Your Margaret River Region Magazine Autumn 2017

FREE

magazine TAKE ME HOME

05 | AUTUMN 2017

EVENTS THIS AUTUMN Free

INCLUDED IN THE

Your Margaret River Region magazine

Your pull out guide to what’s on this autumn

Celebrating half a century of winemaking margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

1

where wine is just the beginning

OPEN DAILY 10am to 5pm

2

AUTUMN 2017

|

FREE WINE TASTINGS

RESTAURANT

CELLAR DOOR

WEDDINGS

61 Thornton Road (corner Wildwood Road), Yallingup, WA T: 08 9750 1111 www.aravinaestate.com margaretriver.com

MARGARET RIVER’S PREMIER FOOD & WINE DESTINATION

EVENTS

SPORTS CAR GALLERY

AWARD WINNING WINES 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR LUNCH

magazine

Editor’s Letter A

utumn means one thing in the Margaret River region - Vintage. It's the time of year when all the hard work that's gone into nurturing and caring for the region's vineyards comes down to a single decision: is it the right time to pick the grapes?

It's a special year generally for winemakers in the region - it's 50 years since the first vines were planted at Vasse Felix and there's plenty to celebrate.

The region is going from strength to strength in terms of its reputation worldwide among wine-lovers, and we're happy to throw the spotlight on not only the vineyards which garner lots of attention, but some of the lesser known wineries too.

As ever, with those glasses of wine you'll want a good feed and this time we're happy to oblige with suggestions about where to enjoy a Mother's Day feast, how to enjoy No Diet Day to the max, and what makes Arimia's head chef Evan Hayter tick.

I've been channelling my inner adrenaline junkie in the past few weeks and have variously explored the region in a canoe, along some high wires and on the back of a quad bike. Great fun - and something I'd really recommend you give a try. Nova 93.7's Nat Locke has conquered the challenging Cape to Cape (and has the blister scars to prove it), while if you're in the mood for something altogether more luxurious, take a look at our suggestions of where to go to revive your body and soul at the region's gorgeous retreats.

You could even consider arriving in style via a helicopter or private plane tour; everything's possible it seems in the Margaret River region.

So we wish good luck and fair weather to the hard-working vintners and look forward to sampling the fruits of their labour in the next few months.

Happy reading!

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 Elements Margaret River elementsmargaretriver.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Sean Blocksidge, Dianne Bortoletto, Max Brearley, Rob Broadfield, Cassandra Charlick, Peter Forrestal, Mia Lacy, Natalie Locke, Matthew Mills, Trevor Paddenburg, Janine Pittaway, Lisa Shearon, Sarah Szabo.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au

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. ©2017 YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION MAGAZINE is published quarterly by Premium Publishers on behalf of the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association.

Visit premiumpublishers.com.au

Gabi Share pics, videos and thoughts during your stay via our social media.

We’ll repost our favourites!

The Margaret River Region

@margaretriver

@MargaretRiver #margaretriver

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!

4

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

WHAT YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION GOT UP TO IN

ouds

ecl #loveisintheair lov

Prevelly and the rive unbelievably beautif r mouth was #justanotherdayinw ul today a

Summer

Boranup Forest at its most magical

Thanks for Point Piquet – wow! ser known les recommending this mag r beach in the summe

made at Holiday memories being Cosy Corner, Augusta

Exploring the secret spots of Cape Naturaliste!

Flowers among the famous @aravinaestate hydrangeas #margaretriver #roadtrip

After a hot day working with some legends

in the vineyard

We'd love to see your instagram pics!

Send your autumnal Margaret River region pics to gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au for your chance to see them featured in the next issue.

Images by: @mausiec; @elementsmargaretriver; @elementsmargaretriver; @gabikate; @gabikate; @jennitska; @jennitska; @el_pea2805

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

5

38

44 What shall

Calendar

we do today?

8

10

96 wine & wineries

64

32-47

78 6

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Eat & Drink 18 Mother's Day - where to treat Mum 20 No Diet Day - throw away the scales 22 Cabin Fever - new winter event planned 24 Celebrating B&Bs - home away from home comforts 28 Meet the Chef - Arimia's Evan Hayter 30 Beer Buddies - brewing mates

Contents AUTUMN 2017

Wine & Wineries 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

32 34 36 38 42

44

History of winemaking Leeuwin Estate's history Vasse Felix and the story of its name Lesser known wineries - worth a visit Moss Wood - celebrating the release of their Cabernet Sauvignon 2013.

From grape to glass - picking grapes at Aravina Estate

Nature & Environment 48 Busselton Visitor Centre - new interactive facility 50 Jewel Cave - the region’s biggest cave still thrills 52 Sunset Gazing - get your camera ready 56 Ellensbrook - historic building ready for renos 58 River Dance - enjoy the Blackwood River’s attractions 60 MR Sculpture Park - visit this new outdoor attraction 62 Perfect Day in Augusta - 24 hours in a perfect little town

Active & Adventure 64 67 70 76

Great Walks for the Family - pull on your walking boots Luxury Experiences - helicopters, posh cars, luxury rooms Adventure Time - plenty on offer for adrenaline junkies My Getaway - Rob Broadfield’s favourite things down south

Arts & Wellbeing 78 Local Hero - meet Kat Lombardo of the Farmers Market 80 Creative Emergence - inspiring festival of creativity 82 Open Studios - meet the artists in situ 86 Shopping for the Home - get the Margs look for your home 90 Reader’s and Writer’s Festival - top talent lined up 92 Mother Earth Day - enjoy the region without costing the Earth 96 Retreats - revive yourself at a local retreat 100 Jazz by the Bay - popular music weekend returns 101 Getting Around - top tips for your time down south

MAP & DIRECTORY Places to stay, eat, drink and visit - our handy business directory Stay................................................................................................................................................................................104 Food & Drink...................................................................................................................................................108 Activities & Art ...........................................................................................................................................109 Wine & Beer.......................................................................................................................................................111 Tours..............................................................................................................................................................................113

K I D S E AT F R E E • 3 C O U R S E S F O R $ 4 9 • L A R G E G R O U P S A N D F U N C T I O N S W E L C O M E 78 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River, Western Australia p: (0)8 9757 2633 e: reservations@staymargaretriver.com.au

staymargaretriver.com.au/restaurant

TO DO LIST

What shall we do today?

MESSING ABOUT ON THE WATER Before the sunny weather leaves until next year, why not take advantage of some fun new attractions at Busselton Jetty? If you’d like to get on the water, hire for an hour or so a doubleseater clear kayak. There are stand up paddle boards, and – the big hit of the summer – Italianbuilt pedal boats that you’ll only find right here at the jetty. If you’d rather watch the world go by, they’ve got that covered too with beach chairs available for full or half day hire, and umbrellas on

offer to keep the sun at bay while you visit the Busselton foreshore. Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult.

Visit busseltonjetty.com.au/beach-activity-hire

WHIPPING UP A STORM The clever clogs behind food truck Kona Joe’s Health Shack have created the world’s first cocowhip – the healthiest soft serve on the planet.

Cocowhip is vegan and bio-fermented coconut

soft serve sundae. Add some colourful, always healthy toppings and you’ll find it hard to believe the delicious creation is gluten, dairy and soy free.

Priding themselves on healthy real food creations that are all gluten and dairy free, vegan and organic wherever possible, owners and sisters Kelly and Janelle Sinclair are all about getting people to fall in love with healthy food. Not only is their food fun and full of flavour, it really is good for you.

“It’s our never-ending pursuit to create wholesome nutrient-rich food that tastes amazing. As an example, we’ve been blending acai bowls for eight years, tweaking the ratios and ingredients to make them perfect - and now we get rave reviews that say they are the best acai bowls in Australia,” Kelly said.

You’ll find Kona Joe’s Health Shack on Dunsborough foreshore (Thursday to Tuesday, 8am to 12pm), Meelup Beach (Monday and Thursday 12.30 to 4pm, and Friday, Saturday and Sunday 2pm to 5pm) Visit facebook.com/konajoeshealthshack/

LASER VISION It’s one of the most popular attractions in Dunsborough, and now the fun dial at Xscape

8

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

at the Cape Fun Park has gone up a notch. A new action-packed activity - Amaze ’N’ Lazer Tag - has been added to the roster of fun at this family-friendly offering.

Xscape owner Douglas Campbell believes Amaze ’N’ Lazer Tag is the first permanent laser tag attraction in the south west.

“Not only are we the first to have a yearround Laser Tag attraction but we’ve also taken it up a notch by locating the game within our existing Mine Shaft Maze - it’s a match made in gaming heaven,” says Douglas.

Xscape at the Cape is open seven days a week throughout summer from 9am to 4.30pm except public holidays (10am to 4pm).

Find out more at xscapeatthecape.com.au or call 9750 5150. Xscape at the Cape is located on the corner of Caves Road and Quindalup Siding Road, Dunsborough.

ARTFULLY DONE Fi Wilkie's Beginners Art Workshops are held throughout the year, so if you're keen to tap into your creativity, this is the course for you.

No matter what stage you're at, this nurturing, playful and vibrant day provides a great way to continue your journey, or at least shift how you think about creating and making your own art.

Fi's reputation as a motivational teacher keeps her students coming back for weekly classes.

To book a place on her next workshop (April 9), visit tootstudio.bigcartel.com

PAGE TURNERS To celebrate a plethora of literary and creative events on the horizon in the Margaret River region, why not spend a lazy afternoon browsing in one of the many independent bookshops in the area? Viva Books is one of Busselton's most popular bookshops which also has some cool literary-inspired gift ideas for your favourite bibliophile, but there are plenty of other spots too where you’ll be able to find your next good read. We recommend Goanna Gallery Cafe for beautiful coffee-table style recipe and lifestyle titles and delicious food to boot, closely followed

by The Good Olive which has some wonderful books to take home as a reminder of your stay.

Don’t forget the giftshop at Aravina Estate too - it has some gorgeous, hard-to-find titles which will inspire you to decorate your home with pieces from all around the world.

HOME FROM HOME If you’re keen to try something a little different and cruise, fish and relax at the same time, book one of Blackwood River Houseboats. The beautifully appointed houseboats allow you to leave Augusta through the Hardy Inlet and explore the gorgeous Blackwood River.You’ll pass the bird sanctuary, river dolphins, Molloy Island and 20 kilometres of unspoilt National Park in total comfort as you soak up nature’s finest offerings.The lower Blackwood River is an iconic location for water skiing, wake boarding, fishing, kayaking, wildflowers and wildlife. All you need to do is bring food, drinks and fishing gear, and best of all, no Skipper’s Ticket is required.

Visit blackwoodriverhouseboats.com.au

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

9

Your calendar The best AUTUMN events in your Margaret River region FIND THE LATEST EVENT LISTINGS AT MARGARETRIVER.COM/EVENTS

MARCH

Race through paradise Get ready for the adventure of a liftime - X-Adventure is Australia's largest off-road triathalon, a spectacular experience through the pristine wilderness around Dunsborough. Step up to the challenge by racing solo, team up with your friends to be part of the fun or come to cheer on the competitiors. Over 1,500 competitors annually take part in this event, and there's a long and short course as well as two races just for the kids.

X-Adventure, Dunsborough, March 25 to 26.

10

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Starry, starry nights Don't forget to make the most of the last of the region's balmy evenings with a night under the stars watching movies at Cape Mentelle. Enjoy a gourmet burger and a glass of the winery's delicious wine while you lounge on super-comfy beanbags watching the latest flicks surrounded by nature. It's a must-do experience while you're in the region.

Movies under the stars at Cape Mentelle, 331 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River, until April 9. Visit capementelle.com.au for the programme of movies on show.

CALENDAR

Dine around the globe Enjoy food from around the world as you listen to live music under the stars at the Margaret River Night Market.

Sample cuisine from the Far East to South America without leaving Margs; soak up the atmosphere and enjoy some sensational tastes right in the heart of the south west.

Memorial Park, Margaret River, from 4.30 to 9pm. Visit facebook.com/ worldfoodtwilightmarketsmargaretriver for details.

Channeling creativity If you love the ocean don’t miss . . .

Lure of the Ocean, a new exhibition

by Janine Daddo, Shannon Hamilton, and Jos Myers.

Exploring the energetic pull of the sea and how it's creatively expressed by these artists. Join Jahroc Gallery for ocean art, wine and a night of fun.

Jahroc Gallery, 83 Bussell Highway, Margaret River, March 29, 6 to 8pm (part of the Creative Crawl - Creative Emergence opening night).

Visit jahroc.com.au

12

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

EACH YEAR PROFESSIONALS from music, film, advertising, digital and the visual arts travel to Margaret River to share recent developments in their disciplines, as well as emerging trends in a series of workshops and talks.

By bringing together creatives from a wide range of areas, the fourday event encourages participants to look beyond their own specialisation and broaden their thinking.You’ll leave inspired, refreshed and ready to create something great.

But it’s not just a conference: you'll enjoy concerts showcasing the country’s best emerging musical acts, exhibitions with work by local artists, meals in the region’s famous wineries, light installations and countless other happenings.

It’s the perfect way to start your creative year.

Emergence Creative, various locations in Margaret River, March 29 to April 1.

Visit emergencecreative.com

Searching for orcs Love cycling? Then why not join an awesome 80km ride of fire trails and tracks through some magnificent bushland. Starting at the Beer Farm and meandering through the south west, the ride will include a blast through Middle Earth.

Choose from three rides - a 40km ride, 55km ride or a 75km ride so you'll need to be reasonably fit. The trail is mostly non-technical but includes some sections of Middle Earth that need a reasonable amount of skill on the MTB. You will be required to ride in a minimum of pairs – the organisers encourage riders to form groups of similar capabilities and to look out for one another. Visit the MRORCA Facebook Group Page to find a buddy.

You need to be prepared with at least two litres of water, spares and nutrition. You can leave a lunch pack with the support vehicle that will meet at approximately the halfway point. There will be Yahava Coffee on site at the Beer Farm before the race and food and beers to finish.

The Beer Farm, Gale Farm Road, from 8am. If you have further questions please call Rod Lakelin on 0428 171 306. Visit mrorca.org.au for more info.

WA’S BEST 2016

- REGIONAL HOSPITALITY VENUE - CASUAL PUB DINING AWARD -

GOURMET TRAVELLER WINE HALL OF FAME WINE LIST

Wave riders

The Drug Aware 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 twelve-day period. This is one of 11WCT events globally, which occur at iconic destinations including O’ahu, Hawaii, Lower Trestles, California, Jeffreys Bay, South Africa and Teahupo’o, Tahiti. The event, now in its 31st year, is as 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. Surfers Point, Prevelly, March 28 until April 8.

BEST LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AHA HALL OF FAME

AMERICAN STYLE BBQ

MEALS 7 DAYS 12 Noon - 8.30pm

settlerstavern.com | AUTUMN 2017 13

margaretriver.com

114 BUSSELL HWY MARGARET RIVER

CALENDAR

IMAGE Paris Hawkin Photography

APRIL

If you're getting hitched, make sure you head over to the Festival of Love. It's a festival style wedding event, just for you and your betrothed, family and friends. Sip sparkling wine while listening to live music and mingle with the creative talent, industry professionals and style masters in the pin-drop heart of the region. A gathering of the most talented wedding creatives, professionals and vendors, it's the perfect opportunity for you to plan your big day down south, all in one place. And an added bonus? You may win your dream wedding just by attending.

The Festival of Love, Clairault Streicker, 3277 Caves Road, Wilyabrup, April 2. Visit thefestivaloflove.com.au for more information.

14

AUTUMN 2017

|

Art for all tastes One of the longest established galleries in the south west region, the Margaret River Gallery, is a little gem located off the main street in Margaret River with a uniquely different flavour and diverse selection of high quality works by high-end established artists and dedicated emerging artists for all tastes. This autumn, there are a couple of upcoming exciting exhibitions: CLOSE TO HOME Andy Quilty and Melissa Boughey both reside in the south west of Western Australia and work in mixed media drawing and abstract painting. Andy's large ballpoint pen drawings explore the male psyche while Melissa's extraordinary talent of mixed media design the landscape.

Close to Home investigates ideas about identity, sense of place, and connection to the land. There will be an artist talk and demo on April 8 at 5pm (followed by the opening at 6pm).

The exhibition opens on April 8 and runs until to April 29.

KATE AND ANTHONY DEBBO A local artistic couple are beginning to make waves on the scene with their diverse and fresh works. Kate is a painter with unusual form, colour, texture and content. Large,

margaretriver.com

bold and intriguing works on canvas to collage under glass are lively and fun, strong and soft, bold and subtle all at once. Anthony also makes bold statements with his raw furniture designs and sculptural pieces from recycled timbers.

Embracing the Australian psyche, his works are conversation pieces to last you a lifetime.

There's an artist demo and talk on April 30 at 11am.The exhibition opens on May 6 and runs until May 27.

Margaret River Gallery, Shop 4, 1 Charles West Avenue, Margaret River.Visit margaretrivergallery.com.au or call 08 9757 2729.

Saddle up, partners

I

Meet the artists

What do you get when a cowboy, a bull and a beer walk into a bar? A rodeo at The Beer Farm, that's what.

Set in the agricultural bushland in Metricup and the existing grounds of the property, The Beer Farm will be opening its doors and paddock gates to welcome a live rodeo brought to you in conjunction with ABCRA and Buck Shot Entertainment.

ABCRA is the recognised governing body for rodeos across Australia and this meet is a recognised eight-point rodeo and contributes to the national PBR tour.

Watch Saddle Bronc, Bareback, Bull Ride, Steer Wrestling, Rope and Tie, Team Roping, Ladies Barrel Race, Breakaway Roping, Steer Undercorating, Novice Barrel (horse) and Juvenile Barrel. There's a novice bull ride too, all available with generous cash prizes With inflatable activities, kids fun and cowboys as well as an array of local food vendors and great beer, it's a great family day out.

Tickets to this event are only available via pre-sale and there will be no door entries on the day so click away to secure your spot. Swag and tent pitches available as well as limited self-contained caravan spots.

Buy tickets from eventbrite.com.au

t’s one of Australia’s most anticipated art events and, this year, the Margaret River Region Open Studios (MRROS) has more artists than ever participating.

The 16-day event offers a trail of discovery for all art lovers, with 124 visual artists and artisans opening the doors to their studios and workshops. It gives visitors a unique opportunity to meet the creator of the artwork, peruse original artworks and of course purchase artwork. Work may include paintings, drawings, sculpture, hand blown glass, print making, handmade furniture, as well as jewellery, ceramics, textiles and many other media. Geographically grouped venues across Busselton, Margaret River, Augusta, Vasse,Yallingup, Quindalup, Dunsborough, Cowaramup will be shown on maps so visitors can design their own art trails.

MRROS, various locations (each open studio will be clearly identified on a detailed map in the collectable 2017 Event Catalogue which will be available online and widely distributed in the runup to the event), April 22 to May 7, free entry.Visit mrros.com.au for more information.

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

15

CALENDAR

MAY

Autumn leaves Fancy a day trip from the Margaret River region to see some specatcular autumnal colour? One of the best places to experience all the russets and reds of the new season is Nannup, gateway to the beautiful Blackwood Valley and Southern Forests. Along with the town's natural attractions such as the Blackwood River, its historic streets are lined with magnificent deciduous trees which spend the season turning red, yellow and orange. The undulating green hills and mist on the river add to the appeal giving the whole area a mystical, ethereal quality.

Voted by Qantas as one of the five best places in Australia to see autumn colour, there's a range of mature trees including crepe myrtle, maples, liquid amber, Bradford pear and claret ash that are so beautiful when they begin to prepare for winter.

At this time of year, Nannup is a popular destination for people looking for something a bit different; it hosts the Forest Rally in April and the main street becomes a car pit stop attracting many motor enthusiasts. On May 6 and 7 the town is part of Festival of Country Gardens and you can visit a chestnut farm and taste this amazing nutritious nut.

To reach Nannup, it's located east of Busselton and Margaret River. Take either the Mowen Rd or Vasse Hwy. Visit everythingnannup.com.au

JUNE

16

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Raise a glass

To mark 30 years since the estate was first established, Aravina Estate is hosting an unmissable event for wine lovers on June 1.

Originally established as Amberley Estate, Aravina Estate owners Steve and Hayley Tobin are joining with the original founders of the estate to commemorate this significant milestone with a sensational evening combining the estate's delicious wines and innovative food.

Tickets to this special evening are extremely limited, with guests treated to a five-course degustation by head chef Ben Day and matched with Aravina and Amberley museum wines by Aravina’s awardwinning chief winemaker Ryan Aggiss. Join past and current winemakers and owners of the estate to taste some of the rare wines from one of the region’s most significant vineyards.

Bookings are essential - call 08 9750 1111.

STORIES come alive in Margaret this winter as the ninth annual Margaret River River Readers and Writers Festival gears up to be the biggest and best yet. The festival will feature renowned British comedian, actor, writer and television presenter Michael Palin, whos' sure to be a huge drawcard for the popular event.

Well known as a member of Monty Python, Michael has appeared in numerous films and has presented travel series, including Around the World in 80 Days, Pole to Pole; Full Circle, Sahara and Himalaya.

Additional writing talent will be thick on

the ground, with literary luminaries including Clementine Ford, Robert Drew, Joan London, Ian Parmenter and respected journalist Kerry O'Brien.

The Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival is held at the Margaret River Cultural Centre where the celebrations will include author talks, panel discussions, Q&A sessions, book signings, free lunchtime talks and free activities for children on the weekend in the festival’s storytelling tent.

Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival, Margaret River Cultural Centre, June 2 to 4. Visit mrrwfestival.com or call 08 9758 7316 for tickets.

You’re invited

BEHIND THE SCENES

Python

headlines literary festival

Barrel of fun

ARE YOU MAKING plans for a winter get-away to Margaret River? If so, then put June 3 and 4 in your diary. Fraser Gallop Estate will again be hosting a ‘Barrel hall pop-up’, which has now become so popular the team decided to make it the highlight of their annual calendar. Each year they open the barrel hall and line-up a range of vintages of the highly awarded Parterre Cabernet and Chardonnay - this year, from vintage 2008 onwards.

There will be magnums, doublemagnums and impressive six-litre bottles, with some great bargains, including rare and limited museum wines. All wines will be available to taste and purchase over the weekend.

Be quick, be early - wines will sell out, so don’t miss out.

Visit frasergallopestate.com.au, 493 Metricup Road,Wilyabrup, open 11am to 4pm every day.

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

EAT & DRINK

Give mum a special treat this Mother's Day (May 14) with a champagne brekkie, lunch or dinner at one of the region's restaurants and wineries. By GABI MILLS.

Mum’s the word SWINGS TAPHOUSE Bussell Highway, Margaret River If you’ve got the kind of mum who likes her Mother’s Day treat to be as chilled as a frosty glass of fizz, then head to Swings and Roundabouts.

Described as the locals’ local, Swings Taphouse has Swings & Roundabouts award-winning wines on tap as well as cool cocktails and craft beers to really spend the afternoon in style. For Mother’s Day they’re offering a free glass of Swings bubbles to all mums who’ve pre-booked a table. They’re open for breakfast too from 10am so why not kick the day off in style with a champers brekkie?

Call 08 9758 7155 or visit swings.com.au

OTHER SIDE OF THE MOON Bunker Bay Road, Naturaliste What yummy mummy could resist a very special high tea on their day of days? Pullman Bunker Bay Resort’s Other Side of the Moon restaurant is pulling out all the stops with their version of sweet and savoury treats this year.

18

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

The ‘Sweets & Senses’ package will give mum an hour of pampering at award-winning Vie Spa with her choice of treatments plus a glass of sparkling. Then it’s time to relax and soak up the outstanding vistas of Bunker Bay as the resort’s Michelin star-experienced French pastry chef serves up a stunning high tea.

Elegant sweets, freshly baked scones and mouth-watering savouries will be complemented by your choice of tea or barista coffee, all for just $169 per person. If mum is a sweet tooth you can opt to enjoy just the High Tea Experience for $45 per person.

Bookings are essential. Offer is subject to availability and cannot be combined with other offers. Payment required at time of reservation and cancelation policy applies. Call 08 9756 9100 or visit pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au

ARAVINA ESTATE Thornton Road, Yallingup Say thank you to mum with lunch at one of the most stunning wineries in the region. Take a

stroll through Aravina Estate’s gorgeous gardens, heavy with blooms and providing the perfect backdrop for an Insta pic. Gaze across manicured lawns before being treated to a sumptuous meal in the restaurant.You’ll be treated to Ben Day’s new autumn menu with its strong focus on local produce, shifting the menu format to a more relaxed style of dining. Order from expanded options including small and large plates, sharing platters and the popular ‘feed me’ concept.

Let award-winning Ben and his team look after you with a selection of his favourite dishes inspired by the best seasonal produce available daily. Alongside the casual yet stylish menu is an extended drinks menu including local beers, ciders, aperitifs and the extremely popular Aravina champagne cocktails. For an extra special treat for wine lovers, you’ll also be able to sample older vintages with Aravina’s first ever museum wine list. Furthermore, as an extra token of appreciation for everything that they do for us, on Mother's Day will be gifted a special treat with lunch from Aravina.

Call 08 9750 1111 or visit aravinaestate.com

BARNYARD1978 The complete package - that’s what makes Barnyard1978 special. The casual yet classy restaurant makes it the perfect place to take mum for a slap-up feed, while the cellar door, farm shop and honey store on site (with tastings too) mean if you’ve forgotten to buy her a pressie, there’s no need to panic.You can nip in to grab a gift right here. The kids will love the viewing window which lets visitors watch the restaurant’s signature pasta being created.

Chef specials for Mother’s Day include Barnyard Bees presents honey cheesecake and Barnyard1978 homemade macaroni.

“All of our pasta is made with the top grade carefully selected semolina flour and fresh eggs, laid by happy Margaret River chooks,” says owner Egidijus Rusilas, who with his wife Raminta runs Barnyard1978 with passion.

“There is a whole lot of loving in everything we do. And the best way to share it is around the table.”

We couldn't agree more.

To book, visit barnyard1978.com.au or call 08 9755 2548.

LA CASINA Caves Road, Dunsborough Mamma mia, we all love an Italian feast so why not head to a taste of Italia at La Casina this Mother’s Day? You’ll find a pretty restaurant if you book for dinner, with fairy lights bedecking the outdoor area, and proper Italian waiters ready to twist those peppermills, just like in the movies.

The menu has the full range of traditional Italian fare, from silky carbonara taglietelle

with wild mushrooms, a light-as-a feather three-cheese souffle with roasted pumpkin and sensational desserts. It’s the type of place that will make you wish you could bring the whole family and spend hours whiling away the afternoon.

With husband and wife team Alan and Nicola Fenati at the helm, and Nicola as head chef, the contemporary menu has a strong focus on handcrafted pasta, gnocchi, bread and focaccia, all of which is made on site every day.

Visit lacasina.com.au or call 08 9756 8154 to book.

ARC OF IRIS 151 Bussell Highway, Margaret River It's the gastronomic gem that the Margaret River locals try to keep all to themselves so why not treat mum to something special at Margs’ oldest restaurant on Mother's Day? Open from 6pm, if you pre-book and mention this feature the friendly team will have a complimentary glass of bubbles waiting for your mum as she takes her

JUST FOR HER There are plenty of places to celebrate your mum - left, La Casina, below, pork belly from Arc of Isis. Opposite, Aravina Estate’s pretty in pink wines, and Swings Taphouse's famous pizzas.

place at the specially decorated table.

Feeding locals and visitors alike since 1990, the shabby chic decor is much beloved. In the early days there were few tables and chairs so customers simply bought their own along with them. For a long time drinks were served from old jam jars and there were old oil drums to sit on.

When they got fed up with this patrons went to the op shop and started to purchase mismatched crockery and cutlery and furniture and so the eclectic look of The Arc began to form.

A revamp a few years ago has breathed new life into the restaurant (along with a liquor licence).

The food is as warm and welcoming as the venue - choose from sharing plates like a charcuterie board with local cured meats and Yallingup woodfired bread or a Willowbank Angus tenderloin steak with dauphinoise potatoes.

Call 08 9757 3112 to book.Visit arcofiris.com.au

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 margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 19 F R A S E R G A L L O P E S T A T E . C O M . AU

EAT & DRINK

YES PLEASE Indulge yourself with Harlequin Chocolate (this page), or a decadent meal at Swings and Roundabouts.

If you love cheese, head to Yallingup Cheese (opposite).

SWINGS AND ROUNDABOUTS

Ditch the diet May 6 is a special day - it’s officially No Diet Day so pile on the calories and expand that waistline, for one day only at least, says Cassandra Charlick.

B

e sure to put the most important date in the year in your diary right away – International No Diet Day lands on May 6 and where better to spend it than in a region awash with incredible artisans producing treats for our tastebuds?

An annual date to celebrate body acceptance and the importance of body shape diversity, No Diet Day was conceived over 20 years ago to raise awareness of the dangers of dieting and importance of healthy eating for life.

With an emphasis placed on health at any size, it's a celebration of body love and mindful living whereby healthy doesn't equal skinny and we are all built to be beautiful in different shapes and forms.

Here's my pick of the places to pile on those calories.

20

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

If you're looking for an indulgent afternoon, look no further than Swings and Roundabouts (swings.com.au). The cellar door and restaurant at Yallingup is a comfortable, versatile space, filled with music with a beat, open fires, cosy corners and a huge lawn with arguably the best views in Margaret River. Their wines are reflective of northern Margaret River, Mediterranean in style and best enjoyed with friends and family.

Food to match is simple and rustic, loaded with delicious flavours and great to share.

To celebrate all of the above, head chef Siobhan has come up with a delicious dessert.

Three Milk Cake.

Ingredients 300g flour, sifted 2 tsp baking powder 6 eggs, separated 275g sugar 1/2 cup of milk 1 tsp vanilla paste 500 ml condensed milk 400 ml evaporated milk 300 ml crème frâiche Method Sift the flour and baking powder. Combine all the milks and vanilla. Whisk the egg whites and gradually add the sugar until you have a firm meringue. Add the yolks one by one and gently fold in the flour and baking powder mixture, alternating with the milks, keep a little aside. Bake at 170 degrees for 25 minutes.

When cold, pour over the remaining milks mixture and leave to soak overnight.

2 FAT COWS ICE CREAM The ice cream here is made from farm fresh ingredients by Sharon Penfold, who crafts each batch lovingly by hand on her family farm with only the best locally sourced ingredients.

A traditional-style ice cream, flavours are completely seasonal and inspired by the best regional produce available - free range eggs, fresh fruit straight from the orchard and full cream milk direct from nearby dairy producers.

Choose from traditional flavours such as Vanilla Bean and Choc Mint Chip or for those with more adventurous tastebuds sample delights such as Plum Meringue, Honey Nougat and Rhubarb Royal. Available at a variety of locations in the region, this delightful little artisan gem is the perfect treat after a day at the beach and will most definitely ensure that no diet is being adhered to. Visit twofatcows.com.au.

HARLEQUIN CHOCOLATE Margaret River has a number of outstanding bean to bar offerings, but if you want something super indulgent when it comes to your chocolate fix, Harlequin Chocolate in Margaret River delivers. Using only the highest quality ingredients and focusing on contemporary flavour combinations, owner and master chocolatier Nadia Haskell creates luxury Italian-style treats that look almost too good to eat. With over six years' experience as a chocolatier in both Australia and Italy, each treat is handmade.

With flavours like Ginger and Black Sesame, Pecan and Caramel or Mango and Rum it's impossible to pick a favourite. So don't try - just taste them all. Visit harlequinchocolate.com.

YALLINGUP CHEESE In a region where vines and pastures are at every turn, it goes without saying that you'll want to pair two of the greatest matches made in heaven – cheese and wine. A true artisan cheese

producer,Yallingup Cheese Company's founder (and winemaker by trade) Alana Langworthy trained in France and crafts all of her cheese in small batches from local, organic dairy producers.

A range of cheeses varies including their ever-popular camembert which is aged for a full five weeks to ensure ultimate oozing when cut and placed on a Margaret River Cracker Company cheese biscuit. If merely eating cheese isn't enough for you, they also hold cheesemaking classes throughout the year – look for further details at yallingupcheese.com.au. Pop into their tasting room in Abbey Vale winery on Wildwood Road in Yallingup to taste a selection to help you decide which cheeses to take home – if they make it that far before temptation takes over. Visit yallingupcheese.com.au.

THE GROVE EXPERIENCE The Grove Distillery is heaven for those of us who like to indulge in both sweet and tipsy treats at the same time. Creating spirit-based liqueurs, The Grove quickly evolved into the first distillery in the Margaret River wine region.

With hedonistic flavours such as Turkish Delight, Chai and Macadamia Nut Liqueur, this is a properly grown-up approach to throwing the diet book out the window. If your sweet tooth is slightly more traditional try their handcrafted gins, rum and whiskeys and the delectable fortified wines which round off perfectly a long day of non-diet-related feasting.

Why not try making one of their unique cocktails such as Macadamia Madness:30mls macadamia liqueur 15mls coconut liqueur, 15mls white or dark chocolate liqueur, 15mls cream.

Shake with ice in a cocktail shaker and strain into a glass. Visit thegrovedistillery.com.au

BETTENAY'S, THE MARGARET RIVER NOUGAT COMPANY A family-owned and run business since 1989, The Margaret River Nougat Company is a must-do when visiting the region for those with a sweet tooth. Handmade in small batches, the soft, French-style nougat is a colourful treat and a pleasant change from chocolate and fudge.

Made with fresh local ingredients, the classic base of honey, egg white, nuts and glucose syrup has extra local ingredients added to produce ace flavour combinations with more than 35 options to choose from. We love the bestselling Honey and Almond or give new additions a whirl like Chai latte, handmade liquorice and sweet rose petal. Don't forget to sample their famous nougat-flavoured liqueur while visiting as well; Nougaretto is perfect over ice or poured over ice cream for a diet-busting treat. Visit margaretrivernougat.com.au

EAT & DRINK

old

omfort

H

ave you noticed that Australians are really very good at doing one particular thing in winter? Yes, that would be hibernating. This year there’ll be no more excuses though, as a brand new 10 -day event is set to entice Margaret River region visitors and locals alike to hit pause on Netflix, get off the couch and launch into an epic line-up of winter events involving as much quaffable wine, seam-splitting comfort food, fireside brews and general good times as their bodies can handle The aptly-named ‘Cabin Fever’ event is set to hijack the region between July 14 and 23, as venues from Busselton to Augusta host over 30 unique, one-off events centred around home-grown talent, regional produce, award-winning wine and spirits, music, art and entertainment, all set in inspiring locations.

Managed by a team from the south west not-for-profit Creative Corner, Cabin Fever is originally the brainchild of local ideas man Mat Lewis, and is a concept that’s been brewing for many years.

“It’s a well-known fact that locals down here tend to go a little stir crazy when we’re cooped up for long periods over winter,” Festival Director Brianna Delaporte says.

“We believe that wine and nature are the perfect tonic for winter confinement and isolation, so we want to celebrate the fact that the Margaret River region has both of these things in spades.”

“When you take a look at the program you’ll see that all of the events have a unique twist, so you only have this 10-day window in July to experience them – don’t miss out!”

Full details of the event program will be rolled out at cabinfeverfest.com.au throughout March, but we’re excited to share just a small taste of what’s to come:

JOIN THE GIN CRAZE

A 1920s-inspired gin prohibition event at a secret location close to Margaret River town-site. After finding the secret entrance, take

22

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

A brand new event, Cabin Fever, promises to ward off those winter blues and turn up the heat this July.

By LISA SHEARON.

off your coat and relax into an evening of sipping gin cocktails and hot negronis to warm your winter bones. Drinks, canapes and entertainment provided

FONDUE BY THE FIRE, HOSTED AT HOWARD PARK WINES & CAMBRAY SHEEP CHEESE

What better relaxed activity on a chilly winter’s day than huddling by the fire with wine and cheese fondue? Grab a spot on the couch or at a wine barrel & sit by the Cellar Door’s roaring fireplace for an afternoon of lazing. Local favourites Cambray Sheep Cheese will be offering cheese tastings and fondue for those who wish to linger.

VERTICAL CABERNET TASTING AT VASSE FELIX

This special intimate five course dinner will celebrate the evolution of Cabernet Sauvignon at Vasse Felix over the past 50 years. Winemakers will join guests, providing a special opportunity to learn about the wines and winemaking process as dinner progresses, culminating in a rare opportunity to enjoy

Stay @ Cape View Enjoy a winter getaway package available online!

On the shores of Geographe Bay, Cape View Beach Resort offers the best of both worlds with beautifully appointed, fully self contained accommodation, some with spa.

• Two & three bedroom, two bathroom accommodation • Childrens playground and BBQ area • Outdoor pool, indoor pool, gym and sauna

Ask about our accommodation with ocean views.

IMAGE Elements Margaret River

a five year vertical tasting of Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon during main course followed by the 2013 Tom Cullity, the pinnacle of Vasse Felix, released in May 2017 to coincide with the Estate's 50th anniversary celebrations.

BLAZING BREWS AT THE BEER FARM

Coming up to its second birthday in 2017, this converted dairy farm has quickly established a reputation among locals for epic parties. Settle into the ridiculously comfortable vintage leather furniture or cosy up around the blazing bonfire enjoy smoked meats, live blues and seasonal winter brews.

Visit cabinfeverfest.com.au for full details.

Cabin Fever (noun): ‘Cabin fever is an idiomatic term for a claustrophobic reaction that takes place when a person or group ends up in an isolated or solitary location, or stuck indoors in confined quarters for an extended period.

Cabin fever describes the extreme irritability and restlessness a person may feel in these situations.’

BOOK ONLINE www.capeviewbeachresort.com.au 12 Little Colin Street, Busselton book@capeviewbeachresort.com.au Tel: 08 9755 4388

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

23

EAT & DRINK

Rooms with

tlC included A BED AND BREAKFAST IS FAR MORE THAN JUST A PLACE TO REST YOUR HEAD. TREVOR PADDENBURG DISCOVERS SOME OF THE MARGARET RIVER REGION’S BEST B&B OPTIONS.

24

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

S

tay at a bed and breakfast in the Margaret River region and your alarm clock will be the babbling of a brook, boisterous bird song or the bass rumble of the ocean.

From the bush to the beach, in splendid isolation or within walking distance to town, there is a wealth of B&B options from Busselton to Dunsborough,Yallingup, Margaret River and Augusta.

B&Bs are the ideal option for those who don’t want to stretch the budget at a luxury retreat or find camping just a bit too much like roughing it. And where else but a B&B are you served a satisfying, home-style breakfast in bed or on your back porch?

“We meet a great deal of visitors who love the B&B experience as it’s a wonderful way to get to know the region close up through the eyes of the locals,” says Liz O’Brien, a visitor consultant at the Margaret River region visitor centres.

“Our region has an amazing range of B&Bs and we do them really well. Many are set in stunning locations with a wonderful local ambience – and there are several which have won awards.

“Our local B&B hosts will go the extra mile to make guests feel welcome, whether it’s with a

glass of wine, freshly baked bread or muffins each day or even by collecting guests when they arrive.

“People love our B&Bs and often return every year to get that personal local feel.”

Here’s our selection of some the best bed and breakfast stays across the region.

LANTERNS RETREAT

16 Newberry Rd, Dunsborough It’s the small touches that make a stay at this Dunsborough B&B so good – the fresh flowers and fluffy bath robes in each private suite, the French provincial antique furniture that you can’t resist sprawling on, free port and chocolate

for an after-dinner treat, and room to stretch out with a good book in the charming, shady garden. That, and the sensational breakfast laid on by owner and operator Serge, who left his native France 25 years ago and built Lanterns Retreat as a dedicated B&B in 2000.

Serge offers a buffet breakfast as well as an à la carte morning menu that includes his speciality French omelettes, crêpes and croissants. “One of my passions is food, no two ways about it,” he declares. “This is a bed and breakfast and that means the breakfast has to be memorable. I’m in love with cooking and I think it shows.”

As well as being renowned for its personalised service, Lanterns Retreat is known for its mix of old-world charm blended with modern luxuries such as spa baths and free wi-fi. And did we mention its location? It’s 800m from Dunsborough’s main street and 400m from the sheltered, turquoise waters of Old Dunsborough Beach.

ENJOY THE ULTIMATE OLIVE OIL EXPERIENCE

MEELUP B&B

7 Harry King Ave, Dunsborough No list of the region’s best beaches would be complete without a mention of Meelup. And Meelup B&B is one of the prime accommodation options for sun worshippers wanting to get acquainted with Meelup’s white sand and electric-blue waters.

When you’ve had enough of the sun and sand, retire to your spacious room to take in a free in-house movie. Modern styling and bathrooms compliment local timber which is used extensively in the furniture and décor.

Add to that a gourmet breakfast, free wi-fi, complimentary fresh fruit, port, chocolates and flowers, and there are plenty of reasons to stay in this popular bed and breakfast just 1km from Dunsborough.

MARGARET RIVER GUEST HOUSE 5 Valley Rd, Margaret River

The original guest house in Margaret River, dating back half a century, this remains a firm favourite with repeat visitors and Trip Advisor ratings. And it’s easy to see why. A lush garden and outdoor timber veranda provide a welcoming ambience, and inside the rooms

SOAPS | GOURMET FOOD | SKIN CARE | WORKSHOPS

WILYABRUP Soap Factory & Workshops Ph: (08) 9755 6111 135 Puzey Road, Wilyabrup WA

MARGARET RIVER Retail Outlet Ph: (08) 9757 2999 2 Rosa Brook Road, Margaret River WA

Open 7 Days

www.vassevirgin.com.au

EAT & DRINK never feels crowded. And in winter, the cosy log fire is a welcome addition.

Now for the best bit: wake up to a gourmet, full cooked breakfast with veal sausages, in-house waffles, homemade fruit compotes and Jane’s speciality preserves smeared on local sourdough.

After running the establishment for 13 years, Keith and Jane are also experts when it comes to tips and advice on where to go and what to see around the region.

ERRAVILLA COUNTRY ESTATE 191 Blythe Rd, Yallingup

are bright and spacious with high ceilings and comfortable furniture where local timbers feature.

Like the real estate slogan “location, location, location”, Margaret River Guest House is a winner. It sits on a quiet cul-de-sac that feels like a rural setting, but is only a two-minute walk to Margaret River’s main street and its bustling coffee shops, restaurants, shops, galleries and visitor centre.

If you’re feeling active, shady river walking or mountain bike trails are just a stone’s throw away.

ROSEWOOD GUESTHOUSE 54 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River

A stay at Rosewood Guesthouse feels like a trip back in time to a quaint B&B in the English countryside. And the feeling is heightened by Rosewood’s fragrant cottage gardens and the fact that hosts Keith and Jane offer guests private tours in their historic 1956 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud.

26

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Home from home The region’s B&Bs all have one thing in common putting their guests first.

Top, the Margaret River Guest House, above left, Rosewood’s grand old Rolls-Royce and above right, patio at Our Place Augusta. Left, Erravilla Country Estate.

“The Rolls is out once a week or so. I only offer it to our guests. It’s a lovely car to drive and I wear the old chauffeur uniform and the cap so it’s a bit of fun. People get a real buzz out of it,” says Keith.

Back at the boutique guesthouse, sprawl on the king-size bed, put your feet up in the guest lounge or relax outdoors under the covered deck. A walk to Margaret River’s town centre takes less than 10 minutes and wineries are less than five minutes away in Keith’s Silver Cloud, or your own car if you want to make a slightly less extravagant arrival.

A maximum of 12 guests means the B&B

If wide open space and room to breathe tick the B&B boxes for you, Erravilla Country Estate is hard to beat. This uniquely private, peaceful and romantic retreat is set on a sprawling 134 acres of forest and fields. That’s certainly enough room to get away from it all. Don’t miss a morning or sunset stroll when the birdlife is at its best.

Choose to stay in one of six individually designed, luxurious spa suites. Want the ultimate indulgence? Guests can order a private masseuse for a full body rub down, or a private chef to prepare a sumptuous lunch or dinner from local produce.

On the other hand, if sipping a shiraz or quaffing a cabernet sauvignon is on the agenda, Erravilla is the ideal base to be located. The boutique B&B is right in the heart of the Margaret River wine region, with popular wineries all around including Aravina Estate, less than a five minute drive away, and Wills Domain, which is about an eight-minute drive.

BAUDINS OF BUSSELTON

87 Bussell Highway, Busselton Recognised as one of the best B&Bs in the world by the 2017 Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice awards, Baudins of Busselton is a perennial favourite in the Margaret River region.

Its leafy surrounds, comfortable charm and warm hospitality of owners Greg and Linda have put the B&B firmly on the map in Busselton.

The 4.5 star B&B rooms include private ensuite, kitchenette, air conditioning, TV and DVD player and Wi-Fi. Guests can also mingle in a communal kitchen, dining area and lounge.

There are free laundry facilities and breakfast is a two-course affair with all the trimmings.

Baudins is close to Busselton’s restaurants, which offer everything from fabulous local seafood to wood-fired pizzas and Asian fusion.

But a top tip is to pick up some chops or steaks, put on the chef hat yourself and fire up the free barbecue on the patio, with its views of the tropical garden and the native birds that frequently visit.

BUSSELTON MARINA BED AND BREAKFAST 32 Harwood Rd, Geographe

If the thought of holidaying without your pet pooch is too much to bear, consider a stay at Busselton Marina Bed and Breakfast, where dogs are welcome without additional charge. Then take Rover for a run on Busselton Beach just 500m away, and stop in for a coffee at one of the cafes at the bustling marina nearby.

This Busselton B&B is also a good option for families or groups because it consists of an apartment with two double bedrooms, each with double beds and flat screen TVs. There

the day, a cool box, ice and beach umbrella are available on request. And in the evening, pop the cork on a Margaret River red or white and take in the sunset from the flower-filled patio.

OUR PLACE AUGUSTA 8 Allnutt Street, Augusta

Augusta, at the end of Bussell Highway, is a pretty special place. The town’s laid-back vibe, lack of traffic, river setting and array of sheltered swimming beaches make Augusta well worth considering as a base for exploring the region.

And a local B&B to call home for the duration of your stay is Our Place Augusta, with spacious,

O P E N 7 D AY S , 1 0 - 5 P M

Down a dirt road, in the north of Margaret River is Arimia – exceptional offbeat wines; honest, imaginative food; unequaled tranquility.

A R I M I A . C O M . AU WARM WELCOME Above left, Baudins of Busselton, above, Erravilla Country Estate, and Busselton Marina B&B.

is a lounge area with comfy arm chairs and kitchenette stocked with complimentary coffee, teas and biscuits.

And did I mention the Devonshire cream team? It’s served complimentary on arrival with vintage china, and certainly sets the tone for a pampered stay.

If you’re heading to the beach in the heat of

well-appointed rooms and onsite caretaker Sue ready to point you in the right direction towards the best beach or a favourite café.

A short stroll through the bush setting is the Blackwood River, with shops and cafes also close at hand. Don’t miss the chance to climb Leeuwin Lighthouse either, with its spectacular views where the Indian and Southern oceans meet.

Tel. (08) 9755 2528 242 QUININUP ROAD, YALLINGUP

wine@arimia.com.au

EAT & DRINK

Chef MEET THE

E VA N H AY T E R , A R I M I A

Over the past four years, Arimia head chef Evan Hayter has worked hard to help transform an off-the-grid simple café into a worthy winery restaurant that’s accessible to everyone

By DIANNE BORTOLETTO

28

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

B

ehind the pass in the kitchen, Evan is chopping organic carrots out of his garden.

His friendly face looks up and he passes me a chunk, asking me if I want a try a carrot that tastes like a carrot. His wide smile says it all, he loves what he does and loves being a part of Arimia.

“Here at Arimia, we’re a small team where everyone does everything – this morning I was out with the guys putting nets over the vines and before summer I was clearing fire breaks.

Our front-of-house crew weed the garden every week. But it’s good, I like that I get to learn so much,” Evan says.

“It’s been a lot of hard work, but it’s also so rewarding. We renovated the kitchen about five months ago and we’re making big changes to the vineyard that I’m really excited about.”

Evan is referring to the move towards becoming certified organic, which will take another three years or so.

“I’m looking forward to telling the Arimia

story – the story of this amazing piece of land through the wine and the food,” he says.

“I feel like we’re right at the beginning of a new chapter. When Arimia was created, it was all about the wine and we were producing a lot of different varietals. Now there’s a refined focus, and we’re producing fewer, better quality wines, and food that complements the great wine.

“We have a fantastic viticulturist consultant, Mike Sleegers, a highly respected and experienced member of the local wine industry, with a background in organic and biodynamic practices. It’s an exciting time at Arimia.”

“Part of the process is producing more and more on the property to fit the organic processes and to supply the restaurant. There’s one acre set aside that the pigs we’re getting will clear. And then that’ll be planted and become our produce garden. We already have a kitchen garden, but that’ll be a bigger, more sustainable garden.”

Will there be a gardener?

Margaret River Region

Open Studios

“Ah, no, we do all of that. It’s busy and full on, but I love that I get to do other things. It’s an education and learning process,” Evan says.

From before you even arrive, a trip to Arimia feels like you’re going on an adventure.The bitumen roads turns to gravel and there’s bush flanking both sides. From the winery car park you enter a beautiful cellar door with an adjoining restaurant that opens up seamlessly to a deck that overlooks a lush lawn and scattered eucalyptus trees.

The shabby-chic, almost French provincial style mismatched furniture gives it a comfy, homely feel.

“I feel like Arimia has found its place in the market. It’s not about complicated molecular

22 April - 7 May ‘17

Fast facts

Arimia Estate 242 Quininup Road, Yallingup Western Australia Email: wine@arimia.com.au Tel +61 8 9755 2528 Tel +61 8 9755 2605 Visit arimia.com.au Arimia is open daily.

gastronomy here - we serve honest food utilising the best produce from the property and the region,” Evan says.

“When I started here the kitchen was, well, it was not built to be a restaurant. And being entirely off the grid – no power, no water, no sewerage – there were challenges. The power would go off in the middle of service for a table of 20, for example.

“We are still off the grid and that’s the way we want to remain. We know that we can’t start the washing machine during lunch service because it drains a bit too much power, but that’s OK. We just work around it.”

It’s quite a change for the city-born chef who was trained at the Subiaco Hotel and at Dear Friends.

“After travelling overseas, my partner and I decided that we didn’t want to live in Perth. We were spending most weekends in Margaret River with friends who live here, so we just decided to

move down,” the 35-year-old said. “That was six years ago.”

“In the same week, we bought a house and I was offered a job at the Margaret River Hotel – it was hectic.”

Evan stayed at the hotel for two years. It was after the third approach by Arimia to join their team that he finally said yes. It’s a decision that he says was one of the best ones he’s made.

“I’m really happy at Arimia – I’m surrounded by great people. We even hang out together outside of work,” Evan laughs.

When asked if he surfs like many of the other chefs in the region, Evan is absolute in his answer.

“No way – sharks! People would say it’s more dangerous to ride bikes but that’s what I like to do,” he says.

“We’ve even gone as far as forming a race team – Team Arimia – and compete in local bike races. I love keeping fit – this morning was just a short one, 45km. No judgement please!”

A 16 day feast of the visual arts scene

www.mrros.com.au Department of Culture and the Arts

EAT & DRINK

Beer brothers-in-arms THERE’S A GROUP OF MARGARET RIVER REGION BREWERS WHO HAVE JOINED FORCES AND CREATED AN ENTIRELY CIVILISED LOCAL BREWER’S CLUB TO HELP PROMOTE THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS HOPPY. LISA SHEARON DISCOVERS MORE.

S

cratch the surface of the Margaret River region and its surrounds, and you’ll find more than just spectacular scenery and world-class wines. Beyond that – at its heart – is a true sense of community, where winemakers and brewers work hand in hand, rather than in opposition to each other. It’s not about competition and oneupmanship in the Margaret River region, but rather, helping hands and camaraderie.

Andrew Dykstra, head brewer and director of Brewhouse Margaret River, discovered this

30

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

shortly after moving from Perth to Busselton in the mid-90s. Although working full-time as a town-planner, he devoted his spare time to home brewing, and shortly after struck up a friendship with brew-shop owner Bill Annear.

Bonding over a love of all things beer, they decided to set up a brewers’ club with a few likeminded mates.

“We started with about seven or eight members, a real mix of people, but all keen home brewers,” Andrew recalls. “We’d get together once a month and share recipes and ideas.

The meetings would start off formal, but become pretty informal after half-an-hour or so,” he laughs.

“It was a great learning experience. We’d work out little excursions and have tastings and critique each others’ stuff. There was no big plan, it was more of a social thing. We’d get together and organise events, camping trips and car rallies – and always have a few beers at the final destination.

“In 1996 we even held an Octo-brew-fest at the Busselton

Tennis Club, with a home-brew competition,” Andrew adds. “Everybody was invited, and we made the front page of the local newspaper.”

With its eclectic mix of members and shared passion for home-brewing, there was never a dull moment in the brewers’ club.

“I remember Nick d’Espeissis coming up with an alcoholic lemonade based on Two Dogs, which he called Three Dogs. That was lethal,” Andrew laughs.

It’s hardly any wonder that the brewers’ club stirred something within its members, and saw a few of them pursue brewing as a career.

“Even after the club ended, I kept my little hobby up, as did Nick and Bill,” Andrew says. “I kept entering my beers into the Perth Royal Beer Show, and I kept winning awards and medals. I started to think that maybe there was something in it.”

More than a decade after the South-West Brewers’ Club had begun, Andrew started to seriously consider opening his

own brewery.

“I was fed up with the bureaucracy of townplanning, and decided I’d rather make beer for a living. That was about seven or eight years ago; we finally opened Brewhouse last year.”

Opened in January 2016, Brewhouse Margaret River is owned and operated by three local families who had a vision for a familyfriendly microbrewery offering true-to-style beers and locally sourced meals.

“Me and my mates wanted to create something that relived the old days of Caves House in Yallingup, when everyone sprawled out across the beer garden on a Sunday afternoon.

“Our building and our philosophy was to not be too upmarket and Gucci; we just wanted somewhere for people to come and feel relaxed.

“Once we started we didn’t look back. It’s gone beyond our expectations and come to fruition – although it was a lot of hard work along the way.

This time two years ago I was still brewing out of an old Esky with holes cut out of it!”

While Andrew worked to establish Brewhouse Margaret River, his old brewers’ club comrade Nick was setting up the hugely successful Eagle Bay Brewing Co with his brother and sister on the family farm. Brew shop owner Bill, meanwhile, set up Occy’s Food & Brews, which began on the grounds of Vasse Felix, and later moved to a great little spot in Dunsborough.

All three brew-club members have managed to pursue their love of home-brewing while staying great mates throughout the years “We all shared a similar passion and helped each other along the way,” Andrew says. “This industry is pretty amazing.You can ask anyone for advice and they’ll go out of their way to help.

“As well as Nick and Bill, there was Jeremy Good over at Cowaramup Brewing Co., and Michael Brookes at Bootleg Brewery.

“If ever you need advice, or if you run out of ingredients, whatever, you just need to make a quick phone call and it’s sorted. Everyone’s working hard doing their own thing, but if at any point anyone needs a hand, everyone’s there, willing to help out.

“It’s a great community and a great industry.”

Email undies@brewhousemargaretriver.com for more information.

Your holiday starts now.

If you’re really looking to unwind on your next holiday, leave your car at home and choose Transwa. With someone else doing the driving for you, you can use your journey to relax, take in the scenery, immerse yourself in a book or watch one of your favourite movies.

Our trains and road coaches are spacious, airconditioned and fully accessible and service more than 240 locations throughout regional WA. The Australind train is stocked with your favourite snacks and beverages and our new road coaches have USB charging points and on board entertainment. We travel between Margaret River and Perth 12 times a week and offer a variety of concession discounts.

To book your next holiday, or to see where Transwa can take you, call 1300 662 205 or visit transwa.wa.gov.au margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

31

WINE & WINERIES

Where it allbegan F

rom pretty much the earliest days of settlement in the Margaret River region, vines were a part of the area’s history.

The Bussells planted vines in the 1830s for use as table grapes and to make wine for the family. In about 1851, Elijah Dawson planted the region’s first commercial vineyard at Vasse - three acres of vines to supply wine to the significant numbers of the American whalers who plied their trade off the coast of Western Australia.

Giacomo Meleri had a vineyard at Yallingup from 1920 to 1950 which, at its peak, was four hectares in size. He had a cellar door at which he offered tastings and also sold his ‘Red Dynamite’ at the local dances.

The distinguished American viticulturist, Professor Harold Olmo, spent eight months in Western Australia on a Fullbright Research scholarship in 1955 to examine problems in the wine industry in the Swan Valley. While here, he visited the Great Southern and his report included a recommendation that this area could produce high quality light, dry table wines and boost Western Australia’s economy.

The report was welcomed by the local wine community especially leading winemaker Jack

32

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Vines and winemaking are an essential part of the Margaret River region’s DNA. Peter Forrestal looks back to the early days of winemaking in the region.

Mann, and chief viticulturist Bill Jamieson. When the Minister of Industrial Development, Charles Court, heard of the possibilities for economic growth, he became strongly supportive. The result of all this was the establishment of an experimental vineyard at Forest Hill in Mount Barker in 1966.

In the meantime, Dr John Gladstones, an agronomist at the University of Western Australia, followed up his contact with Professor Olmo

both in Perth and California by challenging some of his assumptions. While Olmo had dismissed the likelihood of Margaret River being suitable for viticulture because of its high rainfall, Gladstones drew on his personal experience of the region to suggest that it would be even better than the Great Southern wine region, as long as vines were planted on well-drained soil.

His two papers led directly to the establishing of the vineyards and wineries on which the Margaret River wine industry was founded: Vasse Felix (1967), Moss Wood (1969), Cape Mentelle (1970) and Cullen (1971). Pivotal, too, were the large vineyards at Sandalford (1972) and Leeuwin (1974).

The lack of infrastructure made it difficult for vignerons in the first 15 years or more, but the quality of the early wines attracted attention to the region. The success of Cape Mentelle with back-to-back Jimmy Watson Trophy winners in 1983 and 1984 further underlined the region’s potential.

The number of vineyards and wineries increased so that there were more than 40 by 1995. At this stage, only Cape Mentelle had majority ownership from outside the region.

Stellar cellar doors and picturesque winery restaurants are matched by excellent accommodation and stunning local scenery to make the Margaret River region an enticing international tourist destination. In recent years, the popular Gourmet Escape has enhanced the region’s reputation as a tourist drawcard.

The 1990s saw a huge lift in the quality of the wines from Margaret River which appeared due, at least in part, to increased vine age. Until this time, Margaret River was the area that fell within the boundaries of the Busselton and Margaret River shires. The Margaret River wine producers invited Dr Gladstones to draw up the boundaries for the region in 1994, accepting his recommendation, which became enshrined in law as one of the country’s geographical indications in October 1996.

Since this time, Margaret River has become firmly established as one of the best wine regions in Australia, and its wines have established a formidable reputation in wine shows both at home and abroad.

A Thousand Fathers: A History of the Early Days of the Margaret River Wine Industry by Peter Forrestal & Ray Jordan will be published

by Margaret River Press, due November 2017.

A unique wine experience, Japanese inspired dining, Located in the heart of Margaret River.

There are currently more than 5,000 hectares under vine with more than 200 growers and producers. The vast majority are locally owned.

Although there has been an increased amount of investment from outside, this has not changed the region’s character.

The first Leeuwin Estate Concert in 1985, with the London Philharmonic Orchestra playing al fresco, was a landmark event which signalled the beginning of the region’s involvement in tourism.

w w w. f i s h b o n e w i n e s . c o m . a u

Open Daily from 10:00am - 5:00pm Ph: 08 9755 6726 margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 33 Email: cellardoor@fishbonewines.com.au

WINE & WINERIES

Leeuwin Estate’s Denis Horgan is as passionate today about his family’s wines as he ever was. By MAX BREALEY.

HORGAN’S WAY

D

enis Horgan sits on the verandah at Leeuwin Estate. An elder statesman of the Australian wine industry, he is one of the architects of the Margaret River region's rise as a name in the world of premium wine.

Down on the lawn just days before, thousands gathered to watch and listen to James Taylor, many with a bottle of Leeuwin's Art Series to hand. As the concert came to a close Taylor thanked Denis and Tricia Horgan for making it all happen.

Forty five years earlier the land was a cattle stud and Denis wasn’t much interested in wine.

All that was to change with guidance from a Californian wine legend.

In 1969, Denis, a chartered accountant working on mergers and acquisitions, was also a keen surfer. A call from a contact was to dramatically reshape his life. Talking about the assets of a company, he was hooked immediately.

"Well, it’s got a property down in Margaret River and I know you’re a keen surfer.

You might have a look at it,” was the jist of conversation, Denis recalls.

34

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

“So I was going down there that weekend with my wife and I had three kids at that stage.

The long and the short of it: I brought her over and she fell in love with it.”

It could have stayed as an agricultural sideline and family getaway, if it were not for another call, this time from his solicitor. It was 1972.

“He’d just excused himself from his office, where he had two gentlemen from America.

One was an attorney and the other he described to me as the most innovative man in the world of wine, Robert Mondavi from the Napa Valley.”

Denis admits that he didn’t know of Mondavi; didn't know that he was a “rockstar in the wine industry”, but that was to change. While he wasn’t in the market to sell, Denis saw an opportunity.You don’t travel from California to Western Australia on a whim.

“I took them home for dinner that night and learned more of what they were about, and

about Mondavi himself. The end result was that talked him into being our mentor and putting Leeuwin together.”

Today the estate is over 400 acres, but back then they started with a small acreage under vine; around 20 in all for that first year of planting.

“Mondavi was involved in selecting the varieties. He got us to plant a wide range, about five or six varieties. On the basis he didn't know what the area could produce. Cabernet and chardonnay were the better ones of course. And we also had decent riesling, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir," says Denis.

While Mondavi was convinced of the region's potential, Denis set about educating himself, with the question as to whether it was capable of being the best. Everything from the ancient soils to the climate and being surrounded on three sides by ocean said the capability of the region was as good as people were saying.

“We set about producing wines that would rank with the best in the world through the pursuit of excellence. That was written down.

Chartered accountants always like a mission

DESTINATION WINE Left, Denis Horgan, founder of Leeuwin Estate, home of the famous Art Series wines. Below, with legendary Californian winemaker, Robert Mondavi.

statement, so I had my mission statement and we’ve followed that pretty solidly all the way along,” says Denis.

Mondavi had ideas that helped to shape the Leeuwin Estate we know today.

“I went over and had a look at what he was doing in California. He insisted that we get a winemaker who hadn’t already won his stripes.

Other Australian wine maker were making these big bold wines; not what we wanted to make.

We started with Bob Cartwright (Leeuwin’s first winemaker) and we sent him over to Mondavi, to see what they were doing. We’ve only had three winemakers and two viticulturists in our whole existence. It’s been a pretty happy ship.”

The hand of Mondavi was also to play a part in other enduring ways.

“He insisted we didn’t enter any of our wines into shows. Australia wasn't producing worldclass wines at this stage. They were big plummy wines, over-ripe, and he didn't want us to enter shows because we’d have to make similar wines to compete. So simply we didn’t go in shows.”

The reach of Leeuwin was achieved elsewhere,

by sending samples to publications overseas.

“On our second vintage of chardonnay, Decanter discovered us and gave their highest recommendation.” Denis says, still with a glint of pride, over 30 years later.

“It put a shine on Leeuwin. I actually found out by accident and had to ring them up to find

out if the rumour was true. That gave us a great shot in the arm.”

Now there’s three generations of the family working at Leeuwin Estate; that original mission statement is still writ large in everything they do.

Visit leeuwinestate.com.au margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

35

WINE & WINERIES

CRADLE of WINE

RED GUM COUNTRY Belowm, Paul Holmes à Court, owner and chief executive of Vasse Felix. Right, the estate's winemaker, Virginia Willcock.

VASSE FELIX IS SYNONYMOUS WITH WINEMAKING IN THE MARGARET RIVER REGION, ITS 50-YEAR HISTORY AS EMBEDDED IN THE SOIL AS THE TANGLED VINES THAT PRODUCE ITS REVERED WINES. By LISA SHEARON.

J

ust over 50 years ago, a Perth cardiologist called Dr Tom Cullity began his search to find “red gravel in red-gum country, with clay about 18 inches below the surface”. This particular spot would be, he believed, the perfect place to plant wine grapes.

Tom inspected around 20 sites for welldrained land, eventually purchasing eight acres in Cowaramup for $75 an acre. It was here that he successfully established the Vasse Felix Vineyard in 1967, and the Margaret River wine industry began.

36

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

In the early days, Tom would drive his Peugeot down the largely unsealed gravel road to Margaret River at 4am on a Saturday morning.

He would tend to his vineyard all weekend before returning to Perth on a Sunday night to practice as a cardiologist through the week. His first serious wine, a riesling, won a gold medal at the 1972 Perth Royal Show, drawing attention to the new region. By the 1980s Vasse Felix wines were being sold in all major Australian cities. In the mid-80s the first exports began.

Over the past 50 years, one thing has remained constant at Vasse Felix: creating beautiful wine. Tom once said: “The motive behind the first planting near Margaret River was not commercial. It was a doubtful proposition without back-up. The only aim was to make the best possible wine.”

Half-a-century later,Vasse Felix continues on the same path, under the careful guidance of the Holmes à Court family, who have owned Vasse Felix since 1987. “Even though times have changed and the market’s changed and the region’s changed, we still say the same thing that Tom Cullity did,” owner and chief executive Paul Holmes à Court tells me.

The aim to meet the challenge of creating

world-beating wine has remained a constant throughout Vasse Felix’s history and still drives operations today – from site selection, to viticulture practices, winemaking, and then the visitor experience at the estate.

“We keep it really simple,” Paul says.

“Although things change over time, the goal is still the same: to make the best-possible wine. In

FAST FACTS

The goal is still the same: to make the best-possible wine.

PAUL HOLMES À COURT, Vasse Felix

OPEN

Vasse Felix THE NAME VASSE Felix draws from the story of Thomas Timothèe Vasse, assistant helmsman of the Naturaliste – one of two ships of the Baudin

DAILY

Expedition of 1800 to1803. Vasse was thrown from the decks and into the surf when treacherous storms hit in

my time here we haven’t grown our production or our sales and we’ve got no ambitions to do so.

We just try, each year, to make our wine a little bit better than the year before.”

Vasse Felix is continually dissecting the finer details of their speciality areas for constant improvement and excellence. They share this piece of wine paradise with the world while building Margaret River’s global reputation as an

Geographe Bay on June 8 1801. While originally thought to have drowned, it was rumoured that he’d survived

9:30AM

and had been cared for by the local Aboriginal people. No definitive answer was ever discovered, and his became one of the most curious nautical mysteries in local history. In the hope his vineyard would have a better fate than Thomas Timothèe Vasse, Tom

UNTIL

Cullity named it Vasse Felix, Latin for ‘lucky’ or ‘happy’ Vasse.

The peregrine falcon on the Vasse Felix label has been in place since the first vintage, and draws from

5PM

an early story in the vineyards. The first Vasse Felix vintage, in 1971 was disheartening, with most of the fruit either destroyed by rot or eaten by native birds. To protect the grapes from bird damage during harvest, falconry was attempted. The exercise, however, proved unsuccessful, as the

WINE

NOUGAT LIQUEUR

first time the falcon was released to circle the vineyard it flew straight into the surrounding forest, never to return.

To coincide with the 50th anniversary of wine-making in the region, Vasse Felix are releasing the Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec, a refined version of its previous icon wine, Heytesbury. Among Tom Cullity’s first plantings were cabernet

outstanding wine region.

“The Margaret River Region is wine paradise,” Paul says. “It’s proven itself in a relatively short period to be one of the great wine regions of the world, and I’m very fortunate with Vasse Felix to be able to build on this heritage.”

Vasse Felix is at Caves Road (Cnr Tom Cullity Drive), Margaret River,WA 6284.Visit vassefelix.com.au

sauvignon and malbec vines, from which he produced the estate’s first red wine.

The Tom Cullity wine label descends from these original vines and represents the pinnacle of Vasse Felix. The inaugural release will be in May this year.

MEET THE MAKERS @ Corner of Tom Cullity Drive & Miamup Rd, Cowaramup margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 37 www.margaretrivernougat.com.au

WINE & WINERIES

Shooting stars

We’re celebrating some of the lesser known wineries that should definitely be on your must-visit list this autumn. By GABI MILLS. HAMELIN BAY WINES

The Drake-Brockman family, owners of Hamelin Bay Wines, have a long history in the Margaret River region. Their family association dates back to the first settlement by the Bussell family in 1830. Richard Drake-Brockman’s great-grandmother Grace Bussell is famous for her courage as a 16-year-old, when, in 1876, with Indigenous stockman Sam Isaacs, she rescued survivors off the shipwreck Georgette at Redgate Beach. Richard’s great grandfather Frederick, known for his exploration of the

38

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Kimberley, read about Grace’s bravery in Perth’s newspaper and rode 300km on horseback to meet her. They married in 1882.

You’ll find this boutique winery in Karridale, the most southern sub-region of Margaret River.

Hamelin Bay (famous for its friendly shorehugging stingrays) is close to both the Southern and Indian Oceans and enjoys a cool maritime climate. All wines are estate-grown for Hamelin Bay’s Five Ashes Vineyard. Julian Scott has been crafting Hamelin Bay’s wines for the past sixteen years and Luke Joliffe will take over this role

from 2017 Vintage.

The terroir is blessed with sheltered, warm north-facing gravel soils and, coupled with the mild climate, produces wines of fresh, elegant varietal flavours. Hamelin Bay is known for its zesty citrus and minerality of its sauvignon blanc and semillon sauvignon blanc, tightly structured, elegant chardonnay, spicy shiraz and refined cabernet sauvignon.

Over the years, Hamelin Bay Wines has built a stellar reputation for producing quality wines, with 11 Royal Show trophies and medals too numerous to count.The wines are regularly included in Ray Jordan’s annual line up of Top 100 Australian Red and White Wines and have many times received the status of Best of the Best by the Variety in James Halliday’s Wine Companion.

Hamelin Bay serves lunch from noon until 3pm every day, specialising in dishes created from locally grown and produced ingredients – try their chicken and lamb hot pot pies cooked in the estate's wine.

Visit hwines.com.au and bookings are recommended.

FIRETAIL WINES Firetail Wines is another small, family-owned, boutique cellar door, this time set in the rolling countryside of Rosa Glen, 13km to the south east of Margaret River and located right next to The Berry Farm.

The vineyard was established 35 years ago in the second wave of Margaret River plantings. The old vines produce small crops resulting in intense and delightful fruit for their boutique wines. All the wines are made from a single vineyard and produced in small quantities.

The wines are only available at the cellar door or online, produced under the watchful eyes of winemakers, Bruce Dukes and Peter Stanlake, depending on the variety.

The cellar door is set among the trees and offers close-up views of the semillon vines and the local bird life.Visitors are treated to personal attention by the owners, Jessica and Rob, with tastings using exquisite glassware, vineyard introductions and vertical tastings of two or more vintages of medal-winning Firetail Cabernet Sauvignon Jessica and Rob purchased the property in 2002 and set about redeveloping the cabernet sauvignon vineyard to improve its trellising and to allow the penetration of sunlight into the canopy to allow the ripening process.

The first cabernet sauvignon from the renovated vineyard was made in 2008 and by 2011, was winning gold medals at the 2012 Royal Melbourne Wine Show and the 2012 Qantas WA Wine Show Mount Barker.

The structure of the vineyard requires hand harvesting and during the subsequent diligent sorting of the fruit multiple times, Rob and

Jessica ensure that only the best fruit makes it to the winery.

The cabernet sauvignon is matured in French oak barrels for eight months to produce a sensational Margaret River wine, elegant and silky with delightful cherry and blackcurrant overtones.

“We are extremely proud of the cabernet sauvignon story so far,” says Rob. “The Cabernet Project, as it has been affectionately called, was to redevelop the vineyard and then to produce an elegant cabernet, whose style sits somewhere between Napa and Bordeaux. The dry-farmed cabernet sauvignon vines allow a true expression of the terroir and it is a delight to present the vintage

differences to our cellar door guests.”

Firetail Wines Cellar Door, 21 Bessell Road, Rosa Glen is open every day of the week from 11am to 5pm.Visit firetail.com.au or call (08) 9757 5156.

WHICHER RIDGE WINES Whicher Ridge Wines is a family-owned, artisan winery, owned and operated by husband-andwife team, Cathy and Neil Howard. It’s nestled in a hidden valley in the Whicher Range with Margaret River to the west and Busselton to

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

39

WINE & WINERIES

The lightning bolt striking the ridge is symbolic of our energy that's gone into developing our vineyard . . .

CATHY HOWARD, WHICHER RIDGE WINES

the north. The Howards planted the vineyard in 2004, built a winery in 2009 and released their first Whicher Ridge wines the same year.

“Our vineyard is on the same latitude as Juniper Estate and Vasse Felix, and is at an elevation of 170 metres above sea level,” says Cathy.

"The gravelly ironstone hillside plantings, and the cool winds at night coming off the Southern Ocean during summer give rise to wines of intensity and finesse."

Using traditional winemaking practices, the Howards describe themselves as ’artisan makers’.

“We have a genuine passion for what we do - the story of any artisan producer you will find is about culture, the why and how it’s made, and nature – what it’s made of,” says Cathy.

“We believe that a particular grape variety should be grown in a location that best suits that variety, and our wines are all single variety, single vineyard, single region wines. Add to this a very generous amount of passion for what we do and you have Whicher Ridge Wines.”

Sauvignon blanc, viognier, petit verdot and cabernet sauvignon are all grown on the vineyard, and the pair have just planted malbec and mourvèdre.

“We source grapes for our riesling and shiraz from two vineyards in Frankland River, and our chardonnay from a vineyard in Margaret River."

There’s a light touch too in the winery once it’s time to create the wines.

“We don't interfere unnecessarily with the wines, preferring them to be a natural expression of the unique sites and regions that the grapes come from,” says Cathy.

“All our wines are handcrafted by the two

40

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

of us, using hands-on, traditional winemaking techniques.”

Cathy is the winemaker in the family, Neil the grape grower/vigneron, and the pair have been working most of their working lives in the wine industry, interstate as well as here in WA. “We started our own label in 2008 after planting our vineyard in 2004," says Cathy.

“We are currently making about 1,000 to 1,500 cases a year here at our winery. We specialise in making single vineyard, single regional wines. I specifically make our wines in

styles which match well with food, hence the development and evolution of our unique wine sensory garden alongside our cellar door.”

There’s a cool story too behind the origins of the Whicher Ridge label.

“It was inspired by a photo taken by Neil of our vineyard, one early misty morning,” explains Cathy.

“The large marri (red gum) stands proudly in the top corner of our cabernet block. The lightning bolt on the label and on our logo is about our ESP, our Energy, Strength and Power.

The lightning bolt striking the ridge is symbolic of our energy that's gone into developing and nurturing our vineyard, and into producing grapes of the very highest quality for our wines.”

Texture is a word often used to describe Whicher Ridge Wines.

“Our sauvignon blanc is a departure in style from many others in Australia and New Zealand.

It’s partially barrel-fermented and aged on lees

it takes

for 12 months,” says Cathy.

Meanwhile their sparkling shiraz is made following traditional sparkling wine techniques, being bottled and going into tirage with yeast for two years before release.

“We manage our vineyard and farming property in a biologically sustainable manner, encouraging beneficial insects, and using minimal chemical inputs. We have been making our own compost from our winery and farm waste for a number of years now. This is used on the vineyard and across the farm, including our organic, wine sensory garden.”

And all that hard work is paying off. In 2014, the Howards were awarded five stars and named as one of the Ten Dark Horse Wineries in the 2015 James Halliday’s Wine Companion Book, which was a rewarding accolade after so many years of hard work establishing the vineyard, winery and cellar door.

Visit whicherridge.com.au and make sure you visit the sensory garden for one of their Sensory Indulgence Tours, a guided garden and wine tasting tours; bring a picnic (no food is served at the winery) and play a game of pétanque.

time to craft

great wine

AFTER HOURS WINE The vines at After Hours Wine were planted in 1997 and by the time it was bought in December 2005, the vineyard was very run down despite its pristine location in the Carbunup/North Jindong area of the Margaret River wine region.

“It had to be completely reworked and retrellised to get fruit quality suitable for commercial use,” says winemaker, Phil Potter.

The first wines were made under the After Hours label in 2007, but the winery didn’t go commercial until the 2009 vintage.

“We launched 2012 with the After Hours label being the Premium range,” Phil explains.

“I’m the sole winemaker at After Hours Wine and have been since the beginning. I worked at Leeuwin Estate until 2008 when the size of After Hours had grown large enough to go full time.”

In fact the name of the winery is down to Phil too.

While he was working for Leeuwin Estate, all the work at the winery and in the vineyard only happened “after hours”.

The wines are made in individual single vineyard batches, all produced, processed and bottled on site to give every bit of fruit the chance to be the best wine it can. The wines are then tasted and allocated prior to blending.

“I think the wines are special - they’re unique to the area and made to my own personal style, and have been well received by both the consumer as well as wine critics and judges,” says Phil.

The winery harvests between 40 to 70 tonnes of fruit each year, making up to 3,000 cases of wine.

“The size of the winery limits the amount of awards we can enter, but we are extremely proud of the accomplishment and standard we have achieved," says Phil.

"We have had a particularly good run with the current range of wines in regards to ratings and awards.”

As Phil is a jack-of-all-trades, looking after not only the winemaking but also sales and marketing, you’ll have to visit by appointment during the week, or come by at the weekends when the cellar door is open.

Phil has an eye on the future, with expansion into a third label on the cards and a possible exploration of international markets.

Visit afterhourswine.com.au.To book a cellar door visit, email Phil on afterhourswine@bigpond.com or call 08 9758 7799.

so take the t ime to enjoy it Just like viticulture and winemaking, the Voyager Estate experience simply can't be rushed.

So sit back and spend some time with our new tasting flights to truly experience our wines, whether it's the vibrant whites, aged reds or rare limited releases.

Or while away the afternoon with our three-course Margaret River Discovery menu or six-course Wine Discovery menu, matching the finest Margaret River produce with the story of our wines.

Redeemable tasting fees apply. For more information, pricing and bookings visit voyagerestate.com.au

WINE & WINERIES

spirit Team

One of the founding estates of the Margaret River region, Moss Wood is still leading from the front with the release of their first cabernet Vintage.

Fergal Gleeson speaks to owners Clare and Keith Mugford.

FOUNDING ESTATE For the past 40 years Moss Wood in Wilyabrup has witnessed the amazing success story that winemaking in the Margaret River region has become. Owners Clare and Keith Mugford (above) are making consistently excellent wine, including their 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon.

42

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

M

argaret River has changed a lot since 1973, the year of the first cabernet Vintage.

Back then it was dairy country. Winding the clock back further to the turn of the 20th century, Margaret River was a getaway spot for honeymooners. So when the winemaking pioneers arrived in the early 1970s there was no tradition to draw on, no infrastructure in the area. They had to solve problems for themselves.

Owners of Moss Wood Claire Mugford and husband Keith recall the early days at the winery when everything came in and out on the back of a ute, winemaking equipment was adapted from agricultural machinery and anything that couldn’t be adapted had to be shipped in on the train from Busselton. Sort of like a West Australian version of the Alan Rickman movie Bottle Shock will paint the picture.

Jump forward 40 years and Moss Wood are on top of their game. They hold a Red five-star rating from Halliday. The entire suite of wines scored 94 or higher in the recent Halliday Wine Companion 2017 and they hold a Langton’s rating of “exceptional”, which is the highest accolade available.

Bandying words like terroir around might have raised eyebrows 40 years ago, but while they didn’t use the T-word back then, Keith had a notion that the importance of vineyards might be the most critical thing - and 40 years later that’s been confirmed absolutely.

Keith is keen not to overstate the role of

FAST FACTS the winemaker.

“The style is dictated by the vineyard and the vintage conditions.You can fiddle around in the background fine-tuning with different types of oak or harvest points, but the natural influences play a much stronger role than the man-made.

What you see in the Moss Wood wine every year is the best that that particular season offered from that vineyard.”

Moss Wood is still best known for cabernet but they bring the same attention to detail and skill to all their wines, which include chardonnay, a semillon sauvignon blanc, a straight semillon, a seriously impressive merlot and pinot noir.

Keith, in the classic Australian understated style, says that they’ve had luck along the way, but perhaps he’s being modest. More accurately, Claire attributes working with good people and remaining focused on the integrity of the wines as their key to success.

The future involves getting their children in involved in Moss Wood. Keith has a chuckle about nowadays having some extra opinions on how things should be done.

He reckons that, as a region, Margaret River has done very well in the first 50 years but the profile globally is still patchy. In the UK they’ve been selling Moss Wood since 1984 and are well placed and have a strong position.

But in the US they’ve had some false starts.

“In Manhattan there are lots of restaurants that could offer a bottle of Moss Wood but they feel they’ve still got a way to go to convince

Moss Wood

Planted in 1969 Moss Wood is an important, founding estate of the Margaret River wine region, located in the northern sub–region of Wilyabrup, Western Australia.

Clare and Keith Mugford, as winemakers, viticulturalists and proprietors, have been making wine and tending the vineyard at Moss Wood since 1984 and 1979, respectively.

Their exacting viticulture ensures the production of grapes of excellent quality and they have created a stable of fine wines distinguished by their consistency over each vintage and their ability to age superbly.

consumers that if they spend their money on a Margaret River wine that they’ll get as good an experience as with a Barolo or Burgundy,” he says.

Hemingway wrote 47 endings for one of his novels. Monet did hundreds of paintings of haystacks. When you talk to the Mugfords you see that same never-ending drive for refinements in what they do. Keith would describe that as just “keep on keeping on” but that disguises the serious intent to make the best possible wine that they can Vintage after Vintage.

That’s in the Moss Wood DNA. margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

43

WINE & WINERIES

Fruitful labour

With Vintage in full swing, it was time for Gabi Mills to set her alarm for 4am, roll up her sleeves and get busy among the vines at Aravina Estate.

Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

I

t’s pitch dark and I’m pulling on a pair of trainers with one thing on my mind. Coffee.

Mucho caffeino, please. Now. Fortunately Aravina Estate’s head winemaker Ryan Aggiss is already manning the coffee machine in the winery’s kitchen, fuelling me and estate owners Hayley and Steve Tobin for the rigours ahead. We’re joining Ryan at this ungodly hour to experience Vintage, that special time of the year in the Margaret River region (and vineyards all round the world) when all the efforts of vintners come to fruition.

All those hours spent tending the vines, praying to the weather gods and keeping everything crossed that when they finally make the call to pick grapes ready for processing, it’s the right day, not too soon, not too late.

This year there have been challenges thanks to that unseasonally late start to the summer heat we all moaned about, and downpours which pushed the date of Vintage later than usual. In fact, it’s so late that when I turn up for duty, we’re really just doing a dummy run; Ryan won’t actually start grape picking in earnest until a couple of weeks later.

It’s close though; the grapes hanging on the vines I see are lush and rounded little globes of sparkling acidity. Ruby-red cabernet sauvignon globes look good enough to adorn a Renaissance still life, while the small ‘chicken’ and large ‘hen’ chardonnay clusters are getting close to spot on.

As we drive into the darkness (sunrise is still a couple of hours off), our eyes becoming accustomed to the early morning lack of light, the vineyards seem to be crackling with life. It’s very special to wander between these plants, so heavy with possibility and promise and it makes me think

44

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

GRAPE EXPECTATIONS Ryan Aggiss, below, is the winemaker at Aravina Estate. His first Vintage among the 30-year old vines promises to be a fruitful one.

what a peculiar profession winemaking is. I’m suddenly very glad I stumbled out of bed after all.

Every year Ryan and his ilk are dealt some cards which remain the same; the terroir, the grape varieties, the basic premise that winemaking in the Margaret River region works because of the position on earth it holds, that cooling coastal climate making grapes ideal for the kind of wines we all love.

But then there are those other random cards he’s dealt - weird weather patterns, pests, birds who pierce single grapes looking for their preferred snack, potentially introducing disease

to a whole crop. He’s got some weapons to fight back (nets to protect the grapes towards the end of the growing cycle, eco-friendly solutions to pests), but really it’s up to his experience and skill and a good dose of luck as to whether this Vintage will be one to remember - or not.

So why do we have to skulk around the vines at such an ungodly hour, I ask?

“We need the juice to be as cold as possible to make white wine,” he says. “So we’ll pick those grapes in the cool of the evening or early morning ideally.”

As Aravina Estate is one of the highest

altitude vineyards in the Margaret River region, Ryan reaps the benefits of no disease and wind from both sides of the cape to nourish and nurture his precious crop.

In the weeks leading up to Vintage, Ryan’s digestive system gets a fruity boost. He’ll test the sugar levels of the grapes every day, looking for the perfect level of balance before calling for picking to begin. He’ll also taste this vibrant grape juice, its anti-oxidant properties helping to keep his insides in tip top condition as the most physically and mentally demanding part of any winemaker’s year begins.

Born in Harvey, not far from the Margaret River region where he works the land, Ryan says wine was always on the table as he grew up. His mother, a great cook, knew which wine worked with which dish, educating the young lad early on in the importance of a good palate.

After early ambitions to be a marine biologist, he ended up at Frankland's Ferngrove winery, learning first hand the trials and tribulations of a viticulturist aged just 19. margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

45

WINE & WINERIES

FAST FACTS

Aravina Estate’s wines Aravina Estate consists of 180 acres (73 hectares) of which 69 acres (28 hectares) are under vine including; semillon, sauvignon blanc, chenin blanc, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and shiraz with subsequent plantings of tempranillo and malbec in 2013.

A new planting of a hectare of French shiraz will be harvested next year. The tempranillo vineyard is a polyclonal planting which comprises of (four) five of the illustrious “Pingus” clones. “Pingus” clones.

They’re not my vines.

I'm looking after them for future generations.

RYAN AGGISS, winemaker, Aravina Estate

“I took part in my first Vintage and loved changing those sweet, juicy fruit into this incredible aromatic liquid,” he says. “I’m a bit of a nerd I guess, and after three more Vintages, I knew it’s what I wanted to do.”

Houghton Wines approached Ryan to work at their new state-of-the-art winery at Nannup, and that role took him all over Australia, a great eye-opener, he says, to see the wide variety of grapes growing in the country in different landscapes.

He started studying in 2004, embarking on a six-year distance learning degree in winemaking,

46

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

making life-long friends along the way and gaining a holistic understanding of the whole process of creating wine.

The south west was irresistible however and soon enough Ryan found himself back in the region, just up the road from Aravina at Flying Fish Cove for five years, before another five years in Nannup with Houghton’s again.

It was during this period that Ryan scooped the award for Young Winemaker of the Year for Australia and New Zealand, no small achievement and an ’epic’ result for him personally. A trip to France as a result of the award again broadened

Ryan’s approach to winemaking and made him the perfect choice to develop the vines at Aravina to their full potential.

He’s been the head winemaker here for nearly a year and has an icy resolve to take the 30-year old vines forward.

“Steve, Hayley and I are putting in place a five year plan minimum to see the estate thrive and nurture the vineyard,” he says as he hands me secateurs and a snazzy waistband holder to put them in, gunslinger-style.

I attack my little section of the vines with enthusiasm, the chenin grapes impressively heavy

in my hand as I drop bunch after bunch into the box at my feet. Steve and Hayley are equally effective and soon there’s an abundance of grapes in our boxes. Even if this is a practice run I can see that the grape pickers who’ll harvest these same vines in a few weeks will be in for hard

couple of wild marron in one of the three dams on the property, Ben knocks up a sensational marron dish with edible flowers and zingy grape juice for breakfast before going on to tackle service for lunch and a 100-strong wedding in the afternoon.

if you’re 100% committed to being able to say you’re a winemaker.You’ll need an inherent understanding of food and wine, and an affinity with your senses.You’ve only got one chance of making a bottle of wine every year, and whatever’s on those hectares is what you’ve got

labour. It’s tough on the hands and back, bending over to pick each and every bunch.

Ryan keeps an eye on my progress and explains how he feels about the long lines of vines stretching as far as the eye can see.

“I have a custodian-type approach to my role.

They’re not my vines, I’m looking after them for future generations. I pray I can showcase the wines produced here to their full potential, matching them with Ben’s incredible food.”

He’s talking about Ben Day, the innovative head chef currently turning heads every weekend in Aravina’s kitchen. Later on, after we catch a

“The idea is that as soon as you pick the grapes, my job is to maintain the integrity of the fruit from when they were on the vine. Time is of the essence and although pests, the vineyard’s health and Mother Nature keep me awake at night in the run up to Vintage, it’s still my favourite time of year.

“The excitement of getting the grapes off the vine is what makes all the work worthwhile.”

For would-be winemakers keen to follow in Ryan’s footsteps, he has some advice.

“To get where I am right now requires lots of hard, dirty work,” he says. “Only do it

to work with. There’s no hiding place.”

Dawn is breaking on the horizon, that ‘rose finger’d’ moment Homer talked about happening in glorious technicolour right before my eyes. I pick a few more bunches to add to my pile, hoist it on my shoulder and join Ryan in his little farm buggy. We head back to the warehouse to squeeze some grapes to see if they're ready, the bright green juice promising much and tastes close to perfection.

I’ll be drinking the fruits of Ryan’s labour soon, but for now, it’s time to hang up the secateurs for another year.

TASTING BAR • WINE LOUNGE • RESTAURANT • ART GALLERY • TOURS Open Daily 10AM - 5PM Caves Road (Cnr Tom Cullity Drive), Cowaramup WA 6284 Phone 9756 5000 Restaurant Reservations 9756 5050

NATURE & ATTRACTIONS

When Busselton’s brand new visitor centre opened its doors in February, it signalled a new era for visitor servicing which promises to keep up with the times.

V

isitor centres have long been the first port of call for first time visitors to the region who are unsure about where and how to start their holiday, or for seasoned holidaymakers (and even locals!) who want to hear about the latest restaurant openings and new events taking place during their stay.

Today, technology is transforming the way visitors are looked after, and in an exciting development for Busselton, it is now possible to conduct a virtual tour of the region with the aid of giant interactive touchscreens.With a simple touch, you can explore locations of your choosing, from Sugarloaf Rock and Ngilgi Cave in the north, to Boranup Forest and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in the south. Each location is brought to life with 360 degree video content which you can explore in all directions by moving your fingers around the screen.

Once you’ve selected the locations and activities you find the most inspiring, the friendly visitor

centre consultants will be able to supply you with all of the information you need on opening hours, admission prices and directions, including a free map and handy hints on getting around.The team also offers a free booking service and has access to the best prices on over 90 local tours and activities.

The new visitor centre is located in the heart of Busselton’s redeveloped Foreshore, and while there you’ll have the chance to see the vintage Ballarat Engine,Western Australia’s first steam locomotive which played a significant role in the area’s thriving timber industry in the late 1800s. A new interpretive centre housed in the same building tells the story of Busselton’s famous jetty and its timber industry.

Before setting off to explore the City and the rest of the region, you’ll be able to stock up on local produce and essential items such as sun cream, hats and rain jackets.

You’ll also be encouraged to download the latest version of the Your Margaret River Region app to help you explore.Revamped in March 2017, the app now features more than 1,000 things to do, as well as service points such as public toilets, which are displayed in relation to your current

Making the most of your stay 48

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

egency Beach Club provides the finest in self contained, luxury beachfront accommodation, in Dunsborough. Enjoy the added benefits of resort style facilities including a heated swimming pool, tennis court, and a fully equipped gym. Our holiday houses all offer superb decor, air conditioning, luxury kitchens, laundry facilities, outdoor dining & BBQ areas and balconies. The spacious living areas are equipped with TV’s, DVD and docking/stereo systems and also 10 foxtel channels.

location. Available online and offline for both Apple and Android devices, the app also features an audio tour of the Busselton Jetty, which you can play while walking or riding the Jetty Train – be sure to give it a try.

The new visitor centre is at Busselton Beachfront, 17 Foreshore Parade, Busselton. Open 9am – 5pm every day except Christmas Day. Contact welcome@margaretriver. com, phone (08) 9780 5911 or visit margaretriver.com

We accommodate from 1 bedroom/1 bathroom up to 5 bedroom/5 bathroom holiday houses, many have Spa Baths. With so many houses there is sure to be a holiday house to perfectly suited to anyone.

Prices start from $350 per night with midweek and winter specials also available.

DID YOU KNOW? Useful facts about the region’s award-winning visitor centres • There are four visitor centres located at Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and Augusta.

• The centres are open to the public day in, day out, 364 days per year • Each of the four centres offers free WiFi • Busselton and Margaret River Visitor Centres are now equipped with interactive touchscreens to help you plan your holiday • The visitor centre producesa whopping 300,000 free of charge fold out maps each year • The visitor centres guarantee the best prices on the most comprehensive range of tours and accommodation in the region

77 Gifford Road, Dunsborough WA 6281 Reservations and Enquiries: T +61 8 9759 1117 F +61 8 9759 1990 E enquiry@regencybeachclub.com www.regencybeachclub.com margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 49

NATURE & ATTRACTIONS

Fast facts

Treasure trove Cave guide Trevor Paddenburg describes why a visit to Jewel Cave should be at the top of your Margaret River region to-do list.

S

ky-high karri trees, blissed out beaches and wine to make your taste buds dance a merry jig – they’re among the Margaret River region's best-loved attractions.

But the “jewel” in the crown would have to be the region's stunning caves, a million years in the making and guaranteed to impress. And one of the best of these underground wonderlands is Jewel Cave.

As far as offices go, this is one of the best. I’ve taken visitors on dozens of tours but cave guiding

50

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

doesn’t feel like work because the palpable sense of wonder never dulls when I enter this subterranean wilderness. Giant, open caverns have more hushed majesty than a cathedral, at once peaceful and eerily beautiful, carved from the limestone rock over tens of thousands of years by the inexorable forces of erosion.

Overhead, literally thousands of calcite crystal formations – stalactites, straws and helictites – hang like delicate lace from the cave ceilings.

At ground level, stalagmites rise from the floor.

Some, like the Totem Pole, tower almost 10m in height, stained honey and burnt orange colours by tannins contained in the water that formed them.

There are two main reactions from visitors greeted by their first view of the cave’s massive entry chamber and its intricate crystal decorations: they either stop and stare in disbelief, or reach straight for the camera and start documenting the spectacle.

It really is so different from any other

A single entry ticket to either Jewel, Lake, Ngilgi or Mammoth cave is $22.50 for adults, $20 for seniors, $12.50 for children aged 4-16, or $58 for a family of two adults and two children, with additional children charged at $8 each. Children under 4 are free. Multi-cave passes are also available.

Tickets can be purchased at margaretriverattractions.com, at the cave site, at the Margaret River, Busselton, Dunsborough or Augusta visitor centres, or over the phone on +61 8 9780 5911.

Jewel Cave is also home to a preservation centre with a café, shop and interpretive area.

landscape you’re likely to encounter in life. It could be a fairytale creation out of a Lord of the Rings movie.

Incredibly, the chambers of Jewel Cave were once an ancient sand dune about 90km long and 3km wide stretching from Dunsborough to Augusta. As rain fell on the dune, it was gradually cemented into limestone and formed what is now known as the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge. It is home to more than 100 caves in total.

Located a stone’s throw from Augusta on Caves Road, south of Margaret River, Jewel Cave is the largest tourist cave in Western Australia and the most recently developed (it’s

only been open to the public since 1959).

Guided tours take about an hour to cover 700m of the total 2km of passageways in the cave, including three main caverns and the narrow rock passes linking them. A moderate level of fitness is required as there are over 500 steps.

Among the highlights is the Karri Forest, a towering flowstone formation with patterns in the crystal resembling the trunks and canopies of karri trees, and the majestic Frozen Waterfall, which looks like a cascading sheet of pure-white ice.

The formations are created by water that lands as rainfall on the surface. The droplets pick up carbon dioxide and become mildly acidic as they seep through the leaf litter and soil. This allows them to dissolve tiny particles of limestone as the drops slowly percolate through about 12m of rock to reach the roof of the cave. When a drop hangs at the end of a stalactite or lands on a stalagmite, some of the dissolved stone comes out of solution as calcite crystal, adding to the formation.

Another fascinating part of the tour is

pointing out the spot where the cave’s early explorers found the remains of a Tasmanian tiger, a species which roamed WA about 3,000 years ago. It’s believed the tiger fell into the cave by the only known natural entrance – a “solution pipe”, or a hole carved out by tree roots linking the cave to the surface above.

Fellow cave guide Alan Meyburgh describes Jewel Cave’s labyrinth of chambers as “simply spectacular”, while veteran guide Dianne James says she’s often asked if the cave is man-made.

“Visitors feel like they’re on a movie set. I assure them this is a natural wonder,” she says.

Guide Gill Pearman still marvels at the crystal which “really sparkles like jewels”. “Every time I enter, it never fails to impress me. I feel very lucky,” she says.

My favourite part of the tour comes near the end, when I switch out the lights and the group experiences cave darkness. It is utterly black, with no natural light whatsoever… spooky and peaceful, humbling and exhilarating all at once.

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

51

NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

52

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

at night . . . . . . shepherd’s delight, so the saying goes, which means there must be some very happy sheep farmers in the Margaret River region. Images by SEAN BLOCKSIDGE, THE MARGARET RIVER DISCOVERY CO.

I

f anybody knows where to set their camera up for a stunning sunset, it’s award-winning tour guide and Instagram phenomenon, Sean Blocksidge. It was his image of two roos caught in front a stunning full moon which alerted the entire world to the beauty of the place he calls home. He was even invited to G’day USA, Hollywood’s premier ‘meet the Aussies’ event earlier this year on the back of that one image.

So here’s his suggestions for the best places to snap a stunning sunset pic for your social media feed.

“I always recommend Surfers Point for the surfing and kiteboarding action with the sun setting behind,” says Sean.

“Or the river mouth – that’s great during winter with the sun setting further north and the Cape Mentelle headland providing a good backdrop.”

Using some of the region’s architecture as a prop isn’t a bad idea either, says Sean.

Continued over...

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2016

53

NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

Just find a bay or beach all to yourself and enjoy one of those famous west coast sunsets.

“Cape Leeuwin lighthouse in summer with the sun setting further south is an awesome view and - home to those friendly rays - Hamelin Bay is another ripper.

“Hike over to Cape Mentelle headland, or drive down to Indjidup Beach or Moses Rock Road. Just find a bay or beach all to yourself and enjoy one of those famous west coast sunsets.”

And if you’re keen to emulate his skill, Sean has some tricks of the trade to ensure the maximum number of likes on your next sunset post.

“I reckon the trick to capturing a great sunset image is the 15 minutes before and the 15 minutes after sunset,” he says.

“Everyone always gets up and leaves as soon as the sun disappears but the best light is still to come after the sun goes down. Enjoy another glass of wine while the light show gets better.”

54

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

55

NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

Homestead’s rich history preserved The future of Ellensbrook Homestead, built in 1857, has received a boost with funding locked in to preserve one of the region's most beloved historic buildings. By LISA SHEARON.

A

ppropriately named after one of the most significant protagonists in the European settlement of the Margaret River region, historic Ellensbrook Homestead is set to have a new lease of life.

Ellensbrook began life in 1857, when Ellen and Alfred Bussell chose the site of their new home, sheltered from the winter storms, with ready access to fresh water and fertile soil. Over the decades, the house was built in stages by ticket-of-leave convicts, deserting seamen and local Nyoongars.

Now, thanks to $676,291 of funding from Lotterywest, Ellensbrook will be conserved and made more accessible to the community and visitors.

A National Trust team will lead the conservation of Ellensbrook, liaising closely with the Indigenous and broader communities, as well as businesses in the Margaret River region, to

56

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

ensure visitors can enjoy this very special place in sustainable ways.

Although incredibly isolated – the 40km journey to Busselton took two days by bullock cart – the Bussells lived at Ellensbrook for seven years with their large family. Ellen, a savvy businesswoman, earned a living by growing vegetables and producing butter and cheese from their herd of dairy cattle. In 1864, the Bussells moved to Wallcliffe House, on the banks of Margaret River.

Between 1871 and 1877 Ellensbrook was managed and extended by eldest daughter Fanny.

Later, second daughter Edith made Ellensbrook her permanent home. In 1899, she established the Ellensbrook Farm Home for Aboriginal Children.

The home continued for 17 years, during which time Edith added to the main building.

Environment Minister Albert Jacob said restoring the 1857 homestead and other buildings was important because the life of the Bussells at Ellensbrook added to the understanding of Western Australia’s colonial heritage, rural development and relationships with Aboriginal people.

National Trust of Western Australia chairman, Michael Murray added that he was delighted to be able to direct funds towards important work at Ellensbrook, which is significant for its wideranging natural, Indigenous and historic values.

“The Lotterywest funds will go towards stabilising walls, timber conservation, drainage

and removing inappropriate restorations which are damaging the original building as well as landscaping, providing more facilities and more experiences for visitors," he said.

“Archaeological and historical research are part of the scope of work and will look more closely at the Aboriginal significance of the site and further understanding the shared experience of Aboriginal people and the first European settlers of the area.”

There are five registered Aboriginal heritage sites at this location, which is situated within the Leeuwin-Naturalist National Park, an A-class reserve managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife.

“The Aboriginal name for the area which includes Ellensbrook is Mokidup and for at least 37,000 years Wardandi people used it as seasonal camp ground," said Michael.

“Ellensbrook is in one of the world’s 34 international biodiversity hotspots. It is on the Cape to Cape Track and provides stories that are vital to understanding Western Australia about innovation, strong women, great cheese, a shipwreck and most importantly a shared history.”

The turn-off to Ellensbrook Homestead, off Caves Road, is 9km from Margaret River, and the homestead lies a further 4km along Ellensbrook Road. 21 Ellensbrook Road, Margaret River, Western Australia.

For more information, visit margaretriver.com/ members/ellensbrook-heritage-site

amaze’n

MARGARET RIVER MAZE, GARDENS, MINI GOLF & CAFE

MARGARET RIVER

Living history The Margaret River region has its fair share of historic sites. Make sure you visit a few while you’re here.

Old Court House, 4 Queen Street, Busselton Built between 1860 and 1897, the court house operated as a judiciary, government and customs centre until 1976. It's one of the oldest surviving buildings in the region and now makes up part of Busselton’s burgeoning cultural precinct (along with the ArtGeo Complex and the Weld Repertory Theatre).

Basildene Manor, 187 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River This elegant country house was built in 1912 and epitomises that era’s old world charm.

Now part of the National Trust of Australia, the manor provides the perfect base for visitors to explore the region. Make sure you try the renowned fruit buffet and chef’s a la carte brekkie.

Pioneer Cemetery, Cnr Stanley Street and Marine Terrace, Busselton If you're keen to walk in your south west ancestor's footsteps - or at least find out their last resting place - a good place to start would be the Pioneer Cemetery.

There are over 1,000 graves of many of the region's earliest settlers, so go armed with the family tree and explore.

St Mary’s Church, Queen Street, Busselton If historic churches are your thing, why not start at St Mary’s in Busselton? Built by god-fearing settlers in the 1840s, it’s a really gorgeous example of stone church architecture. The limestone and jarrah exterior, with sheoak shingle roof is the oldest stone church in the whole of WA. In the graveyard you’ll find tombstones of the Bussell family as well other familiar local names. Still going strong, it’s a house of worship to this day.

Wonnerup House, Layman Road, Busselton This magnificently restored National Trust homestead dating back to 1859 and belies a difficult and turbulent past. The Layman family, who lived there and farmed the land suffered many tragedies, including matriarch Mary suffering two losses; her first husband was speared by one of his Indigenous workers, and her second husband drowned in a boating accident. To top it all off, the house was destroyed by fire in 1858, but was rebuilt by subsequent generations of the family. A small oneroom school completed the picture of the homestead; a must-visit site.

Tel: 08 9758 7439 Giant Hedge Margaret River Maze, 18 Hole Mini Golf and 5 ha Botanical gardens, 4km south of Margaret River More mazes, games and puzzles amongst the gardens | Unusual WA native plants, attracting abundant birds and wildlife | BBQ’s, picnic ground, playground | Amazen café overlooking Amazen gardens and lake for breakfast and lunches | Wheelchair accessible paths

9978 Bussell Highway, Margaret River findus@amazenmargaretriver.com.au

www.amazenmargaretriver.com.au margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

57

NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

River dance

The rivers of the Margaret River region are as integral to the magic of the south west’s landscape as the sea, trees and beaches. Sarah Szabo explores the region's rich river landscapes. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

F

rom the magnificent Blackwood, to the secluded Margaret River and world class Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands, the rivers of the Margaret River region each have their own treats of flora, fauna and adventure to offer.

Paul Berry, from Surf N’ Dirt Adventure Tours, says kayaking the Blackwood, which is included in a number of their adventures, is the ‘must-do’ experience of the region.

On the tours, kayaks are launched into a small creek which opens up to meet the Blackwood. “It is so peaceful and stunningly beautiful that you often find yourself slipping into a meditative state,” he says.

“The water is often crystal clear with schools of black bream darting about the snags underneath us and the occasional marron.

While overhead, eagles, white-faced herons and kite hawks glide and cormorants, swamp

58

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

hens and ducks frolic on the banks.”

Pamela Winter agrees. She has been running Blackwood River Houseboats for 15 years and says that the experience of lazily guiding your houseboat through the waterway as it winds through 28 km of national park is a revelation for many guests.

“It is a pretty laid back break that really makes you stop and rest,” says Pamela.

“It is beautiful to get rocked off to sleep at night, and often it is just you and the Milky Way because there are not a lot of people on the river, particularly midweek.

“One customer came back just today calling it a ‘hidden gem’ saying he was shocked by how few people there were along the way.”

If you want to catch a glimpse of the 1,500 black swans or 70-strong pelican population, avocets, spoonbills, pied oystercatchers and flocks of musk ducks who scurry alon gthe

surface of the river, head along to Augusta Boat and Canoe Hire.

The company, which you'll find just down the hill from Augusta's Visitor Centre, specialises in hiring out recreational water crafts for sightseeing, fishing, crabbing and exploring nature.

Windsurfing champ and lifelong watersports enthusiast Simon Peters hosts the Margaret River Stand Up Paddle Scenic River tour on the Blackwood where participants learn how to steer a board through the fallen logs on the narrow Chapman Brook on the way to the Blackwood.

“Wobbly knees gradually get strong and within five minutes most people start to feel confident on the basics as we paddle along through the natural forest,” says Simon.

“It’s completely safe, of course, but the

MIKI'S OPEN KITCHEN

Fast flowing facts -

Rivers of the region BLACKWOOD RIVER The river begins at the junction of Arthur River and Balgarup River and travels in a south westerly direction through Bridgetown and Nannup until it discharges into the ocean at Hardy Inlet at Augusta. It has 41 tributaries and at 300 kilometres, It is the longest river in the South West.

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

MARGARET RIVER This river arises from a catchment of 40 square kilometres in the Whicher Range and extends for 60 kilometres.

The middle passes through land cleared for agriculture and viticulture and the mouth of the river is a small estuary, closed to the Indian Ocean by a sandbar.

VASSE RIVER AND VASSE WONNERUP WETLAND The headwaters of the river are in the Whicher Range and flow in a northerly direction through Busselton and thereafter the Vasse Estuary and the Indian Ocean via Wonnerup Inlet and Geographe Bay. The basin area is over 230 kilometres and the length is 32 kilometres. The Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands receive flow from the Vasse, Sabina, Abba and Ludlow rivers.

Sources: Geocatch, Blackwood Basin Group natural bush of the surrounding park and the sense of isolation and wilderness gives it a real adventure feel,� he adds.

If birdlife is your particular passion though, the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands, fed by the Vasse River on the outskirts of Busselton, is said to have the highest concentration of birdlife in Australia and is listed under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance.

The Wetlands cycle through dramatic seasonal change from abundant flooding to shallow mudflats, and play host to changing populations of over 90 species of birdlife, many of them rare.

Some are locals; some are only visiting but all are visible from well placed hides and a network of walk trails.

Even if you don’t know your tattlers from your warblers this is an experience to covet.

Jennifer Tromp Augusta Boat and Canoe Hire Visit augustaboatandcanoehire.com.au MB: 0499 600 401 Pamela Winter Blackwood River Houseboats Visit blackwoodriverhouseboats.com.au PH: 08 97580181 Simon Peters Margaret River Stand Up Paddle Scenic River Tour Visit mrkiteandsail.com PH: 0419 959 053 Paul Berry Visit surfndirtadventuretours.com.au PH: 0458 191 469

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 margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

59

NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

Barking � mad One of the Margaret River region’s local legends - Brendan Booth - is behind a brand new attraction: the Margaret River Sculpture Park.

By TREVOR PADDENBURG. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

B

rendan Booth says he’s affected by “madness” and spends hours at a time with a chainsaw in his hands. Sounds like a dangerous combo, right?

In fact, the 43-year-old long-time local is one of the Margaret River region’s most innovative artists, carving giant sculptures from some of Western Australia’s most stunning native timber.

Now, Brendan has finally realised a dream 25 years in the making and poured every cent in his bank account (and then some) into opening the Margaret River Sculpture Park, where visitors can wander through 10 acres of his property packed with about 30 impressive and often amusing sculptures.

They are a hit with kids and adults alike, carved from enormous slabs of locally-sourced timber.

Some of the highlights include a massive weathered wooden depiction of Gandalf, the wizened wizard of Lord Of The Rings fame, as well as The Simpsons’ beer-swilling patriarch Homer, a

60

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

monster dhufish and a giant gorilla named Billy.

Most have been carved using nothing more than his chainsaw.

The property, on Grosse Road, is just a few minutes’ drive from the stunning beaches and famous tame eagle rays at Hamelin Bay, making it a convenient stop-off during a day trip to Hamelin or Augusta, south of Margaret River.

A hand crafted timber art gallery is still under construction, but the park is open to visitors, complete with its quaint honesty stall (an old salvaged bus stop) where guests are asked to leave their modest entry fee.

“It’s a kind of madness,” Brendan admits, of his love affair with crafting stunning artistic pieces from timber.

“Wood is my medium for expression.

Sometimes it comes from imagination, it’s a shape you like. Sometimes the shape is in the wood already.You’re not actually carving it, you’re just getting rid of what’s around it.”

As an example, he cites one of his sculptures which features a primal scene of a life-sized lion feasting on a wildebeest. “I spent months walking around this chunk of blackbutt (a native hardwood) thinking, ‘There’s something in there’,” he says. “One day I went, ‘There it is’.”

Aside from the sculptures made in wood and also stone, the haunting landscape at the park features coastal heath, wildflowers in spring and

summer, and spectacular sunsets.

“The whole idea is to have the landscape behind it, the colours of each season, the wildflowers in November and December and the shadows in the afternoon. The coastal heath is an amazing ecosystem,” he says.

The passion started as a teenager when Brendan began fashioning simple items out of wood. He opened the Wood Be Good gallery at Yallingup, which featured sculptures as well as finely crafted chairs, coffee and dining tables, mirrors and other furniture. He sold pieces locally and exported to buyers all over the world.

Much of his work has a fantastical quality, like the chest of drawers that looks like it’s in the

clutches of a giant octopus or the coffee table comprised of a glass top perched on the back of a lifelike leaping dolphin.

But the Yallingup gallery and shop, which he ran for 12 years, was a confined space and now, for the first time, Brendan has the room to create and display works on the scale he has always envisioned.

“From the word go I wanted to do a park. It’s a dream I’ve had 25 years.”

He says hardwoods including marri, jarrah, sheoak, blackbutt and red gum are some of his favourite native timbers to work with.

“I love the grain types and then there’s the feature of the colour itself.You can get lost in there for hours. It’s a madness, but a fun one,” he says, during a break from constructing the new gallery.

Brendan said carving timber with a chainsaw reflected the “harsh environment down here” which adds mystery to the park.

To add an extra dimension for kids, he has included a treasure hunt with clues that finish at a sunken pirate ship.

Satisfaction, he says, comes not just from creating his sculptures but from sharing them with others.

“It’s a good feeling to share it. People go ‘wow’. It’s great to see the smile on their face.

That’s the buzz I get out of it,” he says.

“I’ve poured every ounce of my life into it and I’ve had a lot of locals calling in and visitors as well. It’s really good to see their reaction.”

As well as a business, Brendan says the sculpture park is his secret to eternal youth.

“I’ve found my path now – I really like the

THE ULTIMATE WHALE WATCHING WHALE E C O

T O U R S

E C O

T O U R S

WATCHING

TREE FELLA Brendan Booth is a highly skilled sculptor, using a chainsaw to fashion extraordinary works of art from giant pieces of work at the Margaret River Sculpture Park.

big pieces. A lot of them are cartoon-like. It’s my slant on things,” he says.

“The park is one big art gallery but it’s also a playground. I guess I just didn’t want to grow up.”

ADMISSION PRICES: $10 adults, $5 pensioners and children under 12, $25 for a family of four, children under 4 free.

WHERE: Margaret River Sculpture Park, 19 Grosse Rd, 1km from Hamelin Bay turn off.

Whale ad.indd 2

www. legendcharters.net.au info@legendcharters.net.au

10/05/2016

NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

practically perfect It's easy to spend a perfect day in Augusta. By Matthew Mills.

T

he best way to start a perfect day is with a perfect breakfast – but this gave us a bit of a dilemma.

Did we stay in our comfy, stylish holiday home and cook up a feast of bacon and eggs bought from the friendly IGA just a three-minute walk away? The three-bedroom bolthole in Seine Bay Apartments complex, was after all, a fantastic place to call home during our all-too-brief stay in Augusta – everything the five of us could need in the kind of contemporary space that immediately made me and my wife feel at home.

The alternative, however, was a quick walk to the Augusta Bakery & Café for a slap-up feed without the hassle of tidying up afterwards, an advantage that won the day.

Thanks to five scrumptious fry-ups, then, we were soon all ready for our big day in and around Augusta. We had a packed itinerary

62

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

planned, beginning with one of the jewels in the Margaret River Region’s crown – Jewel Cave.

There are four caves within striking distance of Augusta, but Jewel is the closest, just 15 minutes away, and the biggest – despite one of the others being called Mammoth - as well as Lake and Ngilgi. If you want to visit all four, there are tickets available that will get you into all of them.

Jewel though was our goal. It’s a calm, relaxing site to turn up at and we enjoyed soaking up the bush atmosphere as we waited for our guide. She arrived and we were off, following behind her as she treated us to a witty, informative commentary.

Wooden gangways and steep stairs took us deep underground into this remarkable piece of natural architecture. Three massive chambers, stalactites and stalacmites everywhere, crystal

formations that would grace any fairytale – no wonder the cave has picked up gold awards at the WA Tourism Awards.

We learned of the poor Tasmanian Tiger who plummeted into the cave thousands of years ago, becoming individually extinct well before his species did, and heard tales of early explorers lowering themselves into the inky blackness with just a rope and crossed-fingers for protection.

We even got to experience that inky blackness ourselves – deep into the tour our guide cut all the lights and we saw true dark. “Your eyes will never grow accustomed to this darkness,” our guide told us. “Down here, you will never be able to see even the faintest outline.”

It was a wonderfully dramatic end to an unforgettable tour.

We stayed at the cave site for lunch – the nachos were a big hit – before heading back

towards Augusta for our next stop, historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

We just had to stop at AMaze’n Margaret River, a wonderfully quirky attraction that’s become a family favourite.

It’s a half-acre of adventure that boasts a three-metre high Giant Hedge Maze as its centrepiece. Other attractions include 18-hole mini golf, giant chess and draught sets and nearly a kilometre and a half of pathways snaking around beautiful botanical gardens.

We could have stayed for hours, but the lighthouse beckoned so we stopped at just two.

Cape Leeuwin is home to Australia’s tallest mainland lighthouse, a working institution, its blinked warning as vital today as it was when it first opened back in 1895. Regular shipwrecks in the area, which is where two great oceans – the Indian and Southern – meet and cause treacherous sailing conditions, prompted WA settlers to build the lighthouse on Australia’s most southwesterly point, despite being snubbed by their counterparts in the eastern states who refused to help pay for it.

Since then it has doubtless saved many lives – and the natty hand-held audio commentary devices told us of the history of the days before automation as we waited for our tour.

And then we were inside and heading up the spiral stairs to the top, where we were all invited to take a stroll outside on the gangway around the light itself.The views are magnificent – but do bear in mind that a good head for heights is essential!

A quick coffee and cakes all round for the kids at the lighthouse’s lovely café and we were headed back to Augusta.

There was just time to for a walk on the foreshore before dinner, plenty to see as we

FAMILY FRIENDLY Spend a day in and around Augusta and you'll find plenty to keep the family entertained.

A warm reception is just the beginning..

followed the path, at the same time building up big appetites just in time for dinner at The Augusta Hotel.

Bustling, happy, vibrant, full of good cheer, laughter and good company, we felt like longtime locals from the moment we walked in. We ordered a huge pasta feed followed by ice cream, great food gobbled down enthusiastically.

Afterward, the kids rushed outside to join all the other youngsters enjoying the early evening at the hotel that day. Soon they were all a big mass of friends, tourists and locals alike, sliding down the steep embankment on bits of old cardboard – sledging, Aussie-style. My wife and I watched happily, nursing a well-earned midi, as the sun went down.

We finished the day back at our apartment with a few rounds of Uno before bed. Happily exhausted, the kids fell straight asleep as soon as their heads hit their pillows – now that’s what I call the perfect end to a perfect day in Augusta.

Wyndham Resort & Spa Dunsborough Toll Free: 1800 200 007 dunsborough.reservations@wyn.com www.wyndhamAP.com Non-Club apartments subject to availibility

ACTION & ADVENTURE

Walk this way�

KEEN TO WALK OFF ALL THOSE DELICIOUS LUNCHES AND WINERY SESSIONS? MATTHEW MILLS GOES EXPLORING WITH THE FAMILY.

A

s I tied my bootlaces in preparation for the fiveminute walk to school this morning, I noticed some red dirt on the soles of my battered Cats – which made me smile.

It made me smile because you don’t come across this particular rusty hue of soil in the metro suburb I call home so I quickly realised that I’d brought a little bit of the Margaret River region back with me from our last trip down south.

We’d been back for a week or so – which shows just how often I get round to cleaning my boots – but just seeing that foreign soil took me straight back to what must be my favourite holiday spot, Bunker Bay, and the coastal walk I took on our penultimate day.

My eight-year-old Oli, now bobbing on his heels astride his bike waiting for me to join him for the stroll to school, had been with me then too; me, him and his older brother Sam tackling the Bunker Bay to Dunsborough walking trail while my wife and daughter Daisy relaxed by the

64

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

pool of our resort.

An easy 2.5km trek, it was the perfect legstretcher for a dad and his boys, winding through beautiful coastal heath and throwing up some quite breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

We’d been told that the various lookouts on the way were the perfect place to spot whales – they didn’t come out for us, but the no-show couldn’t spoil our day.

A bite to eat in Dunsborough and we headed back, enjoying the return leg just as much, regrouping with the girls to tell tall tales of adventure and watch Oli puff out his chest with pride at his 5km achievement.

That the boys enjoyed the jaunt so much cheered me up no end – I’ve long been a fan of getting on board Shanks’s pony and seeing the world – and its success led me to look into other walks we can take on next time.

Nature-lover Sam, stoic but disappointed at the lack of whale action on his debut trek, is determined that top of our list is the Possum Spotlighting Trail in Busselton Tuart Forest. The

VISIT US IN TOWN

OR AT THE VINEYARD YALLINGUP

BEST FOOT FORWARD There are walks for all levels and ages in the Margaret River region - even the opportunity to spot possums at night in the Tuart Forest.

YALLINGUP

CELLAR DOOR & CELLAR DOOR & RESTAURANT RESTAURANT BREATHTAKING BUSHL AND AND VINEYARD VIEWS

CELLAR DOOR OPEN DAILY / 10 AM - 5 PM LUNCH MENU / NOON - 3 PM DINNER MENU / 3 PM - 8 PM (PEAK SEASON ONLY*) *Check our website for seasonal opening times.

YALLINGUP

CELLAR LIVE MUSIC / DOOR & WALK-INS WELCOME / RESTAURANT BOOK ONLINE / EVERY SUNDAY

FAMILY FRIENDLY

GROUP BOOKINGS AVAILABLE

2807 CAVES RD, YALLINGUP WA +61 8 9756 6640 • ADMIN@SWINGS.COM.AU

BREATHTAKING MARGARET BUSHL RIVER AND AND FIND USVINEYARD VIEWS CANAL ROCKS ROAD

TAPHOUSE MARGARET RIVER

2807 CAVES RD, YALLINGUP WA +61 8 9756 6640 ADMIN@SWINGS.COM.AU

TAPHOUSE

Yallingup 4km Dunsborough 13km

W IL

D W O

O

WHITTLE ROAD

D

RO AD

CAVES ROAD

FOR ALL FURTHER INFO VISIT SWINGS.COM.AU CELLAR DOOR OPEN

Margaret River 35km

DAILY / 10 am - 5Gracetown pm 25km WYADUP ROAD

LUNCH MENU / NOON - 3 pm ANMENU EXPERIENCE THE DINNER / 3 pm - 8 pm IN ( peak seasON ONly *)

@SWINGROUND /SWINGSANDROUNDABOUTS HEART OF MARGARET RIVER

*Check our website for seasonal opening times.

LIVE MUSIC / EVERY SUNDAY OPENING DAILY // FamIly 7 AM - LATE WALK-INS WELCOME FRIeNDly MENUBOOKINGS / 7 AM - NOON BOOKBREAKFAST ONLINE / GROUP AVAILABLE LUNCH + DINNER MENU / 12 PM - LATE

walking is an easy 1.5km that’ll take us no more than an hour, but the big drawcard is it takes place at night, by torchlight – and apparently its more than likely that we’ll spot a possum, either the common brushtail or the rare western ringtail.

Oli, meanwhile, still finding his hiking legs, is keen to try the Meekadarabee Falls Trail, an easy 2km stroll that begins at historic Ellensbrook Homestead and ends at one of the

prettiest waterfalls you’ll ever see.

There are, of course, plenty of trails in the Margaret River region for more experienced trekkers, which I’m keen to give a shot. Next time we’re in or around Dunsborough, for instance, Sam’s promised to come on the 3.2km Cape Naturaliste Track, a medium-level walk that starts at the lighthouse and winds along the coast to another likely whale-spotting lookout.

FIND US LIVE MUSIC / EVERY SUNDAY CANAL ROCKS ROAD

Yallingup 4km Dunsborough 13km

WALK-INS WELCOME / FAMILY FRIENDLY IL 2807 CAVES RD, YALLINGUP WA D W O O D RO WHITTLE ROAD +61 ONLINE 8 9756 6640 / GROUP BOOKINGS BOOK AVAILABLE AD ADMIN@SWINGS.COM.AU W

CAVES ROAD

FOR ALL FURTHER INFO VISIT WYADUP ROAD SWINGS.COM.AU 85 BUSSELL HWY, MARGARET RIVER

Margaret River 35km

WA Gracetown 25km +61 8 9758 7155 • TAPHOUSE@SWINGS.COM.AU

FIND US

@SWINGROUND

85 BUSSELL HWY, MARGARET RIVER WA +61 8 9758 7155

HIGGINS STREET

To Busselton /SWINGSANDROUNDABOUTS BUSSELL HIGHWAY

CHURCHILL AVENUE

ACTION & ADVENTURE And, then, of course there’s the famous Cape to Cape Track – 135km of stunning walking between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to do it all at once – the track can be joined at popular spots such as Sugarloaf Rock, Canal Rocks, Injidup Point and Hamelin Bay – but all parts of it have stunning views ready to create long-held memories.

For example you can try the Canal Rocks to Wyadup Trail near Yallingup, a 4km walk that starts at the car park and promises some brilliant ocean vistas. Over near Augusta, there’s another medium-level walk – the Water Wheel to Skippy Rock Trail – which starts near the lighthouse and includes both beach and bush.

Eventually, I’m hoping we can all step it up a gear and take on some of the Margaret River region’s big boys. Hamelin Bay to Cosy Corner, for instance, is 13km trek that starts at the beach famous for its friendly eagle rays and pushes the more seasoned walker with some pretty steep

sections. The views, though, are certainly worth it.

It’s endpoint is also the beginning of an even bigger challenge – Cosy Corner to Skippy Rock – a 20km full-day hike for experienced walkers. Expect long sections of sand and plenty of scrambles along narrow rock platforms – and make sure there’s someone to pick you up at the end.

Wherever you’re walking, always remember stout boots, plenty of water, suncream and a wide-brimmed hat are essential, but be sure that if you’re stepping out in the Margaret River region, you’re definitely in for a treat.

See you out there!

66

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

There are plenty of trails in the Margaret River region for more experienced trekkers.

ACTION & ADVENTURE

Living the

high life Sometimes we all crave a little luxury in our lives - and there are some great ways to live like a VIP in the Margaret River region. By LISA SHEARON. WESTWARD AVIATION CHARTER SERVICES Experience picturesque Margaret River in the most memorable way possible – on a scenic flight with Westward Aviation Charter Services.

The chartered scenic flights on a six-seater aircraft depart from Busselton or Margaret River and take in the most beautiful scenery in the region. There are many different tours of varying lengths to choose from, whether it’s a 45-minute spectacular flight over the northern part of the Margaret River Region for up to four adults, or a 60-minute flight over Augusta, The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and the south-west coast. A particular favourite is the 30-minute Geographe Bay scenic flight, which takes in Vasse New Town, Quindalup, Dunsborough, Rocky Point and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, then along the coast and across Geographe Bay to the end of the historical Busselton Jetty. From there, you’ll fly over the jetty and back to Busselton Regional Airport. The maximum number of passengers is either four adults or two adults and three children under the age of 13.

For more information or to book, visit margaretriver. com/members/westward-aviation-charter-services/ or phone (08) 9780 5911

winemakers in the area. There’s no time limit on Sully’s wine tours, and he’ll help you uncover the hidden gems of the region. Most of the tastings take place in private rooms, or at least in amazing settings. For the long lunch experience, the Flying Corkscrew only works with venues that excel in food, wine and service, with most

of the degustations being designed exclusively for the tour. To add extra "wow" factor, there is a helicopter option, so you can fly along the coast of Margaret River and land for lunch at the winery of your choice. This is wine tasting in style.

Phone 0403 847 607 or visit flyingcorkscrew.com.au

THE FLYING CORKSCREW The Flying Corkscrew specialises in small, intimate scenic tours with the personal touch.

Owner and operator Sully prides himself on creating personalised, memorable tours that offer a unique view of the region, all from the luxury of a seven-seater van. Being a bornand-bred Margaret River local, Sully is able to offer a unique perspective on the region, and offer personal introductions to most of the margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

67

ACTION & ADVENTURE

SCENIC HELICOPTERS The aim at Scenic Helicopters is to give you the most fun you can have in the sky. All tours can be tailored as required, and there is a really impressive range available, with an extended ‘Romance’ tour, where you’ll be flown to a secluded beach location with your special person and treated to a gourmet picnic hamper and bubbles on ice.

Other scenic flights include a tour of the entire region’s fantastic coastline, from lighthouse to lighthouse between Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste.

You can even go helifishing, combining a fantastic coastal scenic flight with the thrill of fishing during the south west’s salmon run.

Phone 0428 058 157 or visit scenichelicopters.com.au

INJIDUP SPA RETREAT Set in one of world’s most spectacular locations, Injidup Spa Retreat features 10 luxury villas, complete with their own private plunge pool and ocean views. Injidup Spa Retreat provides all guests with a very private and personalised experience, from relaxing spa treatments, wine tasting tours, lunch at a famous winery, whale-watching cruises or a private-chef dining experience in your villa.

For more information, visit injidupsparetreat.com.au

68

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

LUXE LIVING Top, Injidup Spa Retreat.

Above, take a luxurious private wine tour with Vinoculture. Go hunting for truffles with the Truffle & Wine Co., right.

Far right, the gorgeous gazebo and lodge at Forest Rise.

VINOCULTURE VinoCulture specialises in luxurious private wine and food tours. Owner Leith Moore is passionate about tailoring his tours to the individual clients, and says he’s yet to repeat the same tour twice.

Leith collects and returns guests directly to their accommodation – and has personally arranged more than one marriage proposal!

For more information, visit vinoculture.com.au

WALK INTO LUXURY An end-to-end 135km hike camping and carrying your own gear is daunting for most

people, but stunning day walks combined with winery lunches and a very comfortable bed is achievable for most and a great way to experience this beautiful region. Walk into Luxury combines the best sections of the Cape to Cape with gourmet food and wine and luxury accommodation in an ocean-view villa.

For more information, visit walkintoluxury.com.au

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES Smiths Beach Resort recently launched a range of ‘Signature Experiences’ available exclusively to guests of the resort. Partnering with local luxury concierge partner Experiencesmith, the

COWARAMUP range of half-day tours offers experiences characteristic of the local Margaret River Region, ranging from luxury gourmet offerings through to adrenalin-packed thrill rides. There’s something to suit every mood, whether it be the traversing the Cape to Cape track with an expert guide, getting up close with wildlife and nature on a Jet Boat Sea Safari or travelling in luxury on a winery tour. The tours are designed to complement the range of unique tours already offered

by Experiencesmith and can be further customised to suit individual requirements.

For more information on Signature Experiences, visit smithsbeachresort.com.au/experiences/

THE TRUFFLE & WINE CO The Truffle & Wine Co is one of the few truffières in the world that allows a very select

number of people each year to participate in the rare privilege of a truffle-hunting experience.

These exclusive Truffle Hunts are only held during the winter months on the Manjimup farm from late May to early September. Numbers are limited so book now to truly experience one of the world’s most exclusive food journeys.

For more information, visit truffleandwine.com.au

TM

FOREST RISE If it matters to you to tread lightly, ecologicallyspeaking, during your stay - without compromising on luxury levels - then make tracks to Forest Rise's Lodge just off Yelverton Road.

The Lodge itself is simply gorgeous, and the resort as a whole has been eco-certified since 2003 as an ecotourism operator. Water for instance is sourced naturally from springs and filtered by UV and the team are happy to fill you in about the flora and fauna which surround the resort.You'll leave more informed about the animals and plants with whom we share a space. Even the toiletries and other products in the Lodge were carefully chosen to be Western Australian and in context to the resort's environmental, local/fair trade approach to business.

Designed to meet your every need, from a beautifully appointed gourmet kitchen to so much living space you could fit most people's entire home into the living room, the Lodge is very special indeed. It sleeps up to eight people with two 'wings' - one with the master suite, ensuite spa bath and shower and separate library/TV room, while at the other end of the Lodge, you'll find three newly renovated ensuite bedrooms. Outside don't be surprised to share your warming spa with a curious kangaroo looking on from the paddock. If you love to listen to music while you relax, then the sound system is hooked up to play outdoors too. In a word - sensational.

For more information, visit forestrise.com.au

CANDY & FUDGE

GOURMET FOODS

WINE TASTING

BODY & BATH

GIFTS & GALLERY

SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF BOTTRILL STREET & margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 69 BUSSELL HIGHWAY, COWARAMUP

ACTION & ADVENTURE

If you're after an adrenaline-filled experience to test your courage to the limits or give you the chance to rediscover your creative centre while in the heart of nature, the Margaret River region ticks all the boxes.

By LISA SHEARON, NAT LOCKE AND GABI MILLS.

Adventure time EDGEWALKERS Dr Erika Jacobson is a woman of many talents.

A theatre practitioner, writer and dancer, she has a BA in writing, an MA in community and international development, and a PhD in transformative learning. She spends part of her time lecturing at Murdoch University on creativity and innovation, another part running workshops and retreats helping people reconnect with their creativity and self-expression, and somehow still finds the time to run arts-based community development projects. The backdrop to all these activities, however, is walking.

“Part of the year I travel and write,” she says.

“All year around I walk.”

70

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

For Erika, there’s no place better to find creative inspiration than walking in the south west of WA. Wanting to share this source of inspiration, Erika set up Edgewalkers, a company offering creativity retreats and walking guided tours in Margaret River and along the Cape-toCape track.

“I came across the term ‘edgewalker’ around nine years ago, while I was doing my PhD in transformative learning,” Erika tells me. “It’s a way to describe people who have this intimate knowledge of two cultures, or who walk the edge between two cultures and are proficient in both.

“When I came down to Margaret River at the end of 2015 to write a play, I was doing a

lot of walking, as I usually do, as it’s the way I get inspiration and generate ideas and solve problems.

“During one walk, I had a thought about running a creativity and walking retreat. When I came to think of a name, Edgewalkers was just perfect.”

Erika believes everyone can find inspiration by walking. “Walking in nature is a really powerful way to harness ideas and create space while engaged in that process of examining why you might be blocked. It is part of my creative process.

“For a lot of people who have come walking with us already, it is just about making contact

IMMERSED IN NATURE Dr Erika Jacobson, owner of Edgewalkers, hopes to introduce people to the creative possibilities inspired by walking in the south west.

with nature, developing a deeper and greater knowledge of the natural world, so we can have that intimate knowledge of it too; become proficient in it.

“That’s my hope, to create opportunities for people to spend time immersed in nature and grow to become curious about it and inspired by it, the way I have been.”

Edgwalkers offer various walks, from guided circular day walks to walking tours. Ranging from 5km to 17km, the circular day walks take you through the natural beauty of the Margaret River region along the Cape-to-Cape Track. The Cape-to-Cape Track Guided Walking Tours pick you up from Perth and take you along the Capeto-Cape track – you can walk the whole length of the 135km worldrenowned West Australian coastal track in eight days or walk for three days on selected sections. Creative workshops and retreats are also available from Edgewalkers.

Edgewalkers, 8A McKeown Place, Margaret River. Email erika@edgewalkers. com.au, phone 0406758062 or visit edgewalkers.com.au ~ LISA SHEARON

CAPE TO CAPE TOURS Clambering backwards down a bunch of granite boulders roughly forming a cliff face, while ocean spray whipped against my face, I did momentarily wonder what on earth I was doing to myself. In fact, hiking the Cape to Cape offers a lot of those moments. But it’s also the most exhilarating, exhausting, invigorating and painful thing that I have ever done. There is lots of laughter, complaining, wine and conversation about blister dressings and hiking footwear. The people who do these sorts of things are all a tiny bit mad (myself included), so we knew we were going to have a fun time.

I completed the Cape to Cape, all 135km between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin last September, during a week of incredibly changeable weather. Nothing quite makes you appreciate your Goretex jacket and your polar fleece headband like sideways rain and occasional hail.

I wasn’t completely mad though. Proper, hardcore hikers carry all their gear and food and camp every night - yes, even in furious storms and torrential rain - but I am not a proper hardcore hiker. I opted to let Cape to Cape Explore Tours nurture me through the adventure.

This meant that every hard day’s hiking ended with a hot shower and a soft bed. There were also trips to wineries for wine tasting, a Japanese degustation dinner, soup under the stars and a spot of caving. Our four-star apartment was also stocked with all the snacks and breakfast ingredients to keep us well nourished throughout the adventure.

The CCET guides kept us well-informed, about the history,

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

71

eaglebaybrewing.com.au margaretriver.com

AUTUMN 2017

ACTION & ADVENTURE

WALK THIS WAY Tackling the Cape to Cape track isn't for the faint-hearted, but the rewards along the way are worth all the blisters and painful muscles, says Nova’s Nat Locke (pictured top).

geology, botany and zoology of the region, and helped us spot some of the wildlife along the way. They kept our spirits up and the stunning landscape took care of the rest.

Every day, we were blown away by the simply breathtaking scenery. Whether it was a pod of dolphins flipping over perfectly formed waves near Yallingup, or the view of Conto’s beach from a clifftop high above it, water tumbling down the rock face at Quinninup Falls or the towering karri trees in Boranup forest, every day showed us something different. The coastline is surprising at every turn.

Some days, we were hiking through thick heathland, some days through shady forest beneath enormous trees and some days we were balanced precariously on rocky cliffs with blowholes spitting at us. And the sand. Oh, the soft, calf-bursting sand of those impossibly white beaches. There are significant stretches of beach walking - about 35km in total - and it was an ordeal. Sure, the

72

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

BUSHTUCKER CANOE AND CAVE TOURS

beaches are stunning, but when every footstep means you’re sinking into deep, powdery sand, and there’s wind howling in your ears, and your three-day-old blisters are still screaming at you to stop, you do start to doubt some of your life choices.

Of course, it’s that exact pain and hardship that makes finishing such a sweet victory.

For most of the last day, the Cape Leeuwin lighthouse teased us in the distance. At times it looked tantalisingly close, and then after what seemed like a lifetime of walking, it appeared to be further away again. When we finally reached it - and the first toilet of the day - we were all jubilant. We were also exhausted and freezing cold and sore.

But when we were presented with our “I finished the Cape to Cape” certificates over dinner and a few bottles of local wine that night, somehow the pain went away.

Visit capetocapetours.com.au ~ NAT LOCKE, NOVA 93.7FM

The weather gods were well and truly smiling on us as we parked at the Margaret River river mouth car park and looked out to sea. To the left the ocean waves crashed in their timeless fashion, surfer dudes and babes already finding gnarly rides to the beach. To the right, the lazy turn of the waterway that gives the region its name - Margaret River - lay still and inviting on what was promising to be a scorcher. We had decided to join a Bushtucker Canoe and Caves tour that morning - and turned up as instructed a little before 10am at the Bushtucker sign in the car park. There were other adventurers already waiting - all from the UK - and soon enough our genial guide Bernard arrived. An ex-winemaker (Amberley), his career path had taken a decidedly more adventurous streak in later years when he answered an ad to be a tour guide for the company. Serendipity had taken a hand and allowed Bernard to pursue his passions - being on the water, sharing his passion for the region and introducing visitors to interesting local foods and wines.

All kitted out in our life vests and clutching a colourful oar each, we tottered down the sandy path to the riverbank. There we found the Bushtucker canoes, bright yellow and looking as safe as houses to this bunch of canoeing novices. With two teenage girls in tow as well as a couple of others the other side of 60, it seems our motley crew was not an unusual combination. Once seated in the canoe, it was just a matter of pushing off and gently getting the hang of paddling up the gently rippling river.

Not much exertion was required on a day like ours; sometimes the wind makes things a little more energetic, said Bernard, but mostly people get the hang of canoeing quickly. Just don't get him started on the time he had 29 dentists from Mumbai to navigate up the river Our first stop is to the left of the river, an extraordinary glade, the sparkling ripples of the river reflecting on the overhanging trees. It's magical and, unsurprisingly, the local Indigenous people see the spot as very special indeed. We spot a curious swamp hen, resplendent blue chest catching the light, picking its way through the undergrowth. Called Boogaloongar Island, Bernard encourages us to sit quietly just for a moment, absorbing the place's special qualities.

Little fish dart next to our canoes (it's a nursery for fish such as these, safe from predators and fishing lines), and then we're off, back up on our journey upstream.

The river banks are lush and green thanks to unseasonal rains, and Bernard points out local species, like marri with its fluffy yellow

ACTION & ADVENTURE

flowers and the occasional majestic jarrah, one or two only remaining after others were felled for furniture. Paperbark trees abound too, their unfurling bark proving to be invaluable in making fire, shelter and protecting food from overcooking when soaked in water and wrapped around fish or goanna.

Bernard points out too local herbs and flora - there's a variety of celery, tea tree and other medicinal herbs which have been used for millenia to cure all ills.

We pass a sad sight - the fire-burned ruins of one of the region's most historic houses, Wallcliffe House, built by the Bussell family and lost in the tragic bushfires five years ago.

Curiously a little boatshed just a little further up the river survived unscathed.

A huge advantage of this tour is that no motor craft is allowed on the river, so the silence, apart from the odd splash from your oars and Bernard's explanations of this and that, is unimpaired.

The second component of the tour - caves reveals itself after about an hour of paddling up stream. Bernard leads the canoes to a secluded little beach and we unload ourselves and provisions; we'll be dining on bushtucker later, but first, it's time to explore some caves.

Thanks to the geology of the area, the Margaret River region is dotted with caves

74

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

like a Swiss cheese. As we wind our way up through the undergrowth, looking up, we can see pock-marked cliffs overhanging us, some with ancient beehives attached to their eaves.

The cool recesses have been home to animals and sanctuary for humans over the years, storing food to protect it from the harsh sun. We reach a summit and gaze down on the river below, snaking its way as it has always done towards the sea. Remember shoes for this part - otherwise you may burn your feet on the sandy path.

Retracing our steps down a little, we reach a spot where a cave mouth opens before us. A couple of the party are unwilling to explore within, but the rest of us clamber inside. It's lofty interior allows us to stand and Bernard explains that this was the refuge for 31 days of those fortunate few who were rescued from the famous Georgette shipwreck tragedy in 1876.

Local stockman Sam Isaac spotted the ill-fated ship sinking off the coast at Prevelly and raced back to alert the Bussell family. Only 16-year old Grace Bussell was there, but the quick-thinking pair rode their horses down to the beach and for the next few hours forced their steeds out into the pounding surf to rescue scores of the Georgette's crew. It was an unbelievably brave act on both their behalfs, and rightly recognised until this day. As a reward, Sam was given a block of land while Grace's fame spread far and

wide (nearby Gracetown is named after her for instance).

It's time now to gather our courage and explore a little deeper. Armed with torches, Bernard crawls through a little aperture in the cave and disappears. The girls follow him and I stand listening to their voices, present, yet invisible, until Bernard emerges again, 180 degrees to the left, having navigated a small tunnel in the cave. It's uncomfortable, dirty work, but nonetheless exhilarating.

As a reward, it's time for lunch, so Bernard lays out spread out of nowhere it seems: locally made pestos, chutneys and dips, delicious pumpkin and sundried tomato bread, kangaroo, emu and crocodile as well as chicken, cheese and eggplant. We all have a taste of this and that - the desert limes are a big hit.

We're all craving a dip after getting dusty on our climb up to the caves, so after packing up it's back to the canoes for one last lazy push towards the river mouth. Jumping into the river, there's a look of glee on all our faces, Bernard included.

The perfect end to a perfectly original way to explore the region. ~ GABI MILLS Visit bushtuckertours.com

ROPED IN This page, Forest Adventures South West is an amazingly challenging series of high ropes and obstacles.

Opposite, Margaret River's incredible beauty is best appreciated from a canoe during a Bushtucker Tour.

FOREST ADVENTURES SOUTH WEST There are probably more amusing things than a 40-something helmet-wearing woman clinging to a green hoop suspended in mid-air to see in a pristine south west forest, but I'm struggling to think what that may be.Yes, that helmetwearing, uncoordinated 40-something woman was me and to be fair, I hadn't done anything even vaguely this energetic for years. But there I am, stuck mid-way across one of the tortuous obstacles at Forest Adventures, a new attraction for adrenaline hunters right in the middle of the Tuart forest. My daughter Daisy and her friend Chloe had climbed, mountain-goat-like, through these early obstacles as if they'd been

born in the Pyrannees. I, however, failed at the third challenge and had to be rescued by Ricard, the very easy on the eye French climbing expert behind the 100 or so obstacles spread out over the forest.

It's a brilliant concept, appealing to anybody who's always fancied themselves as an SAS recruit or stuntperson. The premise is terrifyingly simple; arrange increasingly difficult tree-high ropes, wires and obstacles across the forest, hook up some willing participants and watch as they slide, wobble and jump their way around the course.

Everybody is shown the ropes - literally when they embark on their two-hour adventure and it's made very clear that safety comes

first.You're shown how to use the climbing equipment so that no matter how high you eventually manage to go around the course, the furthest you'll ever fall is about 15cm. To make things even more interesting, with each level (there are six in total), the challenges not only stretch your strength and ability to balance, they'll make you smile too (or shake in your boots depending on your bravery levels). By the time you get to level three, you'll be riding a BMW across a track suspended 20 metres in the air. Sounds impossible? Well, Daisy and Chloe did it with aplomb.

You'll zipwire your way from one giant tree to another, stand on a skateboard and careen across the sky and by the time - or rather if you reach the final stage, you'll be required to shimmy up one of the tallest trees in the forest and eventually abseil down another giant. That's when Daisy's courage eventually left her and she, like her mother, required rescuing.

It's all in a day's work though for the friendly, entirely relaxed and accomplished professionals who keep an eye on all of their Forest Adventurers.

As for me, I'm perfectly happy to cheer on my brave duo from the forest floor - and marvel at the beauty of this natural playground ~ GABI MILLS

Visit forestadventures.com.au margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

75

soul MY GETAWAY

Food for the

Restaurant critic Rob Broadfield is a regular visitor to Prevelly, and never tires of the sights, tastes and good times he enjoys in his home from home.

I

t’s the view. It’s always been the view.

You come over the crest of Wallcliffe Road at the top of Prevelly and there it is.

The Indian Ocean. One day hazy and shark grey; another day, flat and silky and stultifyingly hot; and every permutation in between.

In 20 years of cresting that hill, no one day has ever been the same. It never grows old. That’s the majesty of the place.

Of course Margaret River’s natural attributes are celebrated and much written about, along with its wine industry and nationally important restaurant sector.

But, by far, the greatest natural asset in the region is its people. Our mates. The people we have spent, often, decades with, eating on the deck, pulling the corks (yes, they still exist) on old wines; wiling away the days, the weekends, the weeks of summer, doing. . . not much at all.

A typical day might start with walking the dog along the beach to the The White Elephant Café for morning coffee and a muffin the size of your head.

Too lazy to cook lunch? Pop up to Alex and AJ’s The Common tavern at Gnarabup (the boys also own the White Elephant), a stone’s throw from the water. The beers are cold, the burgers are primo and the vibe is “thongs and baseball cap casual”.

Speaking of great pubs with great vibes, one of my all time fave spots for a catch-up with the lads - AJ, Dany Angove, Billy Phillips, Tony Howell (pictured with me, above) and occasionally the much more sensible and mature

76

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Aaron Carr - is The Brewhouse microbrewery on the northern outskirts of town. It has nailed the heady mix of welcoming vibe, great beers, cheerful service and better than good pub food.

Favourite restaurant? Margaret River punches above its weight. Apologies to those I may leave out, but here’s my Margaret River Region Top Ten. Cullen for the easy-peasy where Vanya Cullen intergrates her biodynamic, organic, environmental, sustainable ethos into a menu that doesn’t taste like it was made by a dreadlocked stoner high on chia seeds. The food is precise and just lovely. And the wine? Yeah!

The dining room at Leeuwin Estate has so many memories. Dany Angove cooks a modern conservative menu with spanking flavour and clean technique. He cares about produce and what he buys and it shows. It’s been 30 years and counting and we would still go every weekend if we could.

Aaron Carr is the funny-as-a-fit head chef at Vasse Felix (I dunno what it is, he just always amuses me). His food has consistently been at the more Heston end of the spectrum, if I could say that. It has won awards, both for the

restaurant and for him and brought visitors to its beautiful dining room from all over the world.

Team his recherche dishes with Virginia Wilcox’s stunning wines . . . yes please.

And on it goes. My perfect food trail includes Arimia, The Studio Bistro, Morries (best cocktails in town too), the amazing southern barbecue at the Settlers Tavern (owned and operated by the fabulous Rob and Karen Gough), Swings Taphouse for pizza and roast chicken, Miki’s Open Kitchen for his amazeballs food and bravura personality and the new(ish) tapas venture Rustico at Hay Shed Hill.

But Margaret River is more than just food and wine (did I really say that?), it’s the fun and, to be honest, the not so fun.

Summer wouldn’t be summer without the annual medical emergency. It comes when you least expect it - prepping a long table lunch at Prev or just banging out dinner for our house guests.

“Ouch!”

“Bugger, I’ve just taken the tip off another finger!” Again.

My knife skills are pretty good, my knives are in tip top - as in razor sharp - condition,

but the addition of good chardonnay, a warm afternoon and lots of people in the kitchen is a potent mix. Kids, let’s just say, never drink and brunoise at the same time - the knife will fight back. There’s been many a blood-soaked tea towel left at Margaret River Hospital after my annual, inevitable, visit. Thank you to the doctors at nurses who cheerfully apply another year’s supply of stitches to my battered fingers and send me home again.

So, what are good times and good memories made of? It’s not food. It can be something as simple as a perfect dawn or a bracing swim. But what memories are always based on, are the

... by far, the greatest natural asset in the region is its people. Our mates.

people in your life.

From barristers to bricklayers, chefs to shepherds, pilots to plutocrats, wine makers to wine drinkers - we’ve had them all under our roof at Prevelly over the years and, as disparate a bunch as they are, they all share similar traits: a love of Margaret River, their fondness for a drink and, most importantly, their lack of pretension, their humour, their conversation, and for many of them, an outrageous streak, which only seems to show itself at a long table, on a shady verandah, in Prevelly.

Rob Broadfield is the Food Editor at The West Australian. Read his restaurant reviews in the West Weekend magazine every Saturday.

DEAR FRIENDS Rob Broadfield loves spending time with friends and family in the region.

RE ST, R E L A X , R ECO NNECT 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

WWW.FORESTRISE.COM.AU margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 77

ARTS & WELLBEING

LOCAL HERO

Market fresh She's the energetic face of the local Farmers' Markets and the very definition of a local hero.

Meet Kat Lombardo, says Dianne Bortoletto.

Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

M

eet Katrina Lombardo. Kat, as many locals call her, is contracted by the not-forprofit Margaret River Regional Producers Association to organise the Farmers Markets that take place every Saturday morning at the Margaret River Education Campus on the Bussell Highway, just south of the township.

She is also a partner in Somersault Events that

78

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

organises the monthly Margaret River Night Food Markets from December to April.

“I feel very fortunate to live in a food-centric community like Margaret River and to have a job that I love connecting people to farmers,” Kat said.

“Farmers are amazing people. Really, food producers are pretty special.You get some real characters and that's why I'm still doing this – it’s been seven years now. I’m surrounded by good people, wonderful people, so yes, I love it. It's great.”

The Margaret River Farmers’ Markets are just as much for locals as they are for visitors.

“The unique thing about the Farmers’ Markets is that it brings everyone together - long termers, the short termers, the wealthy, the not-sowealthy and then the tourists. So it kind of ticks every box of being community, economic, and environmental,” the 45-year old said.

“As a tourist, when you walk into the Farmers’ Market you kind of go ‘wow!’ There are

kids busking, playing instruments and there's the old famous person who pops in. We have such a broad spectrum of people in our community that offer something and show tourists what this community is all about. Then there’s all

the amazing food and produce, which in itself is great to experience. When tourists visit the Farmers Market, they get a real sense of what Margaret River is all about.”

The Farmers Market has a set of strict rules for stallholders in that everything they sell they must’ve made or grown themselves.

From her experience running the Farmers Market, Kat said she started having other ideas of what she could do.

“I've gained a lot of experience with events though the markets. I started thinking that I wanted to also do something else that is different but still a community-oriented event that enhanced the place. That’s how the Night

food, and a variety of passionate stallholders and food trucks offering international cuisine for no more than $15 per serve.

“Locals and tourists walk in and get a sense of place that you can't really get anywhere else. At the Night Markets you get to see all the different nationalities that live in this region, and I love that.”

Kat moved to Margaret River in 2002, drawn to the region as a great place to bring up her family and still have a connection to the arts.

“I love Margaret River today for all the same reasons why we chose to move here, it's all same the reasons we are still here,” the mother of two grown children said.

“It’s everything about the environment, the

COMMUNITY FIRST Kat Lombardo organises the Margaret River region's Farmers Markets (left), as well as the popular Night Markets at Memorial Park.

Market came to be.”

The Margaret River Night Markets take place in Memorial Park and have the same winning combination as the Farmers Market – musicians playing, open space to sit and enjoy

beaches are just beautiful and the sky is big and clear. Whenever I look up, it's just beautiful.

Whether it's autumn or summer, or even those grey clouds in winter and the rain, I adore it.

I love the forest. I love the colours of nature. I love all the food that's here. I love my job and being connected to people who grow food and make food. I also grow food and make food - it’s something I’m really passionate about it. I’m passionate about seasonality too.

“Not to forget the arts - I'm involved in Arts Margaret River as well. And there are places like Settlers Tavern that have great bands in and cool things that happen at Swings and all around our region. We have great musicians and great theatre groups and there's just lots of opportunity to live a really good life here.

"And the community consists of a lot of good people from all around the world, all walks of life. And that’s a really nice thing.” margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

79

ARTS & WELLBEING

Creativity IN ACTION

ALREADY A HOTSPOT FOR THE ARTS IN GENERAL, THE MARGARET RIVER REGION WILL CELEBRATE CREATIVITY IN ALL ITS FORMS AT EMERGENCE CREATIVE, SAYS LISA SHEARON.

M

argaret River is set once again to become a creative playground at the end of March, as Emergence Creative Festival brings together creatives from across the world.

The four-day event encourages participants to look beyond their own industry and broaden their thinking, with four days of inspiring speakers, hands-on workshops, out-of-the-box collabs and satellite events.

Each year, the festival attracts professionals and emerging creatives from music, film, photography, advertising, digital and the visual arts to one of the world’s most beautiful locations to collaborate, create and be inspired.

“It’s a time for people to share emerging trends and recent developments in their disciplines and network with creatives from all industries,” festival director Erin Molloy says.

“Emergence Creative celebrates its fifth year this year, with a stellar line-up of keynote speakers who get immersed in the entire festival,

80

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

GOOD TIMES • LONG LUNCHES • FUNCTIONS

not just the conference. There are also a host of events that the whole community is invited to be a part of.”

The event launches on March 29 with Creative Crawl, a free event that sees the main street of Margaret River come alive in a progressive night of awesome live music at nearly 10 venues, live art and performance and great food specials. Performers include the likes of Elli Schoen, Ben Catley, Brayden Sibbald, Southern River Band, Moonlighter, Grievous Bodily Calm and more.

The opening day is dedicated to a full day of hands-on, accessible and collaborative workshops. Choose from song-writing workshops with the guys from Birds of Tokyo, a creative writing workshop with Sam Carmody, the author of The Windy Season, or wine packaging and packaging design with the guys from Voice Studio in Adelaide.

“You don’t need to be a conference delegate to participate in the wide variety of workshops, collaborations and satellite events on offer,” Erin adds.

Thursday night sees the Margaret River Education Campus, Organic Gardens and high-school amphitheatre become “Incognito”, a community event featuring night-food markets, art exhibitions, installations, live music from Howling Onshore, Luke Fox and Tanya Ransom and a collaborative jam session. This free, all-ages event is sure to be popular.

The closing party takes place at The White Elephant Beach Café on Friday March 31, and features music by Mosquito Coast, The Axiom and Philly Blunt, food by MRHG and some visual surprises.

The Australian Drone Film Festival premieres at The Beer Farm on Saturday night, and includes the best of The Flying Robot International Film Festival from San Francisco, followed by great live music.

For more information, and to register, visit emergencecreative.com

Caves House Hotel is synonymous with; fun in the sun, parties, get togethers, laughter and good times with friends over long lunches or dinners and enjoying the sounds of live music.

Come and experience our NEW High Teas.

WEDDINGS • ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

CAVES HOUSE HOTEL is ideally situated in the heart of the famous Margaret River Wine Region, and within walking distance of the famous Yallingup Beach.

The traditional Aboriginal word Yallingup, literally translates to “a Place of Love” making it a perfect location for weddings, honeymoons or romantic getaways.

18 Yallingup Beach Rd, Yallingup Ph: 9750 1888 A/H: 9750 1830 caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

81

ARTS & WELLBEING

Open to all The Margaret River Region Open Studios (MRROS) program continues to go from strength to strength, and this year more artists than ever will be throwing open their studio doors to visitors from all over the world.

82

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

I

t was a simple enough idea; invite visitors to take a peek behind usually closed doors at the studios of some of the region’s artists.

What Margaret River Region Open Studios (MRROS) founders Bill Castleden, Julien Sanderson and Jill Evans couldn’t have foreseen back in 2013 was the extraordinary way this concept would take flight. In short, MRROS is an annual hit, a must-do part of any selfrespecting art lovers’ calendar. It gives visitors the unique opportunity to see some of our nation’s most important artists - and emerging talents too - at work, undisturbed, in their homes.

It’s also of course the perfect opportunity to snap up an original artwork from the source and that’s been a large part of the movement’s success, year on year.

This year, to celebrate this year’s largest ever

event, the MRROS board are offering one lucky winner the chance to enjoy a two-day getaway and private tour of the 2017 Open Studios event which staying at the five-star luxury resort, Cape Lodge.

The winner plus guest will stay in a luxury Lakeview room, with daily gourmet breakfast, and use Cape Lodge as their base to explore local artists’ studios; the prize package is valued at over $2,000.

Bill Castleden, chair of MRROS said: "The number and quality of the artists for 2017 is of an exceptionally high standard and we have been extremely impressed with the calibre of artists registering.

“The event provides a platform for visitors who may never have had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a meaningful engagement

fourth year, it’s also becoming known as one of the leading areas for a wide variety of artistic mediums, from Jo Broadhurst’s sculptures to Elaine Clocherty’s site-specific environmental art.

A record number of artists are participating this year – 127 – and visitors will have the opportunity to explore 100 private studios.

Emerging artists have a strong showing in this year’s program, as well as well-established artists who call the region their home such as Rachel Coad, Mary-Lynne Stratton, Lauren Wilhelm and Leon Pericles.

As the event continues to expand, it also provides a rich networking experience for regional artists, local commercial galleries, the tourism industry, accommodation providers and local government for the benefit of the whole community.

The past year has seen the profile of the region’s artist rise considerably on two fronts in particular. Firstly, many of the MRROS artists have won highprofile art awards from all over the world, creating an impressive treasure chest of accolades for the region. Secondly, a beautiful

designs in nature

BEHIND OPEN DOORS Margaret River Region Open Studios (MRROS) draws thousands of artloving visitors to the area, keen to see artists like Jo Broadhurst (below) at work in their studios.

with an artist,” he said.

“It’s also a unique experience engaging with the artist and seeing them in their actual studio and workplace.”

The event, which takes place from April 22 to May 7, has become a high point in the south west of Western Australia’s artistic calendar, introducing visitors to the region to the incredibly rich crucible of talent and creativity that exists in such a relatively small part of the world. In fact, it’s become so successful that it is now Australia’s largest art event, and the perfect introduction for many to investing in living artists’ work.

The Margaret River region is known for its glorious wineries and artisan food producers and now, thanks to MRROS, which is in its

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

ARTS & WELLBEING

coffee table book – Artists of the Margaret River Region (published by M&P Publishing, $45) – was published in November 2016, and has proved to be a fitting testament to the artists featured within its pages, capturing perfectly the spirit of the open studios movement with exceptional photography by Elements Margaret River. Widely available, the book is the perfect reminder of a visit to open studios.

For further information grab a copy of the Open Studios brochure via mrros.com.au

84

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

ART IN ACTION The diverse range of artistic styles and mediums that can be seen during MRROS makes the event a unique one in Australia's artistic calendar.

Right, Artists of the Margaret River Region is a great reminder of your visit.

Prize package It’s easy to enter Visit mrros.com.auto to enter.

When - The competition is open until April 12.

Who can enter –Anybody over 18 years. The winner must be able to get themselves to the Margaret River Region. Transport is not included.

Conditions of entry -

Contestants are required to opt into the MRROS mailing list..

Prize drawn - April 1 MRROS will contact the winner by email on April 12.

Good luck!

ESTATE AND RESTAURANT

ABOUT OPEN STUDIOS The Margaret River Region Open Studios is the biggest art event of its kind in Australia.

It will run from April 22 to May 7 with 127 artists taking part and 100 private studios available to visit.

It offers art lovers a vibrant feast of the visual arts scene in the Margaret River region and the rare chance to visit private art studios which may not otherwise be open to the public to meet artists and view their works in progress.

Stretching from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin visitors can simultaneously explore the beautiful south west region of WA while exploring art studios of 107 established and emerging artists working across many art categories.

There is huge scope to discover, enjoy and purchase original art and to get up close and personal with painters, printmakers, sculptors, ceramicists, jewellers,photographers, textile artists and environmentally focused up-cycling artists.

Throughout this 16-day event visitors can move from venue to venue; each open studio is identified in the event catalogue.

FAMILY FRIENDLY, PET FRIENDLY

OPEN 7 DAYS FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH FROM 8AM. DINNER FRIDAY SATURDAY TILL LATE. COME AND SAMPLE OUR HOUSE MADE PRESERVES BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL facebook.com/rivendellrestaurant

1172 WILDWOOD 85 | AUTUMN 2017 RD YALLINGUP PH: 08 9755 2899 margaretriver.com

ARTS & WELLBEING

Get the Margs look You’ve probably noticed during your visit to the Margaret River region that there’s a certain vibe to the decor - so here’s our pick of the local stores that'll help you achieve that look back home. By CASSANDRA CHARLICK

86

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

t

he legendary south west lifestyle is one that combines relaxing long afternoons filled with beachside-living alongside provincial chic in a world famous wine region.

One of the most important parts of a holiday is returning home with a little something to remind you of that holiday glow while you're packing the kid’s lunches on a dreary Monday morning.

So take your pick from the region's homewares stores, and bring the good looks of the Margaret River region back to your own home.

ELLIS AND CO 69 Strelly Street, Busselton.

If you are looking for the ideal spot to recreate the beach chic of life down south then Ellis and Co is your one-stop wonder. Add a twisted windswept piece of driftwood to your mantlepiece to remind you of the fresh salt air down by the seaside, or if you're looking for a feature item they have a stunning range of whitewashed and natural wooden dining and living room furniture.

Also specialising in window draping, if you live locally the friendly staff are happy to help with shutters and blinds to keep the bright

summer sun off delicate furnishings. With a palette of natural fibres, grey and shades of white the look is relaxed yet elegant with a strong emphasis on beachside living. If the seaside look doesn't match the rest of your home furnishings, there's also a range of fashion accessories and clothing – perfect to take you straight from beach to bar with a stylish twist that wouldn't look amiss on the city streets back home in the big smoke.

SHABBY DUCK STUDIO 2/17 Albert Street, Busselton.

An unexpected find on one of the busiest roads in Busselton is this little gem. Not your average homewares store, don't be fooled by the quaint charm of the beautiful dĂŠcor and soft furnishings. Home to workshops for those who like to get out their paintbrushes and creative juices going, the space turns into a hub of activity when regular workshops are held so that you too can learn how to restore furniture that has been preloved, or turn new additions into something with more of a rustic charm.

Pick up stunning items with a French country, shabby chic

PUT IT ON THE WISHLIST The Margaret River look can be achieved by a visit to any one of these stores; look out for ocean-washed shabby chic colours and fabrics.

aesthetic or simply browse the store's eclectic collection before taking home a selection of paints, stencils and tools for your own decorating project. If you need a bit more help, owner Monique is a wealth

50 events

40 speakers

8 venues

ARTS & WELLBEING

GET THE BLUES The colours of the ocean - blues, aquas and white - should be your inspiration if you're keen to replicate the interior decor all over the Margaret River region. Cushions, accessories and tableware are all great choices to remind you of your holiday down south.

of knowledge and provides a range of services for colour consultation through to furniture restoration. The perfect stop for some inspiration and a relaxing morning filled with charming accessories for both home and self.

88

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

ARAVINA ESTATE STORE 130 Bussell Highway, Margaret River Ask anyone visiting the region where the most beautiful spot they have been for lunch is and odds are Aravina Estate will be on the tip of their tongue. Renowned for its rolling vineyards and Hampton’s-style architecture, it's easy to see how guests find it difficult to leave after a long lunch and stroll through the estate.Venture past the cellar door and you'll find an enticing range of homewares to recreate a little of the estate’s beautiful elegance in your own living room.

Combined with an air of refined Hampton’s luxury and French country elegance, prepare to be swept up in an abundance of soft furnishings, tableware and gorgeous homewares. The cushions alone are worth a splurge as are the gorgeous glassware and candlesticks. After lunch, you'll be sure to find a special treat from locallysourced spa products, candles and jewellery. Or

as the crisp autumn air starts taking hold, why not take home a handcrafted platter ready for a spread of local produce and a glass of wine for dinner in front of the fireplace?

LLOYDS 130 Bussell Highway, Margaret River A stalwart of the Margaret River high street, Lloyds is a homeware store that's been owned by the same local family for more than 40 years.

It's the go-to store for locals when they're on the hunt for a throw rug, beach-themed cushions for a seaside hammock or a fragrant candle for a relaxing bath.

With a wide range of goods for inside and outside of the house, it truly is a challenge to walk out without treating yourself or the home to a little Margaret River facelift. From camping goods, fishing gear and cooking utensils through indulgent bath products and body lotions, Lloyds

It's easy to wile away hours browsing through the lovingly-curated collection of seconhand, antique and pre-loved goods. is THE place for both giftware and homewares in town.

Be sure to stroll through to the back of this Aladdin's cave for a stunning range of soft furnishings, pillows, cushions and throws alongside a luxury range of garden accessories and colourful ideas to brighten up your life. From soft beach neutrals to tropical hues of palm fronds and jewel-like tones there's a range of oceanic-inspired looks.

THE FLYING WARDROBE 10411 Bussell Highway, Witchcliffe In the quiet country town of Witchcliffe lies this eclectic little treasure trove. The owners a have a keen eye to detail and it's easy to wile away hours browsing through the lovingly-curated collection of secondhand, antique and pre-loved goods. From authentic retro 1970s bar stools to classic 1940s glassware you're bound to find a special piece for the home that will get guests talking when they discover your latest find.

There are also books and toys that will take you down memory lane, and a fantastic collection of clothing and accessories to ensure that no one else will be caught with the same outfit for that special occasion. On a recent trip quirky additions to my shopping basket included vintage wallpaper, a basket of stamps for crafting with the kids and a fantastic collection of records to play on a newly acquired record player that was in pristine condition from its heyday in years gone by. For lover of all things vintage, retro and utterly unique, be sure to put aside the best part of an afternoon to uncover your next favourite new/old thing.

Where great food and art come together Contemporary Fine Art from leading Australian artists and a world-class bistro all under one roof in Yallingup

BRONWEN NEWBURY

AYA D A L Q A R A G H O L L I

L A U R A M AT T H E W S

LORI PENSINI

THE STUDIO BISTRO Gold Plate Winner MEL BRIGG

THE STUDIO Gallery & Bistro 7 Marrinup Drive, Yallingup 300 metres off Caves Road

P 08 9756 6164 W thestudiobistro.com.au Thurs to Mon Lunch Saturday Dinner THE STUDIO GALLERY P 08 9756 6371 W thestudiogallery.com.au Wed to Mon 10am – 5pm

ARTS & WELLBEING

Michael Pali n to headline Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival

STOP PRESS

Meet the wordsmiths

FESTIVAL DIRECTOR Tanya Perdue says she's ecstatic that Michael Palin will feature as part of the three-day event and encouraged festival-goers to get their tickets right away.

“We truly have an incredibly strong and diverse line-up of writers coming to Margaret River for this year’s festival,” she said. ”The addition of Michael Palin to an already impressive line-up of authors, journalists, literary icons and rising stars means the festival will be bigger and better than ever before.”

Tickets to the 2017 Margaret River Readers’ & Writers’ Festival will be available for sale now, online at mrrwfestival. com, by phone 08 9758 7316, or from the Arts Margaret River Box Office, at 51 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River.

THE MARGARET RIVER READERS AND WRITERS FESTIVAL DRAWS BIBLIOPHILES FROM FAR AND WIDE AS WELL AS MUCH-LOVED AUTHORS LIKE ROBERT DREWE, DRAWN TO THE REGION FOR INSPIRATION AND CONVERSATION. BY LISA SHEARON.

C

oming home for the ninth annual Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival is Australian author Robert Drewe, known for his novels, memoirs and short stories.

Although born in Melbourne, Robert moved to Perth aged six. It’s the West Australian landscape that’s evoked in Robert’s writing – if you’ve ever read his work, you’ll know that he has a particular way of conjuring up the sights and even smells of the region. Robert draws his readers deep into WA and immerses them in our very unique landscape.

“When I’m writing and I think of the Australian landscape – which comes into my work all the time – it’s always that coastal landscape; the moonscape of limestone, and the ocean, and the smell of the saltbush,” Robert tells me.

90

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

“Once you grow up with an image like that it just retains in your brainspace. It doesn’t matter where I’m sitting when I’m writing, it always comes through just as clearly.”

Robert currently splits his time between northern NSW and WA, although calls both sides of Australia home.

“We have a very rudimentary beach shack down in Windy Harbour,” he says. “It’s my wife’s family’s shack; they’ve had it for 50 years. It’s a genuine beach shack in the traditional style – not a transplanted middle-class home – and we spend a lot of time there.

“My eldest son is an architect in Perth, so we’re there all the time, and live in both places.

We call both places home.”

It didn’t take much to lure Robert to this year’s Readers’ and Writers’ Festival,

ARGUABLY AUSTRALIA’S BEST

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

READERS AND WRITERS FESTIVAL

which takes place from June 2 to 4. He’s particularly fond of the Margaret River region, and its unique sense of community.

“It’s comforting and creative, and welcoming in a food-and-wine kind of way.

Northern NSW is like that, as is Margaret River,” he says.

“Festivals are also a great opportunity to meet the readers and get a reaction to your books – it can be a pretty lonely business sitting in a room by yourself day after day after day, writing with no feedback.You really have no idea if people are enjoying what you’re doing. That’s the main reason I go to festivals – to get feedback from readers.”

Readers, of course, are known for their candid honesty, and Robert bore the brunt of this at a readers’ and writers’ festival in Byron’s Bay recently.

“A woman stood up and said, ‘I belong to a book club. We’ve recently been studying the works of Jane Austen, and it occurs to me that in the history of literature no one has written better or understood the human condition more than Jane Austen does,’” Robert recalls.

“And then she said: ‘I recently read your book on Perth’s serial killers, which I borrowed from the library, and it seems to me you’re in no way reflecting the writeability of Jane Austen. Do you intend to rectify this?’” Laughing at this anecdote, you get the feeling Robert really does appreciate the chance to meet different folks of different strokes at festivals.

“Readers are my favourite kinds of people. They’re thoughtful and funny and a little argumentative, and all the stuff that I like in humans, and I love the opportunity to meet them.”

WORDSMITHS Clockwise from top left, Joan London, Jane Caro, Kerry O'Brien, Clementine Ford

Held from June 2-4, The Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival will include author talks, panel discussions, Q&As, book signings, workshops and free activities for the whole family.

The festival’s line-up of literary talent includes 40 authors and presenters spanning 50 events. At the time of going to press, we’re told one of Australia’s most distinguished and respected journalists, Kerry O’Brien, will attend. O’Brien has been a journalist for 49 years, covering print, television and wire service, as a reporter, feature writer, columnist and foreign correspondent.

Writer, speaker and feminist thinker Clementine Ford will also take the stage to talk about her first book, Fight Like a Girl, which was an instant bestseller, and will later join author, novelist, journalist and social commentator Jane Caro.

Also on the bill is Bruce Pascoe, a Bunurong, Tasmanian and Yuin man whose book Dark Emu won the Book of the Year and Indigenous Writers’ Prize in the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards.

West Australian talents include awardwinning novelist Joan London, writer and broadcaster Ian Parmenter, and Nicole Sinclair, whose short stories have won the Down South Writers’ Competition and whose first novel Bloodlines was shortlisted for the 2014 TAG Hungerford Award.

Festival director Tanya Perdue said the program celebrates literature and stories everyone can share in.

Tickets to the 2017 Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival will be available for sale now, online at mrrwfestival.com, by phone 08 9758 7316, or from the Arts Margaret River Box Office, at 51 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River.

CELLAR DOOR OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY 11AM TO 5PM 889 COMMONAGE ROAD YALLINGUP

PHONE 9756 6066 margaretriver.com AUTUMN 2017 SHOP| ONLINE AT

91

WWW.DEEPWOODS.COM.AU

ARTS & WELLBEING

green

Keeping it To celebrate Earth Hour on March 25, we take a look at ways you can enjoy a visit to the Margaret River region without it costing the Earth. By GABI MILLS.

W

hether you’re a first time visitor to the region or back on familiar ground, there’s surely something every visitor can agree on. The Margaret River region is one of the most pristine, beautiful places in Australia - if not the world. However, it would only take a generation or two of disregard for the region's many gifts for that natural beauty to deteriorate, for rubbish and human pollution to take its toll. So for those who like to travel with a light footprint, here are some ways you can holiday in the region without ruining it for your grandkids.

FURRY FRIENDS Most wine labels evolve from a family name or local landmark, but not this one. Passel is the collective noun for possums (who knew?), and the story behind Passel Estate’s name is one of conservation and sanctuary. Following the Margaret River bushfires of 2011, estate owners Wendy and Barry Stimpson provided refuge to a family (or passel) of endangered western ringtail possums that had been displaced by the fires. Their property was identified as particularly suitable for this species given the prevalence of giant native peppermint trees within several large areas of

92

AUTUMN 2016

|

margaretriver.com

untouched bushland (around 10 hectares in total).

Passel Estate is also home to 6.7 hectares of grapevines, including some very established cabernet sauvignon and shiraz vines dating back to 1994. The Stimpsons are passionate about making delicious, high-end, single-estate Margaret River wines. They are equally passionate about conserving native bushland areas and the plight of those endangered possums.

Several conservation measures have since been established within the property to promote the survival of the possums and other native species.

The peppermint trees (which are the primary shelter and food source for the possums) are now irrigated to ensure a lush canopy with plenty of young foliage. The canopy also provides safety (in the form of aerial cover) and mobility. Additional peppermint trees will soon be planted within the existing bushland sanctuary to link this area to surrounding remnant bush, providing critical 'bush corridors ’ throughout the property. Feral predator and weed control measures have also been put in place.

The Stimpsons continue to work closely with local conservation group FAWNA to relocate orphaned and (previously) injured possums on their property. The latest arrivals came to Passel

Estate in mid-February: two young orphans (male and female) and another female that had been cared for by FAWNA after burning her feet on a BBQ. Because these possums were introduced at the hottest time of year, a number of water containers were positioned in the vicinity of the possum boxes (in the peppermint trees). Passel Estate's tasting room staff and vineyard crew are responsible for topping up these water containers on a regular weekly basis, to ensure the possums do not risk coming down to ground level to seek alternative water sources.

Fresh, young peppermint leaves are also being delivered to the new possum boxes twice weekly, proof that the three new arrivals have voracious appetites and are settling in well.

Tasting room manager, Sandy Wilson is first and foremost a wonderful host to visitors that come to taste the Passel Estate range of wines.

But, rather fortuitously, she is also a former veterinary nurse and has offered her time and expertise to FAWNA so that she can personally care for possums in need, before they are relocated to Passel Estate ’s bushland sanctuary.

Plans are underway at Passel Estate for a self-guided nature walk through the bushland reserve adjacent to the tasting room, to include educational signage highlighting a variety of native flora and fauna (including but not limited to the western ringtail possum). Watch this space.

The Margaret River region is recognised internationally as a biodiversity hotspot with exceptional concentrations of native plants and animal life. Operating a sustainable vineyard in this region extends to respect for the pristine natural environment, including a responsibility toward native endangered species such as the

Western Ringtail Possum. It seems wholly appropriate then that the Stimpsons have chosen an evocative illustration of Mother Nature to appear on their wine label above the very pertinent name, Passel Estate.

For more information visit passelestate.com.au

TAKE3 The Take3 message couldn't be simpler: just take three pieces of rubbish with you when you leave the beach, waterway or anywhere and you’ve made an impact. Launched in Sydney in 2009, the organisation was formed when surfing enthusiast, Amanda Marechal and marine ecologist Roberta Dixon-Valk developed a simple idea to tackle the ever-growing problem of marine debris. The not-for-profit organisation has made its mission to deliver education programs to inspire the global community to help create a cleaner planet for wildlife and future generations. Local kids in Busselton picked up the eco-friendly message, and designed posters for Take3 to be displayed on bins around the area - well done kids!

Pick it up. Bin it. #TAKE3FORTHESEA

MARGARET RIVER GALLERY FINE ART + EMERGING COLLECTION.

ELECTRIC AVENUE Did you know you can drive from Perth to the Margaret River region without a drop of petrol? Pretty cool, huh? Of course you need a suitably modified car to do so (like BMW’s i3) but thanks to this innovative investment in green fuel, it won’t be long before the drive down south is altogether a less polluting experience.

The RAC’s Electric Highway is a series of charging stations between Perth and Margaret River, and on to Augusta, at which electric car

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

MRBTA

MAKING TRACKS Join Gary Ingram for a fun and informative ec0-friendly few hours quad biking through the Boranup Forest (above). Enjoy oyster mushrooms grown in discarded coffee grounds, thanks to Life Cykel, and, opposite top, recycling coffee cups at Sidekick Café.

drivers can top up. There are 10 in all, Perth city on Wellington Street and others cropping up in towns across south west WA – and a 12th is due to open in Fremantle soon. The system is a fantastic example of efficiently providing the infrastructure this exciting new technology needs.

To find out more visit electrichighway.rac.com.au

IN THE DARK When the lights go out across Australia for an hour on March 25 at 8.30pm, it’ll be the tenth year that the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has turned the world's attention to the growing issue of climate change. What started as an Aussie grassroots movement has grown into the world’s biggest drive for climate change, and it will be an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy a whole hour of darkness in the region; the perfect opportunity to stargaze and enjoy the magnificent nightscape without a drop of light pollution. So why not join the world in darkness, and celebrate the region as our ancestors would have seen it for an hour at least.

To find out more visit earthhour.org.au

SADDLE UP Why not ditch the car altogether while you’re on holiday and see the sites on a bike instead?

Dunsborough Bike Shed is one of several places you can go to hire a bike for your stay, and you

94

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

can even join one of the regular local bike club rides if you’re in need of a proper work out.

Once you’re on two wheels, you’ll appreciate the landscape, it’s peacefulness and beauty even more than when you’re behind the wheel. It also minimises the need for a skipper so you can take advantage of wineries and breweries along the way. The kids will love it too (*top tip: spending a day on a bike will ensure little ones sleep like logs).

To book a ride, visit dunsboroughbikeshed.com.au

QUAD SQUAD Quad bikes and environmental sensitivity are rarely mentioned in the same sentence but Gary Ingram of Eco Adventures wants that to change.

He’s the brains behind a world-first innovation that’s turned the standard fuel-powered quad bike into an electric-powered, silent, greensensitive mode of transport that, in this case, will take you into the Boranup Karri Forest in the Margaret River region.

Your EcoBike is a quad bike for the 21st

2017 ­

­ est

HAPPS HAMPERS Build­Your­Own­Picnic

Happs Wines now has food! down on waster (and ensuring you’ll go back for a refill). And if you have concerns about all those coffee grounds cluttering up bins in the region, worry not. There's an innovative business - Life Cykel - that’s turning them into fungi. It’s an ingenious concept which produces delicious, gourmet oyster mushrooms out of the detritus of coffee making. Life Cykel now collects around 350kg of coffee grounds waste a week - well over a tonne a month - and has set up a dedicated oyster mushroom ’farm' in a converted container specially to supply wineries and restaurants in Margaret River.

Visit Sidekick Cafe’s Facebook page, and for more information about those mushrooms lifecykel.com.au

HAPPY LITTLE VEGGIES century – retooled to “float” across the park trails for a unique adventure that blends the beauty of natural exploration with cutting-edge technology. Each bike is equipped with an iPad mini that Ingram uses to bring highlights such as the fossils of long-extinct megafauna to life in your hand. It’s a fun Jurassic Park twist to top off a truly memorable experience.

If you have any doubt about the “eco” side of things, consider this: these reimagined quad bikes run on a bit less than $2 worth of electricity for a charge that will last about 100 kilometres of driving distance.

Visit ecoadventuresmargaretriver.com.au

MAKE MINE A CUP OF JOE Even the most eco-friendly visitor requires an extra shot of caffeine some days to get the heart pumping - but there’s no reason to leave your green tendencies at the cafe door. For instance, Margaret River’s Sidekick cafe will serve up your favourite brew in a reusable cup, cutting

As one of the most impressive food and wine destinations in the world, the Margaret River region is full of businesses that rely on the ongoing health of our planet. One of the best possible ways to reduce our carbon footprint is through sourcing as many of our daily requirements as locally as possible. This is especially important when it comes to the fuel we put in our bodies. It isn’t only grapes that are grown at Voyager Estate. The gorgeous kitchen garden at Voyager Estate supplies over 90% of the veggies for the winery’s Discovery Menu, a pretty strong endorsement for the venue’s food philosophy. A sure sign of a healthy garden with a tip top ecosystem, there are plenty of frogs to be found nestling among the plants. It’s this lack of food miles (think paddock to plate) that made Voyager align with River Cottage Australia’s celeb chef Paul West (pictured above left), who recently held a couple of In Residence dinners, celebrating that produce to the max.

Visit voyagerestate.com.au for bookings.

We’ve been serving wine, making pottery, showing art and holding concerts and events since 1978. Now you can enjoy all these things with delicious local cheeses, charcuterie, olives, dips, relishes, chutneys, crackers, bread and much more. Our build-your-ownpicnic offering allows you to spend what you like and eat what you prefer.

N Cellar Door tastings 10am ~ 5pm Food Available 11am~4pm.

575 Commonage Road, Dunsborough. margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 95 P: 08 9755 3300 • E: hampers@happs.com.au

ARTS & WELLBEING

Retreat & revive There can't be many places on earth more perfect to revitalise your body and soul than the Margaret River region. Mia Lacy and Gabi Mills do the hard yards and discover the best places to unwind.

T

he word ’retreat’ would seem to describe different styles of accommodation or getaways, depending on whom you ask. A retreat is somewhere you retire for a few days to connect with nature; to restore your mind, body and soul; to pamper yourself – and your partner.

Upon investigating the retreats of the Margaret River region, we can report they are usually somewhere a little remote or removed from the main thoroughfares, but after that it becomes a little more subjective to classify them.

There are lovely retreats with spas, and there are delightful retreats which offer massages in your beautifully appointed room or balcony, and there are resorts named retreats simply because it suits them more than any other handle.

EMPIRE SPA RETREAT I departed Empire Spa Retreat feeling as chillaxed as it was possible to be, with my equilibrium utterly restored.

96

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

I’d arrived for their two night package, the ‘Empire Experience’, just as the unexpected February rains had released the fragrance from the peppermint trees that encircle the property.

Not only was this uplifting, it was an auspicious start to exploring my first ever Margaret River retreat. I’m relatively new to Western Australia, so was unaware of the Empire story which was charmingly detailed to me by Cameron, the retreat’s manager, when he saw my eyes pop in appreciation of the property’s character décor which showcases the Empire furniture and homewares stores of its owners.

The brand’s philosophy is fresh, stylish design and this carries throughout the resort and its beautifully appointed spa. Guests will invariably note the unique signature Empire cushions with their distinctive ‘karate chop’ fold.

Twelve acres of vines produce Empire’s classic Margaret River wines, and guests booking the two-night package are welcomed to their rooms with an SSB and a cabernet merlot to enjoy

with the generous gourmet hamper ‘ideal for a picnic lunch, a quiet evening in or a midnight snack’ piled high with cured meats, cheeses and antipasto condiments. Having a chilled white looking out to the twilight over a classic Margaret River rural landscape was exactly the start I’d envisaged.

The Empire Experience includes $450 of treatments at the day spa, and it’s recommended to book in ahead of your arrival to ensure your choices can be accommodated. The 60-minute Empire pedicure (my first ever pedi – who knew that disposable flip-flops even existed?) featured the spa’s Sodashi range of a peppermint foot soother and mask.

Sodashi is sophisticated, chemical-free skin care created in Fremantle, and suits the Empire vibe very well. The retreat – and spa – is invariably luxurious from the very harmonious décor to homewares like Empire’s understated crockery that just feels lovely to handle. In my room, I particularly enjoyed the generous space

There was also a surprise waiting outside and no, I’m not referring to the local wildlife.

A simple yet elegant forest shower was a lovely counterpoint to the detailed décor inside the room. Open to the heavens but very discretely designed and positioned for privacy, the showers are a lovely element that completes the sanctuary of Empire Spa Retreat.

Visit empireretreat.com ~ Mia Lacy

PULLMAN RESORT BUNKER BAY VIE SPA

given over to surfaces to put luggage, cameras, iPads (you can never have enough surfaces in a resort room!) and the thoughtful choice of two robes; a waffle for summer and a velour for the cooler months.

The icing on the cake to any stay at Pullman Resort Bunker Bay is undoubtedly a visit to the hotel’s on-site sanctuary,Vie Spa. After a frantic few days quad biking, climbing and canoeing my way around the region I was desperately in need of some TLC. Fortunately Vie Spa had just the thing for me - an hour-long full body massage.

The tender loving care starts from the moment you’ve shed your everyday clothes and pulled on one of the luxurious fluffy robes and reflexology-tingling sandals. I’m shown to a relaxation room to await my turn and help myself to a cup of hibiscus tea. Bliss. Soon enough I’m led to a treatment room, scented with natural oils and as calm as a sun-basking otter’s smile. I’m given the choice of six oils to choose from - I’ll choose the one I need the most naturally, says my therapist. I opt for the fig and guava one, and settle in for my precious hour. There’s something incredibly trusting about putting your poor, knackered body in the hands of a stranger but I immediately feel at ease and relaxed to the point of a few delicate snores may have shattered the soothing background music.

DELICIOUS ESCAPE

BY PULLMAN With 2 nights’ accommodation, buffet breakfast and an instant dining discount, experience a relaxing autumn getaway that is full of flavour.

From just $259* per night. pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au

B U N K E R B AY R E S O RT MARGARET RIVER REGION

*Package is subject to availability with min 2-night stay required.

Advertised rate based on a 2-night midweek stay in a studio villa.

Cannot be combined with any other offer. 10% dining discount applies to restaurant/bar only. margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

97

ARTS & WELLBEING Vie Spa uses products created in Paul and Naomi Whitfield’s Blue Mountains kitchen. The pair came up with their iKou range (Japanese for ’to rest, to relax, to restore’) after a flower petal bath in Ubud, Bali.

“We had just enjoyed a beautiful spa treatment that ended in a flower petal bath overlooking the Campuan Gorge,” says Naomi.

“It was this moment that inspired us to introduce daily rituals of beauty and relaxation into our everyday lives.”

To that end,Vie Spa offers a range of ‘rituals’ - like the White Flannel Flower two-hour ritual which ‘connects you with inner joy and achieves a radiant all-over glow’. Or how about Heaven on Earth? You’ll enjoy a combination of the spa’s most popular treatments in one heavenly experience.

You could also book a Vie Body Scrub to help buff your bod to perfection or an aromatherapy bath soak, or why not try a Blissful Enhancer? Take your pick from a skin booster, lip plumper, eye mask or Vie Sacred Scalp massage.

Men aren’t overlooked either with a special menu of treatments designed just for them.

I’m keen to adopt a more gentle approach to looking after myself, and promise to light a scented candle next time I have a bath, following the iKou way. For now though I’m a long way from that point as I turn over on the massage table and relinquish all my aches and pains to the magic massaging fingers of my Vie Spa therapist.

The hour goes by in a haze, the fig and guavainfused oil leaving my skin amazing soft and peachy. I wonder if I can turn back time and start again, but no. It’s time to rejoin the real world.

Visit viespa.com.au - bookings are essential. ~ Gabi Mills

Best ofthe rest

HIDDEN VALLEY FOREST RETREAT It takes an amazing architect and a canny owner to collaborate on a forest retreat that is truly timeless, and once you are inside one of the four styles that comprise Hidden Valley Forest Retreat you can almost hear the echo of the design brief which created these gems. It would sound like a mantra – remote, elegant, timeless, private.

The stunning contemporary design is one key element of this romantic escape – the other is the hero bush surrounding and elevating the dwellings into a statement of what a south west retreat fully realised can be.

Owner/host Lily is describing a recent sunrise wedding held on a pontoon in the centre of the lake that Deepwater Retreat overlooks. It’s quiet; the only noise is nature and us breathing it in. The outdoor settings are stunning, and there’s a seamless linkage to the indoors which feature welcoming log fires, king beds, spa baths and European kitchens.

There’s a BBQ option for warmer nights, and as twilight falls the detail and attention given over to lighting becomes apparent.

Uplights trace the delicate arms of towering forest giants and votive candles shimmer through glass on timber decks. For people like me who instantly decide not to leave these econests, there are options for dinners, breakfasts and platters to be delivered to your retreat. As can your massage experience! Spa treatments are very popular for Hidden Valley weddings, elopements and honeymoons. From a classic facial to foot reflexology to a body scrub or a one-hour hot stone massage, the spa therapists at Hidden Valley are experts at reviving and re-tuning any body. For an added touch and an elegant surprise, guests can treat their partner to a retreat pre-set with rose petals, sparkling wine and chocolates – bravo!

Visit yourhiddenvalley.com

INJIDUP SPA RETREAT The phrase ‘a room with a view’ may well have been coined for this divine retreat. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Injidup Spa Retreat, presents just 10 luxury villas – each with their own private plunge pool and breathtaking views out to the Indian Ocean. Couples seeking seclusion and the perfect five-star getaway need look no further than the king size beds, cosy fireplaces, superbly chosen Lamont’s wines and selected spa treatments. Massages, body treatments, baths and even meditation and yoga classes are on offer in the spa which sits at the wellness end of the spa spectrum and caters beautifully to couples and individuals with treatments able to be personally tailored to guests’ needs.

Autumn special offer: Energise, rejuvenate or nourish with your choice of three unique and oh-so-luxurious autumn spa treatments to be enjoyed over one rejuvenating hour for just $155*. Take time out and enjoy some pampering, or embark on a romantic shared experience side-by-side in one of Vie Spa ’s private couple ’s suites. You can also add soothing hot stones to the massage component of each autumn treatment for an additional $15. Choose from:

ENERGISE Back & Neck Massage Organic Facial Vie Sacred Scalp Massage REJUVENATE Back & Neck Massage Organic Facial Foot & Leg Massage NOURISH Organic Nourishing Body Wrap Foot & Leg Massage Scalp, Neck & Shoulder Massage

*Valid until 31 May 2017, subject to availability. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.

98

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Scenic Flights Plan on using the BBQ while watching the most amazing sunset with a glass of classic Margaret River wine in hand Visit injidupsparetreat.com.au

YALLINGUP LODGE SPA RETREAT & OM DAY SPA

REVIVE RETREATS SMITHS BEACH

As you’ll no doubt hear when you arrive in Margaret River, ’Yallingup’ means place of love.

This lodge among the treetops is lovingly cared for and its five spa suites are aptly named for the popular varieties of grapes: verdelho, chablis, chardonnay, semillon and shiraz. Large rainwater spas on the verandahs add to the vibe of opulence which is nicely counterbalanced by the natural world of seven acres that surrounds you: you can retreat even closer to nature here by glamping in a tee pee surrounded by a pine forest. This soulful retreat caters to couples, babymoons and – in a nice surprise – recognises solo spa retreat travellers with a tailored package featuring yoga, reiki, bush walks, spa treatments and more.

Visit yallinguplodge.com

Sarah and Katie deliver a five day getaway which will recharge you with coastal hikes, yoga, surfing lessons, pilates, meditation, seminars and cooking lessons – who’s in?! Their program is designed to bring back balance through nourishing the body, getting back into shape, ditching the diet, breaking bad eating habits and kick starting new healthy life – all taking place in and around the gorgeous Smiths Beach Resort,Yallingup. A maximum of 10 participants on each retreat ensures personalised attention.

With a gentle emphasis equally on mind, body and soul, the ladies will rebalance and reinvigorate your zest for life.

Visit reviveretreat.com.au

WINDMILLS BREAK

The attention to detail in the rooms and décor is exceptional and chefs and chefettes will love being a locovore in the Margaret River region and returning from a day’s adventure to cook up a storm in the expansive Caesar stone kitchens then set it all out in the delightfully private outdoor entertaining area. Expect to greet kookaburras and inquisitive kangaroos.

Visit losariretreat.com.au

If you’re looking for something intimate (but with lovely spacious rooms) this property on Caves Road will match your expectations perfectly.

This luxury boutique retreat takes its name from the stunning local surf beach near Yallingup. In total, there are 13 luxurious rooms, suites and apartments wrapped around 10 acres of beautiful, tranquil gardens with delightful walking tracks.

If you have energy to spare, there’s a swimming pool, spa, and tennis court, but if you are in retreat mode, take advantage of their inhouse treatments and massages, including a Huna massage which is 60 minutes of soulful, spiritual and reconnection.

There are some terrific restaurants nearby, and Windmills Break has a fully licensed bar with a snack menu available.

Visit windmillsbreak.com.au

GILGARA RETREAT This replica of an 1870 station homestead provides B&B accommodation within the homestead and in garden suites. Its charming homestead, manicured gardens and rolling green lawns are very popular for weddings and events. Guests will enjoy the picturesque setting – expect to take lots of photos! Breakfast is fresh and local and the open fireplace in the lounge room of the homestead is delightful on

with Westward Aviation Charter Services

cooler evenings. While the Gilgara offering does not presently include treatments, the spa baths set in the luxury bathrooms of the garden suites deliver a level of pampering to luxuriate in.

Visit gilgara.com.au

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.

LOSARI WELLNESS RETREAT

Westward Aviation

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

STOP PRESS Your Margaret River Magazine can reveal that one of the region’s classic properties, Willy Bay Resort, have recently changed their name to Eight Willows Retreat.

The repositioning reflects the current level of offering at the 24 room chalet-style accommodation which is situated on 75 acres of native parklands half way between Busselton and Margaret River. Visit eightwillowsretreat.com.au.

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 margaretriver.com | AUTUMN 2017 99 www.westwardaviation.com.au Conditions apply

ARTS & WELLBEING

R hythm

The region got JAZZ BY THE BAY IS BACK - BIGGER AND BETTER IN 2017 AND READY TO ROCK THE MARGARET RIVER REGION ONCE MORE.

BY JANINE PITTAWAY.

I

t seems fitting that, in its fifth year, Jazz by the Bay is going global, with international acts making an appearance in Dunsborough, Busselton and surrounds for the first time.

This year’s headliners include three musicians from the legendary Buena Vista Social Club orchestra teaming up with popular Perth jazz crooner and musician Adam Hall and the Velvet Playboys, UK-based jazz singer and recording artist Karen Lane with her fourpiece band, and festival favourite the vivacious Cathrine Summers.

Festival director Cindy Wiese said Jazz by the Bay 2017 would expand to four days for the first time.

“Thanks to growing demand, this year’s festival will run from the Friday to the Monday of the June long weekend, and we’re shaping up to have more than 20 artists performing in about the same number of venues across the region.

“Jazz by the Bay turns the heat up in winter,

gets visitors and locals out of hibernation and into some cozy venues to enjoy cool jazz. I’m really excited about the way this year’s program is already looking,” she said.

The Buena Vista Social Club had phenomenal international success 20 years ago when their first album was released, spectacularly reviewed and word of mouth spread around the world. Buena Vista’s irresistible Cuban rhythms did not wane and they continue to sell successfully today.

Three musicians hailing from Cuba – Lazaro Pompa (trumpet), Pablo Calzado (drums) and Camila Cortina Bello (piano) will combine with slick Perth songster Adam Hall and the Velvet Playboys for a night of hot latin and high energy.

The seven-piece band will take on the music of Buena Vista Social Club as well as hit songs from Coldplay, Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Elvis

Adam Hall with the Velvet Playboys

100

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Above, Cathrine Summers; left, Karen Lane

and more, fusing fiery Latin rhythms with pop classics. Wear your dancing shoes!

The Velvet Playboys are regularly invited to perform internationally.

Karen Lane has been based in London for 16 years but hails from Perth originally. She has released five albums to critical acclaim, and she has worked with some of the UK’s finest musicians, performing from Monte Carlo to Cape Town, and in some of London’s premier jazz clubs. She has a versatile style, swinging from jazz standards to bossa nova.

Cathrine Summers has performed at all but one Jazz by the Bay festival and her awardwinning shows regularly sell out thanks to her charisma, on-stage charm, sultry voice and incredible vocal range.

Free and ticketed events are scheduled across the Jazz by the Bay long weekend, indoors and out, catering for all jazz tastes cool cats, swingers, scatters and jivers.

There’ll be all-day free live music at Dunsborough’s Lions Park on Saturday and Sunday, and ticketed daytime, dinnertime and shows late into the night at wineries, bars, theatres and private properties.

Jazz by the Bay provides a complete feast for the senses with many events including stunning local food and wine in the experience.

More acts will be announced in coming weeks and a full program of Jazz by the Bay performances will be available from the event website: jazzbythebay.com.au/ Visit the event’s Facebook page for all the latest news.The festival is made possible thanks to support from City of Busselton,Tourism Western Australia, Department of Regional Development - Royalties for Regions, Retravision and more.

GETTING AROUND

BY COACH TRANS WA Trans WA's trains and road coaches are spacious, airconditioned and fully accessible, with 12 trips to Margs and Perth happening each week.They service more than 240 locations throughout regional WA, and you'll find the new road coaches fitted out with USB charging points and on board entertainment.

Visit transwa.wa.gov.au

WA GETAWAY WA Getaway 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

IN STYLE NEIL 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/

An eclectic collection of wonderful tastes

ESQUIRE CLASSIC CHARTERS 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

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_ @tweetsouthwest @elementsmargaretriver @margaretriver @margaretriver_style @discovermargaretriver @experiencesmith

Modern Australian Cuisine

Arc of Iris Restaurant Open 7 Days from 6pm 151 Bussell Highway, Margaret River WA

FULLY LICENSED

10%off

When you book ahead and mention Margaret River Region Magazine Up to $25 Value

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

102

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

Broadwater Par 3 Golf Course

Mela

leuca

Drive

Geographe Leisure Centre

Dive rsio n

BU

SS

The Good Guys

elly Street

N TO EL

S PA BY

S

Country

Sir Stewart Bovell Oval

1

Busselton Toyota

Busselton Margaret River Regional Airport

BUSSELTON CBD

rd St

rra wa Illa

AD S RO TER CAR

Na

Busselton Senior Citizens Centre

HI GH

lk /

ino Way Mer

Wadan

Rd lley Va

rt wa Ste

R ive

St

or

r

se wa y Rd

au

Donovan St

Farrelly Street

Fearn Ave

loy

Mol

St

100

Rotary Park

metres

200

Davies St

Jackson St

AUGUSTA

Town Jetty

Augusta Boat Hire

Blue Ocean Fish & Chips Augusta Hotel Motel

Georgette Drv

ALL NUT

ue ven e A Tingl

rail le T Cyc

r da

ad yc /C k Ro ar alk Cl W

th be iza El

Road ton ad Bur a Ro ell ns Ki il Tra le

St

B US

T TCE

LEEUWIN ROAD

SE

hW dsbet Hu

a

Fl

i nd

rs

ad e Ro Wis

LL

H IG

W ad an di Tr

ble Ram

ac

HW

AY

Pimelia Drive

e

Dead Finish

Jay’s Beach

Whale Memorial Lookout

RD

Granny’s Pool

Ba y

Flinders Bay Flinders Bay Caravan Park

The Landing Place

TCE

E AC RR TE

e

k

ALBANY

AY ILW RA

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse & Augusta Boat Harbour

Rails to Sails Memorial

oo

Augusta Boat Harbour

Ngilgi Cave

to

outh erm Riv

ie Pl gar Jin

tre eS ak Pe

ad Ro

IFFE WALLCL AD RO

te Tce alis tur Na

CA

ord Giff ad Ro

k

et

ley

Val

PE

Yalling

TU NA

up Bro

Rd Yal ling up

Br

e ll Driv che Mit

ay

RA LIS

ok

TE

ee t O’B rien Str

Southern Ocean orough

up

Rd

CAVES

E ROAD CLIFF WALL

t Wa Freycine

rive in D Baud

e ws Pro

ter es Ch

Bott

Yallingup Beach Rd

CAVES

ay W

a St rn Lo

rill

Street

Z

YALLINGUP

To Dunsb

lling

Ca ves

Ya

Colourpatch

The Colourpatch Lions Fish & Chips Park & Café Onsaburg St Pioneer Memorial

Turner St Jetty

Seine Bay

AL BA Y T N

Turner Caravan Park

AVE

ack

P

Overflow

OD

Halycon

Tr

Rd

WO CK BLA

r pla

di

Skippy Rock

P

Y

To Margaret River

Yallingup Gugelhupf

Yallingup General Store & Café

Turner Springs

P

Skippy Rock Rd

Flinders Memorial

Caves House Hotel

Caves Caravan Park

St

Hardy St

Ellis

Augusta Pharmacy

Hardy Inlet Augusta Bakery & Café Augusta Historical Museum

Our Place Augusta

1

Augusta Airstrip

Deckchair RD Café Seine Bay Apartments Seine on Manning

LVIEW HIL

Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Alouarn Apartments Baywatch Manor Augusta Anchors at Augusta Augusta's Georgiana Molloy Motel Augusta Escape TransWA Skate Park Bus Stop

AY W

Dam 5km >

Ten Mile Brook

The Bou lev ar d

Ave Hillside ntana Lane La

a Pde Victori

AUGUSTA BOAT HARBOUR

kms

Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park

Road

X

Seashells Yallingup

Leeuwin

ELL SS BU

Po

Lilac Link Rose woo d

Wa

lace Hereford P

e Av ne

Av e

Cape Leeuwin

Trails

et

e Av

y

Brook fie ld

400 Smiths & Supertubes

Yallingup Beach Holiday Park

Yallingup Beach Resort

s to Rail

U S S EL L HW Y Humble

200

W

Quarry Bay

metres

Skippy Rock

Old Waterwheel

ca Blv d lalu Me

an

Riverview Tourist Park

MARGARET RIVER

up nn

k Wa

Edwa

B Broo

Ro ad

rles Cha

ive er Dr Hilli

WILLMOTT AVENU E

Ave

Plc Fry

ly

V

t

Y

Edge of the Forest Heritage Trail Lodge

10 Mile

Brewhouse Margaret River

t&

kms

Road

Riverglen Chalets

Wharncliffe Mill Bush Retreat & Eco Tours McQueen Rd

Barrett St

Forest Retreat B&B

Bridgefield Guest House Admiral Stirling Inn The Villa Margaret River

d

rp

Riveresque

ar

lk / Cy cle Rotary Park Ta il Log Bridge The Old Settlement The Hairy Marron Mar g

B W oo

y Wa Elder

Jac ara nda

John Archibald Drive

k Ton

W av er

Noble Grape Guesthouse

Margaret River Chalets

Ai

Ashton Street

Heritage Trails

Blue Ginger Fine Foods & Café

L IA

AD RO UP JID OD Margaret River BO Woodfired Bread Preloved Goods

Ha ll R oa d

To

Bramley National Park

y Aven Chardonna

Bus Stop

Margarets Forest Holiday Apartments

Adamsons Riverside Accommodation

Margaret River Guest House Peppermint Brook Cottages Mann St

Down South Camping & Outdoors Body Club Fitness Centre Cape to Cape Explorer Tours Margaret River Framing & Print Gallery

ay W

Settlers Ridge Organic Wines

U

COWARAMUP

MuKau Giftware & Gallery The Candy Cow Margaret Riviera Gourmet Delights

Moon-Haven Soaps, Lotions & Potions

Bus Stop

The Golden Jersey General Store & Service Station

Bushtucker River & Winery Tours

hin

AY HW

Recreation Lane

Churchill Ave

Merlot Place Vintners Retreat BnB

A

HW

Community Vintages Centre E ST Accommodation RIDG TUNB Grange on Farrelly Margaret Margaret River Forte Leeuwin River ApartmentsResort Hospital Rosewood School Guesthouse Skate Georgette FORREST ROAD Margaret River Recreation Arts & Aquatic Centre Margaret Park Memorial River & School Shire of Augusta School Margaret River Cultural Margaret River Tennis Club Centre ton Ave Margaret River Gloucester Park Walking Cycles & Repairs Ed Scissorhands Hair & Beauty Margaret River Farmer’s Market

Margaret River Tourist Park

School

Margaret River Holiday Cottages

metres 50

100

Go In Style inc Luxury Transport M

ne r La cke Tu

Margaret River Rent A Car

Rose O’Neill Massage Practitioner

Margaret River Lodge

Station House Chalets

200

Pioneer Park

Margaret River Regional Wine Centre

AVE BLA CKWO OD

L

Old Broadwater Farm

Jah Roc Galleries Swings Taphouse & Kitchen

Innetown Backpackers

Australian Lifestyle

The Good Olive

The Larder John Miller Design & Collective

Quality Inn Margaret River

He rmatige Ro ad

BUSSELTON

Sidekick Café

ail AD FE RO LIF LLC WA oop rri L Ka

cle Tr

1

metres 100

T

Pericles St

24

Darby Park Margaret River

River Fresh IGA Settlers Liquor Store

k / Cy

Basildene Manor

Prevelly Wal Beach < To the 6km ELLY

< PREV

ver

S

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

103

MARGARET RIVER CBD

ET RE ST

Elkamo Eat Drink Sleep

The Village

on lyc Ha Way

Cl

Elva Street

25

GE RID NB TU Settlers Tavern & Margaret River Ale Co

Memorial Park Margaret River Antiques

kms

To Meelup Trail

Dunsborough Beach Cottages

Geographe Cove Resort

Dunsborough as Ct Bike Hire hol Nic

rt Ct Bu

ia rn be Hi

Ryans Rd

DUNSBOROUGH CBD

CE

Hillzeez Down South Surf Shop Margaret River Bookshop Margaret River Apartments Stellar and the Chief

Margaret River Hotel

ve Co

Ct aille Lec

R

ain ieft Ch

Bay nn Du Road Naturaliste Charters Christian Meal-Up Fletcher Evviva Café Gallery Acton Southwest Dunsborough Pourhouse Bar & Kitchen Bay Village Resort & Spa

y osb Cr Cl

res nac Rd ee Gr

Armstrong Pl

Pelican Pl

Yahoo Surfboards

Dunsborough Bakery

ksi aC has e B

26

Bus Stop

Riversmith

Fearn Ave

rk St Cla

Bike Shed Dunsborough

Access Fishing

et gn Cy

Regency Beach Club

@ Margs Woolworths Speedway WILLM OTT AVENU E Essential Beauty

Marri Dr

Hakea Way

a Pl nze Ku

CyrilleanWay Artezen Café Restaurant Bar Dunsborough Centrepoint JMW Shopping Centre Nina’s JewelleryReal Estate

Q

CAVES RD

Squidlips Fish’n’Chips Peko Peko Assisi Café Ristorante Occy’s Dunsborough Piari & Co Central Motel Dunsborough Dunsborough ShoeBeDoo Tavern Inn Backpackers Dunsborough Cellars

a Cl aci Ac

e Ct arc Pe

100

Margaret River Backpackers YHA

y Rd a err oni wb Ber Ne Ct

metres 50

Lanterns Retreat

slie Le

il

Tra ycle al k / C

Squidlips Fish’n’Chips

Margaret River Sweet Shop Margaret River Hemp Company

The River Trader

Town Square

P

Cres in Blv d

Central Avenue Apartments Margaret River Gallery

The Foodroom

Acton Southwest Margaret River

Studio 4 on Fearn

Margaret River Fudge Factory

FORREST ROAD

Katch-Up Seafood Grill & More

Arc of Iris

Morries

nta Ala ow Elb

Ma rti ng ale HayDay Dr B&B M as t Cl

win Rd

Body Bliss Margaret River

Margaret River Renewal Clinic Margaret River Prideaus Juice Company of Margaret River Reuther Park

WALLCL IFFE ROAD

Lookout Bay ck W al k Tra

Point M a

O

ive

27

28

29

C a pe

Greek Chapel

Preveli Bus Wines

Ch ud itc h

Georgette W

Narda Ave

Lak Stop Margaret River e Vi Beach Studios ew Cr

Beachside Prevelly Villas

Aquatic Visions Ashley’s Villa Magarita

Surfers Point Rd

PREVELLY

& Canoe Tour

Bombie

Boatramps

N

Dr on

The Box Margaret River Bushtucker CaveC a p

MouthThe Rivermouth

Surfers Point Southside

Indian Ocean

600

GNARABUP The Break Margaret Gnarabup Beach Surf River point Beach ResortHouses White Elephant Beach Café The Common Dr Lookout Margaret’s Riedle Beach Floating Resort Euphoria

metres 300 nters Way Gru ve aduke Dri rm

PREVELLY & GNARABUP

Da ws

Ave

Elsegood

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

30

31

32

Augusta

Gas Bay Rd

RD

Margaret River

Cowaramup

Yallingup

Dunsborough

Busselton

APPROXIMATE

Drive Times Perth

Perth

Busselton

4hrs

3hrs

3hrs

2hrs 30mins

RD

Dunsborough

2hrs 20mins 50mins

Yallingup

30mins 10mins

2hrs 2hrs 3hrs 30mins 50mins

Cowaramup

3hrs 45mins 45mins 45mins 15mins 15mins

1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 30mins 30mins 30mins

30mins 30mins 30mins

3hrs

To make a booking visit avis.com.au or local freecall 1800 679 880

Margaret River

Augusta

Latest model vehicles Wide range to choose from including people movers and 4WDs One way rentals available with unlimited kilometres!

HOLIDAY FOR LESS IN THE SOUTHWEST WITH AVIS

nd Rd Hammo

Leeu

Wardanup Cres

PICK UP YOUR MAP AT THE VISITOR CENTER!

selt on

Beech Drive

HWA Y

ad W

BU

SS

EL Town vie w Tce

ue

Te rra ce

Rail way

Ow en

et

rg ar Ma

Ri Merchant Street

e nu ve dA Mansfiel

H IG LeSoeu f St

EL L

BU SS

D a r c h Ro Cape Walk Cape to

Station Rd

M ar ga

Hi

MAP

ve re t Ri

r

BOO DJID UP RD

map key To

Devon Dri ve

Av e Illa wa rra

Seym our Blvde

> 7km Riv er Ma rga ret

Fearn Ave

FAIRWAY DRIV Slo Lo op op

Sch oon er Cre s

ov ell Ave

To Bus

Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup Cowaramup, Margaret River, Augusta

P l

HIG

Including township maps for

y

guide to the directory 104. STAY

108. FOOD & DRINK

109. ACTIVITIES & ART 111. WINE & BEER 113 . TOURS

45mins

30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins 15mins 1hr

10mins 30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins

45mins

20mins 30mins 30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins

3hrs 4hrs 15mins

DRIVE TIMES

margaretriver.com/app

mobile app from

you’re here? Grab our

Going offline while

NEED INFO ON THE GO? or tablet.

from your smartphone

Visit margaretriver.com

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

SUPERIOR BUDGET ACCOMMODATION SITUATED RIGHT IN THE HUB 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

DIRECTORY 104

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

RAC BUSSELTON HOLIDAY PARK

MULTI AWARD WINNING FAMILY HOLIDAY PARK Centrally located between Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River. Set amongst 8 hectares of natural bushland it’s only a short stroll away from the pristine beach of Geographe Bay. Close to the Wineries, Restaurants, Art Galleries, Fishing, Golf and lots more…. Self-contained one and two bedroom cabins, Studio apartments and budget family accommodation, Wheelchair friendly camping and 1 bedroom cabin, Ensuites sites and Big rig friendly sites, Powered and un-powered sites, Spacious fully-equipped modern Campers Kitchen, New Entertainment Hub – Kids club and special group gatherings.

97 Caves Rd, Abbey, Busselton WA ph 1800 871 570 Busselton info@RACbusseltonholidaypark.com.au Holiday Park RACbusseltonholidaypark.com.au

ASK a LOCAl! Drop in to one of our four accredited visitor centres in Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and Augusta for friendly, expert advice.

STAY

DUNSBOROUGH BEACH COTTAGES

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT ON THE SHORES OF GEOGRAPHE BAY

Set on a beautiful bay and taking in the picturesque South West coastline between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, Hamelin Bay Holiday Park is 15kms north of Augusta and 30kms south of Margaret River. Choose from well appointed camp sites, caravan sites, cottages and cabins.

bookings@hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au Ph 08 9758 5540 • www.hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au

Dunsborough Beach Cottages is situated on the pristine waters of Geographe Bay just 2.5 hours south of Perth. We offer beautifully appointed self-contained 2 & 3 bedroom resort style cottages, including our adults only beachfront cottages.

From here you can walk to the Dunsborough town centre or within a short distance you can experience a range of award winning wineries, galleries and restaurants, making

Dunsborough Beach Cottages the ideal choice for families, couples or anyone looking to enjoy a beachfront escape in the Margaret River region.

Be sure to visit our website for the latest offers and rates.

Ph 08 9756 8885 or freecall 1800 816 885 e dbcottages@netserv.net.au • www.dunsborough-beach.com.au

DUNSBOROUGH CENTRAL MOTEL

Don’t miss out next time DUNSBOROUGH CENTRAL MOTEL IS NESTLED IN A TRANQUIL GARDEN SETTING IN THE HEART OF TOWN 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.

50 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough WA Ph 08 9756 7711 • reservations@dunsboroughmotel.com.au www.dunsboroughmotel.com.au

E: natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au

BIG VALLEY CAMPSITE

JACARANDA GUEST HOUSE

NESTLED AMONGST THE HILLS OF OUR FAMILY OWNED WORKING SHEEP FARM, JUST TEN MINUTES SOUTH EAST OF MARGARET RIVER.

PARK YOUR CAR AND WALK EVERYWHERE

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

Call 0426 752 352

DIRECTORY

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 & cafes, wine bars, supermarket

Contact Natalie to book your space in our next issue of Your Margaret River Region Magazine.

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.

30 West Street, Busselton, WA Ph 08 9751 5973 • jacarandaguesthouse1@westnet.com.au www.jacarandaguesthouse.com

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

105

STAY

PEARL RIVER HOUSES

WISTERIA COTTAGE

SKY, FOREST, RIVER AND SEA. UNFORGETTABLE

REST, RELAX, EXPLORE.

Pearl River Houses is set on five acres of exclusive land in Margaret River and comprises of two short-stay residences, Pearl River House and River Valley Villa.

The location is one of exceptional beauty, with views of the River Mouth and National Park forests.

A truly unique and magical property. www.pearlriverhouses.com.au

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 wisteriacottageaugusta@gmail.com

Get away this winter to www.geographecove.com.au Geographe Cove Resort

Get away this winter to Geographe Cove Resort

Winter Specials from May - Sept Winter Specials Geographe Cove Resort isfrom nestled Stay 7 nights and pay for 5 - Sept among someMay of nature’s most stunning Stay 5 nights and pay for 4 scenery beautiful coastline 7 and nights and for 5at StayStay 3 nights and pay for pay 2* Geographe Bay, Dunsborough. only and pay for 4 Stay*Off5 waterfront nights This collection of luxury self-contained villas, Includes schooland holidays StayJuly 3 nights pay for 2 *

Phone Karen or Tim on Ph: 9756 8700

TAUNTON FARM HOLIDAY PARK & HISTORICwww.geographecove.com.au FUNCTION CENTRE

DIRECTORY

CENTRAL TO THE CAPE TO CAPE REGION Offering friendly service in a relaxing, peaceful, rural environment.

Farm-style cottages, caravan & camping Barn-style campers kitchen.

Farm animals & feeding, kids playground & bouncy pillow.

Weelchair access.

Multiple Tourism Award Winner.

Only 10 minutes north of Margaret River – off Bussell Highway, Cowaramup.

106

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

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

Spacious & Comfortable Cabins + Caravan Sites

some located right on the beach front, can be a *Off waterfront only With cosyescape log fires most villas holiday for romantic forintwo, a fun-filled all of thefamilies creature comforts a and couple or an unforgettable getaway Includes July school holidays you’d expect a resort as log well for a group ofat friends.

Cozy fires, pool and as tennis all thecourt South Westforhas offer an to ideal destination With cosymake log fires in most villasall why not book a Winter Break round. comforts and all today theyear creature

you’d expect at a resort as well Ph: or 08 Tim 9756 8700 Karen on as Phone all the South West has to offer Ph:Gifford 9756 8700 Road,a Dunsborough why87 not book Winter Break E: manager@geographecove.com.au www.geographecove.com.au today

Ph 08 9755 5334 • Freecall: 1800 248 777 enquiries@tauntonfarm.com.au www.tauntonfarm.com.au

SUNFLOWERS ANIMAL FARM & FARMSTAY

Function Centre for 200 plus.

Fully equipped catering kitchen & amenities.

Any unique function at affordable rates with accommodation onsite.

Inspections are always welcome.

www.riverviewtouristpark.com

9757 2270 | 1300 666 105

6 amAzing ATtracTIons tO diSCoveR

THOUSES GH LIStill with their lifesaving purpose from dusk to dawn, Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin

Lighthouses offer the unique experience of going inside and up to the top of a working lighthouse.

Enjoy breathtaking views across the treacherous oceans and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

Learn about the history and listen to stories of unimaginable tragedy and rescue.

VES CA Your Margaret River Region is as spectacular underneath the ground as it is on top. Over 150 highly decorated limestone caves lie beneath the surface of the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge.

Venture inside Ngilgi, Lake, Mammoth and Jewel Caves and be amazed by these massive labyrinths decorated intricately with limestone crystal formations.

Discounted multi-cave and lighthouse packages are available.

Visit margaretriverattractions.com, email attractions@margaretriver.com or call +61 8 9757 7411

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

107

FOOD & DRINK

BARNYARD 1978

pasta factory, casually classy restaurant with cellar door & Barnyard Bees honey store…

12 Canal Rocks Rd, Yallingup WA Reservations welcome 08 9755 2548 Visit www.barnyard1978.com.au for opening hours and menu

CAFE BORANUP

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.

Next to Boranup Gallery.

7981 Caves Road Forest Grove WA 6286 Ph 08 9757 7279 www.cafeboranup.com

EAGLE BAY OLIVES

08 9588 8877 107 BUSSEL HWY (MAIN STREET)

w: www.elkamo.com.au • e: info@elkamo.com.au COCKTAILS + TAPAS + FOUR HOTEL SUITES

GABRIEL CHOCOLATE

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.

Open 10.30-5.00 Friday, Saturday & Sunday.

Also open Monday public holidays.

Check our Facebook page for the latest news.

521 Cape Naturaliste Road, Eagle Bay WA Ph (08) 9755 3188 eaglebayolives.com.au

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 single-origin, 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

DIRECTORY

With wines from both Margaret River &

With winesSouthern, from bothpicnic Margaret River & the Great lawns flanked the Great Southern, picnic lawns flanked by native marri & karri trees, a visit to our by native marri & karri trees, a visit to our Cellar Door is a truly unique experience.

Cellar Door is a truly unique experience.

Howard Park & MadFish Winery

Howard Park & MadFish Winery 543 Miamup Road, Cowaramup 543 Miamup Road, Cowaramup Open 10am--5pm 5pmdaily daily| |08089756 9756 5200 Open 10am 5200 www.burchfamilywines.com.au www.burchfamilywines.com.au

108

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

WA's Own Icecream

FOOD & DRINK | ARTS & ACTIVITIES WA's Own Icecream

With over 60 flavours of delicious icecream made on the premise, sundaes, hot waffles and coffee.

There is something for the whole family!

Kids can go crazy in the adventure playground or challenge the whole family to 18 holes of mini golf.

THE LARDER

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN GELATO AND SORBETTI Authentic Italian gelato and sorbetti made in-store by owner Andy using natural ingredients. Dairy & gluten free flavours available.

Opening hours Open Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri (10am - 5.30pm) Weekends (10am-9pm) 32 Queen Street, Busselton WA Ph 08 9751 1477 / gelatobuonissimo / gelatobuonissimobusselton

Enjoy a BBQ or picnic in the shady landscaped gardens.

fish 'n' chips with a gourmet twist THE PERFECT TAKE-AWAY OPTION FOR THE BEACH OR THE RIVER. ENJOY SOME TODAY!

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

Guiding you to awaken & elevate your consciousness for leading an inspired life catordcoaching.com

Guiding you to awaken e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching & elevate your consciousness for leading an inspired life Guiding you to

161 Commonage Road Dunsborough

08 9755 3745

www.simmos.com.au

catordcoaching.com

awaken & elevate your e catordcoach@gmail.com

THE MARGARET RIVER REGION’S

BEST OCEAN VIEW

squidlips is a must do for lovers of high quality seafood, delicious chips & fresh, healthy salads.

f fb.com/catordcoaching consciousness for leading

an inspired life catordcoaching.com

DIRECTORY

www.squidlips.com.au

e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching

DUNSBOROUGH Ph: (08) 9759 1799 Dunsborough Centrepoint Shopping Centre Shop 27A, 55 Dunn Bay Rd

OPEN 7 DAYS BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au

MARGARET RIVER Ph: (08) 9757 9§a960 Settlers Tavern Arcade 118 Bussell Hwy

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

109

ARTS & ACTIVITIES

ARTS MARGARET RIVER

THE DIVE SHED

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS

MARGARET RIVER CULTURAL AND EVENTS CENTRE The major arts and entertainment venue in the region.

• Weekend cinema screenings & school holiday matinees.

• Foyer Gallery Exhibitions.

• Live performances.

Visit our website for information and ticket purchases.

Try scuba diving – no experience required. Learn to dive, sunset cruises, dive charters, equipment hire, sales and servicing.

The Dive Shed, 21 Queen Street Busselton Ph 08 9754 1615 diveshed@compwest.net.au www.diveshed.com.au

9758 7316 (Mon-Fri 10am to 4pm) • 51 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River www.artsmargaretriver.com

MARGARET RIVER GOLF CLUB Bookings are essential

STREATER GALLERY IS A MUST SEE

PLAY AROUND IN MARGARET RIVER 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

ARTGEO CULTURAL COMPLEX

DIRECTORY

WHERE ART AND HERITAGE MEET 4 – 7 Queen Street, Busselton • 9751 4651 • artgeo@artgeo.com.au www.artgeo.com.au

110

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

John Streater Fine Furniture Open: 10am to 4pm. Closed Fridays.

Ph 08 9755 1211 105 Blythe Road, Yallingup Siding streatergallery@bigpond.com www.streaterfinefurniture.com

John Streater has been a pioneer in the West Australian art industry for over thirty years. His bespoke furniture is showcased alongside other internationally recognised artists at his gallery in Yallingup Siding.

Directory

ARTS & ACTIVITIES | WINE & BEER

YALLINGUP SURF SCHOOL

SKYDIVE GERONIMO

WA’S BEST BEACH SKYDIVES

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.

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! The adrenaline starts pumping as you leave the aircraft, securely attached to your instructor and free-falling at 200km/hour for up to 66 seconds, before safely landing on one of the beaches along the famous Busselton Foreshore. Celebrating with a complimentary drink!

Ph: 0429 881 221 info@yallingupsurfschool.com yallingupsurfschool.com

Ph 1300 449 669 skydive@skydivegeronimo.com.au www.skydivegeronimo.com.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER SURF AND LIFESTYLE ACADEMY

Buy your copy of Artists of the Margaret River Region at any visitor centre.

OPEN 7 DAYS GREAT SUMMER SPECIALS COUPLE’S SUITES MASSAGE & FACIALS RELAX LOUNGE

pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au BOOKINGS 08 9756 9160

DIRECTORY

RI M A RG A RET

LH WY

d Bre we E R Bo rn & V

Y

THERE’S A CHEEKY SIDE IN ALL OF US,

let yours run wild!

SEL

B

ER & CI D Y R E REW

BUSSELTON

BUS

C NKEY MO

DUNSBOROUGH YALLINGUP

C AV E S R D

HEEKY

AT CHEEKY MONKEY WERE BLESSED WITH AN IDYLLIC LOCATION ON THE FAMOUS CAVES ROAD. IT’S A LOCATION THAT AFFORDS THE KIND OF SPACE THAT LETS KIDS PLAY FREE WHILST YOU RELAX, KICK BACK AND ENJOY A LONG LUNCH. OPEN FROM 10AM TO 6PM. LUNCH SERVED FROM 11.30AM TO 3.30PM WITH PIZZAS AVAILABLE TIL 5PM EVERYDAY.

GRACETOWN

PREVELLY

COWARAMUP

ROSABROOK MARGARET RIVER

4259 CAVES ROAD, MARGARET RIVER, WA, 6285 | PHONE: 97 555 555 | WWW.CHEEKYMONKEYBREWERY.COM.AU

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

111

WINE & BEER

Cape GraCe

CELLAR DOOR ONLY SINGLE VINEYARD WINES LIMITED PRODUCTION BASKET PRESSED REDS

JAMES HALLIDAY 281 Fifty One Road, Cowaramup T: 08 9755 5669 | Open Daily

www.capegracewines.com.au

Killerby Cellar Store featuring premium Margaret River wines & local produce.

Visit Killerbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cellar Store (adjoining Cheeky Monkey brewery) for a friendly, informative wine tasting.

The store features a range of local and interesting gourmet produce including

Margaret River cheese, truffle products, chocolates, Hobo & Hatch scarves and jewellery, lifestyle books, wine accessories and much more. Mention this ad to receive 10% discount.

4259 Caves Road, Wilyabrup WA 6280 Tel. 08 9755 5983 www.killerby.com.au

caves DIRECTORY

Discover an ancient wonderland at Ngilgi, Mammoth, Lake and Jewel Cave.

To book drop into your nearest visitor centre or call: (08) 9757 7411

112

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com

TOURS

CAPE TO CAPE TOURS LUXURY MARGARET RIVER PRIVATE WINE TOURS Choose from premium sedans, people movers, stretch limos, mini buses 12 to 24 seater and limobuses.

We take you where want to go or we can help you prepare an itinerary.

Sample amazing foods, wines and breath taking scenery in comfort and style.

Half day and full day tours available.

Private Wine Tours, Scenic Tours, Weddings, Airport transfers.

GREAT RATES & SERVICE at Bunbury, Busselton & Collie Oneway Rentals (to Perth) available

M 0427 294 212 • Ph 08 6595 3232 bookings@capetocapewinetours.com.au www.capetocapewinetours.com.au

Call 1800 679 880

To make a booking visit avis.com.au Wine tours & Charters 2015-A00073

Best value winery tour in the Margaret River region

INCLUDED

All

this for .

..

98pp

$

.

to 5.30p

ail

10

y

FULL DAY 30 TOUR D am m

• Pick-up and drop off to your accommodation • Pre booked wine tastings at 5 award winning boutique Margaret River wineries • Delicious platter lunch and beer taste at unique micro brewery • Top quality chocolate sampling

HALF + FULL DAY

Wine & Scenic Tours

• Local cheese and produce tasting

PLUS

VOL 3 | ISSUE 3 | APRIL 2016

• Complimentary bottled water • Personal wine tasting record and pen • Mystery raffle • Email group photograph

PROPERTY • LIFESTYLE • IDEAS

FREE –

Take me home!

VOL 3 | ISSUE 3 | APRIL 2016

PROPERTY • LIFESTYLE • IDEAS

Ooh la la!

Simon & Nicole White M: 0428 179 729

FREE –

Take me home!

VOL 3 | ISSUE 3 | APRIL 2016

MANU'S STAGE SHOW COMES TO PERTH

WA’S LATEST PREMIUM PROPERTY LISTINGS

PO Box 1089 Busselton, WA 6280 E: cellardortours@bigpond.com W: cellardortours.com.au

PROPERTY • LIFESTYLE • IDEAS

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

FREE –

Take me home!

Wine Tastings Brewery Visit Chocolate & Cheese Factory Venison Farm Local Knowledge Gourmet Lunch (full day tour only)

www.cheerstours.com

9757 2270 or 0419 916 792

Ooh la la!

JESTERS FLAT

MANU'S STAGE SHOW COMES TO PERTH

WA’S LATEST PREMIUM PROPERTY LISTINGS

Ooh la la!

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS PREMIUM PUBLISHERS PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

MANU'S STAGE SHOW COMES TO PERTH

WA’S LATEST PREMIUM PROPERTY LISTINGS

DIRECTORY

Page turners for brands.

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS PREMIUMPUBLISHERS PREMIUM PUBLISHERS Page turners for brands.

181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008. Ph 08 9273 8900. Visit premiumpublishers.com.au turners for brands PagePage turners for brands.

181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008.

Ph9273 08 9273 8900. Visit premiumpublishers.com.au 26 John Street, Northbridge, WA 6003 | Ph 08 8933.

Professionally guided HORSE RIDING TOURS, suitable for all abilities. From forest treks to beach rides, we have a premiumpublishers.com.au horse riding adventure just for you.

181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008. Ph 08 9273 8900. Visit premiumpublishers.com.au 1549 Rosa Brook Rd, Margaret River Ph 08 97574 562 bookings@jestersflat.com www.jestersflat.com /JestersFlat

margaretriver.com

|

AUTUMN 2017

113

TOURS

MARGARET RIVER BUBBLES TOUR

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.

Tel Mark on 0437 618559 margsbubblestour@hotmail.com

www.margaretriverbubblestour.com

MARGIES BIG DAY OUT BEER & WINE TOUR

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

Margaret River WA

MARGARET RIVER TOURS

. affordable . quality .

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.

Margaret River Food & Wine Tours phone: 0417 948 933 email: vintagetours@bigpond.com www.winetoursmargaretriver.com.au

Ph 0419 917 166 info@margaretrivertours.com www.margaretrivertours.com

DIRECTORY

4 Wineries (one sells beer) 9.45am to 1pm or 1.30pm to 5pm

Your itinerary or ours 4 - 7 - 13 - 24 Seater Vehicles Perth Airport to the Margaret River Wine Region and return

AUTUMN 2017

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

5 Wineries (one sells beer) 1 Brewery Olive Oil/Chocolate/Cheese Lunch with 100ml comp beer Bottle water supplied Bottle of wine for lucky winner

114

Book your spot in the winter issue

|

margaretriver.com

l Hot Dea r e do a Riv ur to & Wine ff! o get $40

Be S st tat Gu e W id in e& n To er ur s!

‘Best day out in years’

Margaret River

River & Winery Tours 2015 / 20 16

ls dividua uples in lcome! o c , s ie es we Famil - all ag groups

&

s. ed Estate d renown ! e Visit worl m elco All ages w

Gourmet Wildfo od lunch on river tour!

Enjoy spectacula r wineries on our tour

Unique Aust

ralia lunch at a winery

, river to

, cliffs Beaches

with boutique Craft Breweries beer tastings!

ers s and be m wine iu m e r p r Taste 30 Margaret Rive of

GOURMET WINERY & BREWERY TOURS: Enjoy 40 Margaret River tastings at corporate, boutique and iconic Estates, chocolate & cheese company plus unique Australian Winery lunch. Pickup all hotels Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River. 10am - 5pm daily.

sea!

Bring th e camer a-best d ay out in years !

Brilliant fun memories on Margaret River

CAVE, CANOE, BUSHTUCKER TOURS: A scencic adventure on crystal clear Margaret River, explore caves, river & cliffs and enjoy wilderness, wildlife with authentic wildfood lunch. Meet your experienced guide at Margaret River Mouth 10am - 2pm daily.

Tours include gourmet lunch • 10am daily - $100 per person

Book 8am - 8pm 0419 911 971 www.bushtuckertours.com 2017 115 | margaretriver.com

AUTUMN

Grab a ticket at www.bushtuckertours.com.au/pay

116

AUTUMN 2017

|

margaretriver.com