateparks so grab a board (or scooter) and get among it.

BUSSELTON SKATEPARK The daddy of the Margaret River region skateparks is located at the Busselton foreshore near the jetty. The 2,200sqm concrete park features lots of flat space for street style; rails for grinding; funbanks, quarter pipes and a vertical wall for practising upward motion manoeuvres.

And let’s not forget about the park’s big card for serious riders: the bowls. The little bowl is 1.2 metres deep and good for beginner skaters

and scooter riders. The big bowl is a massive 18 metres long and three metres deep making it one of Western Australia’s biggest and best competition-grade skate bowls. With ample seating, lawned areas, drinking fountains and a killer ocean view, it’s no wonder this skatepark is a popular hang-out for locals and visiting families.

WHERE 1 Scout Way/Foreshore Parade, Busselton VISIT busselton.wa.gov.au

DUNSBOROUGH SKATEPARK When Luke’s not manning his Soggybones skate shop, you’ll often find him at the Dunsborough Skatepark shredding or mentoring skate students.

This all-levels park is well-designed and offers a good flow, says Luke. The bustling skatepark has banks for rolling-in, mini quarters, a mini ramp, a half pipe and a 1.8 metre bowl with a taco (not the edible kind). Located between two sporting ovals, there’s plenty of parking and a playground nearby.

WHERE Dunsborough Lakes Drive, Dunsborough VISIT facebook.com/Dunsborough-Skatepark

COWARAMUP SKATEPARK Completed in 2013, the Cowaramup skatepark is small but the shredability factor is epic. Skatepark elements include several boxes for street style, a spine ramp and two open bowls. “The beauty of the Margaret River region skateparks is that they are designed for all abilities,” says Luke. The centrally-located board park is a good one for skaters who like to transfer through the elements uninterrupted.

WHERE 45 Bussell Highway, behind the tennis courts, Cowaramup VISIT amrshire.wa.gov.au

MARGARET RIVER SKATEPARK With a massive multi-million dollar expansion underway by Convic, creators of innovative and community-minded skateparks, the 20-year-old Margaret River park’s revamp is highly anticipated by local and visiting skaters and scooter riders. Some of WA’s best skateboarders, such as pro-skater Andrew Brophy, developed their skills here, and there are many talented local skateboarders who call this bowl home. “The Margaret River skatepark was the first well-built skatepark in WA. And with the upgrade, there’s potential for it to be the best in the state,” says Luke.

The new plans include extensions and add-ons to the park’s existing half pipe, quarter pipe, wave ramp, roll-ins, hips and a new threemetre deep bowl as well as exciting changes to the entire Youth Precinct. This park is designed for novice to pro riders.

WHERE Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River VISIT amrshire.wa.gov.au NOTE This skatepark is closed to the public while under construction and due to re-open in April 2018.

AUGUSTA SKATEPARK Augusta’s skatepark may not have all the bells and whistles of the region’s other skateparks but kudos to them for having one at all. Lone riders would get a pretty good chance of scoring the concrete park all to themselves so this one is great for novices and skills development. Expect a few banks, rails and two half-pipes.

WHERE Allnut Terrace, behind Civic Park, Augusta VISIT amrshire.wa.gov.au

Fast facts: 2018 Skateboarding Championships King of Concrete Busselton March 24, from 11am Busselton Skatepark Visit skateboardingfederation.com.au

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Art & wellbeing

Flights of

MARGARET RIVER REGION OPEN STUDIOS SPREADS ITS CREATIVE WINGS. BY JANINE PITTAWAY.

IMAGES BY ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

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n just five years, Margaret River Region Open Studios has become Australia’s largest open art studios event. It returns in April with more artists participating than ever before.

More than 130 artists will open their studios from April 28 to May 13, inviting art lovers into their inner sanctums to experience the inspiration, smell the paint, see the transformational stages of artwork, and get to know the creative minds behind the art. From the north of the region in Busselton to south in Augusta, painters, sculptors, furniture makers, jewellers, illustrators, glassblowers, printmakers, ceramicists and artisans will open their studios to welcome in visitors for a behind-the-scenes sensory experience.

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fancy

Thanks to a collaboration between local artists Emily Jackson and Dorothy Davies, Margaret River Region Open Studios also has a fresh new approach for 2018. Chairman Jim Davies said it was fitting for the style of the creative and interactive event to evolve in its fifth year.

“We’re thrilled to have so many talented artists keen to open their studios to the public for this year’s Margaret River Region Open Studios event, and with the organic growth of the event year-on-year we wanted to also create a strong and identifiable brand.

“The vibrant colours in the brand reflect the stunning colours of the Margaret River region, which inspire our artists on a daily basis, whether

it be the Indian Ocean and our stunning beaches, the dramatic coastline, karri forest or native flora and fauna.You can certainly see the colours of the region through even the most abstract art.

“Our program for this year is packed with a wealth of diverse artistic talent, allowing visitors to pick out their favourite artists, mediums, styles, days or locations to create a personal DIY experience,” he said.

By inviting artists to open their studios and homes, art lovers have the opportunity to meet the people behind the amazing art and get a peek into their creative lives and inspirational spaces.

Local artists are the stars of the show and talent this year includes renowned landscape artist

LOUNGING WITH THE ARTISTS

COLOUR ME HAPPY The artistic endeavours of the local community are becoming known around the world, thanks to movement like the Margaret River Region Open Studios.

28 APRIL TO 13 MAY Works by local artists, talks demos and more view margaretrivergallery.com.au/exhibitions for more information.

P 9757 2729 E info@margaretrivergallery.com.au W margaretrivergallery.com.au Shop 4, 1 Charles West Avenue

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ARTISTS AT WORK During MRROS, visitors will be able to see renowned artists like Karin Luciano (this page) Jo Broadhursr and Mary-Lynne Stratton at work in their studios.

Douglas Kirsop, who is participating for the first time, as well as other recognisable artistic names including Rachel Coad, Leon Pericles, Rebecca Cool, Mary Lynne Stratton, Lauren Wilhelm, Jo Broadhurst, Ian Mutch and many more.

Yallingup hills-based Kirsop said he was looking forward to opening his studio for the event this year.

“During past Margaret River Region Open Studios events I’ve often been involved with exhibitions, but this year I’m looking forward to meeting new people over the two weeks when

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they visit my studio,” he said.

“Working on your own in the studio can be quite insular as it is for most artists, so to have the opportunity to talk to people about your art, the art process, style and inspiration is refreshing and breathes new energy into your work.

“It also gives me an excuse to clean up and organise the studio, sort out and prepare work that I’ve archived over the years ready for display.

I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.

Each artist’s studio, workshop or exhibition space is mapped, allowing visitors to easily plan

their inspirational days over the 16-day event.

Margaret River Region Open Studios is free to attend and no bookings are needed – it must be the most accessible event in the south west!

Margaret River Region Open Studios was born from a chance meeting between event founders Bill Castleden and Jillian Taylor in 2012. They both had experience of open studios events in the UK and thought they could replicate the experience for WA’s Cape to Cape region. They gained support from local tourism and art organisations, and a feasibility study

showed there was strong support for the concept.

The event has grown from strength to strength each year and its fifth year will be the biggest yet, even resulting in an award-winning book in 2016 (Artists of the Margaret River Region).

Visitors to the region have a one-off experience, being able to visit and meet creative and fascinating locals, understand the region through their beautiful and varied artwork, get off the beaten track and onto the back roads to visit some beautiful studios and properties and gain first-hand knowledge and appreciation of

the beauty of the region.

Pick up a copy of the full program and map at your local Jackson’s Drawing Supplies shop in Perth or the south west, or visit the event website for additional locations or for a digital version of the map. Plan your days out by checking locations, opening hours and artists and enjoy the inspiration and adventure.

To find out more visit mrropenstudios.com. au, email art@mrros.com.au or follow the event on Facebook (mrropenstudios) or Instagram (@ margaretriverregionopenstudios). margaretriver.com

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Let’s go to . . .

Witchcliffe Just 10 minute’s drive from Margaret River, the sleepy town of Witchcliffe is looking bright-eyed of late thanks to some forwardthinking newcomers, and an eco-village in the works. By ZOE DELUEIL. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER AND BIANCA TURRI.

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amed after a nearby cave with an overhang that resembles a witch on a broomstick,Witchy, as the locals call it, was established in 1922 under the Group Settlement Scheme, a government initiative to open up the south west to agriculture by giving settlers access to loans and uncleared land.

Photographers will love the original timber buildings, including the blackened Druid Hall, and some of the hand-built sheds and ‘groupie’ houses that are a reminder of those who settled here almost a century ago.

COFFEE STOP Visitors and locals alike have welcomed the Yardbyrd café since it opened last year. Lured by the prospect of larger premises and no landlord, owner Robert Mayberry left his former café, Little Willy in Northbridge, to open up here with partner Nichole Dielsen, who works as a nurse in Margaret River. With vintage furniture, newspapers, magazines, and a herbfilled courtyard, it’s quickly established itself as

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an informal meeting place for locals. “Many of our customers meet here for the first time, and realise they are neighbours,” says Nichole. The blackboard menu includes fry-ups, apple bircher muesli, breakfast tortillas, rolls and salads, along with coffee made with milk from a local biodynamic farm.

Yardbyrd Cafe, 10413 Bussell Highway, (08) 9774 5639

TREASURE HUNTING The Flying Wardrobe is a cavernous familyrun vintage shop with friendly owners and promisingly well-stocked shelves. Along with an eclectic second-hand book collection, you’ll find Australiana – a May Gibbs knitwear pattern book, for example – vintage clothing, Danish crockery, utensils, jewellery, plants and vinyl records, all at reasonable prices.

A little further along, Lime Beach Reloved stocks vintage homewares, rugs, upcycled furniture and Mullum Moon Flower jewellery. And for the purists, there’s even a Red Cross op shop just around the corner on Redcliffe Road.

TREASURE TROVE Make sure you drop in on Witchcliffe's quirky stores and cafes, including Yardbyrd, Witchy Pie Cookies, Margaret River Candle Company, The Flying Wardrobe and the extraordinary Shell Museum.

The Flying Wardrobe, 10411 Bussell Highway, (08) 9757 6647 Lime Beach Reloved, 10421 Bussell Highway, 0417089488 Red Cross Op Shop, Redgate Road, (08) 9757 6038)

and candleholders handcrafted from oak wine barrels by Mike Jackson, who owns the shop with wife Kirsten.

Margaret River Candle Company, 10421 Bussell Highway, 0429 425 064, margaretrivercandles.com.au

LOCAL GEMS

READING TIME

If you’re looking for a locally made gift, Margaret River Candle Company sells handmade candles and local artwork, and wooden tables, platters

Acclaimed small publisher Margaret River Press has its home in Witchcliffe, where it runs occasional writing retreats and the annual

Margaret River Short Story Competition.

Although not open to the public, you’ll find its beautiful hardcover books, many with a regional focus, on its website and in the Margaret River Bookshop.

Recent titles include The Way It Was, a history of winemaking in the region, Beyond the Farm Gate, a culinary journey through the Southwest, and Bree’s Forest Adventure, a children’s picture book set in Boranup Forest.

Visit margaretriverpress.com

Art & wellbeing SHELL SHOW One of the town’s more niche attractions is the Bellview Shell Collection. Run by Peter and Kathryn Ignoti from their own home for 38 years, it’s an immaculate small museum of more than 30,000 shells, and a hit with kids and other collectors. “Peter has been collecting shells since he was a child, and eventually we decided to share them with visitors,” says wife Kathryn.

Bellview Shell Collection, 10291 Bussell Highway (08) 9757 6342

HOME BAKING

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Operating from a beautiful old gable-roofed building, the open kitchen of Cookies Galore produces old-fashioned biscuits (with gluten-free options) and homemade pies in flavours including pulled pork, Thai red curry and red wine and mushroom, all using locally sourced meat.

Cookies Galore, 10403 Bussell Highway, [08) 9757 6755 and visit witchypies. com.au

GO PLASTIC FREE The Whole Living Store was opened by Anna Dooley in December last year, and is the one-stop

shop for anyone looking to reduce their plastic use, with a range of homewares including reusable bread and veggie bags from Perth brand Onya, waxed sandwich wraps, stainless steel straws and more.You’ll also find jarrah honey, heritage vegetables from Greenman and Ethique skin care products.

Whole Living Store, 10399 Bussell Highway, 0455 200 369

CREATIVE ZONE Co-working space Hardware Creative is a hub for creative types including photographers, event managers and graphic designers, with regular pop-up events and night markets – keep an eye on their Facebook page for upcoming events.

Hardware Creative, 10397 Bussell Highway, 0417 184 914 and visitfacebook.com/ hardwarecreative

WANT TO STAY? Construction is due to start on the Witchcliffe Eco Village later this year. This innovative development will be 100% self sufficient in water and power, and will include affordable housing, retirement homes and holiday houses, along with community gardens and a village square.

HARD TO LEAVE You'll find so much to tempt you in Witchcliffe: head to the Whole Living Store (left) or The Flying Wardrobe (above) for unusual gifts.

Image: Martine Perret

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Art & wellbeing

For the love of

words

ONE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED CALENDAR ENTRIES FOR LOVERS OF LANGUAGE IS THE MARGARET RIVER READERS AND WRITERS FESTIVAL. THIS YEAR SEES THE 10TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL AT A BEAUTIFUL NEW VENUE - AND IT IS SHAPING UP TO BE THE BIGGEST AND BEST YET, ACCORDING TO THOSE IN THE KNOW. BY CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

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t seems unlikely but for the past few years, this little corner of the south west has played host to some of the world’s biggest literary figures. And this year is no different.

With a jam-packed listing of events over the June long weekend there is bound to be something for all tastes, from Pulitzer Prize-winners through to Australian living legends. More than 50 authors and presenters will descend upon the grounds of Voyager Estate (a new venue as the Margaret River Arts

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space undergoes building work) for a weekend celebrating the power of the written word.

The grounds of one of the region’s most beautiful wineries will become a hive of activity where the celebrations will include author talks, panel discussions, Q&A sessions, book signings, free lunchtime talks and free activities for children the weekend in the festival’s storytelling tent.

Visitors should get tickets well in advance this year as there is such an outstanding selection of authors and presenters visiting.

“We truly have an incredibly strong and diverse line-up of writers coming to Margaret River for this year’s festival,” she says.

Renowned Australian-born Pulitzer Prizewinning author Geraldine Brooks (pictured right) tops the list of headliners announced so far.

Literary fans have good reason to be excited.

Brooks has written three works of non-fiction and five novels, including the 2006 Pulitzer Prize-winning March and the ABIA book of

the Year, People of the Book. She delivered the 2011 Boyer Lectures and in 2016 was named an Officer of the Order of Australia.

The festival’s line-up of literary talent also includes one of Australia’s most respected journalists and television presenters,Tony Jones.

Jones has over 30 years of award-winning journalism experience covering radio and television, as a reporter, foreign correspondent, executive producer and television host.Viewers of Australian television might recognise him from previously hosting Lateline and reporting for Four Corners, both on ABC, as well as Dateline on SBS, and he is currently the host of ABC’s Q&A. Fans of fiction may like to catch awardwinning author AS Patric whose novel Black Rock White City won the 2016 Miles Franklin Literary Award, or perhaps see best-selling crime author Michael Robotham in action. Popular Australian author of 13 novels and four works of non-fiction Nikki Gemmell will also be gracing the line-up.

Australian talent abounds for this year’s festival. Discussing her profoundly moving and inspiring memoir A Mother’s Story is Rosie Batty (pictured, left), CEO and founder of the Luke Batty Foundation. An outspoken and dynamic crusader against domestic violence, she was named Australian of the Year in January 2015.

One of Australia’s 100 National Living Treasures, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, will be familiar to adults and children after years of life in the public eye answering all manner of questions about how life works. He will be talking science in what is bound to be one of the highlights in the program.

Margaret River will also play host to a plethora of home-grown Western Australian talent in the literary sphere, this year including the 2017 Miles Franklin Literary award-winning novelist Josephine Wilson. Nicole Sinclair, whose first novel Bloodlines was shortlisted for the 2014 TAG Hungerford Award, will also appear as will awardwinning photojournalist Martine Perret, who recently released her latest photography book.

“The festival is shaping up to be a great celebration of literature and yet another reason for people to visit Australia’s south west. Margaret River in winter, with books, wine, local produce, top accommodation and Geraldine Brooks – it doesn’t get much better than that,” says Yabsley.

Tickets to the 2018 Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival, running from June 1 to 3, are available for purchase online at mrrwfestival. com, by phone 08 9758 7316, or from the Arts Margaret River Office. margaretriver.com

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Welcome to the jungle SHOPPING FOR RARE AND BEAUTIFUL INDOOR PLANTS IN THE MARGARET RIVER REGION GIVES VISITORS THE CHANCE TO TAKE HOME A LIVING REMINDER OF THEIR STAY.

BY LIZZY PEPPER. IMAGES BY PARIS HAWKEN PHOTOGRAPHY/BIANCA TURRI.

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here’s something so satisfying about tending to my house plants. I check them daily, taking pleasure from the simple unfurling of a new leaf and love rearranging them to create new spaces in my home.

We’ve got some fantastic plant studios run by passionate plant collectors throughout Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River. These people are generous with their advice and eager to help you match your new plant with the perfect pot.

There’s never been a better time to add to your collection – and no matter what your partner says, there’s no such thing as too many plants.

Paluma Plant House Home delivered plants Mia Aspland and Melissa Carmichael, the duo behind Paluma Plant House, match plants with pots into perfect pairs.You order online, and the ladies deliver to your door – perfect for adding to your own plant gang or to giving a growing gift to a loved one. They’ll help you find the perfect spot for your plants and offer great advice for keeping plants alive and healthy.

Upon launching in January they sent out a marvellously quirky email, imagining their plants as people, describing their personalities and giving each plant a playlist. Apparently, studies have shown that playing music to plants

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WEDDINGS • ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

IMAGES Merge Photography

promotes faster, healthier growth.

Sansevieria in terracotta is “not your average mother-in-law. She’s got a sharp tongue that will cut anyone down to size”. Mia and Melissa recommend playing Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire or Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) by Harry Belafonte to your sansevieria. I eagerly await their next email.

Mia has moved around a lot but has always taken the time to create and enjoy a plant collection: ”I think the most beautiful art is found in nature and it is a joy to watch plants grow, take shape and change form before your eyes.”

When asked what inspired her plant collecting, Melissa says: “I’ve always preferred green spaces which was a huge part of the reason I was so drawn to settle in Margaret River. I’ve had a few plants that have followed me around as I moved here and there but, after living in the Western Desert for three years, I’ve been

GREEN SHOOTS Take home a beautiful plant from the south west as a special reminder of your trip. Top, succulents from LeafLove in Busselton, and this page and opposite, Paluma Plant House beauties.

BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES

Planning your wedding?

Caves House Hotel, ideally situated in the heart of the Margaret River Wine Region and within a 10-minute walk of the famous Yallingup Beach is the ideal venue for your wedding.

The hotel is a truly romantic historical building with Art Deco authenticity and charm. Beautiful terraced gardens ideal for a garden reception and outdoor funciton or if planning an indoor reception then why not consider our beautiful Yallingup Room.

Check out all of our indoor reception venues on our website under Weddings and Functions.

18 Yallingup Beach Rd, Yallingup Ph: 9750 1888 A/H: 9750 1830 caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au

Art & wellbeing

FIRM FRONDS Head to Leaf Love if you’re looking for a rare plant for your collection.

easily into most decors. Brightly coloured or patterned planters are great to bring a fun feel to monochromatic zones.”

If plants make people healthy and happy, then having a plant delivered by these gorgeous girls will certainly make your day.

Visit palumaplanthouse.com Instagram / Facebook @palumaplanthouse

desperate to fill my new home with plants.”

Melissa believes we can get a lot of joy from caring for our plants. “Feel the dirt with your fingers to check if it needs watering.

Methodically wipe the leaves to remove dust.

Notice how the upcoming full moon affects all living things creating new shoots of life.

Observing growth is positively joyous. It’s in these care rituals that we can connect with nature and enjoy our plants.”

When asked if they have tips for creating lovely spaces using plants, the ladies say that first and foremost is to understand the needs of your

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plants and find the right spot based on these needs. This way, the plant will grow to its full potential.

“A singular plant on a shelf or table adds a fresh focal point but we also love clustering plants of different sizes to get a really lush feel.

Plants also benefit from being grouped together as their leaves release moisture creating their own humid micro-climate,” says Mia. They stock a selection of pots including The Sunday Collective painted pots, and beautiful egg-shaped terracotta vessels. “Neutral planters in whites, greys or earthy tones slot

Green Form Plant Studio Scott Baxter started Green Form out of a love of finding rare plants: “my collecting was getting out of hand, and my wife suggested that I could start selling some.” he says.

His home studio is full of the rare plants you’ve seen on Instagram, and dream of finding, such as pilea peperomioides, monstera adansonii (Swiss cheese vine) and over 40 different species of philodendron. Scott’s current favourite? A 15-year-old blue San Pedro cactus.

“My passion is sourcing plants, and since opening the studio I’ve been offered some incredible plants from fellow collectors all around Australia,” says Scott.

He’s recently completed an installation at the newly opened Yarri Bar + Restaurant, a collaboration between chef Aaron Carr and the

team behind Snake and Herring wine. It’s a decadent, modern space and Scott relished the opportunity to find rare ferns, Rhipsalis and variegated Monstera Deliciosa.

As well as selling a tempting array of indoor plants, Scott offers event plant hire and a landscaping service, and he’s currently collecting dozens of 2-metre-tall cacti for a water wise

array of plants from little succulents to large cacti and euphorbia, many of which she’s propagated herself.

Alongside the lush plants there’s plenty of gorgeous ceramic planters, plant stands, bowls, pots and terrariums.

“Come in and enjoy the space. Grab a coffee from our sister store Mono, catch up with a

garden in Dunsborough. “It’s exciting getting a client who says ‘just do it – see what you can find’ and creating a garden of rare and remarkable plants.”

Back to the studio, there’s something for everyone, from a small succulent to a big feature piece. We couldn’t resist a Pilea and an ice plant – two dainty plants to add to the growing collection.

Studio open most weekends and by appointment. 7 Caprock Crescent Vasse.

0400 666 600. Instagram @green__form / Facebook @greenformplantstudio

friend and relax in our jungle.”

Open Tuesday to Saturday. 55 Queen St, Busselton, WA. Instagram @leafloveau

LeafLove Busselton LeafLove is where my plant obsession began. It’s a light, bright shop filled with all sorts of glorious plants. Located on the main street of Busselton, it’s a great spot to pop in for a coffee and a spot of retail therapy.

Jill Edmonds, plant hunter and stylist, originally opened the coffee and Australian design shop Mono next door, but plants have always been her first love, and so LeafLove was born.

Originally a horticulturist, Jill has been known to play ‘plant doctor’, nursing sick plants back to health in her greenhouse. She has a wide

Zest Flowers and The Sunday Collective Pots Bridget Lukin has made a name for her stylish floral design, but you’ll also find a collection of indoor plants in her Dunsborough studio.

“I sell fiddle leaf figs, elephant leaves and Strelitzia – everyone loves a large green leaf, they look beautiful” says Bridget.

Bridget stocks The Sunday Collective hand painted terracotta pots and seagrass baskets; “I love their colour combinations, and it’s great to support a local business – Simone paints her pots in Busselton.”

Zest Flowers shares a retail space with Fusion Blue boutique, opposite Yallingup Coffee Company. It’s the place to buy native Australian blooms; silvery Eucalypts, hot pink everlastings and proteas of every size and colour.

Open 9.30am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10am-2pm Sunday. 3/237 Naturaliste Terrace, Dunsborough. Instagram @ zestflowers.

designs in nature

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River Open Daily 10am - 4pm 611 Boodjidup Road 08 9757 6885 info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com.au

Art & wellbeing

CREATIVE FORCES Left Georgia Rickard will be joined

by Ian Strange and right, Carly Heaton, Chloe Rickard and Lucy Peach at this year's Emergence Creative.

Opposites attract The Margaret River region has always been a magnet for creatives, whether they’re artists, writers or working in the broader creative field. The perfect home, then, for one of the nation’s most important creative conferences - Emergence Creative. By ZOE DELEUIL

F

armers and timber and dairy workers first defined the community of Margaret River. Surfers and hippies arrived in the 1970s and 80s, along with the winemakers and tourists. More recently, a growing creative community is making the region their home and building careers in film, music, photography, advertising, digital and visual arts here.

The Emergence Creative Festival reflects this new demographic. Now in its sixth year, it’s a three-day professional conference with many satellite community events to facilitate a convivial sharing of ideas between local creatives and visiting speakers who jump at the invitation to be a part of it, according to event

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organiser Erin Molloy.

“They love the region, of course, and there are lots of opportunities to connect. It’s not massive, and because it’s cross-disciplinary there is a lot of 'cross-pollination' that happens between people, often quite informally,” says Erin. “A few years ago, people were saying, ‘what is this festival?’ Now we find that they are starting to come back every year.”

While the conference itself – a solid three days of speakers and workshops held at Vasse Felix winery – is aimed at professionals already in the industry, with a limited number of emerging creative tickets also available, Erin emphasises that the festival is open to everyone.

“Really there are two target markets

– professionals and established artists working in the industry who will attend the conference, and anyone else who is interested can come to the community events or book a workshop,” she says. “We have ones aimed at small businesses looking for fresh ideas and inspiration.”

Open community events have been organised to draw in the locals. “On the opening night we will be having a party in Margaret River, with live music at Swings Taphouse, Settlers Tavern, Elkamo and Burger Baby. We’re also shutting off Fern Avenue for a night market, which will be great for families. On the second night we’re hosting a party and exhibition at Mixtape, a co-working space in Margaret River, with 12 south-west artists exhibiting their skate artwork, while the closing night party will be held at Cape Mentelle, with live music and dinner included in the ticket price, also open to everyone.”

Lured by the region’s beautiful beaches, food and the intimate, friendly nature of the festival, one problem has been that former

Scenic Flights with Westward Aviation Charter Services

Festival highlights

keynote speakers often beg to come back.

“We do have a rule that if you’ve been a keynote speaker previously you can’t come back and do it again, so many of our speakers come anyway, or we find them a new role, such as MC or mentor,” says Erin.

“Our speakers are very generous with their time, so as well as being at the conference they will be running workshops, which you can buy individual tickets for, and also available for an informal chat at the evening events. It’s a great opportunity to meet people and share ideas, and of course we have so many creative people who have made the region their home, so it’s also an opportunity to find out more about them.”

Emergence Festival is held in Margaret River from March 21-24. Visit emergencecreative.com

Foxtel drama executive Carly Heaton will sharing her take on the creative and business processes surrounding the creation of great drama.

Journalist and editor Georgia Rickard will be running a workshop on marketing in the age of the Kardashians and the new rules of storytelling.

Author and performance artist Sarina Kamini will give a nude presentation, followed by a clothed discussion, on the challenges and value of creative exposure, asking questions about the link between physical and philosophical exposure and the tools we can use to ensure safety when we expose ourselves publicly.

For those who want to learn more about how to navigate social media platforms, Ming Johanson will present workshops on how to embrace the connections and inspiration they can offer in her workshop “Social media for creatives who don’t want to lose their soul”.

Justin Gignac, co-founder of Working Not Working, a global platform for connecting creative people with innovative companies, will give a keynote talk titled “How to start a business when you have no business starting a business”, and run “Overshare”, a pseudo group therapy session where participants will share their creative challenges.

Tim Seddon and Gene Brutty from Google Japan will run a session on adding artificial intelligence to your toolkit, and present a keynote speech titled “Stay Frustrated” on the benefits of not compromising creatively or settling for the safe option.

Experience the beautiful and picturesque South West and Margaret River Region from a different perspective.

With seating for up to 5 passengers, you, your family and friends can share in this unique and memorable experience of the South West.

Scenic Flights •

Margaret River, South West Coast and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse

•

Augusta, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and South West Coast.

• •

Vasse, Busselton Jetty, and Port Geographe Return Flights to Rottnest Island and Perth

To book contact the Margaret River Tourist Centre on (08) 9780 5911 or online at www.margaretriver.com or www.westwardaviation.com.au Conditions apply

GETTING AROUND

BY COACH TRANS WA Trans WA19 travels from Perth to Margaret River every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with optional drop-offs along the way and returns to Perth the same day. Keep hold of your ticket and return to Perth at a later date.

Visit wa-getaway.com.au

BY CAR MARGARET RIVER RENT A CAR To see the best of the region, hire a car or people mover from Margaret River – all you need is a driver’s licence, even if it’s an interstate or international one. Visit margaretriverrentacar.com.au

BUSSELTON & SOUTH WEST RENT A CAR Offering delivery and pick-up throughout the south west, Busselton & South West Rent a Car is a local, family-owned car rental company.

Visit busseltonswrentacar.com.au

AVIS SOUTHWEST CAR HIRE Explore the beautiful Margaret River region at your own pace with a rental from Avis Southwest Car Hire in Busselton. One-way rentals are available back to Perth.

Visit avis.com.au

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IN STYLE MCLEOD TOURS Take in Margaret River’s scenery and attractions with the knowledge of local expert and awardwinning guide Neil McLeod. The three-day Escape tour provides pick-up from your Perth hotel or Perth train station, comfortable bus transport, three days touring with a dedicated tour guide, delicious food and wine, and an exciting itinerary. Visit mcleodtours.com.au

WESTWARD AVIATION CHARTER SERVICES Depart from Jandakot Airport as the sun rises and enjoy stunning views of the Swan River, Fremantle Harbour, Rockingham, Mandurah, the Peel Inlet and Bunbury then on to either Busselton or Margaret River. Westward Aviation will transfer you from the airport to the city and take you back at no extra cost.Your return journey will be just as spectacular with the sun setting over the Indian Ocean and the night lights of the City of Perth.

Visit margaretriver.com/members/westward-aviationcharter-services/

VIRTUALLY YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION APP The latest version of the Your Margaret River Region app features more than 1,000 things to do, as well as service points located throughout the region. Available online and offline for both Apple and Android devices, the app also features an audio tour of the Busselton Jetty.

WINERY EXPLORER APP Explore Western Australia’s incredible wine regions from the palm of your hand with The Winery Explorer App. It lists every WA cellar door and wine region in beautiful detail and offers up-to-date information. The app is available to download for free for Apple devices.

OUR FAVe INSTA ACCOUNTS @southwestlife_

ESQUIRE CLASSIC CHARTERS

@tweetsouthwest

Want to travel in style? It doesn’t get more stylish than in a Silver Spirit Rolls-Royce from Esquire Classic Charters. There’s no better way to enjoy a private charter, special event or winery tour in the Busselton, Dunsborough,Yallingup and Margaret River region. Visit esquireclassiccharters.com.au

@elementsmargaretriver @margaretriver @margaretriver_style @discovermargaretriver @experiencesmith

It’s everything you need to explore the region!

The most comprehensive list of things to do in the region Build your holiday itinerary

Find what’s near you

Book tours & accommodation

Interactive map

Visit www.margaretriver.com/app for full details Download the Your Margaret River Region app at

Available online and offline

STAY

ABBEY BEACH RESORT LUXURY HOTEL AND APARTMENT ACCOMMODATION IN A RESORT SETTING, LOCATED ON THE BEACH IN BUSSELTON Enjoy fully serviced, self contained apartments and studios, each with a private double spa and balcony.

Abbey Beach Resort is a 4.5 star leisure resort with countless facilities and amenities. The Resort has an atrium restaurant, pool side café, several bars, a 25 metre indoor heated swimming pool, 2

outdoor pools, tennis and squash courts, spa, gym and sauna for your enjoyment.

Stroll to the beach, tour wineries, art galleries and many other local attractions.

For a holiday or short break you are assured of comfort and style at Abbey Beach Resort

595 Bussell Highway, Busselton WA Freecall 1800 017 097 • Ph 61 8 9755 4600 • info@abbeybeach.com.au www.abbeybeach.com.au

DUNSBOROUGH INN BACKPACKERS

DUNSBOROUGH CENTRAL MOTEL

SUPERIOR BUDGET ACCOMMODATION SITUATED RIGHT IN THE HUB OF TOWN

DUNSBOROUGH CENTRAL MOTEL IS NESTLED IN A TRANQUIL GARDEN SETTING IN THE HEART OF TOWN

For those on a budget, the self-catering aspect of the complex and it’s proximity to the supermarket can be a great money saver. Dunsborough Inn Backpackers provides a variety of accommodation ranging from self-contained units to our non dormitory hostel style rooms. Our large communal kitchen/dining room and spacious recreation areas provide an environment for guests to relax and exchange experiences of the day or just to meet new people.

50 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough WA Ph 08 9756 7277 • bookings@dunsboroughinn.com.au www.dunsboroughinn.com.au

BIG VALLEY CAMPSITE

Dunsborough Central Motel is ideally located on the doorstep of world renowned beaches, dive sites, premium wineries, art galleries, wildflowers, caves and the incredible coastal scenery of Cape Naturaliste. Just a 600 metre stroll to the beach or a short drive to surf beaches, the Dunsborough Central Motel is adjacent to restaurants and cafes, wine bars, supermarket

50 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough WA Ph 08 9756 7711 • reservations@dunsboroughmotel.com.au www.dunsboroughmotel.com.au

South West

shopping centre, beauticians, banks and a very well informed Visitor Centre. Simply relax in style by our outdoor pool and BBQ area, indulge in the Bali Style Gazebo Spa, or just kick back with a good book and a glass of wine in the privacy of your well appointed room.

Winter Special: Two nights in the superior motel room for $180 including a bottle of wine on arrival. Valid from May to the end of September 2018 excluding long weekends. To qualify simply phone us direct and mention this special.

WISTERIA COTTAGE

family adventure

DIRECTORY

NESTLED AMONGST THE HILLS OF OUR FAMILY OWNED WORKING SHEEP FARM, JUST TEN MINUTES SOUTH EAST OF MARGARET RIVER. The farm encompasses a beautiful secret valley from the outside world by natural forest. Bring your Caravan, Motorhome or Tent to relax and enjoy the open space, amazing nights skies, friendly farm animals and the family friendly atmosphere. Pet Friendly.

Ph 08 9757 5020 bigvalleymargaretriver.com.au

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» Exceptional in-park facilities » Self contained cabins » Large powered and unpowered sites

Call 1800 871 570 or visit racparksandresorts.com.au

REST, RELAX, EXPLORE. Whether you are here for rest and relaxation or to explore our amazing atttractions we hope you enjoy the peace and tranquility that is Wisteria Cottage. A one bedroom self contained cottage.

Wisteria Cottage

31 Dekkers, Rd Deepdene WA 6290 M 0407 084 086 P 08 9758 4618 wisteriacottageaugusta@gmail.com

STAY

SUNFLOWERS ANIMAL FARM & FARMSTAY

Spacious & Comfortable Cabins + Caravan Sites

We offer farmstay accommodation in 4 fully self contained units, sleeping between 5 and 9 people, near Margaret River in the South West of Western Australia.

Sunflowers Farmstay is ideal for big groups of friends or families (max 28 people).

Wander through the Animal Farm, with over 350 very friendly (mainly) farm animals, at any time during your stay. Sip local wines while admiring our stunning views: wild kangaroos grazing on rolling hills covered in beautiful wildflowers.

5561 Caves Road, near Margaret River Ph: (08) 9757 3343 • farmerjones@sunflowersfarm.com www.sunflowersfarm.com

JACARANDA GUEST HOUSE

PARK YOUR CAR AND WALK EVERYWHERE

ASK a ! l A C O L Drop in to one of our four accredited visitor centres in Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and Augusta for friendly, expert advice.

www.riverviewtouristpark.com

9757 2270 | 1300 666 105 HAMELIN BAY HOLIDAY PARK

OFFERING UNIQUE BEACHSIDE ACCOMMODATION IN A RELAXED NATIONAL PARK SETTING.

Busselton famous Jetty, beach, shops, cafe and restaurants all just a short walk away.

Jacaranda Guest House is centrally located, has 7 guest rooms all with own ensuite, r/c airconditioning and free wifi.

It is nestled amongst english style gardens, where You can just relax or enjoy a bbq.

Continental breakfast is included in the price.

Set on a beautiful bay and taking in the picturesque South West coastline between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, the Holiday Park is 15kms north of Augusta and 30kms south of Margaret River. Choose from well appointed camp sites, caravan sites, cottages and cabins.

30 West Street, Busselton, WA Ph 08 9751 5973 • jacarandaguesthouse1@westnet.com.au www.jacarandaguesthouse.com

bookings@hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au Ph 08 9758 5540 www.hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au

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FOOD & DRINK

KARRIDALE TAVERN

CAFE BORANUP

FRIENDLY COUNTRY TAVERN AND RESTAURANT Serving meals all day 11am - 9pm Local beer and wine.

Lunch • Dinner • Bar • Snacks.

COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE IN THE FOREST 10am-4pm Weekdays. 8am-4pm Weekends.

Great coffee. Home baked scones and cakes.

Augusta Abalone and Whiting.

Variety of vegetarian and GF options.

Breakfast and Lunch Menu.

08 9588 8877 107 BUSSEL HWY (MAIN STREET)

Next to Boranup Gallery.

7981 Caves Road Forest Grove WA 6286 Ph 08 9757 7279 www.cafeboranup.com

Bussell Hwy, Karridale, WA Ph 08 9758 5523

w: www.elkamo.com.au • e: info@elkamo.com.au COCKTAILS + TAPAS + FOUR HOTEL SUITES

EAGLE BAY OLIVES A GOURMET EXPERIENCE WITH A FOCUS ON OLIVE OIL AND OLIVES Premium extra virgin olive oil.

A wide selection of table olives, naturally processed.

Tapenades, pesto, dukkah, dressings and jams, all preservative free.

Unique giftware including olive wood boards and kitchen utensils. Picnic boxes to enjoy in our shady gardens.

Sunday until sold out.

Open 10.30-5.00 10.30 - 5.00every everyFriday, Friday,Saturday Saturday,&Sunday and Monday until soldpage out. for the latest news.

Check our Facebook Check our Facebook page for the latest news.

521 Cape Naturaliste Road, Eagle Bay WA Ph (08) 9755 3188 eaglebayolives.com.au

caves Discover an ancient wonderland at Ngilgi, Mammoth, Lake and Jewel Cave.

To book drop into your nearest visitor centre or call: (08) 9757 7411

DIRECTORY

Award Winning Nougat

~ Margaret River Nougat Co. ~ Honey & Coffee Liqueurs ~ ~ Single Vineyard Estate Wines ~ Wedding Venue

MARGARET RIVER NOUGAT CO.

Open Daily 9:30am—5pm

Present at cellar door to receive 15% OFF Not in conjunction with any

WWW.MARGARETRIVERNOUGAT.COM.AU

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Corner Tom Cullity Drive & Miamup Rd, Cowaramup other offer.

FOOD & DRINK ARTS & ACTIVITIES

GABRIEL CHOCOLATE

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN GELATO AND SORBETTI Authentic Italian gelato and sorbetti made in-store by owner Andy using natural ingredients.

Dairyand gluten-free flavours available.

FOR OPENING HOURS PLEASE CHECK FACEBOOK AND GOOGLE 32 Queen Street, Busselton WA Ph 08 9751 1477 / gelatobuonissimo / gelatobuonissimobusselton

THE LARDER

VISIT WA’S FIRST “BEAN TO BAR” CHOCOLATE MAKER Discover the vast array of naturally occurring chocolate flavours – everything from cherry, citrus through to rum raisin – in the singleorigin, multiple award winning chocolate bars.

We turn the world’s best raw cocoa beans into heavenly chocolate.

Daily behind the scenes tours, sample fresh chocolate, enjoy decadent hot chocolate, coffee and our handmade ice-cream, chocolate cookies and cakes.

Open 10am to 5pm daily. Daily tours.

Cnr Caves & Quininup Rds, Yallingup Ph 08 9756 6689 www.gabrielchocolate.com.au

YALLINGUP SURF SCHOOL

  

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LOOKING FOR SOMETHING OTHER THAN A RESTAURANT DINNER TONIGHT? Then it’s time to drop into The Larder on the main street and treat yourself to one of their mouth-watering take-home meals.

This Margaret River treasure has become the first port of call for visitors wanting to stock up on some little luxuries for their holiday stay, and to sample the best of local and exotic fine food.

OPEN DAILY. Shop 2, 99 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River Ph 08 9758 8990 www.larder.biz

JOHN STREATER FINE FURNITURE

WESTERN AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER SURF AND LIFESTYLE ACADEMY Yallingup Surf School provides group lessons or private coaching for the absolute beginner to aspiring champions and we cater for kids, mums and dads, tourists, corporate and school groups and everyone in between.

Ph: 0429 881 221 info@yallingupsurfschool.com yallingupsurfschool.com

MARGARET RIVER GOLF CLUB

JOHN STREATER FINE FURNITURE AND ART GALLERY

Bookings are essential

PLAY AROUND IN MARGARET RIVER

105 Blythe road, Yallingup Siding 6282 WA Open daily 10am to 4pm Ph 08 9755 1211 www.streaterfinefurniture.com

Keen to combine some golf with a trip to WA’s wine country?

Margaret River Golf Club is the highlight of any golf tour to the south west. There aren’t many golf courses in the region that rival Margaret River for scenic beauty and sheer golfing challenge. The 6,092 metre, par 72 course is highly regarded by golfers from all over WA and beyond.

Clubs, buggies and carts are available for hire at the on-course golf shop that also stocks a wide range of equipment.

Ph: (08) 9757 3161 • E golfshop@westnet.com.au 599 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River margaretrivergolfclub.com.au

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DIRECTORY



ARTS & ACTIVITIES

WINE & BEER

SKYDIVE GERONIMO

WA’S BEST BEACH SKYDIVES Tandem Skydive from 10, 14 or 15,000ft over the spectacular Busselton and Margaret River regions!

Enjoy a breathtaking flight to altitude, taking in views of Geographe Bay, the famous Busselton Jetty, Cape Naturaliste and the wineries beyond. Then it’s time for the door to open, and ready? set? GO! Feel the rush of free falling when you and your Instructor plummet toward the earth at 200km/hour, before safely landing on the beaches of the beautiful Busselton foreshore alongside the Jetty.

We are open 7 days from October to April, so book today!

Ph 1300 449 669 skydive@skydivegeronimo.com.au www.skydivegeronimo.com.au

ARTGEO CULTURAL COMPLEX

ARTGEO CULTURAL COMPLEX - where art & heritage meet ArtGeo is a creative hub for the visual and performing arts housed in heritage-listed buildings close to Busselton foreshore. The complex includes the old Busselton Courthouse, which now operates as an interpretive centre and retail outlet for regional arts andcrafts, and ArtGeo Gallery where we host exhibitions sourced Australia-wide. open daily 10am ~ 4pm

Queen Street Cultural Precinct Ph 08 9751 4651 | www.artgeo.com.au

Howard Park Presents m a r g a r e t r i v er & gr e at sou t h er n

DIRECTORY

A unique art installation at our Cellar Door

By Rebecca Grace of Natural Art Flowers April 12 to M ay 13 howardparkwines.com.au

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WINE & BEER TOURS

Book your spot in the winter issue

Contact Natalie to book your space in our next issue of Your Margaret River Region Magazine.

Call 0426 752 352

E: natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

DIRECTORY

Buy your copy of Artists of the Margaret River Region at any visitor centre.

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TOURS

MARGARET RIVER BUBBLES TOUR

. affordable . quality .

THE MOST FUN YOU CAN HAVE IN ONE DAY! margaret river

bubbles tour

A tour to suit everyone!

Gourmet food, great wines and iconic locations.

Private tours for 4-11 people.

Margaret River Food & Wine Tours phone: 0417 948 933 email: vintagetours@bigpond.com www.winetoursmargaretriver.com.au

Tel Mark on 0437 618559 margsbubblestour@hotmail.com

www.margaretriverbubblestour.com

MARGARET RIVER TOURS

$70 GREAT RATES & SERVICE at Bunbury, Busselton & Collie Oneway Rentals (to Perth) available Call 1800 679 880

HALF + FULL DAY Wine & Scenic Tours

Sample plate at Venison Farm Sample French Nougat at Bettenays Cellar Door Cheese & Crackers at Knotting Hill Samples at the Cheese & Chocolate Factories Sample Liqueurs & Cocktails at The Grove Free bottled water on board Gourmet Lunch at an Iconic Restaurant (full-day tour only) See our NEW CHEERS MARGARET RIVER VIDEO online!

MARGARET RIVER’S ORIGINAL Half Day and Full Day Gourmet Wine & Dine.

Visiting 6 wineries daily, including Voyager, Watershed, Leeuwin, McHenry Hohnen, Vasse Felix, Pierro, Stella Bella & Cape Mentelle.

Full Day tours feature lunch at Watershed.

All tours enjoy complementary vineyard platter as well as tastings of small goods, cheese & chocolate.

.com

To make a booking visit avis.com.au

9757 2270 or 0474 721 836

2015-A00073

Ph 0419 917 166 info@margaretrivertours.com www.margaretrivertours.com

JESTERS FLAT

MARGIES BIG DAY OUT BEER & WINE TOUR

DIRECTORY

EXPERIENCE THE BEST… OF WHAT THIS WORLD FAMOUS REGION HAS TO OFFER! Visit 7 venues including 3 wineries, 2 breweries and the Cheese & Chocolate Companies.

Enjoy a lunch of delicious local produce at a Margaret River Brewery. Make friends, have a laugh and relax whilst your friendly Tour Guide takes you on an amazing day out in the Margaret River Region.

Pick up and drop off to your accommodation included.

CALL US TODAY!

Ph 0416 180 493 margaretrivertourswa.com.au

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Professionally guided HORSE RIDING TOURS, suitable for all abilities. From forest treks to beach rides, we have a horse riding adventure just for you.

1549 Rosa Brook Rd, Margaret River Ph 08 97574 562 bookings@jestersflat.com www.jestersflat.com

Margaret River WA

/JestersFlat

The moments that last Set aside the commute, the school lessons, the errands, the background hum of striving that marks our days in the city. There’s another way to be. Rediscover it on holiday with Private Properties. Our exceptional holiday homes are handpicked to melt away the nonsense, and leave you with the pressing decisions like which beach to visit, and whether to fire up the barbecue for breakfast as well.

Sometimes you need a getaway to arrive at what matters.

ALBANY EAGLE BAY

AUGUSTA

BUNKER BAY

MANDURAH & DAWESEVILLE

BUSSELTON

MARGARET RIVER

www.privateproperties.com.au

DENMARK & WALPOLE PEPPERMINT GROVE BEACH

DUNSBOROUGH SWAN VALLEY

YALLINGUP

| +61 (0) 8 9750 5444 margaretriver.com

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