Your Margaret River Region Magazine - Spring 2016

magazine 04 | SPRING 2016

FREE TAKE ME HOME

The Great Outdoors explore the wonderful world of glamping

H OW TO M A K E T H E M O ST O F T H E S O U T H W E ST ’ S FO O D I E E XT R AVAGA N ZA margaretriver.com

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ore ise. es, a m r u t a mprom e o f c e t r o u itho with m built w ghter ’s i l t I g . k 240 ology techn e. Now y t im stop. e t f a s don’t of it ed s c u d n o a a y e v h d ad when 7 is a kpit an star ts Audi Q c s o w s c e e l n n a l vir tu great The al terior, e that n v i

e i s l u e o , we b spaci t Audi a e s u B ec a

r e v e n s ’ e r u t . u f d o e o h g T o s d e k o lo

udi A w e All-n

Q7.

Visit Audi Centre Perth or audicentreperth.com.au to book a test drive.

337 Harborne Street, Osborne Park | Tel. 9231 5888 MD22023. MRB4146.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

magazine Published by PREMIUM PUBLISHERS Freemasons Hall, 181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008 (08) 9273 8933 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Gabi Mills gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au

Editor’s Letter D

own south - it's a phrase which makes every muscle in my body relax and, in this issue, it’s a phrase which will also make your mouth water.

That’s because we’ll soon be welcoming the world’s greatest cooks and chefs to the Margaret River region for the Margaret River Gourmet Escape. This little patch of paradise will shortly take centre stage as globally famous foodie stars like Nigella Lawson, Rick Stein and Adam Liaw head here to share their knowledge with thousands of visitors to the event. Read our special extended feature about how to make the most of this unique weekend in November.

If you’d rather head down south for adventures, we’ve got plenty of those too, from glamping to horse riding, spotting wildflowers to joining a cultural tour.

There’s so much to do in spring that we guarantee you’ll find something to ignite your passions in the region, just like top chef and ex-Margaret River local Matt Stone who shares his top places to visit.

We hope you enjoy your time down south and that it makes you hungry for another visit.

DESIGNER Alyssa Karvinen alyssa@premiumpublishers.com.au SALES MANAGER Natalie du Preez (0426 752 352) natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au PHOTOGRAPHIC Elements Margaret River elementsmargaretriver.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Dianne Bortoletto, Norman Burns, Carmen Jenner, Mia Lacy, Sarina Lewis, Matthew Mills, Janine Pittaway, Sarah Szabo, Mark Wahlsten.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES sales@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. ©2016 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!

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PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

WHAT YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION GOT UP TO IN

ly the most nuts Yeeewww! Probab ever seen beautiful scene I’ve

Beef farmer Tom Tat e

Winter

Room with a view! Great little shot on the way up to the top of #CapeLeeuwinLighthouse

t is NOT two Believe it or not tha er. eth images merged tog Margaret River Just another day in

just as the sun Stopping at Cosy Corner rainbow, on ect comes out to form a perf Bay the way back from Flinders

Birds of Margaret River. Spotted Pardalote

Jewel Cave - just awesome!

We know Going bush at #jestersflat. of outdoor winter can rule out lots riding activities, but not horse

We'd love to see your instagram pics!

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

Images by: @discovermargaretriver; @johannahamil; @margaretriver; @elementsmargaretriver; @elementsmargaretriver; @discovermargaretriver; @margaret_river_expozed_tours; @jestersflatequestrian

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84 56 Calendar

What shall we do today?

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10 gourmet escape special

16-27

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Eat & Drink GOURMET ESCAPE SPECIAL

16 18 21 22 23 25 26 27

Bliss Out Celebrate the Grape Table Talk Village People Jack the Lad Star Struck Brunch Buddies Meet Mauro

28 Ground swell - it’s coffee’s turn to shine in the region 32 Spring has sprung - enjoy the new season’s menus 36 Hoppy days - celebrate Oktoborfest at local breweries 40 Food for all - our round-up of five of the best

Wine & Wineries

44 Voyage of discovery - a new menu launches at Voyager Estate 45 Raise a glass - celebrating 30 years at Howard Park

Nature & Environment

46 Gardens of delight - discover the region’s secret gardens 48 Wild at heart - where to see the most beautiful wildflowers 50 Watching brief - join the whales in their natural habitat

Active & Adventure

52 Tree change - our awe-inspiring forests, ready to explore 54 Kids’ play - what to do these school holidays 56 The mane event - see the sights on horseback 60 Glamping it up - enjoy camping, with a touch of luxury 64 Sites for sore eyes - the best campsites in the region 66 Perfection to a tee - enjoy a round of golf and views to match 70 My Down South Getaway - chef and Margs local Matt Stone

Arts & Wellbeing

72 Local Hero - meet the team behind Vasse Virgin 74 Cape crusader - join a cultural tour on the cape 78 In the public eye - where to find outdoor art in the region 82 Heal yourself - meet the local new age practitioners 84 Patch perfect - Maureen Munro’s gorgeous quilts MAP & DIRECTORY Places to stay, eat, drink and visit - our handy business directory Stay...................................................................................................................................................................................88 Food & Drink...................................................................................................................................................... 92 Activities & Art .............................................................................................................................................. 94 Wine & Beer........................................................................................................................................................ 96 Tours................................................................................................................................................................................98 margaretriver.com

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TO DO LIST

What shall we do today?

GET LOST

PICK A PRESENT

While you’re wandering around the beautiful hedge maze at Amaze’n, see if you can spot birds, butterflies, bees and bobtails in the beautiful botanical gardens. Then why not practice your putting at the 18-hole mini golf or have a game of giant chess?

If you’re looking for a unique gift to remind you of your visit to the Margaret River region, head to MuKau in the heart of quirky Cowaramup.

The giftshop and gallery is packed with gorgeous homewares, jewellery, cushions, lamps and ceramics. And if you want a cow-themed present, you’ve come to the right place.

Amaze’n, 9978 Bussell Highway, Margaret River.

Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday and five weeks during mid-winter), open New Years Day 11am-5pm. Call (08) 9758 7439 or visit amazenmargaretriver.com.au

MUG SHOT Got a sweet tooth? Head over to Gabriel Chocolate for free tastings of the day’s freshly made chocolate. They’re WA’s first bean-tobar chocolate makers, turning raw cacao beans into single-origin fine chocolate. The little café offers delicious chocolatey treats - try the white chocolate coffee. It’s to die for.

Gabriel Chocolate, 5 Quininu Road,Yallingup.

Call (08) 9756 6689 or visit gabrielchocolate.com.au

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Mukau, Unit 2/69 Bussell Highway (enter off Bottrill Street), Cowaramup. Call (08) 9755 9922 or visit mukau.com.au

PACK A PICNIC Tis the season to eat outdoors and where better to pick up delicious gourmet provisions than Margaret River’s The Larder? Try one of their picnic bags for two, which comes complete with eco-friendly cutlery, plates and napkins. We love the Lovers Romance hamper - tuck into French triple cream brie, lavosh crispbread, Holy Smoke chicken paté, antipasti and chocolate-dipped strawberries ($60).

The Larder, 2/99 Bussell Highway, Margaret River.

Call (08) 9758 8990 or visit larder.biz

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

SHELL OUT

TIE THE KNOT

One of the most unusual places to visit in the region is the Bellview Shell Collection in Witchcliffe. You won’t find anything like it anywhere in Australia, and the collection, a labour of love put together by owners Peter and Kathy, has examples of stunning shells from all over the world. And how long does it take to dust the entire collection? We’re told seven years...

If you’ve fallen in love with somebody AND also with the Margaret River region why not say ‘I do’ at Flutes, one of the most beautiful venues in the area? Set in the picturesque Brookland Valley Vineyard, overlooking the Wilyabrup Brook, you’ll lose your heart to this very special place. And complementing the natural beauty, François has created a range of menus to suit every occasion, from brunch to exclusive receptions, from cocktail party style to a more relaxed and intimate affair.

Bellview Shell Collection, 10291 Bussell Hwy, Witchcliffe. Open 9am to 5pm, Friday to Wednesday.

Call (08) 9757 6342.

Flutes, 4070 Caves Road,Wilyabrup.

Call (08) 9755 6250 or visit flutes.com.au/weddings-margaret-river

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

TAKE A TOUR Whether it’s just the two of you or a group of 24, the friendly team at Cape to Cape Wine Tours have a vehicle to suit. “It’s not all about the wineries,” says Jason. “We can tailor-make a tour to suit you, whether it’s a foodie-focused one, a brewery tour or even a multi-day tour.”

Cape to Cape Wine Tours, call 0427 294 212 or (08) 6595 3232. Visit capetocapewinetours.com.au

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

wine@arimia.com.au

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INCREDIBLE

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t’s a wonderful fact that the Busselton Wildflower Exhibition has been held by the Uniting Church for the past 90 years, showcasing some of the many wildflowers growing in the south west corner of Western Australia.

It’s the perfect opportunity to see the region’s extraordinary wildflowers all in one place when you don’t have time to ‘go bush’.

The exhibition is presented in an interesting and informative way, with individual specimens of flowers and orchids displayed with their botanical names, creating interest for both amateurs and experts alike. In addition to the fabulous display of wildflowers, there are other points of interest along with varied stalls and displays.

Throughout the two days they will be serving teas and lunches and you’ll have the chance to purchase local produce and crafts.

Busselton Wildflower Exhibition, Busselton Uniting Church, 47 Kent Street, Busselton, September 18 from 9am to 6pm and September 19 from 9am to 5pm, $10 (adults), $6 (pensioners).

Call (08) 9752 3304 for information.

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

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SEPTEMBER

Image by MORRIES/DRIFTWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY.

COME SEE

A BRAND NEW collaborative lifestyle event, See World, kicks off this year with the very first in a series of six events bringing Paces, Palace, Ricky Green and more to Black Brewing Co. The events aim to bring the best of the South West together for some amazing sessions over the spring/summer period.

With live art by Aidan Lee Smith (left), Chloe Wilder and Jack Bromell, the first See World session promises to be a barnstormer for lovers of live entertainment and the arts.

Each session will be a showcase of the best local talents in a live format whether that be musical, visual, brewing, wine making, culinary specialties etc, while making each session feel unique. There will be a Triple J-played Australian live electronic artist capping off each event with their own lighting and production show. The amazing craft beer, wine and food for each session will change according to each venue.

See World, September 17 from 5pm to midnight, Black Brewing Co., 3517 Caves Road, Wilyabrup, $59, 18+ only, discounted travel ($20 return) available from Gannaways Tours & Charters.

Visit seeworldsessions.com.au

Motor mouth Catch Henry Rollins live on stage in one of only three shows in WA. As a solitary traveler with an insatiable curiosity, Henry has toured the world as a spoken word artist, as frontman for both Grammy Award-nominated Rollins Band and Black Flag, favouring road-less-traveled locales in places such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Siberia, North Korea, South Sudan and Iran and now back to Australia. Described as “the prophetic punk rock motor mouth with the ability to leave his followers with plenty to think about”, this is one show not to be missed.

An Evening with Henry Rollins, September 25, 8pm, Margaret River Cultural and Events Centre, $55.Visit artsmargaretriver.com Image by MAT HAYWARD.

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CALENDAR

OCTOBER

Open house

D

uring September’s long weekend, Bruce and the friendly team at Domaine Naturaliste are throwing open the doors once again, inviting visitors to discover a working winery, have a tour, meet the winemakers and taste the winery’s range of award-winning wines.

FROM THE OLDEST culture on earth, comes the freshest and funniest stand-up comedy around. It’s the all-original Aboriginal Comedy Allstars showcase – featuring four of the brightest comedy stars under the Milky Way. It doesn’t get more Aussie than this - the Aboriginal Comedy Allstars is cheeky, playful, irreverent, and hilarious. An utterly unique comedy experience – great, big belly laughs from the heart of the wide, brown land.

Suitable for age 16+.

Aboriginal Comedy Allstars, Arts Margaret River, September 29, 7.30pm. Call (08) 975 7316 for details.

Funny bones

Domaine Natrualiste Wines, 61 Hairpin Road, Carbunup River, September 24 and 25. Free tours with the winemaker at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.Visit domainenaturaliste.com.au for further information.

ENJOY TEN INDULGENT Yum Cha inspired dishes by Vasse Felix Executive Chef Aaron Carr and team, accompanied by Vasse Felix wines. Held in the Vasse Felix Art Gallery (home to the celebrated Janet Holmes à Court Collection),Yum Cha at Vasse Felix is an annual sell-out event. Chef Carr demonstrates his flair and expertise for cooking fresh, modern dishes incorporating Eastern flavours and techniques with locallysourced produce.

Vasse Felix Art Gallery, Caves Road (Cnr Tom Cullity Drive), Cowaramup, October 16, $95 per person, 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Visit vassefelix.com.au to book.

ALE AND HEARTY

E

verybody’s favourite amber nectar - beer - is celebrated at this year’s Oktoberfest. With local and Perth bands hitting the stage from 5pm, and the chance to dress up in your best Bavarian gear, it’s a fun day out for everybody, whether you’re partial to a drop or not. Beer will flow all day in the German Beer Hall big top with food vendors ready and waiting to soak up all those frothy steins. Think German sausages, German Flame Cake, pretzels and ginger biscuits; what’s not to love, meine liebling?

Oktoborfest 2016, Barnard Park, Cnr Milne Street and Marine Terrace, Busselton, October 15, gates open from 2pm until 10pm.Tickets from $54.90.Visit events.ticketbooth.com.au

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RIDING HIGH (AND LOW)

FROM SMALL BEGINNINGS back in 2008 when the Cape to Cape MTB included 100 participants, to this year’s event which is expected to top last year’s 13,000 competitors, the event now holds the title as Australasia’s biggest MTB multistage endurance race.

This major mountain biking event in the south west ticks all the boxes, showcasing the gorgeous countryside and giving riders one of the greatest challenges of their lives (not least to avoid getting lost along the way at the local wineries).

The team from Cape to Cape MTB have created a four-stage

course (around 220km in length), with various stages ranging from 40 to 70km, and have ensured the course will suit all levels of mountain bike riders. With a mixture of fire trails, tarmac, farmland, forest trails and even beach, this is the race you’ll never forget, whether you’re in the saddle or cheering on from the sidelines.

Cape to Cape MTB, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse starting point and surrounds, October 20 to 23. Visit capetocapemtb.com for further information.

Goosebumps a-plenty

T

his is one Halloween activity only for the bravest! For the first time ever, the Yallingup Maze will be open after dark, for a very special night of fear and fun. Challenge yourself to make your way through the maze, but be warned, there are plenty of lost souls who would love to see you struggle!

Come with your family or put together a team of friends and test yourself and your orientation skills in this 16+ event.

Nightmare Maze,Yallingup Maze, October 28 -29, 6.30pm - 10pm.

Booking is essential. For more info yallingupmaze.com.au

STREATER GALLERY IS A MUST SEE

Phone 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.

Open: 10am to 4pm. Closed Fridays. margaretriver.com

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CALENDAR

NOVEMBER

On the road

A

ustralia’s largest Pro-Am road cycling tour hits the tarmac once more as the Tour of Margaret River takes place from November 11 to 13.

The unique Pro-Am format of the tour means that amateur cyclists can compete with riders from the pro tour across some of the most spectacular stages that Australia has to offer.

With 100 teams participating annually, the Tour of Margaret River is one of the largest competitive road cycling events in Australia, which, from its inception in 2009, has grown to draw some of the biggest names in cycling to the region.

In 2016 the tour again heads out into the winding and undulating roads of the greater Blackwood Valley. Over the next few years, these scenic roads and the rural hamlets that they connect will help elevate the Tour into a must-do event on the Australian Cycling Calendar.

Margaret River Tour, November 11 to 13, various locations in the Margaret River Region. Visit tourofmargaretriver.com for more information.

pasta magnifico

JOIN PASSIONATE FOODIES Siobhan and Carlo at their Yallingup base as they help you prepare delectable Tuscan treats in their Taste of Tuscany Cooking School.

Siobhan trained as a chef under Neil Perry in Sydney and met Carlo in the Italian town of Cortona where he ran his own traditional Tuscan restaurant. In 2003 the couple returned to Siobhan’s family business at Wildwood Valley Cottages.

Relax and enjoy the Wildwood team’s expert and inclusive instruction followed by a feast. Perfect your technique at home with a full set of take-home recipes.

Bring your friends or make some new foodie connections.

Classes are limited to 10 participants and include four hours of hands-on practical demonstrations and instruction, a five-course feast to celebrate your achievements and recipes to take home.

Taste of Tuscany class, Wildwood Valley, 1481 Wildwood Road, Yallingup. Visit wildwoodvalley.com.au for availability. Call Julie or Vicki or (08) 9755 2120.

Don’t miss...

Dunsborough SongFest NOV 11 TO 13 dunsboroughsongfest.com.au

Race ready T

he biggest race over the Act-Belong-Commit Augusta Adventure Fest weekend, the Augusta Adventure Race, offers a brand new course and prize money allocation for the anticipated 1,800 competitors.

The 58km race in Augusta has long held the crown as the world’s biggest adventure race in terms of numbers on course, and always draws maximum participation within days of launching a call for entries. It’s the perfect mix of true wilderness and unspoilt landscapes that attracts so many returning racers - it’s as good as adventure races can get right here in the Margaret River region.

Individuals, pairs and relay teams mean that the race attracts

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finely tuned athletes and weekend warriors alike and, new for 2016, the organisers will be providing equal emphasis to relay teams and individuals with a total prize pool of $18,000 including new on-thespot $500 cash prizes for the fastest leg splits for each discipline.

For spectators it’s fun all the way through the weekend as competitors pit their wits against the main Adventure Race, the Mini Adventure Race and the popular Junior Survivor tracks which last year attracted 900 energetic kids.

Augusta Adventure Race, November 5 and 6, Colourpatch, Albany Terrace and surrounds. For full details visit rapidascent.com.au/AugustaAdventureFest

foodie HEAVEN

IT’S ARGUABLY THE most anticipated foodie event of the region and this year, the Margaret River Gourmet Escape is bringing one of the world’s most popular cooks – Nigella Lawson – to the region. The weekend-long event promises one of the world’s most impressive festival line-ups of chefs, wine and food personalities for its fifth year, and with the UK’s favourite TV chef and food writer, Rick Stein (pictured) and Nigella Lawson taking centre stage, it’s an occasion not to be missed. To find out all about some of the extraordinary events read our special Gourmet Escape extended feature from page 16.

Gourmet Escape, November 18 to November 20, various locations around the Margaret River region. Visit ticketek.com.au/gourmetescape for full details.

DISCOV E R AN ANCI E N T WONDE RLAND

CAVES Your Margaret River Region is as spectacular underground as it is on top. Venture below to discover the caves of the region, each uniquely decorated with natural crystal formations.

The more you cave, the more you save!

Discounted multi-cave packages are available.

Visit margaretriver.com or call (08) 9780 5911 to plan and book your trip.

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EAT & DRINK

Social sundowners: Part of the pleasure of the Margaret River Gourmet Escape is the chance to make new like-minded friends over a glass of something local.

Bliss Out

M A K I N G T H E M O S T O F T H E G O U R M E T E S C A P E I S A N A R T I N I T S E L F S AY S M I A L AC Y, B U T M A K I N G U N F O R G E T TA B L E M E M O R I E S I S A S E A S Y A S P I E .

I

Stunning settings: The Fraser Gallop Estate (above) is just one of the majestic venues at this year’s Gourmet Escape.

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t’s November 2015 and 20 minutes before service of Leeuwin Estates’ Art Series Degustation Dinner and I’m in the kitchen boggling at the number of plates set aside for a six-course event.

We are lucky enough to be on a behind-thescenes tour – guided by no less than Leeuwin founder Denis Horgan. This is my first time at the Margaret River Gourmet Escape, I’ve long considered Leeuwin Estate to be hallowed ground, and I’m finding it difficult to suppress my excitement.

I catch Denis Horgan’s eye.

“My first husband proposed to me over a bottle of your 1984 Art Series chardonnay,” I say in a rush.

His eyes twinkle. “Mia, wine is memories,” he smiles.

And the degustation we enjoyed to follow made more marvellous memories. I recall noting

that the plating of the Albany asparagus entrée was visual symphony.

Bespoke, handcrafted experiences such as this one are integral to Gourmet Escape, and the region’s most revered brands extend themselves to create them in a festival that just keeps improving.

In three days time, I would return to Leeuwin for the food and wine finale, the Gourmet Village, but before then there was a program to devour.

The event’s program itself is a masterpiece.

This year, organisers and sponsors have pulled together no less than 40 culinary superstars from around the globe to celebrate the festival’s fifth anniversary.

Audi, which parks firmly in a presenting sponsor position, is joined by Singapore Airlines and the Western Australian government. And with superstar support from a line-up of legends

Taste buds: What will you try at this year’s Gourmet Escape?

led by culinary queen Nigella Lawson, you just know it’s going to be another über year for Margaret River’s Gourmet Escape.

Part of the festival’s great charm is that the program enables guests to engage with the event at their own level of style and budget.

At the top end, there are exclusive packages of accommodation, transfers and event tickets – think twilight jazz, long-table dining, an epicurean cruise in Geographe Bay and access to the Leeuwin Platinum Lounge at the Village.

For a more grass roots encounter, the seafood discovery lunch presented at Augusta Boat Harbour will deliver just-caught abalone and lobster accompanied by preparation and cooking tips from the fishermen who land them.

If you would enjoy getting to know the guest chefs, then an event like Voyager’s Brunch with the Best, which is a conversational cuisine journey, will suit. Or perhaps exploring and consuming wine and food casually is more to your taste.

Vasse Felix successfully takes its unique style on the road at Bar Felix, Gourmet Village, where their wine makers and sommeliers present wine school sessions and free wine tastings with lashings of grazing food.

Many visitors to the festival go no further than the Gourmet Village, which for two days brings the best of delectables together in one place. In many ways, this is the ultimate way

to discover the renowned region’s flavours and tastes with top restaurants, winemakers, brewers and food producers all exhibiting and selling their wares backgrounded by cooking demos and masterclasses from the international and national luminaries who love to attend this event.

The program’s plethora warrants a close study and a plan – best devised over a glass or two of Margaret River’s finest with those accompanying you.

I was savoring one of the best moments at the Art Series event dinner – when the entire kitchen brigade come out dressed in fresh whites to be introduced and appreciated – when Denis Horgan appeared at my side and enquired what wine memory I associated with my now husband.

“Ah well, when we met, he owned a vineyard in Geographe and produced a singular and spectacular SSB,” I responded happily.

Whatever you do to create memories at Gourmet Escape, make the most of your visit to the Margaret River region and inhale it all - deeply.

Escape for a walk along a section of its postcard perfect 1,000km coastline, check out the local artisans’ pottery, jewellery, painting and sculpture, or simply visit a local farmer’s market and just buy stuff – it will be awesome.

Visit gourmetescape.com.au for tickets.

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

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EAT & DRINK

Celebrate

THERE’S PLENTY TO ENJOY AT GOURMET ESCAPE IF YOU’RE AN OENOPHILE (THAT’S A WINE LOVER TO YOU AND ME). HERE’S OUR PICK OF THE CROP.

T H E

CAPE MENTELLE INTERNATIONAL CABERNET TASTING & LONG LUNCH

Guests will also take home a bottle of Cape Mentelle’s yet-to-be-released 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon. If this isn’t the ultimate celebration of wine (and food) we don’t know what is.

WHEN: November 18, from 10am PRICE: $600 per person

VOYAGE TO DINNER PRESENTED

BY SINGAPORE AIRLINES

FOR WINE LOVERS and aficionados, this

exclusive celebration of all things cabernet is the showstopper wine event of the Gourmet Escape weekend.

The event is held in the beautiful rarefied surroundings of Cape Mentelle’s cabernet cellar and gardens. This year guests will be joined by special guest wine speakers James Halliday, Joe Czerwinski and Tyson Stelzer among other local and international wine media.

The day begins with an elaborate ‘blind tasting’ of 20 exquisite cabernets from vintage 2013 (which by all accounts was a cracker year for Margaret River reds) across three brackets.

The world’s finest cabernet-producing regions will feature including Bordeaux, Napa, Tuscany, Coonawarra and of course Margaret River.

Following the morning tasting, palates are refreshed with a flute of Veuve Clicquot champagne in the winery’s native gardens, before moving into the long lunch embracing exceptional Margaret River produce expertly matched to the stunning cabernets from the tasting.

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G R A P E (Wildflower, Perth) and pop-up curator and forager Fervor’s Paul Iskov to create a menu focusing on the simplicity and flavours of Western Australia’s stunning produce, accompanied by some of the region’s finest wines. This welcome dinner includes a Q&A with headline festival guest Nigella Lawson, hosted by Magdalena Roze.

WHEN: November 18, 6.30pm PRICE: $300 per person

GRACE MY TABLE

WORKING WITH THE renowned Voyager

WHEN: November 18, 2pm PRICE: $200 per person

Estate chefs, Ashley Palmer-Watts brings his produce-driven cooking and his unique focus on British culinary history into play for an exclusive dining event accompanied by premium Voyager Estate wines. The evening will end on a sugar high as Singaporean dessert chef Janice Wong from 2am: dessertbar brings her cutting edge creations to the table.

LOCAL ORIGINS AT VASSE FELIX PRESENTED BY AUDI WHEN: November 18, 6.30pm PRICE: $310 per person VASSE FELIX CHEF and home-grown talent, Aaron Carr will be joined by Jed Gerrard

LATE SPRING IS a magical time of year at Grace

Farm, when the land bursts into life after the chill of winter. What better time of year to enjoy a long table lunch prepared by Chef Paul Salmeri accompanied by Grace Farm wines? The Perth-born chef studied worked in Florence and Sicily before making his way to London, where he worked at the River Café (yup, where Jamie Oliver cut his teeth). He has now made Perth his home and his support for sustainably grown, local and seasonal produce matches Grace Farm’s approach to winemaking. Chef Salmeri has designed a four-course menu that complements Grace Farm wine, drawing on the best local spring produce and Italian-inspired cooking to provide a sumptuous and unforgettable meal.

HOWARD PARK 30TH ANNIVERSARY WHEN: November 19, dinner at 6.30pm OR

November 20, lunch at noon PRICE: $300 per person IN CELEBRATION OF its 30th vintage in 2016 Howard Park Wines is hosting an intimate, exclusive dining experience at their exquisite Wine Chapel. This stunning venue on their Margaret River estate overlooks the Wilyabrup valley and is surrounded by towering marri and karri trees.

Front man Scott Pickett of Melbourne’s top dining gems – Estelle by Scott Pickett and the more casual Estelle Bistro - joins forces with ubercreative Paul Iskov, who harnesses foraged and native produce to give diners a truly unique experience.

Together Pickett and Iskov will create a rare and intimate feast, focusing on the finest of Margaret River’s local produce and pairing this with the finest of Howard Park wines - it’s a celebration after all.

CRENN COLLABORATION AT WILLS DOMAIN

HEYDON ESTATE VERTICAL TASTING

WHEN: November 18, 6.30pm PRICE: $320 per person

WHEN: November 19, 11am PRICE: $55 per person

THE BRILLIANCE OF one of the world’s leading chefs, Dominique Crenn will combine with the dynamic talent of rising star Seth James, head chef at Wills Domain. This creative duo will deliver a dining experience like no other in the winery’s prestigious Gunyulgup Valley restaurant overlooking rolling vine-covered hills. Hosting its first Gourmet Escape event, Wills Domain will pair each dish with their finest wines. Not to be missed.

JOIN HEYDON ESTATE for an exclusive vertical tasting of their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon WG Grace, presented as a vertical tasting side by side in Riedel glassware. The tasting includes the last six releases of WG Grace Cabernet Sauvignon, winner of a trophy at the Margaret River Wine Show and Golds at prestigious shows such as Royal Melbourne. There will be a limited opportunity offered to purchase back vintages. continued over /

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 | SPRING 2016 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 Hallowed ground: Howard Park's Wine Chapel will welcome guests for a series of events at Gourmet Escape.

SUNDOWN SOIREE AT FRASER GALLOP WITH NIGELLA LAWSON WHEN: November 19, 4.30 to 7.30pm PRICE: $150 per person PICTURE THIS: THE sun setting across the vines

of Fraser Gallop Estate; a glass of award-winning chardonnay* in your hand; a generous offering of mouth-watering canapés by Hadleigh Troy (of the innovative and acclaimed Amusé in Perth), and the mellow sounds of a live jazz band.

The perennially popular Fraser Gallop Sundown Soiree gathers the best elements of the Margaret River region all in one place, and includes a highlight Q&A with festival special guest, broadcaster and best-selling cookbook author Nigella Lawson.

Dress up and make a very special night of it at one of Margaret River Gourmet Escape’s not-tobe-missed events. * The 2013 Chardonnay won the trophy for the “Best New World Chardonnay” at the London Sommeliers Wine Awards in May.

LEEUWIN ESTATE ART SERIES DINNER WHEN: November 19, 6.30pm PRICE: $280 per person JOIN GUEST SPEAKERS, Ashley Palmer-Watts

and Tyson Stelzer for one of the Gourmet

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Escape’s most anticipated events at Leeuwin Estate. Ashley joined Heston Blumenthal at The Fat Duck in 1999 and is now the Group Executive Chef of Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, working side by side with Heston Blumenthal to create the historic Britishinspired dishes that feature on the menus of the London and Melbourne restaurants.

Tyson Stelzer is a multi-award winning wine writer, television producer, presenter, wine judge and international speaker, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for fine wine and champagne.

the region’s most popular and charming wineries will be a meeting of minds and magic.

Drink in the ocean views while you sip award-winning Wise wines made under the direction of Western Australian winemaking supremo Larry Cherubino.

A WISE TASTE OF ITALY

IF YOU MISSED one of the hits of last year’s Gourmet Escape, don’t worry, they’re doing it again this year.

Wills Domain is continuing its Cuvée Collaboration lunch featuring their top-shelf wines and the talented combination of head chef Seth James with one of his best mates Casey Wall, head chef at Melbourne’s much-lauded Rockwell and Sons and part owner of Bar Liberty in Fitzroy.

It will be a long lunch degustation like no other, compered by The Australian’s respected restaurant critic John Lethlean.

Tickets include canapés plus a five-course degustation lunch matched with Wills Domain Cuveé d’Élevage wines, and transport to and from set points in Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River.

WHEN: November 20, noon to 4pm PRICE: $250 per person WISE WINES OCCUPIES one of the most enviable locations in the entire Margaret River region, with elegantly designed buildings and grounds peppered with sculptures, and sweeping views over natural bushland to Geographe Bay and beyond.

Visiting chefs Riccardo Camanini from the Michelin-starred Lido 84 on Lake Garda in northern Italy, and Mitch Orr from ACME in Sydney, will join forces with Wise Vineyard Restaurant’s Heath Townsend to create a memorable feast using local produce but inspired by all things Italian.

With Camanini’s culinary star firmly on the rise and ACME renowned for its intriguing reinvention of Italian classics, this lunch at one of

CUVEE COLLABORATION WITH ROCKWELL’S CASEY WALL WHEN: November 20, noon to 4pm PRICE: $280 per person, transport included

For all ticket packages, visit gourmetescape.com.au

INTERNATIONAL CABERNET TASTING AND LONG LUNCH

Table talk

JOIN ANA ROS AND DOMINIQUE CRENN, C H E F S AT T H E TO P O F T H E I R R E S P E C T I V E G A M E S , F O R A U N I Q U E E V E N I N G AT H A P P S W I N E R Y T O V I E W T WO E P I S O D E S O F N E T F L I X ’ S C H E F ’ S TA B L E D O C O S .

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wo of the stars of Season 2's hugely popular Netflix Chef’s Table documentary series will host a special outdoor screening at Happs Winery on Saturday 19 November for this year’s Margaret River Gourmet Escape presented by Audi.

Self-taught Slovenian chef Ana Ros from Hisa Franko in Slovenia’s Soca Valley, and recently crowned 2016 World’s Best Female Chef Dominique Crenn, chef/owner of Atelier Crenn and Petit Crenn in San Francisco, will introduce two Chefs Table episodes in which they feature.

The evening will provide guests with an exclusive opportunity to hear first-hand their experience in being involved in Chef ’s Table and to discover their culinary inspiration and paths to success in a Q&A format following the screening.

Presented by Happs Winery in conjunction with Netflix, this is a unique opportunity to hear from the stars of the show in the winery’s beautiful gardens, which will be transformed into an open-air cinema for the evening.

Netflix’s documentary series Chef’s Table, now in its second series, goes inside the lives and kitchens of six of the world’s most renowned international chefs. Each episode focuses on a single chef and their unique look at their lives, talents and passion from their piece of culinary heaven.

Created by David Gelb, this culinary documentary series exposes the best-kept food secrets through to the most celebrated kitchens.

With Ros’ zero-kilometre approach to her food and Crenn’s drive for visionary creativity, the event is sure to inspire and stir emotions for both the hosts and audience, providing guests with the chance to have their own behind-thescenes experience of the popular show.

This will be the first time both Ros and Crenn have visited Western Australia and Crenn said she was looking forward to experiencing the region.

“Gourmet Escape and Margaret River has been on my bucket list to visit and I am so excited that this year I will be there to see and explore this beautiful region for myself; discovering its produce and people will be at the forefront of my trip and I can’t wait.”

This is Happs Winery’s Margaret River Gourmet Escape event debut. Happs is one of the region’s prettiest wineries and cellar doors.

Growing 30 grape varieties, Happs producing a number of interesting and lesser-known varietals as well as the wines and styles for which Margaret River is famous.

Happs is located on Commonage Road in Quindalup, near Dunsborough. The event starts at 6.30pm and there are two ticket packages available - $45 for the general admission and $100 for VIP entry which includes food, a halfbottle of Happs wine and preferential seating.

Happs Winery will also be one of the 130+ artisan producers at the Gourmet Village, the heart of the Margaret River Gourmet Escape.

FRIDAY 18 NOVEMBER An elaborate ‘blind tasting’ of 20 cabernets from the world’s finest cabernet producing regions including Bordeaux, Napa, Tuscany, Coonawarra and of course Margaret River, followed by a sumptuous long lunch embracing exceptional Margaret River produce.

This year we will be joined by special guest wine speakers James Halliday, Joe Czerwinski (Wine Enthusiast USA) and Tyson Stelzer amongst other local and international wine media.

Join us for a celebration of the world’s finest cabernets and a unique Cape Mentelle Experience.

Strictly limited tickets ($600) available via: www.gourmetescape.com.au

Visit gourmetescape.com.au for more information on this and the other exciting events.

Cape Mentelle Vineyards 331 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River T: 08 9757 0888 E: info@capementelle.com.au www.facebook.com/capementelle margaretriver.com | SPRING 2016 21 www.capementelle.com.au

EAT & DRINK

VILLAGE PEOPLE

S

ituated within Leeuwin Estate Winery’s stunning grounds, a visit to the Gourmet Village can easily consume a full day with so much to see, do, taste, hear and enjoy.

It’s a place to meet with friends and local food and wine producers, and enjoy listening to and watching a full program of guest chefs presenting in a variety of both large scale and intimate formats. It’s also a place where you can experience the best tasty treats and temptations of the Margaret River region in one convenient location.

If you think you’ve been and done the Gourmet Village or other food festivals before… think again!

This year there will be some terrific new themed areas within the Village, a greater variety of free events plus plenty of places to kick back and soak up the atmosphere only a food event of this calibre can create.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy a day at the Village and it pays to plan ahead. Before you arrive, check out all of the options available online. Here are some to get you started.

• Within the Gourmet Village is the Leeuwin Platinum Lounge with access to the winery restaurant providing local specialities prepared at interactive food stations and two glasses of complimentary Leeuwin Estate wine; • The Escape Garden, which is a private enclosure with seating, complimentary drinks and toilets; • Book signings by top visiting chefs including Nigella Lawson, Rick Stein, Adam Liaw, Peter Gilmore and more; • Margaret River premium wine tastings in the exclusive Leeuwin Estate Art Gallery; and • Bar Felix - a sophisticated retreat fusing food and wine by Vasse Felix, and including a mini wine school with their award-winning winemakers.

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The Chef ’s Theatre and Gourmet Greats stage, included in the entry price, has a full program of live cooking demonstrations and Q&As all weekend by some of the world’s best chefs – including the Margaret River Gourmet Escape’s guest chefs who are rated in the top 50 restaurants in the world. The likes of Nigella Lawson, Joan Roca, Mauro Colagreco, Rick Stein, and Andrew McConnell will share their hints, tips and secrets.

Also free to enjoy is Consuming Conversations, a series of thought-provoking subjects all about food, featuring the event’s guest chefs and food and wine experts.

Sweet tooths and keen bakers are in for a tempting treat with new dessert-making masterclasses on the bill for 2016.

Lurpak is bringing back its free flavourmatching masterclasses; and if you’re into beer and cider, include the Gourmet Brewhouse in your day’s itinerary! Meet the brewers and sample some of the best local beers and ciders from the region.

If you’re an Audi customer, you'll have exclusive access to their lounge overlooking the Village, with VIP parking, fast track entry, complimentary beverages and reserved seating.

Tickets start at $40 for Gourmet Village entry and then village currency can be purchased to enjoy gorgeous pop-up restaurant meals and drinks prepared by Margaret River chefs. Think truffles, locally-farmed lamb, pork, and beef, and local seafood just for starters.

Twelve of WA’s finest restaurants including Leeuwin Estate, Print Hall, Xanadu and Vasse Felix will be offering delicious dishes for visitors to try.

There are also plenty of free tastings of stunning local produce and beverages. Local chocolate, coffee and tea, nougat, honey, locally produced meats and cheeses, truffles, spices and more will be on hand from 130 to 150 exhibitors – many of whom will be making their Gourmet Village debut. There are likely to be approximately 70 wineries exhibiting with more than 150 wines to try. There’s plenty to buy and take home too so empty the larder and stock up.

At the heart of the Margaret River Gourmet Escape presented by Audi is the Gourmet Village.

Clairault Wine Dinner An evening withMike Mike Bennie Bennie An evening with Gourmet Escape Fringe Event Date: Saturday, 5th November 2016, 5pm till Late

Gourmet Escape Fringe Event Venue: Clairault Estate, 3277 Caves Road Wilyabrup Tickets: $150 per person—Limited Numbers

Celebrate Clairault’s 40-year history with a guided wander in the oldest block of vines, planted in 1976, with viticulturist Chris Gillmore.

Chat to chef Allan Allsop in his vineyard-kitchen garden and discover his unique style of shared plate cuisine Get the insider knowledge during the wine tasting from the worldly wine critic and judge Mike Bennie [Gourmet Traveller Wine, delicious. Magazine, The Wine Front.com.au] before all the pieces come together with a three course dinner with matching wines.

Sat, 5th November 2016 5pm till Late

Transport is included from Margaret River and Dunsborough Visitor Centres.

book online: www.clairaultstreicker.com.au

Clairault Estate 3277 Caves Road Wilyabrup 5 Red Star Winery - James Halliday’s 2017 Wine Companion

$150 per person

Limited Numbers

facts

THE GOURMET VILLAGE is open from 11am to 5.30pm on Saturday 19 November and Sunday 20 November.

Find out the latest on offer at .gourmetescape.com and pre-purchase and print your tickets to enjoy a fantastic foodie experience only the Margaret River region can produce. Tickets are $40 prepurchased from ticketek.com.au, or will be available at the gate for $50 on Saturday and $45 on Sunday.

Book online

clairaultstreicker.com.au Celebrate Clairault’s 40year history with a guided wander in the oldest block of vines, planted in 1976, with viticulturit Chris Gillmore.

Chat to chef Allan Allsop in his vineyard-kitchen garden and discover his unique style of shared plate cuisine.

Get the insider knowledge during the wine tastng from the worldly wine critic and judge Mike Bennie [Gourmet Traveller Wine, delicious. Magazine, The Wine Front. com.au] before all the pieces come together with a three course dinner with matching wines.

Transport is included from Margaret River and Dunsborough Visitor Centres.

Buses are available to pre-book from Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Augusta and Margaret River.

Visit southwestcoachlines.com.au/mrge for more information.

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EAT & DRINK

Jack’s the lad

He’s the son of one of the world’s most popular chefs, and will be joining dad Rick Stein at this year’s Gourmet Escape. Dianne Bortoletto chats to Jack Stein.

Image by DAVID GRIFFEN PHOTOGRAPHY.

W

hile the name Jack Stein is starting to become recognised by Australian foodies, the 35-year-old has already carved quite a name for himself in his native England. He has pedigree too, growing up in the hospitality industry thanks to his well-known seafood-loving father, Rick Stein.

Jack started as a kitchen porter during school holidays at Rick’s The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow, Cornwall, before moving to front-ofhouse, then onto the pans cooking, working his way up in the family business in between studying for a BSc in Psychology and an MA in Ancient History at Cardiff University.

Since 2013, Jack has run the family business as executive chef, overseeing the company’s pub, cookery school and restaurants in Cornwall and beyond, as well as its brigade of about 100 chefs.

His passion for food was instilled in him at an early age, influenced by family holidays exploring different cuisines of the world: Australia, India, Thailand and Singapore to name a few. Adult Jack further explored his love of travel and world food. He went to Paris to stage (intern) at La Régalade, travelled to Australia for an extended stay at Tetsuya’s in Sydney, and then on to stage at Michel Bras, the three Michelin-

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starred restaurant in Aubrac before exploring the Far East and Japan.

He’s looking forward to travelling to Western Australia’s south west for this year’s Margaret River Gourmet Escape.

“This’ll be my fourth trip to Margaret River.

I really like it there - I’ve been twice on surfing holidays, and went last year for my first Gourmet Escape,” says Jack.

“What I find interesting is the main town and all its little food outlets. People in Margaret River are genuinely interested in wine, food, and importantly, where their food comes from. There’s a buzz about food in the town, even when the Gourmet Escape isn’t on. I think Margaret River is great example of the provenance movement; it has the perfect combination of local agriculture, climate, green pastures, lifestyle and wine. And surfing!”

Jack says he’s definitely bringing his surfboard with him when he visits in November.

“I’m looking forward to loads of things, to start with the drive down, I like it. Then the first Gourmet Escape event we’re doing is a talk – Brunch With The Best at Voyager Estate – which will be about working in a family business. For me, that’s going to be really interesting to hear

from other people and their experience, and also to listen to Dad talk.

“Once he gets going, he’ll talk and talk and tell people stuff that he doesn’t tell us kids. All us kids work in the family business, so from a personal point of view, I’m really looking forward to that.”

Sharing the panel with Rick and Jack is revered Melbourne chef Guy Grossi with his son Carlo.

“The Audi Beach BBQ on Castle Bay Beach on Sunday is set to be great as well. I reckon by then everyone will be relaxed, humming, I’m looking forward to it,” Jack says.

Most of all, Jack says he’s looking forward to a glass of Margaret River chardonnay.

“I love Leeuwin Estate and Cullen’s chardonnays. I love that Margaret River chardonnays are bold, full of character, - they really stick it to the French!” he quips.

“Moss Wood cabernet sauvignon would have to be my favourite – I’d also really like a glass or rather a magnum of that when I get there.”

Jack Stein is one of 40 culinary superstars to feature at the fifth Margaret River Gourmet Escape.

Star struck

She’s one of the world’s most recognisable faces and for one weekend in November, Nigella Lawson will experience the Margaret River region’s glorious foodie treasures for the very first time.

it takes

time to craft

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he’s a household name and an internationally recognised television chef, so it’s no surprise that tickets for events with Nigella Lawson’s name next to them at this year’s Margaret River Gourmet Escape have been in high demand.

Guests will get the chance to experience this first hand with Q&A discussions, ‘audiences with’ and book signings.

Speaking before the event on Sunrise recently it’s clear she’s as excited about her very first visit to Western Australia as the rest of us.

“I’ve always wanted to go to Western Australia, I haven’t been there and everyone sings the praises of the produce there,” she said.

“The thing about Australian food generally is that I think it’s got a vibrancy and freshness and originality which is not fancy, it’s direct and honest but works. If you like eating as much as I like eating, that’s something you appreciate.”

The mother of two will no doubt return from her visit with a brand new collection of ideas and recipes to inspire her next bestseller.

What, though, are the top ingredients Nigella is looking forward to savouring in November?

“I think the two things that inspire me particularly is eating food that I maybe haven’t come across before and I know that WA has very exotic (well, for me), yabbies and marron (something I don’t have access too).

“I’ll eat those and then think, how can I translate that and cook it back home?”

It’s not just the chance to try new ingredients however.

The ever-sociable Nigella is also looking forward to talking to like-minded foodies and fans who live and breathe creating exciting menus and taste sensations, often clutching their wellloved Nigella cookbook in their hands, ready to be signed.

“I think exchanging that love for food and communicating about food, that is fabulous, that is inspiring.”

It would be unthinkable too to visit Margaret River without working your way through some of the top wines of the region, she says.

“I have had some fantastic white wines from Margaret River, all these things I can’t get in the UK. So I’m there, I’ll be on the beach, I’ll be on the boat, I’ll be in the forest, I’ll be in the vineyard, so I’m going to be in as many beautiful places as possible.”

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

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Brunch BUDDIES

Pull up a chair with some of the world’s best chefs as they share their secrets over brunch at Voyager Estate.

By JANINE PITTAWAY.

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hat drives the world’s best culinary talent? What are they passionate about right now? From where do they draw their inspiration?

Find out at Brunch with the Best at Voyager Estate when some of the world’s best culinary talent sit down together for an open discussion in an inviting and unpretentious environment.

Three different sessions across the Margaret River Gourmet Escape presented by Audi weekend will debate trends, controversies and hot topics in the world of food and wine.

Much-loved English seafood chef and restaurateur Rick Stein works with his three sons in the Stein food empire. Jack Stein will join his dad for a chat about the secrets to family business success in the high-pressured restaurant world. With them will be one of Australia’s leading authorities on Italian food, Guy Grossi accompanied by his son Carlo Grossi. Theirs is one of Melbourne’s most highly respected Italian food families started by Guy’s father Pietro. Food Families is on Friday 18 November from 11am to 12.30pm.

Sowing the seeds for a great culinary discussion on Saturday 19 November (10.30am to 12.00pm) will be three incredible chefs who share a passion for the source and provenance of their food. Mauro Colagreco (read more opposite), Ana Roš, and Peter Gilmore will be talking Nature, Earth and Terroir. Colagreco

draws inspiration from his backyard farm and Mediterranean restaurant location. Roš is influenced by her restaurant’s kitchen garden, a ‘zero kilometre’ approach plus the influences of Slovenia’s surrounding countries. Passionate gardener Gilmore searches the world for new and unusual seeds cultivated for his restaurants.

You can’t get much bigger than the talent in the final Brunch session. Joan Roca, Andoni Luis Aduriz and Dominique Crenn will share what food means to them and how they are influencing global cuisine. Roca was named Chef ’s Choice from the World’s Best 50 Restaurants list in 2016 and his restaurant El Celler de Can Roca placed #2 in the list.

Aduriz’s restaurant Mugaritz is named #7 of the World’s best 50 Restaurants and Crenn was named World’s Best Female Chef in 2016. Hear their wisdom at The Masters of World Cuisine on Sunday 20 November from 10.30am to 12.00pm.

Located in the beautiful gardens of Voyager Estate, Brunch with the Best is the perfect start to a day’s Gourmet Escape. Enjoy a delicious brunch prepared by Voyager chefs accompanied by tea, coffee, juices and the Estate’s sparking wine.

For more information and to book visit gourmetescape.com.au

Top table: Brunch With The Best gives the audience the chance to get to know their foodie heroes at Voyager Estate.

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Meet

M AU R O

Halliday Wine Companion 2017 10th Consecutive Five Red Star Rating Top 10 Best Value Wineries

He’s head chef at one of the world’s best restaurants - Mirazur in the Côte d’Azur, France - but for this first-time visitor to the Margaret River region, Mauro Colagreco just can’t wait to sample the region’s specialities.

YMRR: What do you know about the

Margaret River region’s produce and what are you looking forward to trying while you’re in the area?

MC: I had the opportunity to visit

Australia before and cooked in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef on a sand bank for 20 people, but I’ve never had the chance to visit the western side of the continent. I have heard that it’s quite magical and the landscape is completely different from the rest of Australia. I’ve heard from my friend chefs who went to MRGE before that the produce is sensational – everybody raves about the fresh water crayfish, the marron, and the dhufish. Then those beaches….wow! I simply can’t wait.

YMRR: Describe the kind of menus you’re creating at Mirazur – and what are the current trends in European dining rooms?

MC: This is quite a difficult one. People

often struggle to categorise my cuisine because it’s not French, it’s not Italian or Argentinean. They say it’s very flowery and earthy. It’s about the freshness, the product and simplicity, but that’s just my opinion. I have a huge passion for vegetables though and they play a key role in my dishes. I start creating a dish while I’m in the garden. When I see a beautiful vegetable - the different colours and smells - it immediately inspires new ideas or combinations, as things come into season together. I start by writing it down on paper, then taking the ideas into the kitchen, to see if they work out.

I like to work with vegetables at different stages of ripeness too. I can create a whole new dish using the same vegetable with only two or three days difference in picking. The sun here ripens things very quickly during the summer months.

YMRR: What Argentinian influences do you bring to your cooking style?

MC: I am Italo-Argentinean living in the

south of France. That’s quite a good mix,

and I guess being Argentinean means I’ve inherited a great respect for produce. I’d say my cuisine is most heavily influenced by the position of Mirazur. It’s southfacing position allows me to grow an abundance of citrus fruit and harvest my own tomatoes (I have 50 varieties!) and vegetables, combined with a repertoire of over 250 fresh local herbs and flowers.

Also, with the Italian border just 30m from my front door, I have the pick of the markets on the Ligurian coast on the Italian side and the Côte d’Azur on the French side.

YMRR: Is it important to you to continue to win awards and strive to be at the top of your profession? Do you enjoy mentoring the next generation of chefs working for you?

MC: It is important to strive in whatever

the job you do, always giving 100%.

This profession requires huge sacrifices and dedication, but it can give you a lot back. To be a chef, you must be driven by passion. Recognitions and awards will come after. I like to keep going with what I do and to continue stirring excitement in my team - what goes around it comes around, right? The new generations are essential and mentoring is a complement to training. I think mentoring is key to the future because it teaches young chefs the importance of going back to basics and to understand the importance of humility in this business.

YMRR: What do you enjoy about attending events like the Margaret River Gourmet Escape? Meeting fellow chefs?

Meeting foodie fans? Discovering new areas of the world?

Cellar Door Open Daily 10am to 5pm

Escape sounds like a completely different event from the usual chef congresses.

Tastings BYO Picnic Wine by the Glass

See Mauro at Brunch With The Best on November 19.

Visit gourmetescape.com.au

205 Rosa Brook Road Margaret River

MC: Margaret River Gourmet

stellabella.com.au - 9758 8611 -

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Ground swell

First there was wine…then craft beer and gourmet produce…then distilleries…now it’s coffee’s turn to shine in the Margaret River region.

By NORMAN BURNS.

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o doubt about it - the coffee scene in the Margaret River region is booming.

Groovy little boutique coffee shops and cafes are springing up all over the place; whereas once you pretty much had to pack a Thermos on a trip down south to ensure you got a decent coffee, 2016 tells a different story altogether.

I first got into coffee in Seattle in the early 90s; the Washington state city is, of course, where mega-chain Starbucks first began. Starbucks wasn’t the only game in town; if you walked down to the Pike Place Market one-man coffee stands were literally lining the street every dozen or so metres.

Nine years in Melbourne pretty much cemented my working regime; not much meaningful can happen until after that first, sweet, brew.

A great coffee shop is much more than just a place to get a drink; it should be a social hub, the spark to get the creative juices flowing. The difference between a good, great or downright horrible coffee is in the hands of the barista but also the origin of the bean, the method in the roasting and a whole lot more.

Baristas are artists and food engineers; and in many cases there’s also a confessional aspect to

chatting with your favourite coffee maker. Oh, the tales they could tell . . .

Now the Margaret River region is not as cosmopolitan as Seattle, Melbourne or New York - yet. But the choice, and quality, of the coffee available is certainly reaching the same heights as that served in those wonderful cities and Perth.

“Just as our region is famous for its wonderful wines we are finding an increasing following of coffee drinkers looking for that same breadth of flavours from their coffees,” says Yahava KoffeeWorks’ marketing manager David Bassett.

Yahava could rightly claim to be the pioneer of the Margaret River coffee movement.

It was founded in 2001 by coffee lover and Yallingup resident Alex Kok (who also goes by the sobriquet the Koffee Baron) who was pining for the great roasted coffee of his native Europe.

After exploring the world’s great coffee growing regions, Alex brought back samples to his Yallingup home, experimenting with different roasts. Thus was born the Yahava KoffeeWorks; Alex is no longer involved in the day to day running of the business, which is now franchised (Harriet and Don Stocker own the Margaret River establishment and there is a KoffeeWorks in Singapore and the Swan Valley).

From the outset, Yahava set out to be more than just a coffee “shop”; it is a veritable coffee “theme park” and tourist attraction in its own right, aiming to spread knowledge - and love - about one of the world’s most popular non-alcoholic drinks (according to 2014 statistics, Finland is the world’s biggestper-capita coffee market, with an average of 1,252 cups drunk annually).

“We have built our Yahava KoffeeWorks to entice budding and seasoned coffee explorers to Image by COMBI COFFEE

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Brewed awakening: Founded in 2001, Yahava could rightly claim to be the pioneer of the Margaret River region’s coffee movement.

ESTATE AND RESTAURANT

fast facts YAHAVA KOFFEEWORKS

Cnr Rosa Brook & Bussell Hwy, Margaret River (08) 9757 2900, yahava.com.au MAKER ESPRESSO

8/35 Dunn Bay Rd, Dunsborough COMBI COFFEE

Augusta Boat Harbour, combi.margaretriver!@gmail.com ALBERT & NIKOLA

Shop 14/28 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough SIDEKICK CAFE

5/110 Bussell Highway, Margaret River (08) 9757 2398 LIFECYKEL Image by ELEMENTS / YAHAVA KOFFEE WORKS.

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

lifecykel.com.au

facebook.com/rivendellrestaurant

1172 WILDWOOD 29 | SPRING 2016 RD YALLINGUP PH: 08 9755 2899 margaretriver.com

EAT & DRINK

begin their own personal coffee adventure,” says David. “On our tasting benches you can explore different coffee and teas for free. We also explain in lay terms exactly what to look for in a coffee and identify what are your taste preferences.”

Yahava isn’t resting on its laurels either.

“To help with the explosion of orders we’ve had to build a specialist roastery in Vasse to supply a growing number of discerning cafes and restaurants throughout WA,” says David.

“And later this year we’ll be opening the long-awaited Brewing Academy in Margaret River Yahava KoffeeWorks. Here fans will be able to taste differently brewed coffees and learn more about brewing equipment and processes.”

A new generation, too, of coffee entrepreneurs are bringing their own creative twists to the Margaret River region coffee scene.

Isaac Kara started off working in specialty coffee in Perth before moving back south and setting up the Margaret River Roasting Company and his own cafe, Maker Espresso, in space at Merchant & Maker in Dunsborough.

“Coffee in the south west is really starting to evolve,” says the 29-year-old. “Customers are demanding quality beverages, which is putting pressure on cafe owners and baristas to refine

Image by LIFE CYKEL

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their methods and rethink their current offerings.

Cafes such as Maker Espresso, Albert and Nikola and Brewshack are demonstrating that the south west is capable of producing cups of coffee that would rival any of the big city coffee boutiques.”

Isaac says he sources beans from Costa Rica, Colombia, Ethiopia and Guatemala.

“The farms we source these beans from are known for their fair trade, quality and most importantly, consistency.”

While everyone has their own coffee favourite, it’s always good to know what the experts go to.

“If I’m drinking black coffee, I can’t go past any high quality Ethiopian,” says Isaac. “The delicate, floral and sweet notes really comes through. When milk is involved, I avoid light roasted beans as I enjoy the way darker roasts cut through milk. Blends with a Brazilian or Colombian base normally get me excited.”

Margaret River coffee evangelists are also prepared to go far and wide in their search for new beans, trends or brewing styles; Combi Coffee founder Frederick Reidy was, at the time of writing this piece, on a fact finding mission in Jamaica and the US. “Initially we went to Jamaica to see what’s on

offer; what we found was similar to the attitude of the nation - strong, pure and proud. We sipped coffee all over the Blue Mountain ranges. We wanted to see with our own eyes how coffee is grown; we watched while a whole season’s harvest was hand-picked by a single Jamaican woman who showed us the minute differences between a cracked bean and a whole bean,” says Frederick.

The former musician earned his barista stripes at the Margaret River Bakery before hitting on a novel concept for a mobile cafe using an iconic 1976 VW Kombi van.

“In the chain of command - from our farmer, to our roaster Nick from Ravens Coffee in Denmark (he only roasts for us and himself), there is love from beginning to end. We can be in direct contact with our Colombian farmer if need be - it’s a family operation. Of course, we are all-organic, biodynamic, free range and we believe a quality ingredient makes a quality end

Image by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER

product that you can taste. Our milk is top-notch too, happy cows from the south west. We like a dark roast that appeals to our creamy milk and to all customers. We find that a blend - 20% Colombian, 80% Brazilian - achieves that. Single origin doesn’t.”

Frederick says Combi Coffee will soon be re-launched, with a fresh look.

“We are currently in LA talking business with potential partners in a fast growing niche coffee Caption: Oluptibus market here. We have extended to Fremantle debiscit ma volo now but we will never forget where we started at tentur? the beautiful mouth of the Margaret River.

Pis et That’s unt. where the heart of Combi lies.”

MAKE MINE A BEETROOT The coffee craze wouldn’t be the same without people who actually don’t like the stuff.

Catering for the non-coffee fan has seen the emergence of some pretty wild - and tasty as it turns out - alternatives.

Take the drinks menu at the Sidekick Cafe in Margaret River for instance; as well as great coffees (they source their single origin, roasted beans from Duke’s Coffee) there is an eclectic range of drinks such as Beetroot Latte (dehydrated beetroot and almond or soy milk), Tumeric Chai Latte, even a Dirty Chai Latte (a Chai Tea Latte with a sneaky shot of espresso).

“The Beetroot Latte is our latest love of the many specialty drinks we make,” says Sidekick owner Rob Gough. “We also make some wonderful chocolate drinks from local chocolatier Josh Bahen’s organic chocolate and there are sure to be more surprises as we explore and experiment.”

A GROWING CONCERN The more coffee that’s consumed, the more waste left over. But, thanks to some out-ofthe-box thinking by Perth’s Julian Mitchell and Ryan Creed, this “waste” can be put to good use.

The duo are the brains behind Life Cykel, an ingenious concept which produces delicious, gourmet oyster mushrooms out of the detritus of coffee making.

“Life Cykel grows gourmet oyster mushrooms utilising waste products, particularly coffee waste. The process of brewing coffee goes through heat treatment, sterilising the waste, killing any bacteria and making it a good growing medium. Coffee grounds are not really a ‘waste’ product; they are nutrient-rich so have many properties that oyster mushrooms love.”

Why oyster mushrooms? “Oyster mushrooms are delicious, offering a lot more flavour than your basic buttons, portobellos or Swiss mushrooms. As well as taste, it’s the nutritional value that sets them apart. They are known as the ‘vegetarian steak’ due to their high iron, Vitamin B and protein content,” says Julian.

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.

“Oyster mushrooms don’t travel well and we believe should be grown locally,” says Julian. margaretriver.com

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EAT & DRINK

HAS

sprung

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COWARAMUP

A change in season means it’s time to enjoy fresh new menus and Dianne Bortoletto finds plenty to inspire this spring.

TM

CANDY & FUDGE

GOURMET FOODS

WINE TASTING

T

he change of the season from cold, wet winter to warm, sunnier spring days doesn’t just change how we feel, but how and what we eat.

Luke Clayton owner of The Garden Basket that supplies produce direct from farmers with a focus on low land miles says spring is an exciting time.

“It's all about beans, peas, berries – mulberries, rustleberries, blackberries – avocados, edible flowers, lettuce and other green leafy salad vegetables. The stone fruit – nectarines and peaches from Nannup – are fantastic. I can’t say exactly when they’ll be available, we don’t gas-ripen anything. The farmers will call us and tell us that the fruit needs a bit more time on the tree to ripen, and let us know when the fruit is ready. Of course asparagus from Albany is amazing too,” Clayton says.

For Morries executive chef Tony Howell, asparagus is the star of spring.

“When I think of spring, asparagus is the first thing that comes to mind. The Albany Torbay Asparagus is so good. There will always be a warm salad dish on our menu with asparagus when it’s in season. I love spring flavours and the lightness of meals,” Howell says.

“Even though lamb is available all year, the build up to spring means that customers expect lamb, so we always feature lamb too.”

The most revered lamb in the land is the prize-winning Arkady Lamb.

Arkady lambs come from Lynford Farm on

the Collie-Williams Road. David Hohnen of The Farm House, in partnership with secondgeneration farmer Colin Houghton, produce Arkady lamb, which was a finalist in the 2015 Delicious magazine awards.

“The Houghton family run 15,000 ewes and we take the cream of the crop as Arkardy lambs,” Hohnen explains.

“It’s the genetics that make the lamb so good - Merino ewe with a Dorset ram (British breed). Also, it’s what I describe as a hillside lamb – it’s out browsing and grazing on the hillside until it goes to the slaughterhouse, so it’s got a good variety of forage and grazing, which affects the flavour.

“All our lambs are hormone free but we do give them mineral supplements including

BODY & BATH

GIFTS & GALLERY

SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR OF THE SOUTHWEST Image by TORBAY ASPARAGUS

continued over /

CORNER OF BOTTRILL STREET & margaretriver.com | SPRING 2016 33 BUSSELL HIGHWAY, COWARAMUP

EAT & DRINK

selenium because Western Australian soil is completely bereft of selenium and it’s an essential mineral to keep the animals alive.”

From farming great meat to eating it, Hohnen says his favourite is a lamb loin chop.

“Render the fat then fry the chop rare. It’s easy and absolutely delicious, with some greens on the side.”

Vasse Felix executive chef Aaron Carr gets excited when he sees spring greenery.

“After winter it’s refreshing to start changing up the menu, serving cold dishes, different kinds of fish and different vegetables as the days warm up,” Carr says.

“Things like peas, broad beans and other legumes, flowers – the herbs start flowering, wild garlic, Torbay asparagus, nettles, different kinds of Image by THE FARM HOUSE / FRANCES ANDIJICH

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apples, avocados, custard apples, globe artichokes – the list goes on.

“We wait and see what the producers have rather than follow dates on a calendar. For example last year we didn’t really get your typical spring produce until October.”

Whether you're in the Margaret River region to take back produce to create your own spring dishes at home or in your self-contained accommodation, a visit to the local farmers’ markets is a must.

Benji Leggate from Olive Hill Farm is at the Margaret River Farmers’ Markets each Saturday morning and makes self-catering easy. He hand rears pork, beef and lamb and then in their commercial butchery and smoke house, slow cooks the meat and sells it vacuum-sealed, ready to take away.

“People want quality, but without consistency you can’t have quality. To get consistency we rear the animals ourselves, I know everything about the animals and the consistency of looking after the stock produces consistency in the meat,” Leggate says.

“How many times have you been to your butcher and had the best steak ever, then go back again and it’s not up to that same standard? That’s because they’ve not got the consistency of stock.

It’s our very big point of difference.We age the meat, then smoke it, then take the guesswork out and slow cook the meat like our grandmothers' used to.We like to call it gourmet fast food.”

You can also find Hohnen’s The Farm House at the farmers’ market, as well as Southampton Homestead, who sell delicious pasture-raised chicken that need no additional flavours for your spring table.

MORRIES

2/149 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River (08) 9758 8280 Open Daily 12pm-late morries.com.au

OLIVE HILL FARM AND MARGARET RIVER SMOKERY DELI

(08) 9757 4569 info@olivehillfarm.com.au olivehillfarm.com.au

SOUTHAMPTON HOMESTEAD

Jeff Pow and Michelle McManus (08) 9764 1220 michelle@southamptonhomestead.com southamptonhomestead.com

THE GARDEN BASKET

7/31 Station Road, Margaret River (08) 9758 8195 admin@thegardenbasket.com.au thegardenbasket.com.au

THE FARM HOUSE MARGARET RIVER

5962 Caves Road, Margaret River info@thefarmhousemr.com.au (08) 9757 9684 thefarmhousemr.com.au

VASSE FELIX

Caves Road (Cnr Tom Cullity Drive), Margaret River restaurant@vassefelix.com.au (08) 9756 5050 Open 12pm to 3pm.

Reservations recommended. vassefelix.com.au

tony howell's RECIPE -

CHARRED ASPARAGUS WITH SOFT EGG AND PANCETTA CRUMB "There’s nothing much better than fresh spring asparagus, soft creamy egg yolk and salty pancetta. At Morries, we’d serve this with a 64-degree slow-cooked egg, but you can make this at home easily with soft-boiled eggs.

The runny yolk sauces the asparagus and the pancetta crumb adds the salty kick and gorgeous crunchy mouthfeel. I love this dish."

INGREDIENTS

SERVES 4

ENJOY THE ULTIMATE OLIVE OIL EXPERIENCE

SOAPS | GOURMET FOOD | SKIN CARE | WORKSHOPS

2 bunches of Albany Torbay Asparagus 4 - 8 eggs 100g pancetta (or bacon if pancetta isn’t available), finely cubed 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped 2 spring onions, finely chopped 1 cup of Japanese panko breadcrumbs 6 springs parsley, finely chopped 1-2 tablespoons freshly shaved Parmesan cheese

METHOD

1. Softly boil your eggs. For the perfect soft-boiled egg, place eggs in a saucepan of cold water, bring to boil, reduce heat to a rapid simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes. Remove eggs with slotted spoon and run under cold water for one minute to stop the eggs from continuing to cook with residual heat.

2. Heat a BBQ grill or griddle pan so it’s hot. Char the asparagus on all sides.

3. In a small cold frying pan add pancetta (or bacon) and turn onto medium-high heat. As the pan heats, the fat of the pancetta will melt – this is what we want. If there’s not much fat and the pan is dry, add some olive oil or butter. Add the garlic and shallots and cook until the pancetta is crisp. Then add the panko crumbs and parsley. Stir to combine well, remove from heat.

4. To plate, lay the asparagus, place a peeled egg on top, then sprinkle with the pancetta crumb and shave some fresh Parmesan cheese on top. Drizzle with quality extra virgin olive oil and season with freshly cracked black pepper and sea salt (optional).

OPTIONS: You can add some crisp cos lettuce leaves under

the asparagus to make it a salad, or a charred sliced of quality bread to mop up the juices on the plate. Oh yeah, now we’re talking!

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 margaretriver.com | SPRING 2016 www.vassevirgin.com.au

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Winning a slew of medals at the recent Perth Royal Beer Show, the Margaret River region’s superb craft breweries are really hitting their straps. And spring is the perfect time to check out not only their award-winning brews but great local food, live music, scrumptious new drops and a whole lot more.

By NORMAN BURNS.

BLACK BREWING CO.

BOOTLEG BREWERY RESTAURANT

One of the most recent breweries in the region, the Black Brewing Co now has seven beers on tap (Fresh Ale, Rice Lager, Pale Ale, XPA, Milk Stout, Saison and a Double IPA, in collaboration with Cellarbrations Carlisle). It’s also branching out with its own wine label,Vintner Black, and a 2016 vintage off the estate plus releasing its first spirits under the label Still Black. On September 17 get down to Black Brewing Co’s striking Caves Road headquarters from 5pm to midnight for the See World Sessions, featuring great local musos and other talented artists on two stages the perfect match for a great craft beer.

The Bootleg Brewery was at the vanguard of the Margaret River region's craft beer boom and shows no signs of slowing down going into its 22nd year. Fresh off winning a Gold Medal for its Tom's Mid Amber Ale at the Perth Royal Beer Show, head brewer (and mountain biking fanatic) Michael Brookes and the Bootleg team have some big plans for spring including: • a fresh new lunch menu highlighting regional produce; • new beers on tap - including a Hop Swap pale ale (4.5%), a Black Market Black IPA; • the release in October (in collaboration with Cellabrations Carlisle) of a whisky barrel aged Imperial Dark Ale (9.1%); and • hosting round 8 of the Western Australian

Visit blackbrewingco.com.au or call (08) 9755 6500, 3517 Caves Road,Wilyabrup

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Cyclocross Numbat Cup on a specially built track at the Brewery; Cyclocross is one of cycling’s fastest growing disciplines, a crazy mix of cross-country obstacle course and bike racing.

Add in a great location (there’s a beaut playground for the kids) and a great dining venue, and the Bootleg delivers on all fronts.

Visit bootlegbrewery.com.au or call (08) 9755 6300, Corner Johnson and Puzey Roads,Wilyabrup

BREWHOUSE MARGARET RIVER The new kids on the block in the Margaret River region brewing scene (they opened in January this year), the team at Brewhouse Margaret River will be celebrating their first spring - and have a heap of goodies in store for beer-lovers. For a start, there are award-winning beers - all nine of the Brewhouse entries at this year’s Perth Royal Beer Show won medals (gold for the Undies Oatmeal Stout, silver for the Black Duck Lager, Spanzac IPA and Coupan Imperial Stout and five bronze).

They’re not resting on their laurels though; the Brewhouse has just launched a new Red IPA and will also be brewing the winning beer from its Backyard Brewing Tournament - a Farmhouse Beer (saison) by home brewer Chris Dachanet.

Add in a great beer garden, live music at Sunday Sessions from 4.30pm and a menu that covers everything from red duck curry to beef cheek soft tacos and chilli salt squid, and the Brewhouse is a must-visit.

Visit brewhousemargaretriver.com.au or call (08) 9757 2614, 35 Bussell Highway, Margaret River

BUSH SHACK BREWERY ‘Beer is better than therapy’ reads a sign on a door at the rustic Bush Shack Brewery, and judging by the smiles of customers who come to sample the wares of husband and wife brewers Coralie and Danial Wind, this is right on the money. Bush Shack is the second-oldest boutique brewery in the Margaret River region and sipping back on one of the Winds’ nine beers continued over /

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

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CHEEKY MONKEY BREWERY & CIDERY With two new fermenters and a new beer tank on the horizon, plus a stack of new beers in the pipeline, spring is certainly a time of growth for the beautifully named Cheeky Monkey Brewery & Cidery. September will also see the start of live music as the Cheeky Monkey artisans get ready to unleash their new drops, which include an Oktoberfest Lager (6% ABV, bright bronze lager), a Lazy Summer Lager (4.2% ABV) a light, caramel malt bodied New World Pale Ale, plus their new Southern Wailer cans - this time a West Coast IPA (6.5% ABV, US hops providing a “symphony of tropical fruits and citrus” say the brewers). Cheeky Monkey also plans to hold its own Oktoberfest on Sunday, October 16. I feel a thirst coming on already...

Visit cheekymonkeybrewery.com.au or call (08) 9755 5555, 4259 Caves Road, Margaret River

COLONIAL BREWING CO Colonial Brewing Co has been producing superb craft brews for 14 years, so it was only fair to beer lovers outside of WA that they spread the love throughout this great land - now there’s a sister brewery operating in funky Port Melbourne,Victoria.

Down in Margs though Colonial has a jampacked calendar looming for spring; as well as launching a new cider, offering a range of beers including Witbier, Pale Ale, Porter and special one-off Project brews, Colonial will be involved in the Cape to Cape cycling race in October and the Margaret River Gourmet Escape. There’s also regular weekend entertainment, discount pizza nights on Fridays and a huge play area.

Visit colonialbrewingco.com.au or call (08) 9758 8177, Osmington Road, Margaret River

COWARAMUP BREWING COMPANY

Monkey business: From left, Cheeky Monkey head brewer Ross Terlick, Dan Gohrt and Jimmy Pringle.

(they also produce ciders and flavoured wine drinks) in idyllic bush surroundings should be mandatory for all Margaret River region visitors this spring. The Strawberry Blonde (a 6.7% ABV pale ale brewed with strawberries), a Chilli Beer (4.5% classic Aussie bitter with a tweak of chilli) and an English-style Chocolate Beer (5%) are testament to the Winds’ opting for beer styles from the road-less-travelled. With

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accommodation options literally on the doorstep (the five-room Yallingup Lodge and 18 chalets of the Yallingup Forest Resort) the Bush Shack Brewery (it’s also just five minutes from the ‘big smoke’ of Dunsborough) is off-beat but not off the beaten track.

Visit bushshackbrewery.com.au or call (08) 9755 2848, 40 Hemsley Road,Yallingup

2016 is a special year for the Cowaramup Brewing Company; in December it’s the 10th anniversary of this family-owned operation, a popular attraction in the region. As well as the cool micro-brewing set-up (tours of the brewing operation are available by appointment), the brewery’s beautiful, rural setting is a familyfriendly destination. There’s a great selection of food and, of course, some magnificent beers - you can choose from Cowaramup Pilsener, a Hefeweizen (Bavarian unfiltered wheat beer), Special Pale Ale and India Pale Ale (both English-style) the Lightsign Summer Ale or a robust, malty dark ale, the Cowaramup Porter.

Owner and chief brewer Jeremy Good wears his

heart on his sleeve - he hails from the UK, so those English-style drops are his favourites - but try a paddle to see what takes your fancy. At the time of writing Jeremy was off on a quick trip back to Blighty, so chances are he’ll return with a whole swag of ideas for new brews.

pour” in Perth boutique bars Sneaky Tony’s, Joe’s Juice Joint, Alabama Song and Pleased to Meet You.

Visit cowaramupbrewing.com.au or call (08) 9755 5822, North Treeton Road, Cowaramup

OCCY’S DUNSBOROUGH

EAGLE BAY BREWING CO A new menu, new brews and a little bit of Caribbean magic - it’s all happening over the spring at Eagle Bay Brewing Co. September 8 saw the launch of its Caribbean-themed Clive’s Coco Rum Calypso Porter; just 800 litres of this beer, inspired, says Eagle Bay, by “dark beers, rum, drinking fresh coconuts, cricket and one of the most successful cricket captains of all time, the West Indies’ Clive Lloyd”. Eagle Bay’s head chef Rupert Brown also launches a brand new menu, jammed full of delicious local fare, on September 14. And until the end of November, Eagle Bay’s Brewer’s Series presents a spring special - Steam Ale, an easy drinking and refreshing lager. If you want to know more about Eagle Bay’s brewing philosophies, the Steam Ale and some great food, the brewery is holding a Brewer’s Series Session on Friday, September 19 from 6pm. Tickets from $35.

Visit eaglebaybrewing.com.au or call (08) 9755 3554, Eagle Bay Road, Eagle Bay

MARGARET RIVER ALE COMPANY Check out the spiffy Settlers Tavern in the main street of Margs and you can sample the brews made especially for the pub; owner Rob Gough launched his Margaret River Ale Company in 2012 and now has four styles on offer - the flagship Pale Ale, a wheat beer, pilsner and India Pale Ale. Says Rob: “All of the beers are made in small 20 keg batches, are keg-conditioned and unfiltered. We brewed about 40,000 litres (800 kegs) last year - and we plan to get it into cans

by November this year.” And if you can’t make it down to Settlers (home of great live music and food as well as those craft beers), Margaret River Ale Company’s brews are available as the “house

Visit settlerstavern.com or call (08) 9757 2398, 114 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River

Smack-bang in the middle of bustling Dunsborough, Occy’s Brewery already has a legion of local fans but it is also a must-try for any visiting beer (and music and food) fans. As well as a bar with no fewer than 18 rotating tap points - 16 are Occy’s own brews - a dogfriendly beer garden and great food, Occy’s has some surprises up its sleeve over the spring season. Plans include a degustation night (in conjunction with Matso’s), some super-duper new cocktails on tap - there’s the intriguing Occy’s Nitro stoutini for one (Occy’s Nitro stout mixed with espresso martini) - and with the addition of a smoker expect some great new offerings on the menu.

Facebook.com/OccysBrewery or call (08) 9756 7777, 12/34 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough

THE BEER FARM The gong for ‘quirkiest’ craft brewery in the area has to go to the thoroughly spiffing The Beer Farm, a converted dairy farm (you enter through what was once the milking shed) in Metricup.

The Beer Farm’s brewing team’s core range includes a cider (made from Manjimup apples), a “super session able” pale ale, Aussie Bitter (4.8%) and a big, hoppy Rye IPA. But, says The Beer Farm’s George Scott, if brewer Josh wants to brew something “he will”. “We have a rotational tap list, so there will always be different beers on tap. We like to think we have a range for every palate,” says George. As well as live music every Saturday, The Beer Farm’s spring calendar includes an album launch by local musos Blue Child Collective (September 9) and a fundraising event on September 21 for Motor Neurone Disease Western Australia.

Visit beerfarm.com.au or call (08) 9755 7177, 177 Gale Road, Metricup margaretriver.com

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F I L L I N G S TAT I O N S What do you want to eat? It’s a

familiar refrain when you’re on holiday - fortunately there are plenty of top spots to please even the fussiest diner, no matter what you fancy.

By GABI MILLS AND NORMAN BURNS. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

Da bombe: Piari & Co’s incredible bombe Alaska.

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BEST FOR...RELAXED VIBES AND CHILLED BEATS Loveable. That’s the word that springs to mind when you walk into Clancy’s Fish Pub (pictured right) on Caves Road. Loveable like a big cuddly golden retriever, it’s roomy with plenty of space for big families and groups of friends to spread out and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this successful addition to the Clancy’s Fish Pub family. It absorbs all-comers and welcomes them like the best kind of genial host. Like the other spots in Freo, City Beach and Canning Bridge, you’ll find a delicious mix of seafood (oysters kilpatrick, smoked Australian salmon croquettes with a tangy chipotle mayo and house-pickled Busso octopus are all hits) as well as their socalled larger land food.You’ll fill up on nasi goreng, chicken parmi and sticky ribs to mess up your fingers and thumbs. Kids are looked after too with a free icy pole with each kids’ menu order, and when the boring eating bit is done, there’s plenty of room for them to let off steam under the towering peppermint trees in the beer garden. Local beers and ciders from the region get a good showing and if you’re keen to try something different, how about newcomers’ The Beer Farm’s ‘Otherside’ Rooted Chocolate Beetroot Stout, kicking goals at 6%. Whether it’s hosting events for Cinefest Oz, art exhibitions or fundraisers, Clancy’s has well and truly got the knack of picking shows that draw in the punters in droves. It’s also making something of a name for itself as a brilliant spot to catch live music, drawing in the crowds to support local, national and international acts all keen to soak up the very special vibes, whether it’s during a Sunday Session or outdoors under the trees.

Clancy’s Fish Pub, 1710 Caves Road, Dunsborough.

Open noon til late, Monday to Sunday.

Call (08) 9750 5034 or visit clancysfishpub.com.au

BEST FOR. . . A ROMANTIC DINNER For such a tucked-away little place, Piari & Co certainly doesn’t hide its light under a bushel when it comes to scooping the big gourmet awards. Earlier this year it was named as one of the top 100 restaurants in the whole of Australia and then in August it was nominated for three Gold Plate nominations including Wine List of the Year. That’s quite something when you think about the big hitters from Melbourne,

Sydney and Perth the little restaurant beat to get on the list. Head chef Blair Allen with wife Renee have hit upon a super successful formula for casual dining with chutzpah. They insist on locally sourced, seasonal and house-made produce wherever possible; yes, even the biltong we devoured as a little starter was made right there in the Piari kitchen. All around us couples leaned in close to share the experience - the 20 or so tables all full on a stormy winter’s Thursday night, not a bad achievement for this little gem in Dunsborough. The rare and unusual are celebrated here - like love - so you’ll find game a-plenty. Discover venison chorizo, rabbit rillette, and a duck leg ragu served with orecchiette and whipped goat’s curd so delicious it made this mama sigh happily. Then there are exciting dishes like the 18-hour Margaret River farm house ‘Big Red’ pork belly teamed with Jerusalem artichoke, pomegranate and fennel, or Fiore de Burrata (think super creamy mozzarella with a drop of cream at its heart) with truffled oyster mushroom and crispy chicken skin. The best, as is so often, is left for last; you can’t visit the Margaret River region without experiencing the lemon curd ‘bombe Alaska’ and berry soup.

Unforgettable, just like love.

Piari & Co, 5/54 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough.

Call (08) 9756 7977 or visit piariandco.com.au

BEST FOR . . . A SOCIABLE LUNCH Sometimes you’re just in the mood for the kind of lunch that you’ll talk about for years to come.

You know the type of thing. It was probably a bit noisy, there was probably an element of chaos continued over /

www.squidlips.com.au

DUNSBOROUGH

Ph: (08) 9759 1799

Dunsborough Centrepoint Shopping Centre Shop 27A, 55 Dunn Bay Rd MARGARET RIVER

Ph: (08) 9757 9960 Settlers Tavern Arcade 118 Bussell Hwy

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EAT & DRINK Mussel in: Rustico at Hay Shed Hill’s paella is a showstopper.

as kids and uncles and you and him fought over the last olive, pizza slice or tender scallop, with plates and platters of food, wine flowing, jugs of sangria and conversation crossing the table back and forth, setting the world to rights, for an afternoon at least.

Well, that’s what it was like for us at Rustico at Hay Shed Hill, one of the Margaret River region’s most welcome openings of 2016. The dining room is immediately likeable, lofty and welcoming, with big and smaller tables ready to accommodate parties and families who are drawn to Rustico’s eminently sociable approach to feeding one’s face: tapas. First of all though you’ll have said hello to the resident winery dog, a black Lab who’s seen her fair share of tidbits then make yourself at home and get to grips with the menu.

Seafood plays a strong part on the menu Albany oysters, served straight up, or why not go wild and try them with baked chorizo and bitey Manchego cheese or flesh out a Bloody Mary if you’ve overdone it the night before? You could match your mollusc with some Hayshed Hill wine too - in fact, we insist.You’d be mad to miss out on trying an oyster with a glass of 2015’s Kerrigan and Berry reisling.

We loved the chicken liver parfait with apple cinnamon jelly, enhanced with that reisling, and house breads, and then the big guns came out.

Crispy skin barramundi was sensational but it was the little bed of creamed leek and sauce vierge which made this plate the one we all wanted to try.

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group working their way through the entire pizza menu.

Next time we’ll order the paella - it’s perfect for a foursome and takes 50 minutes to cook from scratch. But that’s not a problem, right?

That gives you plenty of time to feed your soul with conversation, wine and good company.

Rustico at Hay Shed Hill, Hay Shed Hill Winery, 511 Harmans Mill Road,Wilyabrup.

Call (08) 9755 6455 or visit rusticotapas.com.au

BEST FOR . . . FISH ‘N CHIPS

Fry day: Squidlips makes the best fish n’ chips around.

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Fortunately there was plenty to tempt those not quick enough to scoff their share of the barra; the Dardanup beef carpaccio teamed with horseradish and buffalo mozzarella and fried goat’s cheese with orange blossom honey were greeted like old friends. And for a side salad, don’t miss the Tempura Guindillas (deep fried the Japanese way, Spanish peppers, avocado and coriander salsa with aioli). The kids and the not-so-big kids loved the chorizo, prawn and jalapeno pizza and we spotted a big wine tour

Sometimes only a bundle of fish ‘n chips, so hot from the fryer your finger tips will sizzle, will do. Eaten overlooking the Yallingup or Margaret River main break and that’s the stuff of legends.

Fortunately if you’re in Dunsborough or Margaret River you’re in for a treat. Squidlips, rated one of the top five fish and chip shops in the whole of WA, is the real deal.You’ll find firm fleshed pink snapper, everybody’s favourite pearly white fish - whiting - and gummy shark, all either fried in Squidlips’ legendarily delicious beer batter or grilled.

You’d be mad not to try the squid though take your pick from the coating of your choice: salt and pepper, cajun, chilli or lemon pepper.

And if you fancy something a little different then Squid Lips have got that covered too with their home-made Thai fishcakes, prawn and scallop skewers and tempura prawns.

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Deliciously historic: Caves House Hotel’s restaurant hits all the right notes.

The chips are properly crisp and chunky and you’ll even be doing yourself a favour by digging in; they use 100% rice bran oil which contains no cholesterol and there are gluten-free options and super healthy salads to go. Win-win, we’d say.

Squidlips, Dunsborough Centrepoint Shopping Centre, (Coles car park end), (08) 9759 1799 and Settlers Tavern Arcade, Margaret River, (08) 9757 9960, open seven days, lunch noon to 2.30pm, dinner from 5pm.Visit squidlips.com.au

BEST FOR… ATMOSPHERE Taking a seat in front of a roaring log fire, a glass of red closely at hand, I half-expect to see a cravat-clad Noel Coward, copy of the Times tucked under his arm, stroll into the sumptuous lounge at Yallingup’s quite spiffing Caves House Hotel The Heritage-Listed hotel has been a landmark tourist destination on Caves Road for close on 80 years. In fact, a hotel was first built on the site in 1902, as accommodation for

throngs of visitors heading to see Yallingup (now Ngilgi) Cave.

The original hotel was razed by fire in 1930 and eight years later the Caves House as we (mainly) now know it was built. It’s had a major refit in 2004 (all in keeping with its beautiful Art Deco character) and once again is getting a fresh lease on life thanks to new owners Libby Sheppard and Neil Jilley.

A brighter, lighter look in the dining room, a new cocktail bar and a host of eclectic events (think Melbourne Cup fashion parade, a Murder Mystery Dinner, twilight markets on the beautiful hotel grounds, an Oktoberfest on October 15 and more) are making Caves House a destination in its own right, not just lodgings for your Margaret River region experience.

The Caves House Hotel kitchen, too, has taken on a real international flavour (I had a wicked prawn curry the night I stayed) but the great thing is despite all its Downton Abbeyesque grandeur Caves House still appeals to the relaxed, cruisy vibe that is Yallingup. On most Sundays you’ll find the garden bar packed with visitors and locals alike (and often their dogs) chilling to live music.

So whether you’re there for a special occasion (weddings are big at Caves House), a few days’ R&R, to check out the surf (you can hear the roar of the sea from the magnificent gardens) or to soak up the vibe of days’ gone by, Caves House has pretty much all bases covered.

Caves House Hotel, 18 Yallingup Beach Road, Yallingup. Call (08) 9750 1888 or visit caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au

Welcome to our new Transwa fleet With 12 services between Margaret River and Perth each week, your journey is about to get even more comfortable.

Transwa connects over 240 destinations within regional WA, including the south west towns of Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Margaret River and Augusta.

Consider one of our new luxury road coaches for your next trip, or connect with the Australind train from Bunbury.

We offer a 50% discount on fares to Seniors nationally, WA Pensioners and Health Care card holders, WA full-time Students and children under 16 years.

For bookings and enquiries: 1300 662 205 | transwa.wa.gov.au

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WINE & WINERIES

Three decades at the top RINGING THE CHANGES VOYAGER ESTATE HAS introduced a new way to enjoy their extraordinary food this spring with a second Discovery Menu.

The degustation format is a popular way to explore food and wine matching, so this September, the Voyager Estate Restaurant will unveil a second Discovery Menu.

The three-course Regional Discovery Menu will showcase the finest Margaret River and South West produce while telling the story of the Margaret River region and how this unique part of the world influences the Voyager Estate wines.

Its presentation is also supported

by Margaret River artists Karin Luciano, Patricia Negus, Peter Moir, Martine Perret and David Dare Parker.

"The Regional Discovery menu will replace our a la carte offer, while the six-course Wine Discovery menu will get six new dishes, and continue to tell the Voyager Estate story," says manager cellar door and direct sales, Janine Carter.

The new menu has been a collaboration of food and wine she says.

“Our Sommelier worked closely with our chefs to develop two distinct Discovery Menus that utilise fresh produce to create dishes that pair perfectly with our wines, for a true Voyager Estate experience.

“We are delighted that the local artists have been so supportive and look to work with more artists in the future on this menu.”

Visit voyagerestate.com.au

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Howard Park is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and to mark the milestone, there’s the chance to add some very special wine to your cellar.

T

o commemorate its 30th Anniversary, Howard Park Wines has released a limited edition version of its flagship Abercrombie Cabernet Sauvignon and Mt Barker Riesling, with a retro style label that pays tribute to the winery’s original artworks by Alexander Hill and Denise Bowen. These awardwinning wines were the first two varieties the winery released thirty years ago and aims to pay homage to their humble beginnings.

Howard Park Wines is owned and operated by the family run business, Burch Family Wines, and sources almost all of its fruit from the group’s own collection of vineyards.

Burch Family Wines currently operates in both the Great Southern and Margaret River regions and manages a variety of their own vineyards to produce their award winning wines.

This unique point of difference is what sets them apart from the other wineries in WA that typically operate in the one region alone.

“The knowledge and experience we gained over the 20 years we spent sourcing fruit from the Margaret River and the Great Southern regions allowed us to build an intellectual database,” said owner of Burch Family Wines, Jeff Burch. “This knowledge then enabled us to determine, which regions, which vineyard, which block and which clones produced the highest quality fruit for each variety of wine.”

“We’ve spent 20 years of the journey buying all of our fruit from top quality vineyards throughout Western Australia,” Mr Burch said.

“Now we source 95% of the fruit we use from our own vineyards.”

“We’re involved in the production of our wines from the ground floor. From the time the grapes are first planted, to rolling out the finished product, we’re implementing quality control measures throughout the entire process,” said Mr Burch. “No one else has spent 30 years developing that resource, and now we’re seeing the benefits.”

The retro-labelled 30th Anniversary wine from Howard Park Wines is only available through mail order and the cellar door, so make sure to visit burchfamilywines.com.au website for more information.

With wines from both Margaret River & the Great Southern, picnic lawns flanked by native marri & karri trees, a visit to our Cellar Door is a truly unique experience.

Howard Park & MadFish Winery 543 Miamup Road, Cowaramup Open 10am - 5pm daily | 08 9756 5200 www.burchfamilywines.com.au margaretriver.com

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NATURE & ENVIRONMENT Secret garden: Photographer Freedom Garvey has captured some beautiful shots of the gardens of Margaret River region for Julie Kinney’s book, The Garden Wanderer ($44, Margaret River Press).

GARDENING LEAVE

THE GARDENS OF THE MARGARET RIVER REGION ARE ABUNDANT, LUSH AND SOMETIMES SURPRISING - AND THEY’VE NOW BEEN CELEBRATED IN A NEW BOOK, THE GARDEN WANDERER BY JULIE KINNEY. SARINA LEWIS MEETS THE AUTHOR.

S

o many of our gardens are carved out of the bush.”

Julie Kinney settles into her long black at Margaret River’s Sidekick Cafe. We have met to discuss her first book, The Garden Wanderer ($44, Margaret River Press), a beautifully photographed exploration of 20 of the south west region’s most striking gardens, Kinney’s quietly authoritative voice serving as the reader’s intimate guide.

It’s early and – coffee aside – Kinney is vibrant with her enthusiasm for plants and those gardeners who nurture them.

“For me the excitement is in someone’s philosophy and vision – that love they have for their piece of land and what they are turning it into to please themselves,” Kinney shares.

“I love that because those sort of gardeners

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are really from the heart; they have gone in with a feel for the land, not with a designer or with a paper plan.”

The gardens that Kinney chooses to walk readers through are as varied as they are beautiful. From the formality of hedges and roses to a garden where rough timber is joined together as a series of rectangular arches that frame the wild bush landscape.

Always a passionate gardener, it was Kinney’s enthusiasm and expertise that had her chosen to work as a Western Australian and, later, national, selector for Australia’s Open Garden Scheme.

And yet when Margaret River Press approached her to pull together this book, it was her vast and intimate knowledge of her home state that made selection of her

Nature’s glory: Explore the gardens of the region with Julie’s book as your companion.

Julie’s five favourite Margaret River landscapes

MARGARET RIVER WATERFALL (OFF KEVILL ROAD):

“In the summer you can sit out on the rocks in the middle of the river and watch the stillness. In the winter I love to go and listen to the roaring torrent.”

10 MILE BROOK DAM: “Near the 10 Mile Brook dam there is a lovely picnic area. You can also go for a walk around the dam – there are walks all through that area.”

CAPE TO CAPE TRACK: “Between Wyadup and Smiths Beach is beautiful. I love the fact that there is a seat along there on the cliffs that is just a lovely spot to sit, think about life and contemplate the ocean.”

MARGARET RIVER ORGANIC GARDEN: “This is a special place. We’re very lucky to have communityminded people prepared to look after a garden such as this – and there are rarely very many people there.”

WALLCLIFFE ROAD LAYBY NEAR SURFER’S POINT:

“I love that little layby as you leave the river mouth to come back into town overlooking the river and the bush. Visitors stop there without knowing that what they’re looking down on is all that history from the Bussells settling into the area.”

showcased gardens so difficult.

“I know so many gardens so intimately that when I started to put something together I realised it was all over the place, that there was no cohesiveness to it,” Kinney thinks back. The change came when she decided to focus on the region she calls home – the land between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

When her husband then suggested 20 gardens to mark her 20 years in the south west, a book was born.

What began with a list of known gardens soon evolved as word of Kinney’s project spread. “Once people know what you’re doing they come out of the woodwork,” Kinney laughs. “And while I already knew of a lot of them a few offered a new story for me.”

A garden Kinney refers to in The Garden Wanderer as Down South offers one such addition.

“It has slipped under the net, somehow,” Kinney smiles, “and I do say that in the book.” It has since come to wider recognition for its use of fire retardant plants such as succulents, aloe and cacti.

For Kinney, this garden in particular is representative of the ways in which passionate gardeners in the south west region are furthering their art.

“What we do well down here is in learning to live with the climate. We’re not fighting it. People are much more gentle in their approach to the land,” she muses.

“No one has time to fight the elements, so you might as well work with them.”

Antiques, Art, Jewellery, Collectibles OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM - 4:30PM

margaretriverantiques.com

Ph 08 9758 8004 Located on Town View Terrace, opposite Town Memorial Park. You will find this diverse collection of fine antiques, artwork & jewellery along with heritage Australian furniture, porcelain & garage collectibles. All beautifully displayed and available for you to buy. Antiques ranging from the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian & Deco periods.

And for the ultimate indulgence, stay in ‘The Studio Guest Suite’. Elegantly appointed in antiques, plush fabrics & architectural finishes, thoughtfully complimented with renowned artworks.

This is luxury at its best. continued over / margaretriver.com

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NATURE & ENVIRONMENT Pretty as a picture: Join a guided tour, like Sean Blocksidge's Margaret River Discovery Tours (this page) or Hank Durlik's Margaret River Exposed to fully experience the beautiful wildflower displays in the region.

AT H E A R T H OW TO G E T T H E M O S T F R O M YO U R W I L D F LOW E R S E X P E R I E N C E Stick to pathways and already-made tracks to prevent stepping on delicate plants.

Admire wildflowers in their natural environment and please don’t pick them. It’s not just illegal, but it decreases their chances of appearing the next season.

MARGARET RIVER EXPOSED TOURS offer

MARGARET RIVER DISCOVERY CO'S

tours with a maximum of six people, which can be tailored to specific requests. They offer a Scenic Nature and Wildflower Tour and also provide photography tuition tailored to taking wildflower photos.

Discovery Tour includes wildflowers and whale spotting from September to November. Sean will take you to some special spots he’s found that he says will be firing.

SOUTH WEST ECO DISCOVERIES has a

Grab a guide to show you their secret spots:

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Spring Tour where you can visit spectacular lookouts and iconic hotspots around Dunsborough.

CAPE TO CAPE EXPLORER TOURS provide a very easy interpretive walk along the Ten Mile Brook walk track in Margaret River which includes lots of rare orchids.

THE ULTIMATE

WHALE

WATCHING

As the region bursts into life many visitors make a bee-line to take photographs of the beautiful wildflowers which are in full bloom.

Janine Pittaway shares her top tips for making the most of this special time of year.

E C O

T O U R S

Images by HANK DURLIK / FRANCES ANDRIJICH.

W

estern Australia is well-known for its abundance of wildflowers each spring. But did you know the south west stages a stunning show of its own?

The south west is an official biodiversity hotspot, one of just 34 in the world. This status is awarded because of our significant number of species only found here. We have more than 2,500 species of wildflowers found only in the south west.

It’s wildflower season right now, so now’s the time to get out and see their beauty.

So what’s the best way to get among them?

Nature-based tour operator Hank Durlik from Margaret River Exposed advises to plan ahead to make the most of your wildflower experience.

“The South West is a big region. Wildflowers begin flowering in the northern end of the region and then we’ll see the southern end bloom later in the season,” he said.

“Early winter rains have meant that the season is already well underway in the Busselton and Dunsborough areas. With Margaret River being half way along the Capes, the area is glorious in September and October, and then flowering will be best from Margaret River to Augusta from September to November.”

Local guides have the advantage of being regularly out in the bush and on nature trails to see what’s blooming.

Hank, a self confessed orchid nut, said a keen eye was often needed to find some of the more exotic orchids.

“My tip is to look for different colours on the ground. Look in between the varying shades of green foliage - you’re often looking for something quite small.”

Hank’s personal favourite is the Exotic Spider Orchid (Caladenia nivalis).

“You can find it literally 100m off the shoreline. It has a beautiful bright white and crimson flower. They adapt to their environment and have their own habitat.

“In fact each orchid has its own habitat

– one I was looking out for, the Cleopatra’s Needles, took five years for me to find. I found it just a few weeks ago - the trick is they need the sun for the flowers to come out so they’re not always visible.”

Sean Blocksidge from Margaret River Discovery Tours has provided some tips based on his favourite wildflower spotting locations. Some will be easy to access and others might require a bit more effort.

“The creek line-up behind Gracetown always has beautiful displays of small flowering species.

Be sure to be observant, as sometimes the most spectacular of the small wildflower species can be right in front of you.

Out of adversity often comes beauty or a positive outcome. The region’s bushfires of four years ago are no exception.

“The 2011 bushfire zone has provided epic displays of wildflowers including coral vine and orchids which are on display from Ellensbrook to Gnarabup.

If you’re a more casual observer or don’t have time for a tour, head to the Cape Naturaliste or Cape Leeuwin lighthouses and their surrounding walk trails for some beautiful examples.

For more ideas of where to see wildflowers in the Margaret River region, visit margaretriver.com/natureadventure/wildflowers

Full flower: Local tour guide Hank Durlik will introduce you to the extraordinary wildflowers of the region.

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NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

UNDERWATER

GIANTS As the whale-watching season continues, Busselton and Dunsborough take a starring role as the largest creatures on earth pass by the Margaret River region’s shores.

By GABI MILLS AND CARMEN JENNER.

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W

hale watching in Your Margaret River Region is pretty special for a few reasons. Firstly, the six month whale watching season is one of the world’s longest, and with an estimated 35,000 whales passing by each year, this region is visited by twice as many as the east coast of Australia.

The other extraordinary thing is the combination of whale species attracted to the coastline – it’s extremely unusual to see humpback and southern right whales interacting, as they do at Augusta, and then at Geographe Bay there have been a number of blue whales spotted over recent years. Blue whales are the largest living creature ever to have lived on this planet – that fact alone makes you very privileged to see one.

It’s no surprise then that because of these unique factors a collaboration between the Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit and Denmark’s Aarhus University headed to Augusta recently to work with southern right whales for the first time. The team, headed up by Dr Fredrik Christiansen and Professor Lars Bejder (Murdoch Uni) and Professor Peter Madsen (Aarhus Uni) managed to tag seven adults with suction cup tags, and documented six mother and calf pairs as well as three adults of unknown sex during the nine days on the water in Flinders Bay last month.

To keep track of the whales through tag transmissions, a good vantage point was required for the radio signal receiver-Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse proved to be the perfect place to do so.

The project was trialled last year in Exmouth on a different species of whale but this was the first time the research has been undertaken in on southern rights in Australia.

It’s hoped that the study will gain insight and knowledge about the whales, contributing to understanding how to best safeguard the future of the whale population along the coastline.

“We’ll start analysing the data and hope to return for another season next winter,” said Prof Bejder back on dry land. To find out more about the study, visit mucru.org and marinebioacoustics.com To spot these wonderful creatures up close and personal, it’s imperative to join an accredited tour company who are mindful of noise pollution, controls the number of daily tours and number of passengers while abiding by the distance ruling. There are several reputable and respectful tour operators including All Sea Charters, Geographe Maritime Charters, Legend Charters, Naturaliste Charters and Whale Watch Western Australia.

Curious by nature, whales will naturally approach as they are just as interested in us as we are in them. Many of the tour operators have as high as a 99% success rate and guarantee another

tour for free in the rare instance where there isn’t a sighting.

All local tour companies have on board whale experts ready to share fascinating insights into whale behaviours. During spring, tour passengers will hear of the incredible journey that the whales have been on before arriving in the sheltered waters of Geographe Bay. “Humpback whales have a small dorsal fin and arch their backs when diving. They complete a 13,000 km round-trip from Antarctica to Camden Harbour (Sound) in the Northern Kimberley where they go to calve” Says Gemma Sharp of Whale Watch Western Australia.

Marine biologist Jaq Bullard from Geographe Maritime Charters adds that the mothers seen in Geographe Bay have unbelievable stamina: “The calves need to build up enough blubber before they reach the Southern Ocean – which means putting on 50-60 kilos per day! This involves intense feeding, and the calves suckle for around 6-7 months in total. The feeding is very draining on the mother, especially considering that the mothers don’t feed during migration; they rely on the strength they’ve built up during the summer months from feeding on krill.”

A number of tour companies such as Jet

Image by MURDOCH UNIVERSITY CETACEAN RESEARCH UNIT AND MARINE BIOACOUSTICS LAB, AARHUS UNIVERSITY

Adventures use a hydrophone system to pick up the magical sound of whale song. This underwater microphone is submerged next to the boat and picks up the sounds emitted from nearby whales. The whale song is channelled through speakers for passengers on board the vessel to listen to as they cruise.

To learn more about whales and to book at tour, visit margaretriver.com/nature-adventure/whale-watching

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phone 9750 5500 | www.whales-australia.com.au

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NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

The forests of the Margaret River region are a magical, mysterious place, so why not take some time to explore their hidden depths?

By SARAH SZABO. Main image by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

R

ecent research crunched the numbers on a 15-minute walk in the woods and found a 16 per cent decrease in the stress hormone cortisol, a two per cent drop in blood pressure and a four per cent drop in heart rate.

But who’s counting when there are so many ways to experience some of the truly remarkable forests of the Margaret River region?

Boranup Karri Forest Picture yourself hollering into a forest of magnificent 60m tall karri trees and hearing your voice bounce and reverberate down through the valley.

“It is an amazing experience,” says Gene Hardy from Cape to Cape Explorer tours whose three-hour sunset forest and cave tour includes this audio treat and much more.

The tour explores the link between the geology of the area and the forest.Visitors explore the stunning vistas above Cape Freycinet at sunset, the magnificent karri’s and their eucalypt-infused ecosystem and the subterranean environment under the rocks and tree roots, all while gaining a wealth of fascinating knowledge.

Says Gene: “Karris need an incredible amount of water to survive - over 2,000ml a year - and we only get around 1,200ml. As the limestone is porous, it holds water all year round and the karris access it from the stone,” he says.

BIKE IT Eco Adventures Margaret River has created a truly innovative experience that allows visitors to go where many locals have yet to tread.

The quad bikes are easy to ride, environmentally friendly (no fumes, no noise, no heat) and come complete with an iPad, which complements the tour guide’s presentation.

“It is a unique experience,” says owner and guide Gary Ingram.“I take people down some beautiful winding little trails and we get into some pretty inaccessible areas because the bikes are so competent that they float over the terrain.”

Quad bike riders need a general licence but

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The Tuart Forest The Ludlow Tuart forest has the world’s only tall eucalyptus gomphocephala trees (Tuarts) making it one of the rarest ancient forests in the world.

Many are 300 to 400 years old. They are under active conservation and still face a number of threats but experiencing their beauty is luckily not one of them.

WHALE

WATCHING

GUARANTEED SIGHTINGS

STAY THERE

all ages can hitch a ride. The ride itself covers about 18km and takes an hour and a half.

“It is truly a place of extraordinary natural beauty,” says Gary.

MAZE MEANDER For a more laid back and self-directed wander check out the Boranup Forest maze. Local Leigh Zuvich built the maze on his property, which abuts the national park, in his ‘hippie days’.

“Back then I spent my last dollar buying a bit of land next to the surf,” he says. “As there wasn’t much work in Margaret River at the time, I thought I’d better do something, so I built a maze.”

There is an honour box requesting a small fee and Leigh says people often leave feedback saying how much they appreciate the peace and quiet.

Don’t expect a manicured box hedge feel, instead native rosemary and creeper make up the meandering walls.

It’s perfect for younger children and for Pokemon Go fans; I’m reliably informed that rare point pokemons have been spotted in the area.

Inn the Tuarts is a 4-star boutique adults retreat (B&B) actually in the forest. It is a large house with ten bedrooms including studio rooms and an apartment. There is only an acre and a half of cleared lawn with tuarts all around the property.

“Being in the forest is a revival of the soul and spirit.You get a kind of peace that's hard to replicate anywhere else,” says owner Peter Keynes. “The sound of the wind in the trees is amazing.

The lodge's facilities include an indoor pool, five-person jacuzzi and a three-person infra red sauna. Children are only allowed if guests book the entire lodge so peace and quiet is on the menu most of the time.

2016 Winner

Certificate of Excellence

SPOT IT There are various ways to experience the flora and fauna of the forest including a nocturnal possum walk. Endangered western ringtail possums, brush tailed possums, kangaroos and nocturnal birds of prey like tawny frogmouths owls come out at night.

So make like a tree and experience this verdant, ancient part of the Margaret River region experience.

GO CAMPING

whalewatchingcharters.com.au

If you are strictly old school, and pitching a tent among the trees is more your cup of billy tea, the Point Road campground is on the edge of the Boranup forest and accessible only by 4WD. There are no individually marked campsites and room for only seven tents. Available on a first come, first served basis, as there are no bookings.

INN THE TUARTS GUEST LODGE

19 Rushleigh Road, Reinscourt. Call 0467 541 333 or visit innthetuarts.com.au

D E PAW

Find us on

Licensed Operator

ECO ADVENTURES MARGARET RIVER

Visit ecoadventuresmargaretriver.com to book your next quad bike tour.

CAPE TO CAPE EXPLORER TOURS

5/45 Station Road, Margaret River. Call 0459 452 038 or visit capetocapetours.com.au BORANUP FOREST MAZE

8957 Caves Road, Karridale. Call 0467 271 596. Visit margaretriver.com for more forest info.

WHALE WATCHING SPECIALIST

0417 794 008

Servicing the South West since 2001

margaretriver.com

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ACTION & ADVENTURE Spoiled for choice: Your kids will struggle to be bored this school holidays in the Margaret River region -make sure you find time for a visit to Simmo's Ice Creamery.

Child’s play YOUR LITTLE ONES WILL HAVE PLENTY TO DO THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS - TAMARA HUNTER ROUNDS UP THE BEST ACTIVITIES THIS SPRING.

W

BUSSELTON JETTY, BUSSELTON

hat do some of Busselton’s best family-friendly accommodation spots have in common? I’ll tell you what: views over Geographe Bay, playgrounds, pools, giant jumping pillows, BBQ areas, bike and DVD hire and more. The Mandalay Holiday Resort has all of the above plus accommodation for a range of tastes and budgets, with beach cottages, villas and chalets plus spots for caravans, camping and motor homes. The Forte Cape View Apartments have modern apartments and villas, plus pools, playgrounds, bike and DVD hire, BBQ facilities, a gym, spa and sauna. Big 4 Beachlands has jacuzzi bungalows, spa villas, chalets, ensuite sites and powered campsites, with facilities for kids including a pool, water playground, jumping pillow, table tennis and pedal kart hire. The beautifully landscaped Broadwater Beach Resort has a range of self-contained accommodation options and facilities, including a pool, playground, central BBQ, hot tub, outdoor spa, tennis courts and a licenced restaurant.

BUSSELTON’S RELATIVELY NEW skate park, set just back from the foreshore near the Busselton Jetty as part of the award-winning Busselton Youth Precinct, is the perfect spot to let your little skateboarding fiends burn off some energy. It features two bowls, one of them WA’s deepest at 3m, plus a mix of skate areas catering to both beginner and experienced skaters. The park has been stunningly designed to integrate with the foreshore and incorporates elements and features reflecting the historic jetty nearby.

Call (08) 9780 5911 or visit margaretriver.com

1 Scout Road, Busselton

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THE ICONIC, HERITAGE-LISTED Busselton Jetty offers an endless selection of familyfriendly activities, whether it’s introducing the kids to the meditative pleasures of fishing or the leaping excitement of crabbing, taking a leisurely 1.7km train ride out to sea, indulging in a guided walk tour or underwater helmet dive, or trying to spot some of the 300 different marine species visible from the Underwater Observatory. When you’re done with all that, have a browse through the interpretive centre and heritage museum before exploring the dynamically evolving surrounding foreshore.

Call (08) 9754 0900 or visit busseltonjetty.com.au

BUSSELTON SKATE PARK

SIMMO’S ICE CREAMERY THE WEATHER’S FINALLY warming up, so cool

off with a tasty treat from the ‘locally born, bred and frozen’ Simmo’s Ice Creamery. If you’ve still got time after agonising over which of the 60+ award-winning flavours of ice-cream to try, check out their equally famous park and grounds, complete with adventure playground, 18 holes of mini-golf, shady picnic spots, and expansive open grassed areas. If you’re particularly attached to your ice-cream, make sure to hide it from the friendly but ice-cream stealing Edward the Emu (it’s not very good for him).

Call (08) 9755 3745 or visit simmos.com.au

MEGAFAUNA FUNSHOPS

THE HORSE RESORT

IMAGINE WOMBATS THE size of cows and

ADD HORSE POWER to the holidays with

echidnas the size of sheep. Mind-boggling megafauna just like this once roamed Australia, with three previously unknown species and 10,000 fossils uncovered in Mammoth Cave alone. Find out more about the giant animals of our prehistoric past and take a tour of Mammoth Cave as part of the Megafauna Funshops run by the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association.

a ride around this working farm. They have horses that are ideal for youngsters to sit on while they're led out on the ride from another horse. Parents and other family members can join in, allowing the family to experience it together, rather than letting the kids have all the fun.

Call (08) 9757 444 or visit thehorseresort.com.au

Call (08) 9757 7411 or visit margaretriver.com

GEOGRAPHE LEISURE CENTRE EXHAUST THE KIDS or take some time out

via any one of the Geographe Leisure Centre’s wide array of facilities, including three multipurpose indoor courts, indoor and outdoor heated pools, a fully equipped gym, group fitness room, crèche and activity room and spa and steam room. Kids under 4 are free and there are casual, individual or family pass options. There’s also vacation care available.

Cnr Queen Elizabeth Ave and Recreation Ln,West Busselton, Call (08) 9754 3600.

SPOOL & SPINDLE, MARGARET RIVER SPOOL & SPINDLE arts and craft store owner Helen Barling knows only too well the magic that can happen when you place a pile of beautiful fabric, yarn and craft materials in front of children. Let your crafty kids make magic these hols at one of her three-hour workshops – they can learn how to spice up the classic pom-pom, create felted river rocks, use recycled t-shirt yarn from the garment industry to crochet a versatile yarn bowl, or use needle felting to turn handfuls of fluffy wool into cute and cuddly animals.

Call 0438 945 675 to find out more.

NYOONGAR WELLBEING AND SPORTS, BUSSELTON NYOONGAR WELLBEING AND SPORTS have

Discover country:Join the Nyoongar Wellbeing and Sports program and play some traditional Indigenous games.

been providing free school holiday programs throughout the south west since 2007. They’ll be in Busselton on 28 September offering school-aged children (5-18) and their parents a chance to enjoy traditional Indigenous games as well as a free healthy lunch. No registration required.

LOVE A LIBRARY: BUSSELTON, MARGARET RIVER, AUGUSTA AND DUNSBOROUGH WHAT’S A HOLIDAY without curling up with a book or letting your imagination run wild with tactile treasures like Lego, balls and balloons?

Libraries across the region have a range of free holiday activities aimed at school-aged children, including the popular Lego Club and juggling ball and rhythmic rainstick-making workshops.

Spots are limited so bookings are essential – contact individual libraries for bookings, opening times and information on other cool activities.

Margaret River Public Library, (08) 9780 5600.

Augusta Public Library, (08) 9780 5600.

Busselton Library, (08) 9754 1588.

Dunsborough Library, (08) 9756 7111.

CITY OF BUSSELTON AND YAC SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM EVERY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, the City of

Busselton busts out a range of free or low-cost, fully supervised programs for young people of all abilities, aged 12-25. The activities offer young people the chance to make valuable connections with their community and peers, and are run by the city’s youth team in conjunction with the Busselton Youth Advisory Council (YAC). Head to their webpage or Facebook page for updates on activities.

Visit busselton.wa.gov.au/Community-Services/ Youth-Activities-and-Services/Holiday-Programs

Call (08) 9272 3189 or visit nyoongarsports.com.au margaretriver.com

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ACTION & ADVENTURE

Saddle up: Take a ride on one of the many beautiful horses at Jesters Flat and see the landscape from a different perspective.

The mane event

SEEING THE MARGARET RIVER REGION FROM HORSEBACK IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S GREAT EXPERIENCES - DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO SADDLE UP AND BE ONE WITH NATURE.

By GABI MILLS. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER/JESTERS FLAT.

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Over the flats and across the plain, With my head bent down on his waving mane . . .

GOOD TIMES • FUNCTIONS

BANJO PATERSON

I

’m no natural horsewoman despite my desperation as child growing up in Scotland to own my very own Palomino. I used to fantasise about coming downstairs for breakfast and finding one tied up to the washing line, its white mane and golden flanks gleaming in the watery Edinburgh morning light. It wasn’t to be (I got a dappled wooden rocking horse instead) so imagine my delight when I discovered a Palomino - and many other beautiful equine specimens - at Jesters Flat, just up the road from our campsite near Rosa Glen, ten minutes or so from Margaret River township.

Jesters Flat is a truly beautiful spot and has evolved over the years thanks to the vision of one man: Paul Brennan.

If ever there was an example of a true Blue Aussie man of the land, it’s Paul. In the saddle, it’s hard to see where Paul ends and the horse begins; he commands his steed as if they were one mythical creature. Named after Jester, a star Polocrosse ride and Paul’s first Australian Stock Horse, the equestrian centre has grown over the decades to become an extraordinary place for horse-lovers to visit at least once in their lifetime.

It wasn’t always thus; for years Paul and his family farmed the land, but eventually the call of the bridle was too strong and over the years he added one after another horse to the collection, and offered rides to visitors keen to experience a taste of the drover’s life, for an hour or so at least.

There are a variety of tours you can choose

from depending on your riding ability; we took the country lane tour, me on George, a beautiful black gelding (‘this horse can jump!” I read worryingly in his description) and my daughter Daisy on Sausage, the most requested riding horse of all, apparently. Sarah, the Palomino I’d spotted with so much glee wasn’t available the day we arrived but no matter. George is more than ideal. The Jesters Flat team, led by Paul’s wife Fiona and a small legion of eager horseloving local girls and boys, make sure you’re

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 and Ngilgi Cave.

The traditional Aboriginal word Yallingup, literally translates to “A Place of Love” making it a perfect location for weddings, honeymoons or romantic getaways.

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS • WEDDINGS

Spring is the perfect time for romance and weddings. Why not explore our beautiful heritage listed gardens and enjoy a delicious meal from our new spring menu while sipping a cool glass of wine on our stunning terrace overlooking our gardens or in our magnificent “Yallingup Room”.

18 Yallingup Beach Rd, Yallingup Ph: 9750 1888 A/H: 9750 1830 caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au continued over / margaretriver.com

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It’s such an idyllic way to see the landscape from a new perspective, the gentle pace of our horses and the elevated view from their backs making for some special memories.

Hot hooves: Jesters Flat offers a variety of riding experiences depending on your skills on horseback.

Saddle up THE HUMBLE HORSE

MIRRAVALE RIDING SCHOOL

356 Miamup Road, Cowaramup, open 9am to 5pm. Call 0434 905 675 or visit margaretriverwagontours.com.au

Cnr Biddles and Caves Road, Yallingup, open seven days.

Call (08) 9755 2180 or visit mirravaleridingschool.com.au

Want to combine a foodie tour and an hour or two on horseback? Why not book a twohour picnic ride (including drinks and nibbles) or take a nougat and wine tour taking in the beautiful surroundings of Bettenays? The Humble Horse caters for the whole family with pony rides for the young ones, lessons for those looking at learning how to ride, trail rides for those after adventure or a relaxing amble through the bush riding down the historic Rails to Trails bush setting.

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Whether you want to brush up on your riding skills or take a ride through through the beautiful Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park, Mirravale Riding School has something to suit all levels of experience.

Riders can choose between a quiet, relaxing walk, the more adventurous can try a trot and experienced riders will enjoy an exhilarating canter through the shady bush where kangaroos, birds and beautiful wildflowers are in abundance if you pick the right season.

Safety is of primary concern and all rides are escorted. Young or nervous riders are given special attention to ensure that they enjoy their ride. Riders from as young as six are welcome and children aged eight and below will be led on their ponies by one of the escorts.

matched with the right horse, kit you out in hats, boots and all-weather coats if necessary, and then it’s into the arena to get on board. I mean, mount up. I was dreading this bit, being about as flexible as a park bench, but I needn’t have worried.

There’s a raised platform making embarkation of your ride a breeze.

“Heels down, and keep his head up,” says Paul, leading from the front. I put my heels

down and instantly find my hands holding the reins rising up, which makes Paul laugh. It’s like rubbing your tummy and patting your head at the same time; a knack to master. We begin to weave our way through the bush, Paul telling us all about his life and horses as we go, Sprockett the cheeky blue heeler keeping us company, then racing on ahead, jumping into freezing feeding troughs and ponds on command.

It’s such an idyllic way to see the landscape from a new perspective, the gentle pace of our horses and the elevated view from their backs making for some special memories. If we were a little more experienced we could have opted for a Bushman’s Ride, a two-hour hack across farmland and into the Rapids Conservation Park and nearby state forest, or a half-day forest trek – the Wanderer Tour – putting our trotting and cantering skills to the test. For now though we’re just about to trot our way back up the track to home. I encourage George to move in a sprightly fashion. Unfortunately I morph into a bag of potatoes on his back and the poor beast reverts to a walk. Paul encourages me and reminds me how to rise and fall with the trot; I give it another go and by the time we arrive back at the camp, I’m a legend in my own lifetime. There’s a never-ending campfire in full swing – huge logs that Paul tends during the cooler months to ensure they never lose a flame.

There’s home made dukka, wood-fired bread and best of all a glass of Jesters Flat wine, made in the little vineyard that Paul tends.

Next time, Daisy and I say, we’ll come for a beach ride, or maybe watch the sunset during a twilight ride. Because there will be a next time.

You can bet on that.

Jesters Flat, 1549 Rosa Brook Road, Margaret River.

Call (08) 9757 4562 or email bookings@jestersflat.com.Visit jestersflat.com

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THE GREAT

OUTDOORS Camping will always have a special place in the hearts of holidaying Aussies; but there are some new kids on the block who are offering something a little different to the traditional approach to a few nights under canvas. Welcome to the wonderful world of glamping.

By GABI MILLS. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

F

irst of all, let’s put my cards on the table.

I have been camping twice in my life, and neither experience was sufficiently enjoyable for me to invest in my own tent. The good news, however, is nowadays there’s no need for me to do so if I still want to give it a go.

The Margaret River region is probably one of the best places for the camping beginner to cut their teeth on a guy rope or two. Especially when you add the stunning morning vistas and delicious opportunities to fill up with scrumptious food and wine around every corner as you glamp in style.

Glamping - or glamorous camping - has been around for a bit but it’s really starting to make a splash in the south west. I decided to give a couple of new businesses a whirl - Mile End Glamping and Wild Goose Camping - and boy, was I sold.

Wild Goose Camping If the idea of struggling with putting up even the simplest tent gives you the shivers, there’s no need to miss out on the undoubted joys of sleeping under canvas. Wild Goose Camping, the brainchild of locals Chloe Sparkes and Clint Collins, gives you the chance to rock up to the

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campsite (or pre-arranged private land) of your choice, unzip the pre-erected bell tent and enter a world of comfort and joy.

That’s exactly what my daughter Daisy and I did when we arrived at the beautifully cared for, family-friendly campsite, Big Valley Farm, and parked right next to our Wild Goose bell tent. We’d already squealed with delight on our way into this secret little valley campsite because on either side of the driveway, adorable lambs frolicked like only lambs can do. Those squeals didn’t really stop when we stepped into our tent - Chloe and Clint sure know how to spoil their guests.

WILD GOOSE CAMPING

For more information visit wildgoosecamping.com.au Extras: The Campfire Essentials pack for two ($25) includes a Temper Temper Hot Chocolate kit, bag of marshmallows and mini liqueur bottle. There’s a breakfast hamper for two, dinner or BBQ hampers from The Larder - visit larder.biz/hampers-andcatering. Kitchen kit and pantry staples ($15 per night) includes a wide selection of kitchen equipment as well as herbs, spices, foil, clingwrap and a tin of baked beans. Fresh Coffee Kit for two ($5 per night for hire) includes Yahava freshly roasted coffee, French press for coffee brewing, mugs and sugar.

Outside your tent, there’s a little table and chairs to enjoy a sundowner/brekkie cuppa, and a hard wearing rug at the entrance ensures that you don’t bring the day’s mud into your little sanctuary. Once inside, you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped into some tent TARDIS. It feels so much bigger on the inside.

The double bed (complete with an electric blanket on each side) that we would be sharing was draped with extra blankets to keep out the nippy night air, and all around on the ground there were rugs and and a carpet - a carpet! In a tent! - and a heater ready to keep us oh so cosy when we went to sleep.

There was a chaise longue too, in case you wanted to read or chat, and fairy lights draped the exterior. It was just magical.

We’d opted for some extras - including a fireside treat, two mugs, marshmallows to toast by the fire, Temper Temper hot chocolate and for me, an extra nip of Cointreau to add to our nightcap.

We’d also arranged to hire enough kitchen equipment to cater for the entire site it seemed, including a French press coffee jug for your freshly ground Yahava cup of joe (also supplied), and useful things like oil, salt and pepper and, thoughtfully, a bottle of Vasse Virgin handwash. I loved the way the goodies in the carefully selected foodie hamper supplied

by Margaret River’s award-winning pantry filler, The Larder, were, where possible, all from local businesses, like Margaret River wood-fired bread, strawberry and champagne jam and juice.. That was all for tomorrow morning; first of all there was exploring to be done. continued over / margaretriver.com

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ACTION & ADVENTURE

Luxurious lodging: Mile End Glamping’s domes are an extraordinary way to enjoy the landscape and glamp in style.

Big Valley Farm is the perfect campsite for the novice camper - the camp kitchen is clean and well-equipped with a gas cooker as well as a bank of barbecues. The ablution block is a mix of communal and private loos and showers and there’s even a TV in the dining area if you’re craving a catch up on the day’s events. As it was getting close to dinner time, we decided to make some hot dogs. With everything to hand to make a little feast we soon found ourselves around the communal camp fire (there are a few dotted around the generously-sized site), getting to know our fellow campers.

All of them were experienced connoisseurs of the camping life, some in motorhomes, some in tents, and all agreed that Big Valley Farm was one of the best sites for kids they’d tried.

I can attest to that too; within half an hour of finishing her snags, Daisy was playing hide and seek with 10 or so other kids at the camp, revelling in the deep darkness those unpolluted big skies of the south west afforded their games.

Meanwhile us adults sat around with a glass of red in our hands, sharing stories of what we’d got up to that day, and what we planned for the next.

By 10pm it was time to turn in, but not before Daisy gave her new friends a tour of her lodgings for the night, the bell tent enticingly glowing from within by the sidelights supplied.

It was clearly a talking point in the campsite, this newfangled way of camping and Daisy was

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as pleased as punch to conduct a tour. Then it was my turn. The grown-ups wanted a peek too.

“Wow, carpets!” they said, and I nodded smugly.

By now the weather had decided to test our commitment to canvas - it was howling a gale and threatened to rain but we couldn’t have cared less. Snug as little bugs, we watched a movie on our laptop and, save for a few rattling side panels, slept straight through til the morning.

The morning brought with it the best meal of the day - especially when it’s cooked outdoors - and a full itinerary of adventures, including a Bushtucker tour feast that involved our first tastes of kangaroo and indigenous fruits of the bush.

Thanks to the no-fuss approach of glamping we knew that even when our little holiday was over, all we had to do was wash up the crockery we’d used, pack our bags and step into the car. No wrestling with impossible tent storage bags for us.

We can’t wait to return with the rest of the family in the warmer months - Chloe told me that they think nothing of setting up tents for whole families in whatever location they choose.

Wild Goose Camping, you had us at carpets.

Mile End Glamping Imagine pottering along a country lane when there, on the horizon, you see something so extraordinary it makes you exclaim,

“I’ll be jiggered”.

That’s exactly what I did when my husband and I turned off the Bussell Highway on the way to Margaret River and headed towards Yelverton’s Mile End Glamping.

I guarantee you will never have seen anything like it. Majestically sitting in the middle of 144 acres of rolling dairy farmland, you’ll discover two ‘domes’, constructions that wouldn’t look out of place in some utopian sci-fi vision of the future. Framed by towering trees and emerging out of the natural landscape like two other worldly stilt-creatures, they are once seen, never forgotten.

Thanks to those stilts, once inside you’re offered unfettered views across the farmland to the front, and with a wooden decking area next to each one (complete with spa and BBQ I might add), the honeycomb-constructed

geodesic domes are the last word in glamping with attitude.

Technically they’re tents, says Mile End Glamping owner Caroline Ford as she shows us around, like in the same way horses are technically cars. The design was chosen, she says, because of their structural strength, energy efficiency, use of natural light and the way they create a closeness with the outdoors. It gives you the chance to sleep under the stars without moving from your king-sized canopy bed.

This is taking glamping to the next level of luxury. There’s a fully functioning kitchen, a little dining table and chairs and then that four poster bed, draped with to-die-for linen, furry blankets which Jon Snow would covet and plumptious pillows. There’s a TV with a selection of DVDs in the nearby basket as well as board games, books and magazines in case you just packed your suitcase with clothes.

The idea, which began two years ago, was to give people the chance to de-stress in luxury but with nature playing a central part. Glamping was the obvious answer and after some serious googling, Caroline and her husband found the answer in their extraordinary domes.

Imported from the US, the Mile End domes were relatively easy to assemble, says Caroline it was the interior design and beautiful joinery created by a local craftsman which took the time prior to launching earlier in the year. As everything was either circular or triangular

within the dome - no straight lines here - it certainly required some clever innovations to ensure the space was truly liveable - and in that sense, those solutions are a huge success.

Seriously, this is accommodation which doesn’t skimp on TLC. There’s a rainforest-style shower with a little bathroom area complete with freebie pampering goodies. Think clay face mask and foot pampering lotions, Corrynne’s natural soap (plant-based, made to old fashioned cold process recipes) and Luminessence goodies.

It’s all very clever and - above all - supremely romantic because the most important factor about Mile End Glamping is the absolute solitude of the spot.

Look out from your new vista for your stay and all you’ll see are fields, the occasional cow and that’s it. Step out onto the deck adjoining your dome, run a spa bath and plan what’s on the menu for dinner, like we did. Fortunately the clever folk at The Larder and Boxed Indulgence had come up trumps with a selection of delicious local gourmet treats, like bruschetta toppings, dips, bread and jams.

At night your dome takes on an ethereal quality, lit from within, and sitting glowing on the hill.

The next day it was time to take advantage of one of the activities, as suggested by Mile End’s website.

We could have opted for a personal training class or a massage right there in the dome, but there was no competition. I signed up for a painting class with former Margaret River’s artist-in-residence Pamela Brittain and spent a lovely couple of hours drawing some banksia with charcoal along with 10 or so other wouldbe Picassos while Matt enjoyed a wander around Margaret River itself.

There are plans down the track to import a family-sized dome so the rug rats can enjoy the Mile End experience too - the perfect opportunity to enjoy some good old fashioned space age style in the heart of Margs.

designs in nature

MILE END GLAMPING

76 Yelverton Road, Yelverton.

Call 0414 018 560 or visit mileendglamping.com.au Each Mile End Glamping dome can accommodate a maximum of two people in a king-sized bed and are currently not suitable for children. No pets can be brought to the property and due to fire restrictions, Mile End Glamping domes and the entire property have a strict no smoking policy.

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River Open Daily 10am - 4pm 611 Boodjidup Road 08 9757 6885 info@payetgallery.com.aucontinued over / margaretriver.com | SPRING 2016 63 www.payetgallery.com.au

ACTION & ADVENTURE

TAUNTON FARM HOLIDAY PARK

Camping it up It’s hard to think of a more beautiful spot to sleep under canvas or enjoy a spot of caravanning than the Margaret River region. With its diverse landscapes - forests, national parks, pristine beaches and rivers - it offers some of the most stunning places to camp in Western Australia, whether it’s your first time or fiftieth.

Camping special

Just off the Bussell Highway on the way to Margaret River, Taunton Farm doesn’t disappoint when it comes to keeping the little ones amused with the opportunity to feed the animals every afternoon and, a big hit, a new jumping pillow. There’s a variety of accommodation options to suit most budgets, including self-contained farm-style cottages (four of which have full wheelchair access), spacious caravan and motorhome sites (all grassed) and a tranquil woodland camping area straight out of the picture books. Pick your site, overlooking paddocks and a large dam - there’s big-rig access and drive-through and reverse-in sites. When it’s time to cook, there’s a large barnstyle camper’s kitchen with log fire and free gas BBQs. Don’t miss the chance too to take a wander around the old school house that’s been fully restored onsite, complete with archive photos of past students going back decades.Your hosts, Rob and Julie Saunders, have worked hard to ensure that if you’re looking for an old-school camping experience in the heart of Margaret River’s wine country, this is it.

Visit tauntonfarm.com.au

RAC BUSSELTON HOLIDAY PARK Find your own patch of camping perfection within this award-winning eight-hectare site. It’s just a short 300m stroll to the white sands and crystal clear waters of Geographe Bay and, when it gets too hot, you’ll find plenty of shade under the peppermint trees. What makes this place extra special is its eco-friendly credentials: solar panels generate power and thanks to 2,000 native trees and plants planted on the property, the salinity levels in the ground have been reduced and erosion is kept to a minimum, not to mention the abundance of local wildlife. In fact, the park is so committed to preserving the unique environment that their work with the endangered Western Ringtail Possum has won them national recognition.

Innovative ways to attract these rare creatures adorn the peppermint trees - including old doormats, grass and shredded bark sitting in the trees’ forks. There are facilities for disabled guests, two large swimming pools and a wildlife lake. There’s also a nine-hole mini golf course and pedal cars for the kids to take for a spin around the park.

Visit parksandresorts.rac.com.au/busselton-accommodation

HAMELIN BAY HOLIDAY PARK Famed for those friendly stingrays who allow visitors to gently interact with them in the shallows of Hamelin Bay, the nearby holiday park offers an incredible chance to enjoy absolute beachfront caravanning.The wide sweeping bay is one of the most attractive in the south west making a delightful choice for those who hanker after endless azure blue vistas, safe swimming, beach fishing and boating all year around. Choose a spot shaded by the old peppermint trees and, when the weather’s fine (which, let’s face it, is most of the time), go bushwalking along the Leeuwin Walk Trail. Accommodation includes over 100 powered and unpowered camping sites and caravan sites. No pets are allowed - but petting the stingrays most definitely is.

Visit hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au

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RIVERVIEW TOURIST PARK Riverview Tourist Park offers some prime frontage on the river itself right in the township.

There’s a wide range of family-friendly accommodation options including super-clean and tidy cabins as well as caravan and campervan bays and camp sites. Make sure you bring your binoculars; the park is blessed with an abundance of local birdlife who like nothing better than a treat or two from residents. It’s extraordinary that for such a peaceful spot it’s only a short walk to the main street of Margaret River - the perfect mix of getting away from it all without missing out on the chance to eat, drink and shop locally.

There’s a canoe for guests to use, an eco-friendly bike to hire and free wi-fi - and all guests receive 20% off full day Cheers Wine Tours.

Visit riverviewtouristpark.com

SOUL CAMPING Love the idea of camping under the stars but don’t want the hassles of lugging your camping gear around? Want to start enjoying your holiday from the moment you arrive? Then Soul Camping has the answer. Arrive at the site of your choosing, anywhere within the Margaret River region, to a beautiful canvas Bell tent.

Soul Camping will pitch your tent, make up the warm, cosy beds, hang the pretty lights and furnish your room with a view for the next few days with everything you will need for a relaxing, soulful experience. Right down to the front doormat and outdoor table and chairs, Soul Camping have thought of it all.

Visit soulcamping.com.au

BIG VALLEY FARM You’ll think you’ve stumbled on a secret little paradise when you take the road out of Margaret River for a few kilometres then head towards Rosa Glen. Run by the Silverthorne family, Big Valley Farm nestles in a verdant valley - just follow the little road down to the campsite and fall in love with the sheep and their lambs munching the grass on either side. After

Call 08 9757 5020 checking in, this eminently friendly campsite makes pitching your tent or caravan super easy.

Dogs are welcome and as there’s so much room for everybody, it’s the ideal spot for family and friends to make their base for the duration of the holiday. Because it’s a working farm, there’s always something to see - pick lambing season and you’ll see twins, triplets and singletons to coo over everywhere. Firewood’s provided at the communal campfire spots, the perfect place to enjoy a Margaret River red after dark. Kids quickly remember what it’s like to exist in a wi-fi free world and revert to what they do best; being children in a safe, outdoors environment.

There’s a laundry and very clean camp kitchen complete with TV and ablutions block.

Everything’s within a quick drive - beaches, wineries, horse riding and foodie venues like The Berry Farm and Gaby’s Nuts and Cereals, home of the delicious Gaby’s Muesli.

bigvalleymargaretriver.com.au

Nestled amongst the hills of our family owned working sheep farm, Just ten minutes south east of Margaret River.

The farm encompasses a beautiful secret valley from the outside world by natural forest.

Bring your Caravan, Motorhome

Visit bigvalleymargaretriver.com.au

or Tent to relax and enjoy the

MANDALAY HOLIDAY RESORT

open space, amazing nights

It’s hard to think of how Mandalay Holiday Resort could be more appealing to the littlies - a rainbow-coloured water slide, a flat-calm bay to swim like Dory, crabbing and sailing throughout the summer months and lazy days beachcombing in the winter. Add to that the fact that the resort is connected to town via cycleways along the beach and the huge variety of accommodation-styles, and the road to Mandalay should be the one you follow this vacation. From luxurious two-storey spa villas to 120 motor home, caravan or camping powered sites, this is a resort that prides itself on the personal touch. Staff will show you to your site and are happy to help with parking or backing onto the site.You’ll get all the advantages of a resort-style holiday - think swimming pools, kids’ playgrounds and easy access to Busselton’s restaurants and cafes - with the relaxed camping vibe that the Margaret River region does so well.

skies, friendly farm animals and the family friendly atmosphere.

Pet Friendly.

Visit mandalayresort.com.au continued over / margaretriver.com

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ACTION & ADVENTURE

With some fantastic, and affordable, golfing options there’s no excuses not to pack the clubs next time you’re visiting the stunning Margaret River region.

Putt a birdie: You'll be joined by all manner of wildlife during a round at the beautiful Margaret River Golf Course.

By NORMAN BURNS.

S

PERFECTION TO A

TEE Image by MARGARET RIVER GOLF CLUB

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o, here am I on the ninth green at Busselton Golf Club, my ball positioned just above the flag, a glorious eagle chance beckoning…

Actually it’s a double eagle chance on this beautiful, 371m par 4 and, indeed, as I line-up to address my ball my golfing companions and hosts for the day, Paul and Andy Culnane, wait in respectful silence.

But I’m too excited, blurting out “eagles!” as, above the green, two magnificent wedge tail eagles take flight.

What, did you think I was talking about eagles in golfing terms?

Err, no. Alas my golfing prowess isn’t quite up to that level; thankfully my ornithological skills are better, and spotting these majestic birds is just one of the great highlights of playing golf in the Margaret River Region.

Eagles, kangaroos, parrots, beautiful, calm sunny conditions, icy cold craft beers and delicious food - and being chauffeur driven from course to course - all add up to an excellent day on the greens.

The Cully brothers (pictured right) are both phys ed teachers by profession, and golfing and sporting nuts to boot (Paul originally shifted from NSW to Perth to play for now-defunct rugby league side the Western Reds).

But now, after a decade in the Margaret River Region, they have embarked on a new venture Cully’s South West Golf Tours (cullygolftours.com).

With five fantastic courses in the vicinity - Busselton, Margaret River, Augusta and Dunsborough Lakes (plus Capel) - the brothers, and their clients, have plenty of variety to choose from.

amaze’n

MARGARET RIVER MAZE, GARDENS, MINI GOLF & CAFE

MARGARET RIVER

Alas, time doesn’t permit me to go the whole hog and play ‘em all (next time perhaps), so I opt for a 9/9 split - nine holes at the gorgeous Busselton course, a very civilised break for a beer and food at the Cowaramup Brewing Co, and then nine holes to close at the hillier, but equally spectacular, Margaret River Course.

We kick off at Busso where Andy quips that if you’re in the area and want some home repairs or a tradie on a Thursday afternoon, forget it they’ll all be on the course.

We slot in before an afternoon comp kicks off (and yep there are a lot of tradesman’s utes in the car park) and it’s fair to say my golf is scratchy at best.

When the club pro suggests we try the “skates” to go around the course I’m thinking he is having a lend, but minutes later he shows us these four-wheeled skateboard-like contraptions, like miniature Segways.You hook your clubs up to the front and control direction by leaning one way or the other; a hand-held “accelerator” lets the “skater” control the speed.

Busselton Golf Club general manager Matt O’Connell says the skates are a massive hit with the younger crowd, and it’s not uncommon for golfers from all over the south west to book a round specifically to try the skates.

Thanks to an old knee injury (plus I am using all my concentration to actually remember what to do on the golf course) I chicken out of golf skating and opt for the familiarity of a normal cart and we head off.

Andy and Paul are around 10 handicappers - 24 would be generous for me - but of course that’s the beauty of golf, you can tee up with the

best of them and still be in the mix.

I’ve already decided beforehand to forget about keeping a score today - possibly just as well as my first tee shot cannons into the trees.

The Cully brothers just slot their shots straight down the fairway…

Busselton is a beaut little course, with a history dating back to 1907; its most famous son is pro golfer Stephen Leaney who in 2003 ran second at the US Open.

A couple of hours later (and with the Cully brothers now expert golf skaters) I putt out under the gaze of eagles; my golf has been, err, rusty but at least my putting begins to sing.

Let’s see what a lunch (and beer break) will bring on the next nine, at Margaret River Golf Course.

Along the way to the Cowaramup Brewing Company Andy explains that flexibility is the big

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 lunches, coffee and cake | Wheelchair accessible paths

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

www.amazenmargaretriver.com.au continued over /

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Image by DUNSBOROUGH LAKES GOLF CLUB

key to their tours.

“We can pretty much adapt to whatever anyone, or any group wants. They might just want to play a few nine holes while their wives or partners prefer to check out the wineries; or they may want a full-on experience with 18 holes at all the courses. We’ve got a couple coming down next week who have never played before but want a good introduction - plus to enjoy all the Margaret River attractions,” he says.

You could, of course, plot your own self-drive Margaret River region golf tour but the Cully Bros operation has one big advantage over that - you can sample a few ales, or wines, during the day and not worry about driving (well, only off the tee). Andy and Paul will pick up and drop off their guests from hotels and factor in travel times to the courses. So, fortified by a couple of excellent pints of Cowaramup India Pale Ale and an scrumptious fish and chips from the brewery’s kitchen, and we hit Margaret River Golf Club.

Margs is a par 72, 6,092m course that winds around a coastal ridge; there’s a fair bit of water on the front nine (miraculously I find the hazard just once) and, with the sun setting, the course’s resident population of kangaroos come to check out those left on the course.

Golf operations manager Jon Farrell says the 17th (a 291m par 4) is the signature hole, a challenging uphill target with a green that is built over an underground cave. On this nine (was it the IPA?) my putter goes into overdrive, and I’m sinking long range putts left, right and centre - if the lead-up to the greens had been any good I might have almost been tempted to keep track of the score.

But with ‘roos, amazing views, chattering birdlife, great company and right-until-thesun-goes-down almost balmy Margaret River weather, it’s been a great day out.

A good walk spoiled? No, whoever came up with that line had never taken the clubs down to Margs…

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All courses mentioned here welcome visitors but contact the pro shop for fees, dress codes and available tee times (or sign up with a Cully’s South West Golf Tour to take all the hassle out of organising the rounds yourself).

MARGARET RIVER GOLF CLUB 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. Created in the early 1950s by clearing bushland near the mouth of the Margaret River, the course winds its way up and down the coastal ridge. This spectacular setting is complemented by an abundance of flora and fauna, native and local trees. The resident kangaroos have been a major attraction for visitors, golfers and non-golfers alike for many years. Although not heavily bunkered, the course features numerous water hazards, mostly on the front nine holes. In contrast the back nine, with their sloping fairways utilising the natural slopes provided by the coastal ridge, will test the best golfers’ shot making ability. The bent grass greens will rival the best in WA with subtle breaks and high quality putting surfaces.

Ideally positioned between the wineries and the beach, the Margaret River Golf Course is in pristine condition all year round. The clubhouse offers a well-stocked bar and stunning views over the course from the veranda.

Visit margaretrivergolfclub.com.au, (08) 9757 3161, 599 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River.

CLUBBING IN THE

Margaret River Golf Club CALL (08) 9757 3161

MARGARET RIVER REGION Bookings are essential

AUGUSTA HILLVIEW GOLF CLUB Well, if you get down to this sand-green course you can always boast to friends that you’ve played “Augusta” (in fact, the WA club holds its own “Masters” in November; to be eligible to enter, players must have a maximum 27 handicap and provide a minimum of eight scores registered on Golf Link or get approval from the Match Committee). This is an all-volunteer run club (there’s a green fee box at the first tee) and the par 72, 5,837m course has sand greens but the striking views of Flinders Bay and the Blackwood River alone are worth the incredibly cheap $15 green fees. Club captain Nick Dornan says the 9th is the signature hole. “It’s an uphill par 5, quite often into the wind, but has spectacular views from the green - we like to end our championships on this hole.”

Visit augustagolfclub.com.au, (08) 9758 1432, Hillview Rd, Augusta.

BUSSELTON GOLF CLUB This would be my choice to kick off a Margaret River golfing break; it’s a dead-flat course, with magnificent greens and fairways framed by red gums and peppermint trees, an abundance of native wildlife and - for the somewhat adventurous - you can get the chance to try the golf “skates”.

Visit busseltongolfclub.com.au, (08) 9753 1050, 277 Chapman Hill Road, Busselton.

PLAY AROUND IN

MARGARET RIVER

DUNSBOROUGH LAKES GOLF CLUB Many a time I’ve headed south west and looked on, while driving, with envy (golf has not been on the agenda) at the spectacular par 72, 6,144m Dunsborough Lakes layout. The course is open to visitors and, in conjunction with Wyndham Hotel and Resorts, offers a Play & Stay package with reduced green fee rates. The 18th is the course signature hole, a 422m par four that snakes around a lake (there’s a lot of water out there).

Visit dunsboroughlakesgolfclub.com.au, (08) 9756 8733, Clubhouse Drive, Dunsborough.

599 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River margaretrivergolfclub.com.au

Clubs, buggies and carts are available for hire at the on-course golf shop that also stocks a wide range of equipment and essential

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MY DOWN SOUTH GETAWAY

Matt Stone’s

first book The Natural Cook is out and the Margaret River-raised chef loves the region he used to call home.

The Natural Cook

by Matt Stone, Murdoch Books.

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I

got my first job as a kitchen hand at Cafe Forte soon after my family moved to Margaret River in 2002. I worked at night and surfed in the morning. It was the ideal life for a surf-crazy teenager.

Strangely, I loved it in the kitchen. Working until midnight, getting soaked washing dishes, getting yelled at, the rush of service. It was at

Cafe Forte that I decided I wanted to be a chef.

I constantly asked questions about food and cooking. I learned the basics and my duties grew weekly. My love of food had started.

I spent a lot of time skipping school and hitting the beach. It’s awesome to surf down there as a teenager because you’d often find yourself surfing alongside pros from all over the world. I have very fond memories of going to the beach at first light and not leaving till sun set.

So I fell in love with cooking when I was 15 in Margs. I left school very early and I wanted a job that was at night so I had days to get in the water. I never even considered cooking as a career until this point. It changed my life forever.

Now I spend all my time cooking and rarely in the water, but I’m completely fine with that.

The region is a great place for a young cook.

There are so many inspiring people producing world class food as well as some top chefs to learn from. My time in the kitchens at Leeuwin Estate gave me the drive to be the best. Its sous chef, Tim Taylor, took me under his wing over two summers and taught me many skills I still use today. Tim and I have remained good mates ever since.

I try to get to Margs at least once a year. The food scene is always growing. In my opinion, Settlers Tavern is the best pub in the country, if not the world. I love it. I always have lunch

Image by ALUN BARTSCH, RECIPES THAT ROCK.

at Leeuwin, the food is delicious and it’s always good to see some old friends. The farmers market is definitely worth checking out too. There are heaps of great produce to check out while strolling around with a coffee and a pastry. It’s also worth making the time to check out some caves, they’re so peaceful and beautiful.

It’s not really a secret but I would highly recommend the Cape to Cape walk in the spring. It’s the best way to really soak up your surroundings and the weather is perfect for it then.

I’d start with breakfast on the beach at White Elephant, then a dip in the ocean. I’d then head down through the Boranup forest to Augusta and check out the lighthouse. Head back towards town and stop for lunch at Leeuwin Estate. Make sure you spare at least a few hours to enjoy the setting and food. From there I’d head home for an afternoon nap then on to Settlers for some local beers and dinner. The menu is great and they have an exceptional wine list.

The next morning ideally would be a market day. Pick up some local produce then cook a BBQ in the mid afternoon followed by another dip in the ocean at sunset. The final morning I’d grab brekkie in town then head up Caves Road heading north to check out some wineries and breweries as I head back to the big smoke.

R E 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

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The

GOOD OIL

The benefits of the olive - and its sumptuous oil - have been known to mankind for at least 6,000 years. And in Margaret River a journey that began as one family’s quest to find a safe, healthy alternative to soap for their children to use has blossomed into an olive oil empire that’s literally growing by the day. By NORMAN BURNS. Images by PHOTOGERSON.

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T

he entrance to Vasse Virgin’s striking Wilyabrup headquarters is spectacular enough; a long driveway lined with a phalanx of Australian spotted gums and framed by vineyards.

The weather gods have added a slate grey, stormy winter’s sky as I make a dash through the doors before the rain pelts in sideways.

It’s on opening the door that a real sensory overload hits; a swirling, heady blast of amazing aromas, as if you’ve been instantly transported to a luxury spa.

The dazzling scents come courtesy of the handmade soaps being created right on the premises, just one of the many Vasse Virgin

LOCAL

products derived from olive oil.

HERO Soaps, skin care products, body lotions, oil for eating and cooking, gourmet foods - the olive tree’s fruit and oil are an astonishingly versatile ingredient.

It’s no wonder that olives, and olive oil, have been harvested for thousands of years around the Mediterranean.

Even so,Vasse Virgin owners Louis and Edwina Scherini must pinch themselves at how far they’ve come since experimenting”in a country kitchen 21 years ago to come up with an olive oil-based alternative to commercial soaps.

The Scherinis, who at the time ran a Kojonup sheep farm, were sparked into action after their three kids were diagnosed with eczema and they were advised not to use soaps or shampoos.

So they set about finding an all-natural solution, using extra virgin olive oil and plant extracts.

“Actually it blows our minds when we look at how far this business has come in 21 years from a simple bucket and spoon in our kitchen on the farm in Kojonup. We don’t often think about it unless someone else points it out because we work in the business and are continuously trying to make it even more successful,’’ says Edwina.

“I am astonished at how many people turn up to our staff social nights, now employing 25 people, and proud of the tourism and business awards lining the walls; after all, we are just farmers from Kojonup.’’

Before relocating to Margaret River, the Scherinis juggled running their farm, raising their kids and expanding their fledgling skin care business from Kojonup.

“At that stage we contract manufactured, wholesaled and exported the skin care throughout Australia, America and Singapore.

Louis’ family decided to sell the farm and move to Perth about 12 years ago and we had always eyed off the Margaret River region as an option for fulfilling our dream of starting Vasse Virgin as a tourist destination,” says Edwina.

And a tourist destination in its own right it has become,Vasse Virgin winning gold in the 2014 West Australian Tourism Awards (Specialised Tourism Services), among many other accolades.

Along the way the Vasse Virgin brand has grown to include gourmet food, perfumes (you can even have a go at a make-your-own perfume class) and more.

As Vasse Virgin’s profile grew though, the Scherinis suddenly found themselves, unexpectedly, in a dispute over trademarks with none other than Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin organisation.

The Scherinis stuck to their guns and after a lot of legal argy-bargy, the dispute ended with Vasse Virgin being allowed to carry on its merry way.

“The legal dispute was a long, drawn out, extremely stressful and expensive headache but worth it to be able to keep the name that the Vasse Virgin olive grove has held for 19 years. I would love to meet Richard Branson, I think he is a very astute business man and marketer – wouldn’t it be great to have a one-on-one session at the factory! We have no hard feelings, it was just business and they never made any personal attacks or played dirty, so I respect them for that,” says Edwina. (With Branson rumoured to be

visiting WA early next year maybe that meeting could eventuate…)

Vasse Virgin, too, offers some unique insights into the complexities - and beauty - of olive oil; all three directors, Edwina, Louis and Mark Bahren are olive oil sommeliers, officially certified by the International Olive Council and regular olive oil workshops are held at the Wilyabrup factory.

Vasse Virgin uses all the oil from its Wilyabrup property for its premium estate brand, while the rest is contract grown out of Donnybrook.

“We often get olive farmers call in and ask if we purchase oil; if it’s good we usually buy it,” says Edwina. “The eating olives are from WA, apart from the bella cerignola varieties that we bring in from a small family farm in Cerignola, Italy, and we bring them in because they are so different from any others we have tasted.”

Edwina and her husband have also attended the Institute of Perfumery summer school in Grasse, France, to learn the fine art of perfume making - another option offered to the public at the Wilyabrup premises.

“I have been designing the perfumes for our skin care over the 21 years, so have accumulated a lot of experience during that time. I wouldn’t say I am a ‘perfumer’ but I have a lot of know-how and everyone that has done the course (in Grasse) has walked out with something they loved, which is what the course is all about - that and some fun too.”

Meanwhile Edwina, Mark and Louis and their dedicated team at Vasse Virgin continue to add to the amazing range of olive oil-based products.

“We plan to bring out a new range incorporating Australian bush extracts such as wattle seed, desert lime, Kakadu plum and quandong. They should be out just in time for the Christmas season.”

For more information, visit vassevirgin.com.au or call (08) 9755 6111. margaretriver.com

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Discover the secrets

of the timeless landscape around Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse on a new tour lead by Josh Whiteland Cape Cultural Tours.

By MIA LACY.

T

he landscape of the northern cape of the Margaret River region is marked by two stand-out features; one natural and one built. Sugarloaf, a gigantic granite rock-island, emerges from the Indian Ocean close to the mainland. The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, just as much a fixture of the landscape, is built from the limestone quarried from the bedrock.

A young Noongar custodian from Cape Cultural Tours is translating this terrain to us today. We’re at the meeting point at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse carpark where the tour commences, and our guide Josh ‘Koomal’ Whiteland tells us the name for this place in the local Wardandi language is ‘Kwirreejeenunungup’, explaining it means ‘place of beautiful scenery’.

I can see why. We’ve driven only about 13kms from Dunsborough onto the Cape, but it feels timeless and serene.

We gather our small group together and head out along the gentle pathway. It’s only about 500m to the Whale Lookout, and as we pass the spreading melaleuca trees, Josh tells us this is a traditional tree that he and his kin still camp under.

“When they flower, it indicates the change of seasons – it means we are now in Kambarang (Spring),’ he explains.

He points out the tiny bright lime green flowers of the native peach, quandong, saying these and juk berries (native cherries) are the best eating now.

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Story of the land: You'll see the Margaret River region in a new way after a Cape Cultural Tour.

“You can eat them straight off the bush,” he says, happily demonstrating. The taste is slightly sweet, and a great lead into the next experience.

Josh is foraging up along the path and holds up a grey sprig of leaves. It’s not the most edible thing I’ve encountered, but as he explains, it’s one of the most significant coastal plants in WA. “Saltbush tastes like salty spinach. It’s excellent with seafood such as paperbark saltbush wrapped fish.”

The salty taste switches my brain on to my surroundings. All that I can touch, taste, smell and hear around me is now in ultra focus. Our guide points out to sea.

“From here, we often see the whales twice during the year.

They come past on their northern migration as they head for the warmer waters around June to have their calves. Then they return with their springtime babies. “ The whales haven’t heard their cue, but below us three dolphins are chasing each other through the breakers.

“Kwininan,” grins Josh, “ That’s our word for many dolphins.

They operate in packs, pushing the schools of salmon close enough to the beach so you can easily spear them.”

We walk north into a forest of petrified wood. I would have mistaken it for rocks unless Josh had told me it was an ancient melaleuca forest.

“This is like our tool shed,” he says, explaining this was a tool site where the Noongar would use flint nap rocks – bits of churt and quartz – to make skinning tools to use on the small continued over /

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ARTS & WELLBEING Custodian of country: Josh Whiteland of Cape Cultural Tours, introduces visitors to Kwirreejeenunungup - or ‘place of beautiful scenery’.

Our people are hunter gatherers and we’ve always eaten well by taking only what we need and what the seasons offer us.

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marsupials they hunted.

Behind us, he shows us an old midden mound I would never have spied – it’s made of ancient discarded shells of abalone and black periwinkles. Must have been a good feast.

The ecology of the coastal dunal system is fragile and the erosion caused by wind takes its toll on the exposed limestone rock. Plants and trees have adapted over time and, as Josh explains, his ancestors the Wadandi simply adapted their lives to what they found.

“Our people are hunter gatherers and we’ve always eaten well by taking only what we need and what the seasons offer us,” he says.

As we start off again, eating is definitely what’s on my mind. It feels like we’ve covered a lot of ground, but it would only be a few hundred metres from the car park.

We arrive at an open place on a cliff top where there’s a firepit, a BBQ area and jarrah timber tables. But my attention is captured by the view of Sugarloaf. It is just spectacular, and late afternoon against a setting sun is certainly the best time to appreciate its majesty.

“We call it Curbitchup,” our guide explains.

“It’s named after the Western blue groper, or curbin, which come in and run along the reef shallows here during their breeding season.

“The time they come in is known to us because the balga (grass tree) flowers. It’s like the tree blossoms calling to the groper – they are always here at that time. They can’t help themselves. If you go crush up rock crabs and toss into the water they’ll come in really close like you conjured them up.”

Curbin can grow up to 30kg in weight and live to 50 to 60 years of age. Josh says the old gropers have the respect of the Wadandi. “You wouldn’t catch these fish.”

Respect of country is the backbone of Noongar people.

“This place is special,” he says. “It’s where the Nanga (sun) nearly gets to meet Meeka (the moon). The first new moon of the month is usually early, and often here at Sugarloaf you can see the old sun as he is setting and the Meeka rises over there. They almost meet,” he smiles as he takes out his firesticks and bends over the low fire pit.

He explains why he is using the long, sturdy grass tree flower stems.

“Mar-Midi is a soft wood and good for making fire the traditional way,” he says. Quickly rubbing the stick between his palms, he makes the friction to create an ember spark that falls on the fibrous Banksia flowers and Balga fronds. He

facts

blows gently and the flame catches.

Behind him, there’s an array of hunting and foraging tools and he shows us the spear throwers, hunting boomerangs, digging sticks and carrying bowls. I touch a soft kangaroo skin and Josh grins. “Plenty of those around here!”

He points to a wet white substance and explains it is wilgi ochre from nearby Wingerup. Taking a little extra water, he rubs it into a paste and smears it onto his forearm where it quickly dries to body paint.

We learn about the Noongar’s percussion instruments - tapping sticks, clap boomerangs and the didgeridoo. In an amazing demonstration, Josh makes the didge mimic the ‘rrrrraaaaaccck’ screech of a black cockatoo and the ‘bwwwoop bwwooooop’ of the tiny motorbike frog that, uncannily, sounds just like its name. He pauses to ask us if we would like to hear an original song.

We so would! Josh produces a song story about all the animals he’s told us about today out of his Wandoo wood digeridoo. “This one’s in the key of C sharp. My favourite

one is in E, but I like the diversity,” he says.

Someone in the background is conjuring up a food feast. The smell wafts over from the cooking BBQ as the last strains of the didgeridoo fade back into the peppermint trees. We’re presented with an array of traditional native foods and meats on a wooden platter.

There’s freshly made damper, kangaroo and emu chorizo and salami - all locally made - lemon myrtle butter and fat WAsmoked mussels. Best of all, there’s quandong chutney prepared by Josh.

The welcoming feel of this meeting place has us all united after the past couple of hours spent exploring a small patch of beautiful Cape country with our knowledgeable guide. Josh explains why he believes it’s important to create cultural awareness. “Part of my role as a custodian is about caring for the country.

“You tend to start caring for something when you are connected to it, when you understand it.Then it’s a natural progression you value it more.”

Cape Cultural Experience Tour DURATION: 2.5 hours COSTS: Price $66 Adults $32 Children 4-16 years DEPARTS: Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse 9am or 5pm INCLUDES: Coastal foraging and cultural interpretation during easy coastal

walk, Welcome to Country, interactive didgeridoo, fire-making.

FOOD OPTION*: Sunset snacks $30 Adults $15 Children *Native food

tastings and refreshments available for group bookings (min. 10 guests) ENQUIRIES: Telephone 0412 415 355

Visit capeculturaltours.com.au or facebook.com/capeculturaltours margaretriver.com

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Take a wander through the Margaret River region these days and it doesn’t take long to realise that the place is a hotbed of artistic activity.

By TAMARA HUNTER. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

T

owns like Margaret River, Busselton, Dunsborough,Vasse and Augusta are teeming with examples of public art – each piece lovingly created by a richly diverse set of local and West Australian artists using a broad range of materials and styles.

Some of it is history-minded, such as Busselton’s ongoing Settlement Art Project, a series of life-size bronze figures which celebrate Busselton and the Vasse; Noongars as the traditional owners of the land; and the pioneers who established the area as a successful outpost.

Part council-funded and part crowd-funded (feel free to make a tax-deductible donation via Jacquie Happ at the City of Busselton), the ongoing project has so far seen three sculptures unveiled – the Whaler’s Wife, the Timber Worker and John Garrett Bussell. Still to come are the Spanish Settler, Aboriginal Child and Pioneer Woman. You can see the existing

sculptures, with interpretations explaining their significance, in the Cultural Precinct along Queen Street in Busselton.

In Margaret River, Alan Meyburgh’s distinctive set of paleontologically-themed megafauna sculptures reach back to an even earlier time, when their real-life forerunners once roamed the region.

The most famous of the series is Zygomaturus Trilobus – affectionately known as Zyggy – who sits with a baby zygomaturus outside the Visitor Centre at 100 Bussell Highway. Difficult as it is to believe given his weight and size, Zyggy blew away in storms earlier this year and had to be repaired and replaced by Alan (everyone is very relieved to have her home).

When the kids have finished playing with Zyggy they can grab a map from the Visitor Centre and, with their parents as chauffeurs, follow the Megafauna Discovery Trail to seek

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out Meyburgh’s other creations. Zyggy’s fellow sculptures include Marsupial Lion, Short-faced Kangaroo and Tasmanian Tiger, located variously at Lake Cave, Jewel Cave and Mammoth Cave.

Completing the trail will earn kids free entry to Ngilgi Cave in Yallingup.

While many public art pieces pay tribute to the past, others are a paean to the natural environment which has nurtured so many of its practitioners.

Look out for Elaine Clocherty’s Water in the Environment – aggregate rock set into the paving alongside Margaret River’s main street to represent the movement of water as it flows through the town.

In Busselton, Queen Street is immeasurably enhanced by a series of beautiful railings commissioned from Voytek Kozlowski and designed to reflect themes including the unique flora and fauna of the south west, creatures of the sea, Busselton’s iconic jetty, and the area’s pioneering past.

Meanwhile, an overhaul of famous Surfers Point at Prevelly a few years ago paved the way for several stunning installations by artists including Russell Sheridan and Kashmir Rouw.

Rouw’s elegant Wave Wall sculpture, the iconic limestone piece which marks the entrance to the point, emphasises the curving and fluid nature of the wave; while his Spiral Shelter, down the main staircase between the beach and carpark, is modelled on the mirabilis shell spiral and highlights the geomorphological processes that have formed the coastline. It also

Keeping watch: The extraordinary figures that make up the Surfers Point installation at Prevelly (opposite).

Bronze age: Left, an ever-growing collection of statues is making Busselton's Settlement Art Project a vibrant place to visit.

acts as a space for reflection and to develop an emotional connection to the environment and adjoining landscape.

Sheridan’s Eurybia, made of composite fibre and concrete, sits as the mascot of the headland just before the main carpark, representing mastery over the seas, personifying human vulnerability, and exhibiting the excitement/fear of the challenge out in the sea. His Layla - the

great-granddaughter of surf God ‘Huey’ - can be found nearby, sitting on the rocks between Surfers Point and the Margaret River mouth.

She is said to care for all sea creatures and to watch over those who enter the water.

Sheridan is also the artist behind The Stick at nearby Riflebutts Reserve. It’s a charming sculpture of a man and a dog that represents man’s best friend and has evoked the delight of continued over /

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human visitors and fascinated canines alike. The same reserve features Mark Heussenstammm’s Totem Poles, built from the stumps of two Norfolk Pines damaged in the 2011 bushfires and designed to celebrate the lives of local inhabitants, including an owl known as ‘Swoop’ who used to hang out in the Norfolk Pines before the fire.

The region’s public art isn’t solely represented in sculpture, though, with other forms including the practical yet playful dog poles of Augusta, and numerous ephemeral urban art canvases designed to add splashes of colour and/or food for thought to otherwise boring walls.

One of the most touching urban art examples is the Jack Bromell-created Sam Isaacs mural in Prince Street, Busselton. The piece commemorates the bravery of local Noongar and stockman Sam Isaacs who, with the then 16-year-old Grace Bussell, rescued passengers from the stranded steamer Georgette in 1876. It also acknowledges the bravery and courage of all Wadandi and Bibbulman people in their country.

Bromell was also involved in a large scale street art project in Dunsborough earlier this year, where he guided local youth as they proudly helped to paint a stunning collaborative piece, Drug Aware Dunsborough StART, on a shopping centre wall.

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Local hero: Above, Jack Bromell's mural features local Noongar and stockman Sam Isaacs who rescued passengers from a stricken steamer in 1876.

Wild thing: Below, Alan Meyburgh's ancient beasts inhabit the region, while left, more modern figures augment Busselton's city centre.

TIME TO TRANSFORM

The Margaret River Region has always drawn alternative thinkers and new age advocates to make it their home - Sarina Lewis meets some local business owners who are helping their customers make changes to their lives.

CAT ORD COACHING “I seriously love business,” grins intuitive business and life coach Catherine Ord (pictured), large aquamarine ring a flash on her finger and oversized black cardigan pulled tight against the cold air on the terrace of the Margaret River Bakery.

And yet when, in the next breath, Ord sits down her tea cup to confide her “hippy, gypsy-like” leanings there is no sense of selfcontradiction: in her world – and the lives of those who come to her for guidance – spirituality and entrepreneurship walk hand-in-hand.

“The way in which I approach business systems as a freelancer, as an entrepreneur and as a consultant is that I’m looking at consciousness and mindfulness and ancient tools and tactics to get my client into a better position to really see

the terrain and the landscape of what’s going on,” Ord explains.

“It’s about understanding yourself first and, when you understand yourself, your ability to be effective in the marketplace and in life is simply a natural flow on.”

A former youth worker with a bachelor’s degree in science and nutrition, Ord has spent the better part of her adult life letting her curiosities and her passions guide her: from working with her renowned ocean photographer husband, Russell Ord, to training in life transformational coaching in LA and pursuing an understanding of the Steiner method. The launch of her coaching business last year is the sum of what Ord refers to as “life experience and the accumulation of all of those qualifications”. margaretriver.com

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ARTS & WELLBEING Health-giving: Fiona Abbott's Alkomy Kombucha is great for your gut.

Every culture has its own relationship with tea and I feel overwhelmed sometimes by how much history is attached.

CATHERINE HORAN-HANDERSON, SEVEN SEAS TEAS

Her multi-pronged approach to aiding clients in pursuing their business and life dreams (Ord is a certified transformational dream builder life coach) means that even those initially resistant to the idea of alternative methods are assured a pathway they can walk with least resistance. In short, she facilitiates a way for her clients to step into something else.

So what is that something else she encourages others to step into? Ord smiles.

“New life. New business. Freedom from fear and limited thinking.”

Simply said, she herself is aware the transition can be anything but. And yet her experience working online with entrepreneurs everywhere from London and New Zealand all the way to South Africa would suggest her unconventional approach is just what’s needed in a rapidly changing world.

“Even in this process one of the major things clients find really difficult is the transition to step into something new from a really busy life. But when you go into emptiness, from that space you can see what you want, what your business needs – can release the conditioning that we’re attached to and that slows us down. And that,” Ord finishes, “is when you not only know what your actions needs to be, but are willing to step into them.”

Visit catordcoaching.com

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EDGEWALKERS Dr Erika Johnson has made a career out of teaching others to tap into creativity. A lecturer in Creativity and Innovation at Murdoch University, the writer, dancer and social theatre practitioner is spreading the message with her unique creativity and walking retreats that encourage participants to use the wild freedom of the south west as an arena to birth their own creative ambitions.

“Walking is a really natural way of letting your ideas and thoughts stream out and just arise without having to be hyper-focussed,” she says.

“It allows you to connect to something beyond the costume party of religion; it’s a bigger and deeper and more unique approach if you can let it happen.”

Workshops include three-nights luxury accommodation at Frog Choir, vegetarian meals, guided walks, 12-hours of focussed creative exploration and four weeks of follow-up oneon-one online coaching.

Visit edgewalkers.com.au

HELEN DUKE

“I’m all about the root and getting to the cause rather than just treating the symptoms,” explains Helen Duke, wellness practitioner and a passionate advocate of natural therapies.

Like other like-minded practitioners in the south-west region, Duke has found a unique

space where her desire to help others, along with her training in naturopathy, multiple massage modalities and – more recently – aroma touch therapy, has successfully aligned with a community eager and willing to cultivate new ways to approach health.

“There is all this disease in society now,” Duke says, recalling a recent new client who came to her with a newly recognised autoimmune disease Duke had never encountered.

"For me, it’s all about bringing the body

Tea time: Drinking Seven Sea Teas is part of a daily ritual which brings purpose to Catherine HoranAnderson's day.

passion that once directed Abbott’s career in advertising; a career that was interrupted when a terrible accident on the road left her with two broken legs.

“I decided to heal myself and did a personal training course while I was recovering,” Abbot recalls.

Once introduced to kombucha, the scene was set for establishment of Alkomy. Abbot is now expanding into new flavours and new markets with her hand-bottled beverage made with filtered Augusta rainwater.

“I’ve had people call and email to tell me (kombucha) has changed their life, really.”

Visit alkomy.com.au

SEVEN SEAS TEA

back to balance.

Duke has delved deeply into the world of aroma-touch, a recently certified mode of healing that focuses on use of essential oils harvested from their indigenous sources and then used in a pure and highly concentrated form.

“These essential oils are very high vibration and help emotionally, mentally and spiritually,” Duke says. “Aroma touch works on inflammation in the body to restore the auto immune system.

I’ve been a massage therapist for years, but with

When booking, mention

aroma touch people just float off the table.”

Visit helenduke.com

ALKOMY KOMBUCHA Fiona Abbott’s voice rings with conviction as she describes the drive to begin her kombucha business as being “a strong calling from my gut”.

The fermented tea beverage, known for its gut-healing properties has become the vehicle that carries forward all the drive and the

Contributing to the growth of tea culture is a passion project that drives founder and owner of Seven Seas Tea, Catherine Horan-Anderson.

“The world revolves around coffee drinkers and the tea drinkers are getting left behind,” Horan-Anderson says.

“Every culture has its own relationship with tea and I feel overwhelmed sometimes by how much history is attached. But I’m committed to making the experience of drinking something more than just a cup of tea: to have the drink woven into daily routine. For Seven Seas, tea drinking is very much the way we do things.”

Teas come direct from carefully sourced plantations in India and Australia, while spices and herbs used to make blends are bought from quality Australian wholesalers.

Visit sevenseastea.com.au

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that you saw our ad in the Your Margaret River Region Magazine and we will give you a $50 voucher to redeem at Margaret's Restaurant during your stay.

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ARTS & WELLBEING Kaleidoscope of colour: Maureen Munro's extraordinary textiles reflect the flora and fauna of the Margaret River region, particularly her famous Banksia Nut creations.

Patch perfect Maureen Munro's beautifully colourful quilts are a gorgeous way to add colour and personality to your home.

By TAMARA HUNTER. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

I

t’s a ubiquitous and fundamentally useful thing, the quilt. It keeps you warm, can brighten up a room, and represents comfort in an uncertain world.

Its very commonness means that throughout history it has often been undervalued; seen as simple women’s work – often made from scraps - to be donated or sold cheaply at church bazaars and the like.

Infectiously passionate Margaret River quilt artist Maureen Munro, whose intricate, often nature-inspired works have featured in solo exhibitions and found their way into collections around the world, couldn’t see the quilt more differently.

“So many women’s crafts are discounted and it’s sort of ‘Oh well, that’s just what they did’, but I think the reason people often discount quilts because they’ve never really looked at them or

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engaged in the technical work,” Maureen says.

“Textiles is always one of those areas that people don’t necessarily see as art because it has a practical application as well, so it’s been fabulous since the first Margaret River Region Open Studio, when I was the only one of perhaps two textile artists, to see how many other artists are now embracing textiles to some degree and including it in their repertoire.

“There are now a lot of collaborative projects happening and support between artists of great diversity, and it’s exciting to see that happening.”

Another plus from the Open Studios format is the way it has enabled people to engage with artists in ways other than the sometimes intimidating gallery setting – with many shifting their perception of quilts and textiles as a result.

“It has provided the opportunity for people to come and have a look who would not

normally go to an exhibition or something that was textile-related - and that includes a lot of men who would previously have sat in the car,” Maureen says.

“Now they come in and it’s the wives who are tapping their foot and saying ‘we’ve got other studios we want to go to’, and they’re saying ‘yes, but…’

“So the men are becoming more engaged – in my case in the machines and equipment I use – and they suddenly see the design element.

"As one guy said, ‘I’ll never look at a quilt in the same way again’. That to me is the ultimate, to have engaged people to see things differently.”

Although Maureen started out as a traditional patchwork quilter, these days she employs what is for her a joyous blend of traditional patchwork quilting and long arm machine quilting. She’s been using a machine – a large industrial sewing

machine with a 12ft table and long rollers – to stitch designs over her quilts for about 16 years.

For most of that time she has created the designs herself, either making them up as she went along or hand-guiding the machine over a pattern laid out on the table.

“But if I hiccupped and moved the machine, the machine stitched whatever I hiccupped. So last year I invested in a computerised component, like a computer tablet. I set that up and it’s able to stitch out the design I’ve put on there for it that has opened up an unbelievable new world of creativity.”

Maureen says that while there’s still some suspicion from traditional quilters towards those who use machines, awareness is increasing and there’s a whole new movement of quilters who are exploring and pushing boundaries with every aspect of the craft.

“In the last 15 or 16 years that I’ve been involved I’ve seen the transition from the total rejection of the kind of machine quilting that I do to the much more accepted form it is now, and people are taking it to new levels all the time.”

Although Maureen still makes and sells beautiful patchwork quilts to order, they’re a different kettle of fish to the ‘art quilting’ she pursues by combining quilting with two of her other great passions: photography and nature.

“It’s a privilege to work on people’s patchwork quilts and that’s fantastic but 10-12 years ago I decided I needed to do something that was just purely my own thing,” she says.

“And I love photography, I love the Australian bush. So I take a photo, I print it onto fabric and then I quilt it intensely, and the result - which doesn’t always come through on photos - is a

very three dimensional look. It puts depth and 3D back into the photos.”

So enamoured is Maureen with the intricate detail to be found in nature that it’s spurred her to take thousands of photos of banksia nuts alone – a theme reflected in one of her most recognisable quilt creations, Banksia Nut. “You start looking at banksia flowers and leaves and nuts and the plants and they’re just stunning, the patterning in them is beautiful.

So I love exploring that for myself but also inviting other people to look at it again and to become intrigued with the detail that’s sitting there in nature.”

Apart from the artistic challenge and the way it connects her to community and the shared pleasure of creating something, there’s another layer to quilting that feeds Maureen’s soul.

“People think I’m mad, and I am a bit, but I’ve had quilts to work on and I’ve had to say to people ‘Your quilt won’t talk to me so I can’t do it yet,’” she says.

“There have been quilts that I’ve had an enormous amount of problems doing, and then when the person comes to pick it up there’ll be a sad story that’s gone with that quilt.

“The opposite can be even better. I had a friend here one day and she said ‘You’ve enjoyed doing that quilt, you’re singing and I can hear the joy in your voice’ and that will be a quilt that’s been made with absolute love for somebody who may be dying of cancer, or a new baby that’s coming, and it really does transmit.

“I used to dismiss it but now, not every quilt, but with some quilts you can feel that love come through and know that something special and extraordinary has gone into the quilt that’s been made.

“I think that’s one of the things I love about textiles is that over the centuries, women particularly but men as well, it’s something that we make by our hands and invest energy and life and love into, and that stays with the articles that are made and used - and that’s what’s really important to me.”

See more of Maureen’s work at mrros.com.au/project/maureen-munro and on the Textile Trilogy Facebook page she shares with fellow textile artists Jane Flower and Anne Gregg.

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It’s everything you need to explore the region!

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Augusta

Cowaramup

OPEN 9AM-5PM DAILY DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. margaretriver.com | SPRING 2016 87 CLOSED THURSDAYS OUTSIDE OF HOLIDAYS.

3hrs 45mins 45mins 45mins 15mins 15mins

Ph: (08) 9757 6342

Over 200 square meters of colourful and unique display area with shells and corals collected from all around the world. Over 40 000 rare and beautiful specimens on display. Shells and shell craft are available for sale. Rated as one of the best shell displays in the world.

SHELL COLLECTION

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93. ACTIVITIES & ART 95. WINE & BEER 96. TOURS

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30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins

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20mins 30mins 30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins

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DRIVE TIMES

3hrs 4hrs 15mins

margaretriver.com/app

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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

AUGUSTA HOTEL & HAMELIN BAY HOLIDAY PARK ENJOY ACCOMMODATION SET ON THE BLACKWOOD RIVER, OR ON THE BEACH IN HAMELIN BAY

Set on the Blackwood River, The Augusta Hotel offers accommodation including 4 star self-contained apartments, rooms, cottages and backpacker facilities. The Hotel offers spectacular views of the Blackwood River and Southern Ocean and features a fully licensed restaurant, featuring fresh produce and TAB facilities.

Hamelin Bay Holiday Park offers unique beachside accommodation in a National Park and beachside setting. Set on a beautiful bay and taking in the picturesque South West coastline between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, the Holiday Park is 15kms north of Augusta and 30kms south of Margaret River. Choose from well appointed camp sites, caravan sites, cottages and cabins.

Ph 08 9758 1944 info@augustahotel.com.au www.augustahotel.com.au

Ph 08 9758 5540 bookings@hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au www.hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au

BIG 4 PEPPERMINT PARK

DIRECTORY

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 WA 6280 ph 08 9755 4241 • pepipark@iinet.net.au www.peppermintpark.com.au

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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

Don’t miss out next time

Call (08) 9273 8933

E: sales@premiumpublishers.com.au

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT ON THE SHORES OF GEOGRAPHE BAY 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

Ph 08 9756 8885 or freecall 1800 816 885 e dbcottages@netserv.net.au • www.dunsborough-beach.com.au

DUNSBOROUGH CENTRAL MOTEL

DUNSBOROUGH INN BACKPACKERS

DUNSBOROUGH CENTRAL MOTEL IS NESTLED IN A TRANQUIL GARDEN SETTING IN THE HEART OF TOWN 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 shopping centre, beauticians, banks and a very well informed Visitor Centre. Simply relax in style by our outdoor pool and

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.

BBQ area, indulge in the Bali Style Gazebo Spa, or just kick back with a good book and a glass of wine in the privacy of your well appointed room.

Winter Special: 2 nights in a superior motel room for $159 including a bottle of wine on arrival. Valid until the end of September and excludes all long weekends. To qualify, simply phone us direct and mention this special.

50 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough WA Ph 08 9756 7711 • reservations@dunsboroughmotel.com.au www.dunsboroughmotel.com.au

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

GRANGE ON FARRELLY

JACARANDA GUESTHOUSE

MARGARETS FOREST

AFFORDABLE, TOWN CENTRE, QUIET LOCATION

JETTY, SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS, ALL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS!

STAY IN THE HEART OF THE MARGARET RIVER TOWN CENTRE

Air conditioned accommodation. Four minutes walk to the main street, and walking distance to all town centre facilities.

Half-size tennis court, outdoor pool, BBQ facilities, native gardens. Licensed restaurant on site for breakfast and dinner.

Our clean, comfortable, affordable rooms are the perfect base from which to explore the region.

Book now, then relax and enjoy your holiday.

18 Farrelly Street, Margaret River Ph 08 9757 3177 grange@highway1.com.au www.grangeonfarrelly.com.au

Grange

Fantastically located, is nestled amongst beautiful English style gardens where you can just relax or enjoy a bbq.

Busselton’s famous jetty, beach, shops, cafe and restaurants are all within a 5 minute walk away. Has 7 guestrooms, all with own ensuite, r/c airconditioning and free wi-fi.

Continental breakfast is included in the price.

Margarets Forest is situated where the towering forest meets the gourmet town of Margaret river. These four-star fully-equipped apartments are walking distance to the river, bushwalking trails and the cafe strip.

Features include: Twin spas | Private barbecues | Fully equipped laundry and kitchen | Private balcony & courtyard | Free onsite parking | Air conditioning

30 West Street, Busselton, WA Ph 08 9751 5973 • jacarandaguesthouse1@westnet.com.au www.jacarandaguesthouse.com

96 Bussell Highway, Margaret River, WA Ph 08 9758 7188 stay@margaretsforest.com.au www.margaretsforest.com.au

The

On Farrelly

MARGARET RIVER MOTEL

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DIRECTORY

Contact Natalie to book your space in our next issue of Your Margaret River Region Magazine.

STAY

Winter @ Cape View

Enjoy a winter getaway package available online!

Located on the shores of Geographe Bay in the Margaret River Region, Forte Cape View offers the best of both worlds with beautifully appointed, fully self contained accommodation, some with spa.

Ask about our ocean views accommodation.

• Four star beach front destination • Two & three bedroom, two bathroom accommodation • Childrens playground and BBQ area • Outdoor pool, indoor pool, gym and sauna

12 Little Colin Street, Busselton bookings@capeviewapartments.com.au

Call us on 08 9755 4388 www.capeviewapartments.com.au

OUR WORLD IS YOUR PLAYGROUND BOOK YOUR SPRING ESCAPE - PULLMANBUNKERBAYRESORT.COM.AU

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STAY

REGENCY BEACH CLUB DUNSBOROUGH REGENCY BEACH CLUB PROVIDES THE FINEST IN SELF CONTAINED, LUXURY BEACHFRONT ACCOMMODATION, IN

ver Region

Guide 2015

Enjoy the added benefits of resort style facilities including a heated swimming pool, fully equipped gym, tennis court & free WIFI. Our holiday houses all offer superb decor, air conditioning, some with gas log fires, luxury kitchens, laundry facilities, private outdoor dining BBQ areas and balconies.

The spacious living areas are equipped

with TV’s, DVD players and docking/stereo systems along with 7 foxtel channels.

We accommodate from 1 bedroom/1 bathroom up to 5 bedroom/5 bathroom holiday houses, many with Spa Baths and ocean views.

Prices start from $350 per night. We also offer a night free during Winter & Midweek.

REPEAT ADVERT

I77SE M Road, NTDunsborough, WA GiffordE Ph 08 9759 1117

* conditions apply.

enquiry@regencybeachclub.com

ertisement from either the 2014 AMRTA visitor guide or adapted from the 2013 GBTAwww.regencybeachclub.com visitor guide.

SEINE BAY APARTMENTS

Seine Bay Apartments

SUNFLOWERS ANIMAL FARM & FARMSTAY

Spacious & Comfortable Cabins + Caravan Sites

SUPERB ACCOMMODATION PRISTINE AUGUSTA

Superb Accommodation in pristine Augusta

• AAA AAArated rated&&excellent excellentTripAdvisor TripAdvisorreviews reviews bedroom - 2bathroom bathroom && 33 bedroom-3 bedroom - 3bathroom bathroom • 22bedroom-2 Spacious,self-contained, self-contained, stunning stunning design • Spacious, design Allapartments apartments with • All withmagnificent magnificentbay bayviews views RCAir AirConditioning, conditioning, flat DVD CD CD • RC flat screen screen TV TV DVD Timberdecks, decks,private privatebalconies, balconies, lock-up lock-up garages • Timber garages Central location, close to shops, cafes & iconic AugustaHotel Hotel • Central location, close to shops, cafes & iconic Augusta Near to Blackwood River, beaches, caves, karri forest, wineries, • Near to Blackwood River, beaches, caves, karri forest, coastal bushwalks & the Leeuwin Lighthouse wineries, coastal bushwalks & the Leeuwin Lighthouse Blackwood Tel: 08 9758Avenue, 0761 Augusta Ph 08 9758 0761 Augusta Blackwood Avenue, enquiry@augustaapartments.com.au enquiry@augustaapartments.com.au www.augustaapartments.com.au

www.augustaapartments.com.au

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, the garden, or follow one of the many creeks and walk trails that meander through our 315 acre farm. Sip local wines while admiring the rolling hills, wild kangaroos, beautiful wildflowers and stunning views.

5561 Caves Road, near Margaret River Ph: (08) 9757 3343 • farmerjones@sunflowersfarm.com www.sunflowersfarm.com

urning this form you are booking an advert in the Visitor Guide and we will invoice you for $500 inc gst

o change.

TAUNTON FARM HOLIDAY PARK & HISTORIC FUNCTION CENTRE

www.riverviewtouristpark.com

9757 2270 | 1300 666 105 WYADUP BROOK COTTAGES

advert - Approval for Printing

DIRECTORY

rt as shown. The artwork can go to print without any changes. I understand that by signing this I for the accuracy of the content of the advert.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________ Signature ____________________________________________________

CENTRAL TO THE CAPE TO CAPE REGION

__________________________ Emailin Address ____________________________________________________ Function Centre for 200 plus.

Offering friendly service 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.

Fully equipped catering kitchen & amenities.

Any unique function at affordable rates with accommodation onsite.

Inspections are always welcome.

Ph 08 9755 5334 • Freecall: 1800 248 777 advert - with minor changes enquiries@tauntonfarm.com.au

www.tauntonfarm.com.au t as shown but with the following changes to the text. I understand a revised proof will be sent to it goes to print.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

FUN ON THE FARM, BUBBLING BROOK, WONDERFUL WILDFLOWERS AND CHEEKY CHICKENS Enjoy a piece of paradise from the comfort of a home away from home. 6 Cottages in a bushland farm setting on 250 acres in the heart of Yallingup.

• Close to the Cape to Cape Track and Incredible Injidup Bay • 5 minutes drive to beaches, wineries, galleries and shops • 1,2 & 3 bedroom fully self contained cottages • All towels, linen and bedding provided 33 Wyadup Road, Yallingup Tel 08 97552294 • wyadup@iinet.net.au www.wyadupbrook.com.au

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FOOD & DRINK

BARNYARD 1978

CAFE BORANUP

THE DECK MARINA BAR & RESTAURANT

WHERE LOCALS AND TRAVELLERS EXPERIENCE A

COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE IN THE FOREST

SIT BACK, RELAX AND ENJOY

Come and join us, Chef has a spring menu that is a tribute to the local bees. A celebration of Wildflower Season and the Bees that work so hard to pollinate all that flowers, this menu is created in conjunction with beautiful local honey’s and locally sourced seasonal produce.

Experience a taste delight at Barnyard1978.

OPEN DAILY. 12 Canal Rocks Rd, Yallingup WA Ph 08 9755 2548 www.barnyard1978.com.au

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

The Deck Marina Bar and Restaurant is the ideal waterfront location where one can soak up the beauty of Port Geographe Marina. With a combination of outside dining on the sundrenched terrace or inside by the double sided fireplace, it is the perfect place to relax.

Port Geographe Tavern Pty Ltd T/as The Deck Marina Bar & Restaurant

On the waterfront. Port Geographe Marina 21 Spinnaker Boulevard, Busselton cu@thedeckmarina.com.au Ph 9751 2960 www.thedeckmarina.com.au

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 and Sunday.

Also open on Monday public holidays.

Open 7 days in December and January.

Check our Facebook page for the latest news.

521 Cape Naturaliste Road, Eagle Bay WA Ph (08) 9755 3188 eaglebayolives.com.au

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

FLUTES RESTAURANT

THE LARDER

SET IN THE BEAUTIFUL NATURAL SURROUNDS OF BROOKLAND VALLEY VINEYARD

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING OTHER THAN A RESTAURANT DINNER TONIGHT?

Overlooking the waters of Wilyabrup Brook, Flutes Restaurant has earnt a reputation as one of the region’s finest dining experiences.

Executive Chef Francois Morvan brings an exotic mix of his French training plus a reverence for local seasonal produce to create a continually-evolving menu beautifully matched to our Brookland Valley wines.

Flutes Restaurant is open from Thursday to Monday from 11am for Morning Tea, 12 Midday for Lunch.

Kitchen closes at 3.30pm.

Will open for dinner for 10 or more people, bookings essential.

(Exclusive hire fee applies) Weddings and functions welcome.

4070 Caves Road Wilyabrup 6280 • Ph: 08 9755 6256 • flutes@flutes.com.au www.flutes.com.au

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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

WA's Own Icecream

FOOD & DRINK | ARTS & ACTIVITIES WA's Own Icecream

ARTGEO CULTURAL COMPLEX

With over 60 flavours of delicious icecream made on the premise, sundaes, hot waffles and coffee.

There is something for the whole family!

WHERE ART AND HERITAGE MEET

Kids can go crazy in the adventure playground or challenge the whole family to 18 holes of mini golf.

4 – 7 Queen Street, Busselton • 9751 4651 • artgeo@artgeo.com.au www.artgeo.com.au

Enjoy a BBQ or picnic in the shady landscaped gardens.

Guiding you to awaken & elevate your consciousness for leading an inspired life catordcoaching.com

161 Commonage Road Dunsborough

08 9755 3745

www.simmos.com.au

76 Peel Terrace - Ph: 9754 2166 - Fax: 9751 2092 www.busseltonmuseum.org.au

Guiding you to awaken e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching & elevate your consciousness for leading an inspired life Guiding you to catordcoaching.com

awaken & elevate your e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching consciousness for leading

an inspired life

THE MARGARET RIVER REGION’S

BEST OCEAN VIEW

DIRECTORY

catordcoaching.com e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching

PLEASE NO DOGS

FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

EV ERY SAT UR DAY

APRIL-NOVEMBER 8AM-12PM DECEMBER-MARCH 7.30AM-11.30AM MARGARET RIVER EDUCATION CAMPUS BOOK YOUR TABLE FOR SPRING WHALE WATCHING! pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au

LOT 272 BUSSELL HWY

E N Q U I R E S : K AT R I N A L O M B A R D O 9 7 5 7 9 0 9 5 K AT @M A R G A R E T R I V E R FA R M E R S M A R K E T. C O M . AU T H I N K S E A S O N A L , T H I N K F R E S H , T H I N K L O CA L !

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES

THE DIVE SHED

ARTS MARGARET RIVER

MARGARET RIVER CULTURAL AND EVENTS CENTRE The major arts and entertainment venue in the region. Providing weekly cinema screenings and live theatre performances include ‘An Evening with Henry Rollins’ 25th September, ‘The Aboriginal Comedy Allstars’ 29th September, ‘Otto & Astrid in Supermusician’ 25th October, ‘Always…. Patsy Kline’ 3rd

November and simulcasts of ‘Tartuffe’4th November and ‘Symphony in the City’ 10th December.

Visit our website for information and ticket purchases.

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS 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

CHRISTMAS IN KARRIDALE

Australia’s First Commercial Silk Farm

Christmas in Karridale and Atelier Susi Jewellery Gallery The purposely built Gallery is located in the picturesque Township of Karridale on the Brockman Highway, just 150m off Bussell Highway.

Established over 15 Years ago, Christmas in Karridale is truly the South West’s only Christmas decoration specialist. All year round you can come and enjoy our wonderful atmosphere and choose beautiful Christmas decorations and ornaments from around the world.

OPEN ALL YEAR from 10am to 5pm – Thursday to Monday, and EVERY DAY from November to December and all School Holidays (except Christmas Day).

Ph 9758 5007 • atelier.susi@bigpond.com • 30 Brockman Highway, Karridale WA

Open 10am to 4pm (Closed Mon,Tues & Christmas Day)

Silkworms │ Silk Products

Mulberry Jams & Wine Jewellery Gallery

MARGARET RIVER SURF SCHOOL

Mulberry Leaf Teas Tours, Displays & Demos Silk Art & Supplies

DIRECTORY

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO TRULY EXPERIENCE THE SOUTH WEST There’s no better way to truly experience the South West than to jump in a surf lesson with the Margaret River Surf School!

Operating for over 20 years, we cater for anyone willing to give it a crack. All ages from beginners to advanced, there is a lesson to suit you! Get the passion, feel the thrill with lessons starting at $50, all equipment supplied. Hire equipment also available.

0401 616 200 margaretriversurfschool@hotmail.com www.margaretriversurfschool.com

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We grow mulberries and silkworms to produce Australian silk. Our product is sent to Cambodia to be hand-reeled, dyed and woven in household and village-level enterprises.

Located in the heart of the Margaret River Wine Region 307 Harmans Mill Road Look for the red flags!

(08) 9755 6401 info@margaretriversilkroad.com

Directory

ARTS & ACTIVITIES | WINE & BEER

SKYDIVE GERONIMO

SPRING RADIANCE Choice of 3 treatments for $149*

WA’S BEST BEACH SKYDIVES Tandem Skydive from 10, 14 or 15,000ft over the spectacular Busselton and Margaret River regions!

Enjoy a breathtaking flight to altitude, taking in views of Geographe Bay, the famous Busselton Jetty, Cape Naturaliste and the wineries beyond. Then it’s time for the door to open, and ready? set? GO! Feel the rush of free falling when you and your Instructor plummet toward the earth at 200km/hour, before safely landing on the beaches of the beautiful Busselton

Visit pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au or call 9756 9160.

Valid to 30/11/16. Conditions apply.

contact us today!

Ph 1300 449 669 skydive@skydivegeronimo.com.au www.skydivegeronimo.com.au

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

DIRECTORY

RI M A RG A RET

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d Bre we E R Bo rn & V

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THERE’S A CHEEKY SIDE IN ALL OF US,

let yours run wild!

SEL

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BUSSELTON

BUS

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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

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WINE & BEER

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

An exclusive wine tasting experience Tastings by appointment only.

Enjoy spectacular views of our boutique vineyard while sampling award-winning wines with viticulturist Tim Quinlan.

Contact Tim on +61 438 930 527 or tim@gracefarm.com.au to book. gracefarm.com.au

caves DIRECTORY

PREMIUMPUBLISHERS

Page turners for brands 181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008 | Ph 08 9273 8933. premiumpublishers.com.au

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Discover an ancient wonderland at Ngilgi, Mammoth, Lake and Jewel Cave.

To book drop into your nearest visitor centre or call: (08) 9757 7411

TOURS Directory

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

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88pp

$

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to 5.30p

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10

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FULL DAY 30 TOUR D am m

• Local cheese and produce tasting

PLUS

• Complimentary bottled water • Personal wine tasting record and pen • Mystery raffle • Email group photograph

Simon & Nicole White M: 0428 179 729

PO Box 1089 Busselton, WA 6280 E: cellardortours@bigpond.com W: cellardortours.com.au

HALF + FULL DAY

Wine & Scenic Tours 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

JESTERS FLAT Scenic nature & wildflower tours

Scenic, Nature & Wildf lower Tours of the Margaret River Region

Professionally guided HORSE RIDING TOURS, suitable for all abilities. From forest treks to beach rides, we have a horse riding adventure just for you.

1549 Rosa Brook Rd, Margaret River Ph 08 97574 562 bookings@jestersflat.com www.jestersflat.com /JestersFlat

In spring the South West bursts into life to reveal a canopy of brilliant coloured flowers with exotic perfumes.

EXPLORE THE HABITAT OF RARE ORCHIDS ENDEMIC TO THE REGION. 0409 110 067 | tours@margaretriverexposed.com.au

www.margaretriverexposed.com.au

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DIRECTORY

All

• 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

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.

Spring special 10% off by mentioning this ad 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

SOUTH WEST ECO DISCOVERIES

. 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

info@southwestecodiscoveries.com.au southwestecodiscoveries.com.au

DIRECTORY

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 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

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Join brothers Ryan and Mick on one of our jam-packed half-day tours.

COASTAL & WILDLIFE ECO TOUR – A unique guided insight into the stunning coastal scenery of Cape Naturaliste and Geographe Bay. With the region’s only underwater video feed direct to the tour vehicle, and local knowledge of the best nature and wildlife viewing locations, this is an experience you will not forget.

WINE & SIGHTS DISCOVERY TOUR - This tour ticks all the boxes – visit iconic sites and amazing scenic locations, then experience some local wines and gourmet produce.

MEET THE WOYLIES – An evening tour to see this very rare animal, the smallest member of the kangaroo family.

With the flexibility of two guides we cater for all ages and abilities and offer personalised service. Tours depart at 9am and 2pm daily.

Pickups are available from Busselton to Dunsborough (Margaret River by arrangement). We are also available for private charter and Perth airport transfers for 1-12 people.

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

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Gourmet Wildfo od lunch on river tour!

Enjoy spectacula r wineries on our tour

Unique Aust

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, 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 2016 99 | margaretriver.com

SPRING

Grab a ticket at www.bushtuckertours.com.au/pay

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