Your Margaret River Region Magazine Winter 2017

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06 | WINTER 2017

EVENTS THIS WINTER

Raise a toast this winter

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INCLUDED IN THE

Your Margaret River Region magazine

Your pull out guide to what’s on this winter margaretriver.com

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The place to be seen this winter

OPEN DAILY 10am to 5pm

2

FREE WINE TASTINGS

RESTAURANT

CELLAR DOOR

WEDDINGS

61 Thornton Road (corner Wildwood Road), Yallingup, WA T: 08 9750 1111 www.aravinaestate.com WINTER 2017

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MARGARET RIVER’S PREMIER FOOD & WINE DESTINATION

EVENTS

SPORTS CAR GALLERY

AWARD WINNING WINES 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR LUNCH

magazine

Editor’s Letter I

t’s time to rug up and huddle round a fire - after you’ve spent a day visiting the vineyards, of course. But winter isn't just all about fruity reds and warming casseroles. The Margaret River region has plenty of things to do, no matter what the weather decides to do.

The region has an impressive reputation for art and creativity, so why not plan a day trip touring local galleries and cafes - we’ve put together an itinerary which takes in some of the best of both.

Maybe you’d like to brush up on your culinary skills while you’re down south, making the most of all those fabulous local ingredients? No problem - there are plenty of cookery classes you can join, from Cape Lodge’s three-course class headed up by chef Michael Elfwing, to a six-hour foodie adventure courtesy of the team at Wildwood Valley in Yallingup.

There’s no need to put adventures on the back-burner either; a brand new adrenaline-fuelled day out - Jet Adventures - will have you whizzing through the narrow gap between Canal Rocks, come rain or shine. Just don’t forget to pack your raincoats and bring a (waterproof) camera.

Of course part of the appeal of a holiday in the Margaret River region is the opportunity to spend lazy days sampling some of the best wines in Australia and, as many of the vineyards celebrate their 30th and 40th anniversaries, we’d love to take the opportunity to raise a glass to these hard-working creators of top drops. Why not go off the beaten track and sample some less well-known grape varieties too - there are some real beauties being produced right here.

On top of all that we’ve got suggestions for rainy day fun and where you can stay if your furry friend along for a break too, and meet some new chefs who now call the region home.

Happy reading!

Gabi

Published by PREMIUM PUBLISHERS 26 John Street Northbridge Perth WA 6003 (08) 9273 8933 EDITOR Gabi Mills gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au DESIGNER Cally Browning cally@barecreative.com.au SALES MANAGER Natalie du Preez (0426 752 352) natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au PHOTOGRAPHIC Elements Margaret River elementsmargaretriver.com.au Sean Blocksidge (The Margaret River Discovery Co.) CONTRIBUTORS Sean Blocksidge, Dianne Bortoletto, Max Brearley, Cassandra Charlick, Rayne Embley, Fergal Gleeson, Matthew Mills, Janine Pittaway, Tom de Souza, Lisa Shearon, Tori Wilson.

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

All rights reserved. No material published in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written authority. Every endeavour is made to ensure information contained is correct at time of going to print. ©2017 YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION MAGAZINE is published quarterly by Premium Publishers on behalf of the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association.

Visit premiumpublishers.com.au

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

We’ll repost our favourites!

The Margaret River Region

@margaretriver

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

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

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PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

WHAT YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION GOT UP TO IN

Autumn

ONE OF OUR READERS, Tammy Ryan, submitted this beautiful autumnal photograph after a day out in the region.

“My daughter, grandson and I had been to his playgroup in Margaret River, then to Prevelly Beach and also went on a tour of Lake Cave,” says Tammy. "It was such a sunny, beautiful autumn day and we had taken some fantastic photos but this scene stopped us in our tracks and we had to pull over to take a photo. The colours were amazing!”

We agree Tammy!

We'd love to see your instagram pics!

Send your winter Margaret River region pics to gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au by August 1 for your chance to see them featured in the next issue.

Image by Tammy Ryan

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34 What shall

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we do today?

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Contents WINTER 2017

Eat & Drink 18 Cooking classes - polish your skills 20 Fireplaces & food - the best cosy spots 23 Tuck in - delicious winter menus 26 High spirits - Introducing pisco 28 The stars align - top chefs arrive 32 Fishing for compliments - Augusta’s Blue Ocean fish n’ chips 34 Meet the chef - George Cooper 36 Smoke signals - the story behind Yallingup wood-fired bread

Wine & Wineries 38 A good year - celebrating the vines 42 David Hohnen - meet Cape Mentelle’s creator 44 Get amongst it - stay among the vines 46 Dare to be different - unusual wine varieties - and where to find them 50 Margaret River Masterclass - Win a holiday for two down south 51 Loving the land - putting ecology first 54 Best winter reds - take your pick

Nature & Environment 58 Born on the farm - where to see the cutest farm animals this winter

66 Rock stars - incredible photography of local landmarks 68 National treasure - Ian Parmenter 70 Traveller’s choice - Margs is a hit with visitors 72 Wonders of the deep - go whale-watching 74 The jet set - zoom around Canal rocks

Active & Adventure 76 Shore thing - Busselton’s on the grow 78 Going underground - explore the caves 80 My Down South Getaway - Rayne Embley 84 Rainy day fun - ideas to keep boredom at bay

Arts & Wellbeing 86 A place of love - retreat and revive 88 Chill out - therapies for winter 90 Rug up - cool winter fashion 94 F ood for thought - drive and dine around the region’s galleries and cafes 98 Fire & ice - stunning local jewellery 100 Stars of the silver screen CinefestOZ is coming 101 Getting Around - travel info

62 A traveller's tail - bring your furry friends on holiday

MAP & DIRECTORY Places to stay, eat, drink and visit - our handy business directory Stay................................................................................................................................................................................104 Food & Drink...................................................................................................................................................108 Activities & Art ...........................................................................................................................................110 Wine & Beer......................................................................................................................................................111 Tours.............................................................................................................................................................................113

Cover image by FRANCES ANDRIJICH

TO DO LIST

What shall we do today?

TAKE A TOUR Owned and operated by Busselton couple Geoff Hard and Cherri Brown, Cellar d’Or is one of the region’s leading wine tour operators. The friendly pair say it has been a natural progression for them both to now be involved on a daily basis with wine in their home patch. “Personal service and customer satisfaction is our number one priority,” says Geoff. “We pride ourselves on our reputation of reliability and value and our aim is to offer a relaxing, stress-free day with our Boutique Winery Tours consisting of small groups, enjoying pre-booked wine tasting with a satisfying lunch included while taking in the beautiful south west scenery along the way.”

Guests on a Cellar d’Or tour will enjoy cheese tasting, chocolate sampling and a visit to an olive oil producer as well as pre-booked wine tastings at five award-winning Margaret River region wineries.

“We’ll also tuck into a delicious platter lunch and beer tasting at a unique micro brewery,” says Geoff.

To book your tour, visit cellardortours.com.au.

BLUE BEAUTIES Whales are some of nature’s most astonishing and graceful creatures to observe. If you happen

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to be visiting the Margaret River region in the months June to December, you'll be in one of the best places on earth to spot them, if luck is on your side.

While these big, blue, beauties were almost hunted to extinction in the past, the population has grown to such an extent that an estimated 35,000 migrate from Antarctica to our warmer waters every year.

From June to September Flinder’s Bay is where the whales migrate to feed, breed and play.

This allows for a truly unique opportunity to watch the whales interacting, which you can do

at close proximity on one of the tours departing from Augusta.

From September to December tours depart from Dunsborough and Busselton. The whales travel to Geographe Bay to rest and nurse their newly born young.Venture out on a luxurious charter or purpose-built vessel, or watch from a scenic vantage point to witness this incredible spectacle. Local tour operators are friendly, knowledgeable experts and will do their best to ensure the best views of these incredible animals.

Visit margaretriver.com/whales to find out more.

HUNTING FOR BLACK GOLD

BYGONE BUSSELTON

Truffles and wine are a decadent combination, perfect to be enjoyed in the months of winter.

For a perfect winter activity why not participate in the rare privilege of a truffle hunting experience – and then of course finish off the experience with a tasting of local, awardwinning, cool-climate wines. The Truffle &

Explore the Busselton Heritage Trail, a brand new self-guided walk revealing the Busselton of yesterday. Hit the pavement on the easy city walking trail, starting at Busselton’s brand new Visitor Centre, where you’ll be able to pick up the guide book and download the Your Margaret River Region app from the Apple App Store or

VISIT US IN TOWN

OR AT THE VINEYARD YALLINGUP

YALLINGUP

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

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

YALLINGUP

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

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Wine Co., Western Australia’s first truffière, is one of the few truffières in the world to offer this experience. It is available to only a select number of guests from early June to late August.

At its picturesque location, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, you'll begin your hunt for the rare and delicious black truffle. While walking among the truffle trees, highly trained dogs will accompany you to help along the way.

Unforgettable.

Visit truffleandwine.com.au and australiantruffletraders.com

the Google Play store.

Then wind your way through the city, visiting nineteen sites and finishing at the beautiful Busselton Historical Museum on the banks of the Vasse River.Your walk back in time will be accompanied by information plaques and sound bites and stories from residents past and present.

The walk should take up to two hours (depending on how much time you spend at each site and breaks for a cuppa!).

Visit margaretriver.com

GROUP BOOKINGS AVAILABLE

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

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

TAPHOUSE MARGARET RIVER

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

TAPHOUSE

Yallingup 4km Dunsborough 13km

W IL

D W O

O

WHITTLE ROAD

D

RO AD

CAVES ROAD

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

Margaret River 35km

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

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

@SWINGROUND /SWINGSANDROUNDABOUTS HEART OF MARGARET RIVER

*Check our website for seasonal opening times.

ANIMAL MAGIC You could easily spend a whole day at Country Life Farm, and the cooler months are no exception. If the weather’s a little wet, take the kids inside to the Margaret River region’s biggest and best indoor play centre.

You'll find dodgem cars and a giant bouncy castle. If there's a break in the clouds, don't forget to pet some of the farm's country life animals. If it’s an indoor day you can visit the sheltered guinea pig, chicken and rabbit petting shed and plenty more animals outside eager to be fed carrots and pose for a holiday snap or two.

Visit countrylifefarm.com.au

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

FIND US LIVE MUSIC / EVERY SUNDAY CANAL ROCKS ROAD

Yallingup 4km Dunsborough 13km

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

CAVES ROAD

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

Margaret River 35km

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

FIND US

@SWINGROUND

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

HIGGINS STREET

To Busselton /SWINGSANDROUNDABOUTS BUSSELL HIGHWAY

CHURCHILL AVENUE

Your calendar

The best winter events in your Margaret River region By TORI WILSON FIND THE LATEST EVENT LISTINGS AT MARGARETRIVER.COM/EVENTS

JUNE

black gold HUNTING FOR

SMOOTH TUNES There’s something special about Busby Marou – their melodic riffs and honest lyrics formulate an Australiana vibe like no other.

The duo consists of two mates, Thomas Busby and Jeremy Marou, who in the past bonded over knocking out tunes in the corner of Rockhampton’s Oxford Hotel.

Now they’re back and are shaping a promising new chapter in their career with Settlers Tavern on the agenda.

Witness the talented pair live when they perform their smooth harmonies and understated guitar riffs at Margaret River’s Settlers Tavern.

Busby Marou, Settlers Tavern, June 22. To purchase tickets visit settlerstavern.oztix.com.au

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T

ruffle Kerfuffle is an immersive and decadent festival with many lavish activities on offer; it can be hard to know where to begin.

The festival is a weekend-long celebration of truffle season hosted in the very heart of Australia’s truffle region, Manjimup, not far from the Margaret River region. This luxury product is in no short supply down in Manjimup’s picturesque neck of the woods.

If you get in early, a standard adult Festival Village entry ticket is a modest price of $35 for weekend access or just $17 for Sunday alone.

This will provide access to the festival where live music, a local wine and cider bar, Campfire Kitchen, gourmet market (think fresh truffle sales, dining pop-ups, local winemakers), and more truffle gold will be featured.

Personalise your day and choose from a selection of extremely tempting activities.

LOCAL TO LEGEND

N

oah Shilkin, has a lot to offer, not just to the Margaret River region, but the nation and beyond too.

He’s a producer, composer/songwriter, recording artist and multi-instrumentalist who has worked with iconic artists such as AC/DC, Alanis Morrisette and Bryan Adams, to name a few.

Another of his many talents is his well-received impersonation of music legend Elton John.

Soon Noah will be showcasing this talent at Caves House, where he will be performing Elton John’s famous album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road in its entirety. Tickets priced at $120 will include a three-course meal and a drink on arrival – expect it to be an occasion to remember.

For the purpose of the tribute, he’s formed the band Not Quite Dwight. They’ll be playing all the classics – Bennie and the Jets, Candle in the Wind and, of course, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

Come dressed in your favourite Elton inspired 1970s-style glasses for your chance to win a prize.

Noah Shilkin, Caves House, June 30.

Visit caveshousehotelyallingup.com

THE BRUNCH BUNCH

Just a few include: The Shed Wine Sessions, where you will experience the most down to earth tasting from a curated selection of local Southern Forest wines; an intimate cooking workshop where you’ll learn from an array of celebrity and top chefs; a selection of truffle hunts where you will forage the truffle-rich landscape led by local guides; and the indulgent truffle dining event A Winter’s Night.

With so much to take in, it’s no surprise that the weekend pass is so popular. Make the most of your time and opt to stay at the festival itself at the Soul Camping Village or WA Wilderness Glamping Village. Both are located right beside the breathtaking Fonty’s Pool where you can best soak up and appreciate your natural surroundings in style.

Truffle Kerfuffle, Fonty’s Pool, Manjimup, June 23 to 25.Visit trufflekerfuffle.com.au

Keep the winter blues away with Champagne Brunch on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at Aravina Estate. Have a liein and enjoy a taste of luxury from 10am through until the end of August at one of the region’s most beautiful wine estates.

Why not start the day’s tasting with a glass of Aravina Estate bubbles and a breakfast fit for a king (or queen!). At $30 per person, it includes a glass of reserve sparkling and a sumptuous selection of brunch dishes dreamt up by executive chef Ben Day. The perfect start to a day in Margaret River paradise.

Bookings essential - best get in quick as places are limited places on 08 9750 1111.

CALENDAR

JULY

Guy’s the man

A

s part of Cabin Fever, Guy Grossi, Australia’s leading Italian chef, will present a menu showcasing the best of Margaret River produce matched to Voyager Estate wines. It’s a rare opportunity to hear more from this celebrated chef as he travels west from his award-winning collection of restaurants in Melbourne.

“I’ll be putting together a tasting menu, bringing ideas from my kitchens in Melbourne,” said Guy. “I’ll be tasting Voyager’s wines and using them to inspire the menu. The idea is that we’re bringing a taste of Melbourne to the Margaret River region, but of course I’d like to try and use local produce too, so will incorporate some of the south west’s delicious ingredients.”

One of the highlights of Cabin Fever, Guy Grossi in Residence at Voyager Estate will mark the well-known chef’s return to the south west.

“I went to Gourmet Escape last year, and enjoyed being part of that amazing event, taking part in a panel discussion with Jack Stein (Rick’s son) as well as Carlo Grossi.”

It was during last year’s event that Guy visited Voyager for the first time, and after being shown around the beautiful vineyard and estate, the conversation began to put together the special culinary event involving Guy and his team cooking in the Voyager kitchens.

“I’m impressed with the quality of the produce and the offering as a whole at Voyager Estate,” says Guy. “I think most people over east would be very surprised at the quality and it’s worth the effort to cross the Nullaboor because it really is paradise here.”

After the Voyager Estate event, celeb spotters may be in luck; Guy is hoping to hang around and spend a few days exploring the region a little more.

“I might as well stick around for a couple of days while I’m in the region. Sometimes in country locations standards and styles can be a little stagnant, but not in Margaret River. It’s wonderful.”

Guy Grossi in Residence at Voyager Estate, 41 Stevens Road, Margaret River, July 21, from 7 to 11pm. Cabin Fever, Margaret River Region, July 14 to 23. Visit cabinfeverfest.com.au

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Put a hold on hibernation

I

f you’re thinking now that summer has said goodbye it’s time to hide away at home until next season, think again.

Cabin Fever will be taking over the Margaret River region this month with over 25 unique events, all with one aim: to put hibernation on hold.

Expect all the creature comforts needed to stay satisfied once the cold weather kicks in. Warming food, fireside brews, cheese, live music and, of course, quality south west wine will all be available to you.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy Five for Five at Vasse Felix in celebration of the restaurant's 50 years, the Wilyabrup Cooking Class and Long Table Lunch, the Blend Forage Feast – Fire Edition for winter wine and food discovery and the Perfect Pairing Battle for aspiring wine and cheese connoisseurs, among an abundance of more local dining experiences and masterclass endeavours.

Alternatively, try your hand at an art

masterclass at Jahroc Galleries, muddy your boots on an Organic Farm Walk or soiree at the Secret Speakeasy.

All in all, Cabin Fever is about wining, dining and having a grandiose time – and enjoying the riches of the Margaret River region.

DON’T MISS: CHOCOLATE AND WINE PAIRINGS MASTERCLASS That’s right, the best things in life cost $30 and happen at the Margaret River Providore. So do your future self a biggie and book into their wine and chocolate masterclass.Yes, we said wine and chocolate. Together. Do it.

Margaret River Providore, 448 Tom Cullity Drive,Wilyabrup, July 21 to 23, 2.30 to 3.30pm.

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

UDDERLEY AWESOME

D

ust off your cow onesies, grab your cowboy boots and join the fun!

This year the udderley legendairy cowthemed country fair will celebrate the fifth birthday of Cowaramup’s famous fibreglass cows.

Put on your party hooves and head down on Saturday 8 July from 9am - 3pm (the middle weekend of the July School Holidays).

There'll be craft stalls in Cow Hall with all the fun of the fair outside including Mechanical Bull Rides, Bouncy Castle, Fire Brigade Fun, Laser Tag for the kids and not so little kids, Calf Petting, yummy Food Stalls including our own Cowaramup Lions Club Sausage Sizzle, Deja View Local Art Exhibition and Boot Scooting for all you line dancers out there! Entry is by gold coin donation.

July 8, 9am to 3pm Cowaramup Hall, Oval and Duggan Pavillion facebook.com/cowtowncows

Good vibes

The Gracetown Grommets is a popular and historical junior surfing event held in memory of the nine lives lost in the Gracetown Tragedy.

Run in partnership with the Margret River Boardriders and Cowbay Boardriders, the comp provides an opportunity for junior boardriders club members to compete at an amateur level against rival boardriders clubs

members and statewide competitors.

The event is held in the idyllic location of Gracetown Bay and offers great views from the South Point carpark. Following perfect conditions at the 20th anniversary event last year, this year more cracking waves and light winds are hoped for. Expect a smile on every kid’s dial regardless of how they went, and a real spiritual feeling which embodies what the competition is all about.

21st Annual Gracetown Grommets September 16 and 17, 7.30am - 4.30pm Gracetown Bay. Visit cowbay.com.au

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

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

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

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

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WWW.FORESTRISE.COM.AU

CALENDAR

A muddy good time

SHAKING THINGS UP and away from the South West’s usual wines and waves is the Mudfest, where instead there’s mud, burgers and beers on the agenda.

Hosted at Bootleg Brewery, this jam-packed day will have you getting down and dirty with activities while breathing in the open air of WA’s south west.

Start off the morning with the Dirty Dozen long course, a true test of fitness, endurance and skill. This 12km, 1-2 hour course is not for the faint-hearted. Though it is for those who are up for a challenge and a bit of friendly rivalry among mates. It’s the ideal prep for a well-deserved burger, beer and relaxation time, which you can look forward to enjoying in the afternoon.

If you like the idea of getting in touch with the outdoors for a bit of fun fitness and a muddy

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time, but feel 12km is a bit of a stretch, opt for the 5km ‘short’ course. And for little ones between six and 12, the 1km course will be enough to wear them out but still have them laughing at the end.

South West Mudfest, Bootleg Brewery, July 1.

Visit mudfest.wa.com.au

AUGUST

RACE THE DAY AWAY

B

usselton will again play host to a six-hour Human Powered Vehicle (HPV) race at the city’s magnificent foreshore.

HPV racing sees teams compete against each other on a closed controlled circuit, and the 2017 Busselton event marks just the fourth time a HPV race has been conducted in Western Australia.

The 850m circuit in place at Busselton will be technical, demanding and, according to some of the most experienced riders, a lot of fun!

Situated just west of the Equinox restaurant on the breathtaking north-facing Geographe Bay, the setting is one that you won’t be rushing away from. Stay awhile to relax and dine under the heritage fig trees, overlooking the tranquil waters and the historic Busselton Jetty.

August 19 and 20 Busselton Foreshore (car park west of the Equinox) pedalprix.com.au/race/Busselton

Come hither IF YOU’VE NEVER been to Balingup, it’s a rather quirky little town that happens to host the oldest medieval carnivale in Western Australia – they’re all about fire and fun.

The members of this town get together every year to put on an impressive spectacle of

entertainment, market stalls and tastings, and to make sure that everyone dresses up in medieval finery and has a grand time. This is a not-forprofit event organised for the love of the town and her people.

In true medieval style, the entertainment at this festival is in abundance and the main attraction. With fire dancers, medieval duels, medieval musicians and naturally a grand parade, there will be much to keep you merry all throughout the day and, for the Saturday, right into the night.

Perchance you might like to pick up a sword or some armoury from the blacksmith as an authentic piece of memorabilia to commemorate your trip back in time. Or, if you’d like to look ahead, visit the fortune-tellers to have yours read.

Get into the spirit of medieval times and cheers with one of the locally produced wines, ciders or meads in hand.

Balingup Medieval Carnivale, Balingup, August 26 to 27.Visit balingupmedievalcarnivale.com.au

Chocolate heaven The Margaret River Chocolate Company has an amazing range of chocolate products, with free entry and tastings, as well as viewing windows to see the products being made.

Enjoy hot drinks, chocolate fondues, and the best chocolate brownies in Australia at the Chocolate Café!

415 Harmans Mill Road, Metricup WA 6280 T: 08 9755 6555 | www.chocolatefactory.com.au

Welcome to Providore Providore’s vineyards, organic olive grove, orchard and vegetable gardens provide a spectacular array of produce. You’ll find award-winning selection of Howard & Black wines and liqueurs and a huge range of homemade jams, chutneys, relishes, preserves, olive oils, savoury sauces and dressings, spice blends and dessert coulis.

FESTIVAL FOR FILM FANATICS 2017 IS WELL and truly upon us now, which means it’s the 10th year for CinefestOZ Film Festival that will be once again taking to the South West to showcase a fresh line-up of new, captivating films.

This renowned premiere destination film festival annually boasts a number of high calibre film guests and an impeccable line-up of both new Australian and French feature films, documentaries and short films.

Naturally it attracts the best of such films, as well as Australian filmmakers and actors of international repute, as it awards Australia’s

Greatest Film Prize of $100 000.

Complementing such an award, the CinefestOZ program includes a diverse list of functions and immersive film experiences to attend, such as the Red Carpet Feature Film Premieres and Gala Night.

Feature films and events will be dispersed among the local cinemas, wineries, boutique breweries, small bars and galleries, making for an impressive regional experience.

448 Tom Cullity Drive, Metricup WA 6280 T: 08 9755 6355 | www.providore.com.au

CinefestOZ,Western Australia’s South West, August 23 to 27.Visit cinefestoz.co

Don’t miss at Cabin Fever...

WINE & CHOCOLATE PAIRING MASTERCLASS

Chocolate and wine equals very good time.

That’s right, the best things in life cost $30 and happen at the Margaret River Providore. So do your future self a biggie and book into their wine and chocolate masterclass.

Yes, we said wine and chocolate. Together. Do it. margaretriver.com

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To book visit cabinfeverfest.com.au/ wine-chocolate-pairing-masterclass/

CALENDAR

A GLOBAL COMEDY SENSATION

SEPTEMBER

FAULTY TOWERS THE DINING EXPERIENCE is an internationally acclaimed two-hour eat, drink and comedic sensation that will have you in stitches. It is a loving tribute to the iconic sitcom Fawlty Towers, written by John Cleese and Connie Booth, and emulates the same improvised, wacky humour that you would find in the adored 1970s crazed hotel.

Become a part of the show yourself as the audience become the diners in the Faulty Towers restaurant and are served

by Basil, Sybil and Manuel. It’s always a first for everyone as two-thirds of this show are cleverly improvised. It can reveal a few things at least; you can expect gags, shambolic service and a ‘70s-style three-course meal.

Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is a global event that has sold out across the world at Sydney Opera house, Raffles Singapore and London’s West End. Now it returns to Caves House Hotel – book early to secure a spot!

Faulty Towers The Dining Experience, Caves House Hotel, August 8 to 9. Visit caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au or call 9750 1888

Natural

glory

T

he south west corner of Western Australia is renowned for having some of the richest flora in the world, with an estimated seventy five per cent of the 11,000 wildflower species recorded in Western Australia growing here.

The Busselton Wildflower Exhibition, now in its 92nd year, is a wonderful way to view a stunning array of the region’s wildflower species.

Individual specimens of flowers and orchids are displayed with their botanical names, creating interest for both amateur and expert alike.

The flowers on display are picked by people who hold a one day ‘Pickers License’ issued by the Department of Parks and Wildlife. All pickers are conscious of the need to preserve our native flora and are committed to picking responsibly.

If you’re not already a floral fanatic, the exhibition is guaranteed to give you the inspiration to go walking the region’s many tracks and trails to see the native flora close up in the wild.

In addition to the fabulous display of wildflowers, there are varied stalls with local

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produce and crafts, and teas and lunches will be served.

Busselton Wildflower Exhibition September 28 and 29, 9am – 5pm, Busselton Uniting Church

PLAN AHEAD ...

You’re invited

style

BEHIND THE SCENES

ESCAPE IN

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ankering to have the chance to try the local produce of the Margaret River region while surrounded by the that showstopping pristine natural landscape?

Well, then the Margaret River Gourmet Escape is for you. The event has become globally recognised for it’s delicious food, fine wines, great beers and celebrity chefs. Oh – and let’s not forget about that location.

Sip on a pinot noir from the cool-climate surrounds of the picturesque Leeuwin Estate winery where you will be encircled by towering karri trees and shaded by a canopy of jarrahs.

Here you will find the Gourmet Village – the stunning epicentre of Gourmet Escape.

Duringthe festival, not only will you have the chance to indulge in fine wines, fine foods, and fine surroundings; but you’ll likely rub shoulders with fine company - some of the

world’s best chefs and food and wine experts.

In 2016, Nigella Lawson, Rick Stein and Guy Grossi were the experts in attendance.

Leave the festival with impressive new skills after attending available masterclasses hosted by these top notch chefs. Over the course of the weekend, you can also enjoy tastings of food and wine, live music, join for feasts made from local produce, amongst much more.

More information is to be revealed before the event takes place in November. In the meantime, save the date for this special weekend and make sure you stay up-to-date with Gourmet Escape to discover who you might meet this year.

Margaret River Gourmet Escape, Margaret River Region, November 16 to 19.

Visit gourmetescape.com.au

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

331 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Call (08) 9757 0888 or email cellardoor@capementelle.com.au

Eat & Drink

COOKING ON GAS WHY NOT BRUSH UP ON YOUR CULINARY SKILLS WHILE YOU’RE ON HOLIDAY IN THE MARGARET RIVER REGION? JANINE PITTAWAY PUTS TOGETHER HER LIST OF THE BEST BEHIND THE POTS AND PANS.

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inter gives us time to slow down and enjoy indoor pursuits that feed the soul. The Margaret River region provides plenty of sustenance with a choice of different options for cooking classes throughout the season.

Here’s my pick of the bunch:

CAPE LODGE

The exclusive Cape Lodge in Yallingup opens its doors for cooking classes throughout the year.

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Head chef Michael Elfwing is a great teacher, providing step-by-step demonstrations to a different seasonal theme each month with the group sitting down at the end of the threecourse lesson to enjoy a long-table shared meal with Cape Lodge wines. Michael does his best to source top quality ingredients that are unique to the region, such as finger lime, marron, abalone, venison, dorper lamb, macadamias and pomegranate. The menus for each class are designed to be easily recreated at home. June has

sold out but July’s theme is Wilyabrup produce, August provides the final truffle class for the year and September is Vegetarian. Cooking with Marron in October is always a favourite.

Guests are completely taken care of with morning tea on arrival and interaction with Michael in a fun and informal setting. He’ll take guests on a walk round the vegetable garden to pick seasonal produce and they go home with a comprehensive recipe booklet.

Cost is $145 per person for the cooking class and lunch, or $95 for lunch only, which is a great option for couples staying at Cape Lodge. Classes and lunch run from 11am to 2.30pm.

Visit capelodge.com.au

one of their delightful cottages. Sioban keeps track of return guests to ensure a recipe is never used twice.

Visit wildwoodvalley.com.au

THE LARDER, MARGARET RIVER The Larder’s cooking classes, now in their fourth year, are created with winter in mind and feature a different regional guest chef leading each class.

Classes are limited to nine people and are held in the Larder kitchen. Each chef showcases a theme they are best known for. It’s a great chance for chefs to connect with participants, something they don’t always get to do in their restaurants. Being a small class allows for great interactions and new friendships to be forged.

And best of all? Guests get to share the prepared dishes at the end of the evening and take home the recipes. Most ingredients are available from The Larder on the night and guests receive a 10 percent discount on ingredients purchased.

Classes are $90 and run on mid-week evenings from 6.30pm for up to three hours.

Get in quick as all classes sold out in record time last year. This winter you can enjoy Hot and Spicy cooking classes with Dany Angove from Leeuwin Estate, a Taste of Native Smallgoods with Julian Mann from Margaret River Mahogany, a Duck Masterclass with Sean Carter from The Noshery, and an Asian Feast with Coby Cockburn from Palmers Winery.

Visit larder.biz

WILDWOOD VALLEY, YALLINGUP

Husband and wife team Siobhan and Carlo have been running Tuscan, Woodfired and Thai cooking classes at Wildwood Valley for more than 13 years. They divide their time between Tuscany, where they run Mad About Tuscany Tours, and Yallingup. The Yallingup Cooking School resumes in late November and classes are

RUSTICO AT HAYSHED HILL, MARGARET RIVER

Join Head Chef Mike McAllister for an international food adventure to create delicious Rustico-inspired dishes.

In a two and a half hour class, guests learn how to shuck oysters, make scallop ceviche, perfect crispy pork crackle, taste jamon and paella, and enjoy a few Hayshed Hill wines along the way.

Classes run Monday to Friday at 10.30am.

For more information or to book phone 9755 6455 or email vanessa.rustico@hayshedhill.com.au

FOOD BY THE CHEF, DUNSBOROUGH

currently scheduled to February 2018.

It’s a hands-on experience for the 10 class participants so you’ll get to chop, stir, smell and taste as you cook. Classes are BYO. It’s a six-hour adventure, starting at 10am with coffee, followed by the cooking class and canapés, and ending in a three-course feast.

Tuscan classes usually involve pasta making, and the Woodfired class typically includes pizza making and slow cooked meat like porchetta or duck. The oven is set among tall eucalypt trees, with beautiful garden and views down the valley to the ocean.

The cooking school costs $140 per person plus there’s the option of staying overnight in

Chef George Cooper is introducing cooking masterclasses to his Food by the Chef private dining experiences this winter. Learn some of George’s tricks of the trade to make your next dinner party simple, tasty, and stress-free.

Each lesson will provide different tips, tricks and themes including show-stopping snacks, making a cheap cut taste good, salt, sweet, cooking a good tapas and a chocoholics dream.

Classes are held in George’s commercial kitchen and will run over lunchtimes on June 18, July 1, and July 8 from 10am for $95 per person including lunch and a take-home recipe book.

Visit foodbythechef.com.au.

For more inspiration on workshops and classes in the Margaret River region visit margaretriver.com/ activities/workshopsclasses/

CELLAR DOOR OPEN 11AM - 4PM 4 9 3 M E T R I C U P R OA D, W I L YA B R U P, WA 6 2 8 0 | P H : + 6 1 8 9 7 5 5 7 5 5 3 F R A S E R G A L L O P E S T A T E . C O M . AU margaretriver.com | WINTER 2017 19

Eat & Drink

Burn baby, burn THERE’S NOTHING COSIER THAN TUCKING IN TO SOME DELICIOUS TUCKER AROUND A ROARING FIRE. DIANNE BORTOLETTO AND GABI MILLS HAVE ROUNDED UP THE BEST PLACES TO WARM UP - AND FILL UP TOO. IMAGES BY ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

CAVES HOUSE

Caves House in Yallingup is famous for its Sunday Sessions and lashings of historic beauty and heritage-listed gardens. Originally built in 1903 and then rebuilt in 1937 after a fire destroyed the first building, this scenic hotel with stone and timber accents has four fireplaces where you can warm your cockles this winter.

In the large Yallingup Room, the gas fireplace is along the back wall and this room forms part of the main dining area. It has a stately ballroomcome-Raffles feel about it, with sky-high ceilings and thick drapes across the French doors

and copious Kentia palms dotted throughout.

The Indjidup Room is another beautiful dining area off from the main foyer with another gas fireplace, creating a warming ambience. In the Lounge Room, enjoy a drink with bar snacks on a sofa in front of the gas fire. Finally, there's a real wood fireplace in the main bar that's popular with locals and visitors alike. With several wallmounted television screen, you won't miss a second of sporting action, rain or shine.

Caves House, 18 Yallingup Beach Rd, Yallingup. Call 08 9750 1888. Open daily 8am – 10pm. Visit caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au

THE WHITE ELEPHANT Who says you have to avoid a beachside breakfast, brunch or lunch when it’s blowing a gale outside? The White Elephant Beach Café in Gnarabup remains open all winter, moving the action indoors to its view-embracing room.

No need to freeze either while you choose what to tuck into - you can order inside. The real wood fire creates a welcoming, toasty wintery sanctuary that’ll have you wishing it were your own lounge room. Tan leather sofas, coffee tables, rugs, polished concrete and long wooden tables feel so inviting. The glass bi-fold doors keep the weather out while you take in the

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views of Gnarabup Beach. Great coffee, casual café food, healthy as well as hearty choices and winter specials, soups, braises and gnocchi, are all on offer. A bonus is free Wi-Fi. It’s available for intimate weddings and special functions – imagine a beachside wedding with the fire warming the room and Margaret River red wine and locally sourced cheese platters warming your insides. Winter bliss in a nutshell.

White Elephant Beach Café, Gnarabup Rd, Gnarabup. Call 08 9757 1990. Open daily from 7.30am to 3pm. Visit whiteelephantcafe.com.au

BLACK BREWING CO The impressive entry into Black Brewing Co includes a jarrah boardwalk over water with floating water lilies, leading to Camelot-style big double doors that King Arthur would’ve loved.

Once inside you’ll spot the big imposing stone fireplace that goes right through the sky-high ceiling. Actually, it’s two fireplaces, one that faces the cellar door and one that faces the main bar. Plush leather armchairs, coffee tables and plenty of dining seating fill the floor space, but the room is so big, it doesn’t feel cluttered. Tall glass windows and bi-fold doors open out onto a terrace with more water views, this time of a pretty lake complete with sprouting fountain.

Add water views, easy drinking craft beer and a South East Asian-inspired menu and it’s easy to see myself settling in and spending an afternoon at Black Brewing Co in front of that roaring fire.

Black Brewing Co., 3517 Caves Road, Wilyabrup. Call 08 9755 6500. Open daily from 11am to 9pm.. Visit blackbrewingco.com.au.

OH! DELHI There are fewer things more warming than a good good Indian feast, and the region’s newest Indian restaurant has been hailed as a godsend for winter by the locals. Located in the heart of Dunsborough, Oh! Delhi opened in the spring to outstanding reviews and presents the modern face of traditional Indian cuisine, aiming to enlighten the taste buds to the fullest.

The chef and owner Arun has created a varied menu with dishes ranging from the mildest to the hottest, all bursting with flavour. Highlights include the ‘Chicken Sixty Five’ cooked with sixty-five spices, and the kathi roll lunchtime

special. There’s a comfortable family dining environment, with child-friendly dishes and banquets on offer for larger gatherings.

Oh! Delhi , Shop 9, 34 Dunn Bay Road, Dusborough. Call 08 9750 5580. Open for lunch Wednesday to Sunday 11.30am to 2.30pm and for dinner Monday to Sunday 5pm-Late.

Visit ohdelhi.com.au

THE GOOSE It's been around for yonks and is named in honour of owner Rhys Passmore - his nickname at school was Goose.You can tell that Rhys is a keen traveller - the menu at the Goose reflects an eclectic palate, and diners are treated not only to a sumptuous collection of menu options but also to a proper waterfront location in Busso. Add to the mix a fireplace, and you've got a pretty fine spot to enjoy a feed. Well -nown for properly grown up dishes like pork belly, bathed in a stunning master stock broth and served with on-trend Korean condiment - kimichi - bean sprouts and

WINTER FUEL Find a spot next to the fire and feed the family with delicious fare, from pizzas to roasts.

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

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

A R I M I A . C O M . AU

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

wine@arimia.com.au

Eat & Drink

DEEP WINES Best KNEE The menu from the Knee Deep of the Rest Wines restaurant makes a big

TOASTY TASTES Try one of the Goose’s delicious grown-up dinners, or indulge in a grazing board by the fire at Aravina Estate (below).

jasmine rice, it's also the perfect place to grab a coffee and a slice of something delicious, watching the sun go down on another amazing sunset.

The Goose, 1 Geographe Bay, Busselton. Open 7am to 10pm or call 08 9754 7700.

ARAVINA ESTATE Curl up by the fireplace at Aravina Estate and watch the world pass by with one of the region's most spectacular estate's views from the comfort of a cosy couch. The roaring fireplace is alight every day in the colder months, whether

you drop by for a pre-lunch wine tasting or a coffee after a degustation, it is one of the most stylish spots in the region to relax. Linger a while to soak up the warmth of an open log fire, and while you’re there, make the most of the new winter only special as well. Enjoy two glasses of their ‘A Collection’ wine and a shared grazing board by the fireplace for just $35.

Aravina Estate, 61 Thornton Rd, Yallingup, call 08 9750 1111.

Visit aravinaestate.com.au.

point of using quality artisanal produce, that’s chemical-free, ethically harvested and abides by an organic approach. The food (which is contemporary Australian with Asian influences) is delicious, and complemented by the winery’s current release wines are available for tasting at cellar door which some of their back vintage wines are available by the bottle from the Doctor’s Cellar when dining in the restaurant. Try the Trust the Chef concept if you can’t make up your mind - it allows diners the opportunity to experience everything this Knee Deep Restaurant menu represents.

Knee Deep Wines, Johnson Road, Wilyabrub, call 08 9755 6776. The cellar door is open seven days from 10am to 5pm, restaurant open six days, lunch from noon to 3pm.

SWINGS TAPHOUSE AND KITCHEN One of the friendliest, family-friendly places in Margaret River, we love Swings Taphouse and Kitchen. You’ll come for the vibe and stay for the delicious, crispy-as pizzas. In winter, it’s the perfect spot to hunker down for an afternoon of chewing the fat and enjoying on-tap wines from the Swings and Roundabouts list. They serve stonking breakfasts too - in fact, it’s almost the perfect epitome of the Margaret River region lifestyle, all in one place.

Swings Taphouse and Kitchen, 85 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River. Call (08) 9758 7155 or visit swings.com.au/venues/taphousemargaret-river EAGLE BAY BREWING Head chef Rupert Brown has built an impressive reputation for fantastic local dishes at Eagle Bay Brewing over the past seven years, and continues to work with some of the region’s finest producers.

“We love serving up delicious modern Australian-style food to compliment our handcrafted beers and wines,” says Rupert.

“We love a good gathering for any occasion, whether it’s a long lunch with friends or a cheeky afternoon drink.” Throw in a cosy fireside setting, and you won’t want to leave.

Eagle Bay Brewing Co., Eagle Bay Road, Eagle Bay. Call 08 9755 3554 or visit eaglebaybrewing.com.au

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Silver service Whether you’re after rustic hearty fare or something more refined to accompany one of the region’s fine red wines, there’s warming winter dining to suit all tastes and budgets in Your Margaret River region. By DIANNE BORTOLETTO

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inter is a glorious time in the Margaret River region and perfect cabernet drinking weather. Get rugged up, head out and enjoy some of the warming spoils of the region.

THE COMMON By the beach in Gnarabup, The Common is a pub that has a casual coastal vibe that feels slightly refined thanks to the high ceilings, handmade wooden tables, large tan leather sofas and coffee tables in front of the toasty open fireplace. There’s a big screen in the front area for sports lovers along with a pool table, bistro dining in the side area, a private dining terrace room and an outdoor deck with ocean views.

The menu changes with the seasons but there are classics that remain and keep the locals coming back which include the common pounder 100 per cent house-made beef burger

in a milk bun, 24-hour slow cooked beer rib for two, steak, fish and chips and pizza. In winter, expect specials such as rich potato gnocchi, braises, shanks, beef cheeks and possibly seafood chowder. There’s also a takeaway menu for those nights where you just want to stay in.

The Common features regular events such as beer tap take-overs, special wine dinners and movie nights including premieres. Local artists' works liven up the walls and change regularly.

Don’t miss happy hour daily from 5pm to 6pm that includes $10 kids meals during that time.

Visit thecommonbistro.com.au

CAVES HOUSE In Yallingup, Caves House is an imposing heritage-listed house and iconic pub which has several dining areas to enjoy. Cosy up in one of the art deco-designed rooms in front of a roaring

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

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

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

Ask about our accommodation with ocean views.

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

margaretriver.com

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Eat & Drink

tasting of their delicious and more unusual reds namely the grenache shiraz mourvedre, zinfandel and shiraz viognier. Visit arimia.com.au

VASSE FELIX A lunch at five-star winery Vasse Felix is nothing short of spectacular. Firstly, the wines are incredible – the chardonnay and cabernets are absolute standouts. Secondly, the setting is beautiful - think tall-timber trees flanking the entrance road in, undulating hills lined with vines and a stylishly decorated cellar door with

open fire and tuck into some hearty dishes, including the usual pub offerings of steaks, burgers and fish and chips. There are also winter warmers like a Spanish-style tortilla, sticky glazed pork ribs, pistachio-crusted lamb rump and the famous Caves House roast rib filled complete with roast veggies. There's also a good selection for kids. There's a sports bar (called The Long Bar), a beautiful and tiered huge alfresco area off the Long Bar, where pizzas are available in summer. The Yallingup Room is the main dining room, seating up to 100, while the Indjidup Room seats 45 and is perfect for private parties.

There's also a terrace overlooking beautiful heritage listed gardens, where you can enjoy breakfast or high tea.The lively Sunday Sessions have made Caves House famous, and there's a free shuttle bus to and from Dunsborough in the evenings on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Visit caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au

FEAST FOR THE EYES The region’s dining experiences are hard to beat, with a vast array of culinary styles on offer, from traditional Australian fare at Caves House to cutting-edge cuisine at Vasse Felix.

ARIMIA

Take yourself on a winter adventure down a dirt road to Arimia, a winery completely off the grid and working towards being totally selfsustainable. The food is honest, approachable bistro-style that’s sensibly priced.

Much of what you’ll find on your plate has been produced on the property. Arimia has a one-acre vegetable garden, free roaming chickens and about a dozen pigs.

The small menu includes well-executed dishes such as charcuterie plate with pork shoulder terrine, cured meats, pate and more,

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mixed grain risotto with eggplant truffle and mahon, duck with master stock, braised cabbage and chilli jam, and dry aged rump cap with bisque foam, royal blue potatoes and foam.

Expect winter specials of fresh pasta, refined braises and dishes that include Manjimup truffles when in season.

The restaurant is decorated in a shabbychic, almost French provincial style. It has a comfortable cosy feel that’s akin to being in someone’s country home. When you enter through the beautiful cellar door, stop for a

a restaurant upstairs, which takes advantage of the spectacular view. Inside, the wood panelling on the ceiling is warming as are the modern hanging fireplaces both upstairs and downstairs, making it perfectly cosy in winter.

Thirdly, the food is mind-blowing. Each mouthful is a ‘wow’ moment as the flavours and textures surprise and delight. The fine dining dishes are described as modern Australian in style drawing inspiration from Asian influences. The menu changes daily and incorporates the best produce available in the region including some

native ingredients like sea fern and Geraldton wax oil. The fivecourse tasting menu is highly recommended and worth the price tag of $95 per person. Add $35 per person to match wines to each course. There is also an a la carte menu. Visit vassefelix.com.au

MIKI’S KITCHEN If you're a fan of the Far East's incredible gastronomy, then you may be surprised to hear that right in the heart of Margaret River you'll find an extraordinary example of the art of Japanese cooking. Miki's Open Kitchen is carving quite a niche for itself as the home of stunning Japanese dishes (The West Australian's food reviewer Rob Broadfield is a fan), and thanks to the six-course degustation menu (for an amazing $60), guests will be spoiled for choice when they pull up a chair.

Choose from a selection of small canapes (like Rosa Brook persimmon tempura with wasabi yoghurt), two cold entrees (Fremantle tuna sashimi with yam potato puree), three warm entrees (for example Shark Bay whiting with shiso salt), a main from three options (we loved the rice cracker-crumbed Augusta nannygai), a daily rice or noodle dish and dessert.

"We have a winter selection, matching wine and sake with the degustation," says Mikihito, head chef. Expect to find local ingredients taking a starring role like Fremantle tuna,Yallingup Camembert cheese, Harvey beef, local farmhouse pork and Jersualem artichoke as well as Rosa Brook persimmon, and over six different types of miso throughout the menu.

Add to the mix the opportunity to watch the highly skilled chefs at work in the open kitchen, and you'll agree that Miki's is a one-off in an area famous for its culinary high notes.

Visit Miki's Open Kitchen on Facebook.

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE OLIVE OIL EXPERIENCE

SOAP | GOURMET FOOD | SKIN CARE | WORKSHOPS

XANADU WINERY A wintery weekend lunch should be long and savoured and Xanadu Winery is the perfect setting with its emerald green countryside and vineyards, beautifully manicured gardens and crackling log fire set in a gorgeous stone fireplace.

Cruise down the long winding driveway peppered with groves of trees, passing paddocks and green fields and, of course, vineyards, where you will find the exquisitely detailed stone and wood restaurant and cellar door.You will then walk past large fragrant rosemary bushes into a cosy courtyard with deciduous fruit trees now turning autumn golds and browns. Inside the stunning restaurant a crackling log fire warms the room as you look out onto the sun-dappled gardens. The atmosphere is immediately set for you to enjoy the stunning Margaret River landscape, delicious food and, above all, wine.

Xanadu’s menu showcases their passion for both food and wine as it is finely crafted to complement their wines, with each dish being served with elegant artistry. Head chef Melissa Kokoti and her team take inspiration from local producers, neighbouring farms, the sea as well as what is seasonally grown in the Xanadu vegetable garden. The menu is kept humble and elementary while keeping an impressive finesse throughout each course.

Decide whether to work your way languidly through the chef ’s choice of three courses, the new winter a la carte menu or select the three-course Winter Special for a cool $60. There is even a playground for the kids should you wish to savour some wintery quiet time by the beautiful open fireplace.

Visit xanaduwines.com

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

Open daily (bookings essential for workshops)

www.vassevirgin.com.au

Eat & Drink

Spirits High

A DETOUR INTO DISTILLING PAYS DIVIDENDS AS HARMANS ESTATE LAUNCHES MARGARET RIVER’S FIRST EVER PISCO BRANDY.

BY LIZZY PEPPER. IMAGES BY ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

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armans Estate has established a great reputation for its single estate wines and the warm hospitality at their cellar door. Now there’s even more reason to visit, as they launch Australia’s first ever pisco made from Margaret River grapes.

Since opening in 1999, Harmans Estate has produced gold medal wines, liqueurs and spirits.

After plenty of experimentation and refining, they’re excited to unveil a range of three piscos.

Hailing from Peru and Chile, pisco is a clear spirit made by distilling wine. It’s the spirit in a pisco sour – a tangy cocktail invented in Lima, capital city of Peru.

Like a single malt Scotch, pisco must be distilled in a copper still, and there’s strict government controls in Peru and Chile around which wine varieties are distilled into pisco.Yet the Peruvian and Chilean rules diverge on the topic of whether to dilute before bottling.

Most countries around the world distil wine to create a spirit of some sort. Oddly, no one in Australia has made a pisco until now, let alone in Margaret River.

But there’s always a winemaker willing to try

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something new. Meet Greg Garnish, winemaker and partner in the cooperative winery of Harmans Estate.

“Around October 2016 I started a trial distillation of a really good batch of white wine, to make brandy. I was blown away by how good it was; aromatic, fruity and with a sweet bouquet.”

Greg spent the next six months distilling 18 different wine varieties – the entire Harmans Estate range plus some of the wines they make under contract for other wineries in the Margaret River region.

“I narrowed it down to three wines that perform best – they’re all flavoursome with a floral and fruity aroma.”

The result is three types of pisco, and each is available to taste and buy at the cellar door.

Pisco Original is a blend of three varieties of fruit, in the Peruvian ‘acholado’ style. Pisco Puro is distilled from a single premium Harmans Estate wine, to match the flavours and characters of the varietal. At 80% ABV, it packs a punch.

Their third release, Pisco Liqueur, bears a pink blush as it’s a pisco blended with a sauvignon blanc port-style liqueur.

So what’s different about the Harman Estate pisco? Quality ingredients always leads to a fantastic product, and as you can guess, the Margaret River wine going into this pisco is top notch.

Greg’s also refined the flavours, bringing out the luscious aromas of the wine;.“Pisco can be quite raw and earthy. As a winemaker, I’m chasing floral notes of jasmine and orange blossom.”

PURE DELIGHT Try Pisco in your favourite cocktail - or just have it straight on ice.

The resulting liqueur is aromatic and fruity with a luscious sweet bouquet.

When quizzed about which wines go into the pisco, Greg remains tight-lipped. “It’s top secret – it’s our intellectual property,” he says with a chuckle. But he reveals that it’s a wine you’ll taste at the cellar door, so your challenge is to see if you can recognise the pisco’s aromatics and flavours as you taste the wine range.

Apart from a pisco sour, how does Greg recommend we drink pisco? “Ours can be drunk straight on ice. It’s also delicious with ginger beer or tonic water. And Pisco Liqueur – our piscoliqueur blend – is great with lemonade or soda.”

It’s fantastic to taste the fruits of Greg’s

Chilcano

60ml Pisco Puro Juice ½ lime Dry ginger ale A dash of Angostura bitters Add pisco and lime juice to a tall glass full of ice. Top with ginger ale, add a dash of bitters and stir. Garnish with slices of fresh apple or ginger. experimentation and innovation – and gosh it tastes delicious.

Want to try pisco for yourself? Visit Harmans Estate, 5 Harmans Mill Road, Metricup. Monday to Sunday 10am to 5pm.Visit harmans.com.au. margaretriver.com

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THE STARS ALIGN THE MARGARET RIVER REGION IS DRAWING CULINARY STARS LIKE A MAGNET FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. JANINE PITTAWAY MEETS A COUPLE OF THEM.Â

Y

ou know the Margaret River region is truly on the map for quality food experiences when accomplished Spanish and French chefs like Santiago (Santi) Fernandez and Romain Lassiaille choose to call the region home.

SANTI FERNANDEZ Voyager Estate Santi and his young family moved to Margaret River in late May and he is now busy getting acquainted with Voyager Estate as the iconic winery’s new head chef.

The 38-year-old has come from Sault restaurant in Daylesford,Victoria, where he had been head chef for the past five years.

Prior to moving to Australia, Santi established his culinary career among Michelin-starred restaurants Tristan in Mallorca, Restaurant Toni Vicente, Santiago de Compostella and Tapies Restaurant, Lleida. His career has taken him from Spain to Germany, Mexico and Russia, working with small teams of four up to catering for 800 guests for the Spanish Kings Cup Sailing Competition.

While in Moscow he met his Brazilian wife Meire and they moved back to Spain when they had their first daughter. Moving to Australia in 2010 came at the right time for them and it has helped him perfect his English, which he now speaks fluently along with Spanish, Portuguese, and German.

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MIKI'S OPEN KITCHEN

Santi said he was happy to be living near the sea again, having grown up on the coast of northern Spain where he loved fishing in summer and snowboarding in winter.

He sees similarities between country Victoria and the Margaret River region and he’ll continue to focus on local produce in his cooking.

“I come from a small town and my experience in Victoria confirmed to me that I prefer living in smaller places where you can be in direct contact with suppliers and see the farming practices. It took me back to my roots.

“This is what I hope to also experience in Margaret River and I’ll start by getting to know local farmers and producers.

“Working in regional restaurants you are more connected to the countryside and it is much friendlier. I’m looking forward to getting out, being part of the active community and becoming a local.”

A look at Santi’s Instagram account (@santi. fernandez.chef) will show you he is passionate about beautifully presented food and colour is an obvious influence.

Despite the stunning food presentation, Santi said he liked to keep his menus simple.

“I don’t like to work with many ingredients at the same time and prefer to have just three to four dominant flavours," he says.

“Especially in a long tasting menu, I like to keep it simple but use colour.

“When preparing a menu, I’ll choose a key ingredient, have a concept in mind and discuss and trial this with my kitchen team and then work on flavours and presentation."

The artistry in Santi’s food harks back to his childhood and subsequently culinary school.

“Art is a strong influence on me. My grandfather was an artistic stonemason and he was a big part of my life. I think his artistic creativity and passion has stayed with me.”

His parents had a restaurant and, as the oldest of four children, he worked from a young age as a kitchenhand, peeling potatoes and washing dishes.

“A new world was open and I had a couple of teachers at culinary school who really pushed me. Spanish chefs are known for their innovation and use of new techniques and I really developed a passion for cooking.”

Santi is taking on another creative challenge at Voyager, and wants to expand on the estate’s ‘wine-first’ concept, telling the Voyager story via a wine and food sensory dining experience.

“I want to work with the winemakers and Voyager Estate’s in-house sommelier to match our wines in the best way possible with contemporary cooking style and techniques.

“Pairing isn’t my background. A menu normally starts with the chef but I’m attracted to the idea of working around the wines. Wine is something that is alive and Voyager has fantastic wines.

“I had heard about Margaret River from chefs talking about the Gourmet Escape and then understood the prestige of the property when I first visited."

Santi is looking forward to settling into Margaret River’s laid-back lifestyle and spending time with his family, fishing, and cultivating the kitchen garden. Visit voyagerestate.com.au

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

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Eat & Drink SKATEBOARDING INSPIRED MY STYLE BECAUSE IN BOTH YOU NEED TO PRACTISE, PRACTISE, TO FAIL, TO LEARN TO DO BETTER

ROMAIN LASSIAILLE Pullman Bunker Bay Resort In a curious coincidence, Romain has also come to the Margaret River region most recently from Daylesford,Victoria, where he was chef de partie pastry at the two-hatted Lake House.

He joined Pullman Bunker Bay Resort in September last year as pastry chef and in a short space of time has taken the resort’s dessert offerings to new heights.

Romain hails from France and has worked in numerous French Michelin-star rated restaurants, from Peru to Switzerland. He says while his mum

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inspired his early love of food and sweets, it was Thomas Sporrer at Gstaad Palace in Switzerland who has provided professional inspiration.

“He inspired my creativity. He has such an innovative and crazy style – he loved perfection on a plate, and we would always strive to do things creatively to improve our skills.

“From an early age my mum was always cooking and making a lot of sweets when I was little, I would help her in the kitchen. It was my favourite place to be with my parents."

Romain’s personal cooking style has a less traditional influence.

“I’d describe my style as ‘freestyle’ because before I became a chef, I was a professional skateboarder.

“Skateboarding inspired my style because in both you need to practice, practice, to fail, to learn to do better. It’s the failures that teach you the most, and the perfection of the perfect ride or perfect dish is for such a fleeting moment, you have to be there to experience it. " Nature also inspires him now he’s in the Margaret River region.

“Working in the south west it is nature that inspires me. It is so quiet down here in winter – there is no stress, which allows my creativity to flow."

And his favourite ingredients? Vanilla, sugar and fresh seasonal berries.

You can enjoy Rom ain’s sweet delights at a Pullman Bunker Bay High Tea, or when dining at ocean-view Other Side of the Moon Restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Visit pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au

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| WINTER 2017 31

Eat & Drink

Fishing for

compliments Blue Ocean Fish & Chips in Augusta has won plenty of fans for its fresh seafood and the rest of the country has taken notice now as the local business vies for top spot as best fish 'n’ chips in Australia. By LISA SHEARON.

W

est Australian fish-and-chip shops are making their mark on the seafood landscape, with Augusta’s Blue Ocean Fish & Chips currently in the top 20 in voting for the national awards.

Owners Dave Marshall and Linda Harris were pleasantly surprised to discover they had been nominated in the competition to

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recognise the country’s best fish-and-chips using sustainably-managed produce.

“It was great to be nominated, and great for the town, too,” Dave says.

Linda and Dave opened Blue Ocean just over two years ago, after Dave ran a fish-and-chip shop in Australind, and Eaton before that.

“Augusta is a great place to live,” Dave says.

“Because it’s a holiday town, everyone who visits the shop is in a happy mood. It’s a bit different from running a fish-and-ship shop in suburbia!”

Fresh, local produce takes centre-stage at Blue Ocean Fish & Chips. The seafood is brought in from the ocean and sold from Augusta’s marina, then brought to the shop, where it’s prepared and ready to eat almost immediately.

“The key is to have fresh, quality fish,” Dave says. “We use local dhufish and local bronze whaler shark which I prepare, and local whiting prepared by Augusta fisherman Trevor Price.

You can’t beat them. We also use local potatoes, sourced from farms around the Manjimup area and processed locally.”

When it comes to cooking the perfect fishand-chips, Dave isn’t giving his secrets away – although he says it comes down to quality produce and clean oil.

“The secret’s in the herbs and spices of the batter,” he explains. “It’s a recipe that we’ve used for

a long time. It’s also important to have clean oil; we filter ours every single day.The batter comes out nice and crispy when you use clean oil.”

Second-best simply isn’t good enough at Blue Ocean. As Linda explains, if the produce isn’t perfect, it doesn’t go out.

“We take huge pride in what we do,” she says.

“If we don’t think it’s right, we’ll cook another lot. We really take pride in our product. We take pride in our customer service and do the very best we can.”

As well as quality fish-and-chips, visitors to Blue Ocean can also expect a very warm welcome, as Dave and Linda try to get to know their customers by name.

“We get a lot of holiday-makers coming in year after year,” Linda says. “They come in and

say, “Hello! Remember us?” and we do try to!

In WA, Blue Ocean now sits in third position, behind Rockingham’s Bayside Fish and Chips and Albany store Ocean and Paddock. The competition aims to recognise the country’s best seafood using sustainablymanaged produce by gathering votes from customers around Australia who award points to stores based on quality, taste, service, labelling and information available on the seafood sold.

Cast your vote for Augusta’s Blue Ocean Fish & Chips by visiting fishandchipsawards. com.au/vote Winners will be announced at a national awards ceremony to be held in Sydney on September 28.

Visit them at 73 Blackwood Avenue, Augusta.

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

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

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77 Gifford Road, Dunsborough WA 6281 Reservations and Enquiries: T +61 8 9759 1117 F +61 8 9759 1990 E enquiry@regencybeachclub.com www.regencybeachclub.com margaretriver.com | WINTER 2017 33

Eat & Drink

Chef MEET THE

GEORGE COOPER Food by the Chef & Wedding Caterer

GEORGE COOPER IS MAKING A SPLASH DOWN IN THE SOUTH WEST - JANINE PITTAWAY FINDS OUT WHAT DRIVES THE TALENTED CHEF FROM THE UK.

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G

eorge Cooper is driven. Originally from England, the young chef has crammed a lot into his 29 years.

He’s incredibly motivated both in a career sense and creatively – striving to bring new ideas and techniques to his Dunsborough-based catering business and commercial kitchen.

When George talks about food you’d think he was born with it in his blood, but he actually stumbled on cooking – it wasn’t a first choice.

“I was a child of the 90s and staple savoury food was all about convenience. My mum and dad both worked – dad worked away only coming home every third week so the food we ate wasn’t inspirational, it was easy to put on the table.

“But mum always cooked a Sunday dinner which was a highlight of the week. She and my grandma were mean bakers too - I was never short of fresh baked biscuits, cakes, rock buns, flapjacks, raisin loaf or lemon drizzle cakes in my school lunchbox.

“Food changed in England when I was around

13 or 14 and Jamie Oliver started to influence home cooks. Everyone was cooking his fish pie!”

George’s first connection with Western Australia wasn’t with food but through importing tropical fish from Ningaloo to Great Britain. He thought marine biology might be the entrée to overseas travel but unfortunately that wasn’t meant to be.

“There was an ‘enrol now’ ad in the local paper for cooking school. I went to the meeting and ended up going to college to study cooking.

I nearly walked out a couple of times – it was back in the days of tough treatment and intense restaurant kitchen environments.

“Dad stepped in to question me on what I really wanted to do. His words were, ‘if you decide to do it, there’s no turning back six months down the track.’ I chose to stay and see it through.”

Then 18, George’s career took him away from home to work in a Michelin-starred restaurant kitchen in Birmingham along with his now wife Kayleigh.

“They were 16-hour days on a 10-day roster with four days off.You were constantly chasing the clock. It was the Gordon Ramsay era – you got treated harshly but it was good training – like the SAS for the kitchen!

“There were times when I would have been happy to give it away but dad’s words continued to ring in my ears – there’s no turning back."

The hard work paid off. In 2007 George was named Young Chef of the Year and he even appeared on the first series of English Masterchef the Professionals – the youngest, to be nominated.

George and Kayleigh came to Australia on a working holiday. They spent four months in Mt Buller, and travelled the east coast. Kayleigh convinced George they needed to see Uluru which lead to a three and a half week tour of Western Australia.

That was eight years ago and they’ve spent most of their time in the Margaret River region since.

“Wine was our drawcard to visit the south west – it was a big part of my job. We fell in love with the place and when we were driving along the stretch from Busselton to Dunsborough along the ‘holy mile’ it just felt like we were driving home.

“The holiday was eventually over and we were back in England for just a couple of days when we realised it was no longer where we wanted to be. We applied for visas for Australia when we were travelling around New Zealand and were accepted within two months so decided to finish our time in NZ and spend one last Christmas back home with the family and pack our lives up and make a go of it.”

“We started catering for friends and word of

INSPIRED CUISINE George Cooper is one of the region's most driven chefs, creating fabulous menus for his clients.

mouth spread. When we moved to Dunsborough a Perth friend’s daughter asked us to cater for her mothers group. We thought it was a one-off but the phone kept ringing."

In 2013 the in-home catering business Food by the Chef was born and George and Kayleigh haven’t looked back.

George describes his cooking style as modern food with an emotional twist. This isn’t your standard dining experience. With each course presented, George tells the story behind the dish – it might hark back to his childhood or evoke memories for guests around the table.

“It’s high end but approachable. I use classic combinations and take them to the next level.

“One favourite is bacon, eggs, chips and peas.

It sounds basic but I turn it into a high-end experience and we also create an element of surprise for the guests as the food is delivered to the table.

Trust me, it’s not the TV dinner you’re used to.”

The four, six and eight-course degustation menus regularly evolve and George said it starts with their vegetable patch and what’s in season.

A big part of his job is growing relationships with local suppliers of seafood, meat and produce.

“I tend not to use the more well known seafood and use different fish like herring or Samson Fish – varieties people might not always pick off a menu. If I rock it, it changes people’s expectations.”

George selects the menu and courses for guests to ensure he’s only using the best produce.

“I tell stories about the food as it is being served and people get involved," he says.

“In a restaurant you sometimes have to do what you don’t always want to to make money so there is compromise, but we can take it in a direction we choose to give people the best experience possible.”

The busy couple run a second business, The Wedding Caterer, which is booked out most weekends of the year and continues to grow.

They employ 16 staff, who love the variety of locations they cook and serve in.

“My favourite venue is probably the Secret Garden – there’s nothing quite like sitting outside under the crab apple trees in summer enjoying a long lunch," says George.

George has been a guest of Margaret River Gourmet Escape the past two years and been paired with some of the world’s best chefs at the Secret Garden venue.

“Some of the private holiday homes are also really inspiring, looking out over water or a valley at sunset. Sometimes I’ll collect ingredients from nearby to include in the meal, like beach mustard, and guests seem to love that connection too.”

Food by the Chef brings everything into the home and utilises the house’s domestic kitchen.

In addition to the Food by the Chef

experience, guests have the opportunity to do a ‘treasure hunt’ for matched wines the day before their dining experience.

“We give people a list of wines that match the courses they’ll be eating and the wineries they’re from. It creates a little adventure for people to seek out some of the lesser-known wineries and more interesting wine varieties and creates part of the experience.”

Most of their clients are visiting from Perth but about 40 percent now come from interstate, Singapore, and the rest of the world. Word of mouth continues to grow and George isn’t content sitting still. He has plans to become more self-sustaining with his produce and is looking at rural properties to build the next phase of his local food experience.

When George isn’t working or planning, you’re likely to find him dropping a line into the Indian Ocean or free diving, and generally living the Margaret River dream.

Visit foodbythechef.com margaretriver.com

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Eat & Drink

Smoke signals

BY TOM DE SOUZA.

IT’S ONE OF THE SIMPLEST OF TREATS DURING ANY VISIT TO THE MARGARET RIVER REGION - A LOAF OR TWO OF YALLINGUP WOODFIRED BREAD, HAND MADE BY BAKER GOTTHARD BAUER AND HIS TEAM.

BY TOM DE SOUZA.

I

t’s 8am, and smoke is billowing from the Yallingup Woodfired Bread chimney.

Kangaroos are grazing in the surrounding fields and, in the bakery, baker Tim Clark is stacking jarrah firewood inside a pumice stone oven.

Yallingup Woodfired Bread operate on the philosophy that simple is best. While most other bakeries use electric ovens, timers, and myriad ingredients, owner Gotthard Bauer believes in the most traditional way of baking.

“Say there are 10,000 years of baking, 9,900 of those are wood-fired,” Gotthard says.

“There has been no other way for so many years. Fire is like an archetype, you’re just connected to it. If you smell it, if you see it, that ticks something in your brain. The kids are usually a good indicator, parents often say their kids ask to buy our bread. That’s really special.

Usually kids ask to buy chocolate or something.”

Yallingup Woodfired Bread simply contains

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flour, water, yeast and salt. There are only four types of bread – pure wheat, wheat and rye, pure rye and fruit loaf – and everything is made using locally sourced and organic ingredients.

“The water we have is rain water, we source it here,” Gotthard laughs.

“The same water that creates those beautiful rainbows, it’s in our bread. It’s a good benefit!”

Salt comes fresh from a West Australian salt lake, and flour from a biodynamic farm where the farmer grinds his wheat and rye in a stone mill. Gotthard insists maintaining a healthy relationship with his suppliers is just as vital as the organic ingredients.

“There’s only a truck between us, not four or five dealers and processors,” he says.

“That makes a big difference.You can already say taste-wise the organic product is just better. It is of course about saving the planet and looking after your health, but it just tastes better too. That is what I think keeps people coming back.”

For the baker the day begins at 7am. It’s unusual in an industry where long, depressing night shifts are often required to produce fresh bread for the morning. While Gotthard has opted for the most traditional method of baking, he has shunned industrial norms in the workplace for the sake of his bakers.

“Baking at night, you can do that but no one loves it. It’s a bad job,” he says.

“Night shifts are really a family and life killer, and if you hate your product and your workplace you can’t make a good product. People have come to accept the bread will be ready in the afternoon and they can come and grab a hot loaf just in time for dinner.”

Tim is a few hours into his shift and he’s already mixed the flour, water, yeast and salt.

Rather than using harmful quantities of yeast, the dough is left to ferment all morning until the other baker, Andrew, arrives at 1pm.

In the meantime, Tim starts a fire inside the pumice stone ovens, where the heat is absorbed and stored in the stone as thermal mass. Pumice stone is a volcanic rock formed when hot lava mixes with water and hardens, and Gotthard is fascinated by the thermal properties of the stone.

“It absorbs heat very easily and gives it back in a more gentle way than normal fire bricks,” he says.

“You’re using volcanic ash that’s been compressed over 10 million years or so.You’re using fire for a fire product! It’s just another natural cyclic process.”

When the other baker arrives, Tim cleans the coals from the oven and they work to divide, mould and scale the fermented dough onto cloths. Andrew slides the bread into the oven, and watches it carefully for half an hour while it cooks. Almost everything is done by hand.

Tim has been a baker for over 30 years, eight of which have been with Yallingup Woodfired Bread.

While the work can be labour intense,Tim says it’s a refreshing change from a ‘normal’ bakery.

“It’s definitely more rewarding working with fire, a lot more care goes into it,” he says.

“Some days you might have a bad day and burn almost everything, whereas when you get everything right it feels really good. It’s so much more satisfying than just putting everything in the oven, turning it up to 220C and walking off.”

The tantalising smell of baking bread drifts outside, where three customers are sampling loaves from yesterday’s bake on a wooden bench.

“How long does rye the bread last for?” one of the men asks.

“Ages,” Gotthard replies.

“I’ve had some at home for three weeks and it hasn’t gone mouldy.”

The man eyes Gotthard, and the bread in awe.

He exchanges a loaf for cash, leaving his money

in a charming little honesty tin. Gotthard tells me that bread is something you shouldn’t need to buy every day.

“The success of using decent ingredients is that the bread keeps,” he says.

“In the old days, bread was designed to last as food for the next few weeks. It ends up as two or three different products on your plate at home, after two days it’s not stale but it’s a different product, the taste changes, the consistency changes, but it’s still bread.”

Gotthard grew up in a wood-fired bakery in Germany before moving to Australia 20 years ago with his family. He toyed with the idea of a coffee roasting project in Perth, but naturally, he discovered Yallingup and decided to start a bakery.

When he first began,Yallingup was remote and isolated and business was tough. But slowly word spread of this remarkable bread. After delivering bread for over 10 years every day from Yallingup to

Margaret River, Santana (who had been baking with Gotthard for a decade) happily co-founded a bakery in Margaret River with his mentor "Same method, same products, same ingredients, same philosophy, same hours - so you can to go Boodjidup Road in Margaret River to our little oven door sale," laughs Gotthard.

Yallingup Woodfired Bread’s methods have also been adopted by Perth restaurant Bread in Common, and even travelled as far afield as a recently opened bakehouse in Singapore.

It's 3pm, and today's bake is finished. Piping hot loaves of bread slide out of the oven and onto a cooling rack. Gotthard hands me a steaming loaf in a paper bag and I’m on my way.

Luckily, at least half the loaf manages to make it home . . .

Visit Yallingup Woodfired Bread at 7 McLachlan Road, Dunsborough and Margaret River Woodfired Bread at 2/2 Boodjidup Road, Margaret River.

BREAD IN COMMON Yallingup Woodfired Bread is something every visitor must try during a stay - it's unforgettably delicious.

margaretriver.com

| WINTER 2017 37

Wine & wineries

A good year MARGARET RIVER IS IN A CELEBRATORY MOOD THIS YEAR. NOT ONLY IS THE REGION’S FOUNDING WINERY, VASSE FELIX, MARKETING 50 YEARS OF WINEMAKING, THERE IS A HOST OF LOCAL WINERIES CELEBRATING THEIR OWN SIGNIFICANT BIRTHDAYS. BY LISA SHEARON.

X

anadu turns the big 4-0 this year, as it was in 1977 that Irishman Dr John Lagan and his wife Eithne planted their first vines. Literary buffs will remember Xanadu as Samuel Coleridge’s mysterious, idyllic, exotic city. Dr Lagan drew parallels between Coleridge’s visions of utopia and his newly adopted home, and thus the Xanadu winery was born.

“The philosophy now is less about literature and more about creating expressive, regional wines of uncompromising quality,” senior winemaker Glenn Goodall says.

A passion and dedication for the vineyards and the wines, and a commitment to encouraging a strong team spirit, has allowed Xanadu to thrive.

Glenn considers his role to be as the custodian of the vineyards, with a philosophy to guide the wines through to the bottle, rather than “beating them into submission”.

Xanadu continues to be a family owned and

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operated winery dedicated to producing wines of quality and distinction, which reflect the true characteristics of the Margaret River region.

Chief executive Darren Rathbone says: “The clear direction under the Rathbone ownership is a focus on quality with everything we do.”

This quest for uncompromising quality has seen Xanadu become Margaret River’s most successful show winner of the past decade, with 53 major wine show trophies since 2007.

“True quality begins in the vineyard and winemaking is all about respecting the fruit and the region,” Glenn says. “The Rathbone family share my focus on uncompromising quality beginning in the vineyard and we have begun work on exciting advancements for the future.

“We have some exciting new vineyards coming into production at Stevens Road, with cabernet and malbec projects in particular.

“Also, we are planting a new block of

Scenic Flights Chardonnay on the old Lagan Estate vineyard. All bodes well to continue striving to produce wines with personality and great regional expression.”

Also celebrating four decades in 2017 is Redgate Wines, founded by Bill and Dorothy Ullinger. The small, family owned winery is famed for its superb wines and friendly cellardoor service.

“We have stood the test of time due to building a rapport with our customers, which has helped create Redgate’s reputation as the friendliest cellar door in town,” Redgate’s Dinell Derman says.

Redgate is known particularly for its Cabernet Franc, which Bill planted in 1977 and then waited 16 years to get a vintage from. “We

are therefore very privileged to be able to sell a 100% Cab Franc that is estate grown,” Redgate’s Sally Beer says.

“Our philosophy was and still is to produce great-tasting quality wines that are unique and offer a distinct sense of place.”

Redgate is in the process of turning the vineyard organic. “This is a very exciting time for Redgate Wines and our customers as the future in wine certainly looks exciting and vibrant,” Dinell explains.

“We have also started hosting weddings and small functions. Our picnic tables are always available for guests to enjoy whilst overlooking the vines and forest.”

Yallingup Hills’ Deep Woods turns 30 this

with Westward Aviation Charter Services

Experience the beautiful and picturesque South West and Margaret River Region from a different perspective.

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Scenic Flights

year; the winery was founded by Mark Standish in 1987, sold to the Gould family a few years later, and purchased by Peter and Lee Fogarty and their three children in 2005.

Situated at one of the highest-altitude sites in Margaret River, the sloping hills on which the vineyards are planted allow great drainage, ventilation and morning sunlight exposure during vintage.

The winery is known for its picturesque

•

Margaret River, South West Coast and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse

•

Augusta, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and South West Coast.

• •

Vasse, Busselton Jetty, and Port Geographe Return Flights to Rottnest Island and Perth

To book contact the Margaret River Tourist Centre on (08) 9780 5911 or online at www.margaretriver.com or margaretriver.com | WINTER 2017 39 www.westwardaviation.com.au Conditions apply

Wine & wineries location and stunning wines. “We are focused on developing our own styles of wine, particularly Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, but we are also becoming the preeminent rosé producer in the region,” group sales and marketing manager Stephen Bradshaw says.

Led by chief winemaker Julian Langworthy and chief viticulturalist John Fogarty, Deep Woods aims to craft the highest-quality wine in the region.

“Last year, Deep Woods 2014 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon won the Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy, which is commonly regarded as the single most prestigious award in the entire industry for the best red wine in Australia,” WA marketing and sales manager Robert Crawford says.

When businessman Peter Fogarty purchased the estate in 2005, he focused initially on the vines, to get the yields down and the quality up.

“A focus on continual improvement both in the vineyard and the winery has seen wine quality improve year on year to the point that we are now regarded as one of the best producers in the region,” Stephen says.

“We are firm believers that the northern Yallingup Hills are capable of producing the best cabernet sauvignon in the Margaret River region.

“We also have a vineyard further south from which we source much of our white grapes. The slightly cooler and wetter climate is more suited to producing quality white wines.

“We also have our own bottling line which means in some cases that the wine travels no more than a couple of hundred metres from the

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vine to the bottle.”

Looking to the next 30 years, Deep Woods will continue to build on its strengths of chardonnay, cabernet and rosé, while also focusing on SSB blends and increasingly, shiraz.

“We believe that shiraz is underrated in Margaret River and are working hard to develop high quality shirazes that our customers will love to drink,” Stephen adds.

Cape Mentelle is celebrating a solid 47 years of winemaking this year. It was in 1970 that David Hohnen and his brothers Mark, JR and Giles planted the first vines on the 16-hectare Wallcliffe

Vineyard site, directly in front of what is now the Cape Mentelle winery and cellar door.

For close to five decades, Cape Mentelle has stayed true to its core values, with a focus on micro-selection in the vineyards and microvinification in the winery.

“Essentially, this means precisely timed harvesting of fruit in small parcels, vinified separately in small fermenters to allow for the ultimate palette from which to blend,” estate director Cameron Murphy explains.

“We consistently experiment and study our sites and techniques in order to improve our

ESTATE AND RESTAURANT

Don’t miss . . .

approach from vine to wine.

“We also have the great advantage of access to technologies, research and colleagues from our parent company, Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy, owners of Cape Mentelle since 2003.”

Cameron attributes Cape Mentelle’s continued success to its amazing local and international team, who are focused on making exciting wines.

“A new red fermentation cellar will be in place before the end of the year, new cabernet and malbec clones are being planted, and new markets are being opened internationally, so it’s an exciting time all round,” Cameron says.

“The winemaking and vineyard team’s focus on over-delivering across all wine tiers has also led to fun experimentation with blends and cellar-door exclusives and limited editions from vintage to vintage.”

And, with a nod to his friendly rivals at Deep Woods, he adds: “I’m also keen to collect Cape Mentelle’s third Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy within the next few years, just to keep things interesting.”

Famous for its undulating vineyard and manicured gardens, Aravina Estate is one of the icons of the Margaret River region for more than just its wines. Celebrating its 30th year, the Yallingup estate holds fond memories for many locals and visitors from its rustic beginnings as Amberley Estate through to its current incarnation with glamorous Hampton’s style architecture and an elegant restaurant. Originally founded by a small group of investors, the estate was the first in the region to plant such a vast

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the estate, Aravina Estate are holding a series of decadent and exclusive Sunday afternoon lunches throughout the month of August in their private tasting room. Spend the afternoon with chief wine maker Ryan Aggiss as he takes guests through a tasting of the estate’s single vineyard wines. Following a tasting and a chance to have burning questions on all things wine answered

by Ryan, be treated to a five-course degustation feast with an introduction of each dish by head chef Ben Day. Limited to 10 people per lunch be sure to get in quick for this special series not to be missed.

Bookings on 08 9750 1111.

amount of chenin blanc, which at the time was the biggest seller in Australia during its days under the Amberley label. The vines have gone on to produce the wine that is synonymous with the winery - Aravina now producing three different varietals of the famous chenin blanc including the sought after Blanc de Blanc Sparking Chenin.

There are now 64 acres (26 hectares) under vine with plantings of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, shiraz, tempranillo, malbec, sauvignon blanc, semillon, chenin blanc and chardonnay.

“What Amberley did for the northern part of the Margaret River wine industry is almost immeasurable,” says Aravina chief wine maker Ryan Aggiss. “They gave people confidence in the sub-region’s ability to produce great wines and helped the whole region gain greater national recognition as a premium grape and wine producing region.”

The perfect reason to pop by their cellar door and crack a bottle of their award winning wine this winter.

Full a full list of wineries in the region, visit margaretriver.com/wineries

FAMILY FRIENDLY, PET FRIENDLY

OPEN 7 DAYS FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH FROM 8AM. DINNER FRIDAY SATURDAY TILL LATE. COME AND SAMPLE OUR HOUSE MADE PRESERVES BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL facebook.com/rivendellrestaurant 41 | WINTER 2017 RD 1172 WILDWOOD YALLINGUP PH: 08 9755 2899 margaretriver.com

Wine & wineries

David Hohnen saw the potential in the Margaret River region’s terroir and was an inspirational winemaker at Cape Mentelle. Max Brearley reports on how the area still excites him today.

I

crusader CAPE’S

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don’t think anyone could have foreseen what we are today,” says David Hohnen, looking back over five decades of winemaking in Margaret River.

“I think there was great optimism amongst the small number of people involved in the wine industry; skepticism on the part of the farming community. We were seen as something of a nuisance; elevating values on land, which was fine if you were selling it, but not good if you were looking to acquire it. So I think there was mixed feelings about the grape growing and winemaking industry in the early days.”

That view of Margaret River of the late 60s and 70s is unrecognisable today; now with a reputation for premium wine, forged over the years and a mecca for food and wine lovers.

Back then there was no wine culture in Margaret River. It was a town for the government service, Western Power, timber mills and dairy farms. Main street was "tiny”, says David. “It was, if there was one, in Busselton, with the beef steak and Burgundy group.”

David forged his name into Margaret River’s wine history at Cape Mentelle. He recalls the vineyard there was planted in 1970.

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M A RG A R E TS FO R E ST

Margarets Forest is conveniently located in the gourmet town of Margaret River.

Relax in your own four star fully equipped apartment, walking distance to the river, forest trails and the café strip.

MENTION THIS AD ON BO O K I N G TO R EC E I V E A F R E E BOT T L E O F W I N E O N A R R I VA L

"I was probably just on my way back from my studies in California [at UC Davis], so I didn’t do that planting. I was here briefly in 1972, went to Victoria and came back for the '76 vintage.”

There’s many a winemaker who have earned their stripes under David or simply been inspired by his winemaking. Now, all these years on, you might expect him to rest on his laurels; content with his place in the wine community, his name above the door at McHenry Hohnen, but he’s now on a different path. He will talk wine gladly but these days he’s more likely to bend your ear about food production or the new German smoker installed at The Farmhouse; which shares space with McHenry Hohnen’s cellar door on Caves Road.

Farming for him was “an evolution”, he says.

“I invested into farming. Being a winemaker, a creative person, it wasn’t good enough to produce a farm animal, so it was a matter of taking the process through. I brought to the butchery and particularly the smallgoods making, skills I’d acquired as a winemaker. A sense of smell, a sense of taste and texture; the ability to be creative in doing that.”

For David his education in winemaking taught him about biology and that carries through to the smallgoods. “I don’t pretend to be a food scientist but I’ve certainly got the basic skills to understand the science. Then there’s the creativity. Where we may have been doing a wine blend we’re now doing a blend for brine, using those skills of aromatics, taste and texture.

Those creative urges we had as winemakers are now serving us well as smallgoods makers.”

The “we” Hohnen refers to is he and

winemaker Tom Hayward, previously of Howard Park and Cape Mentelle. After 10 years of stressful vintages there’s no regret in turning to smallgoods; the young Brit talks of the creative challenge, of new ranges, developing dry cures and trials of native spices. Tom’s mission is “respecting your raw ingredients, giving a sense of place. Not unlike winemaking. For us it’s less manufacturing, and more about creating.”

It’s a view that chimes with David’s view.

“The brand of The Farm House is an upside down farmhouse because as winemakers we’re prepared to turn things upside down and reexamine this process that’s been going on for hundreds of years. We dare to challenge if we feel like challenging and we certainly follow the philosophy that has led us in our winemaking, bringing great purity in making smallgoods; going back to a very traditional process , stepped back from a very commercial and industrial process for everything that’s on the shelf today.”

And what of wine, you might ask? David still has a hand in at McHenry Hohnen and he certainly has his views on the industry in Margaret River that he was a part of shaping.

“With a third generation of winemakers we’ve got a culture of wine [now]; people who socialise together that are winemakers. I think that’s really positive. I see a younger generation of winemakers turning their backs on what I saw as way too much science in winemaking. I love what they’re doing. Some are taking it a bit too far: I don’t drink orange wine.

“But I love the philosophy behind it and those that are getting the balance correct are making wines that really speak of this region.”

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Ph 08 9758 7188 stay@margaretsforest.com.au www.margaretsforest.com.au

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Wine & wineries

GET AMONGST IT EXPLORE VINEYARDS, MEET LOCAL CHEFS AND SAMPLE AMAZING PRODUCE DURING YOUR VISIT. BY MAX BREARLEY.

W

ith vintage once again occupying the time of all the winemakers and viticulturists of the Margaret River Region, it’s a time of year that brings its own reward but no small amount of stress. Overhear talk of weather forecasts and baume and it’s likely that you’re listening to an edgy winemaker with an eye on harvest. It’s when work in the winery can start in earnest; each vintage being an expression of a growing season and the unique conditions that makes the Margaret River region so special.

This year, after a long winter and a later than normal vintage, it serves as a sign that winemaking is an endeavour tied to nature and the seasons. Rise early enough and you’ll see streams of car headlights heading towards the

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region's vineyards. Legions of pickers bringing in the harvest, before most have even had their morning coffee fix.

As autumn rolls on and winter takes hold, vintage is put to bed, and we light the fires, pour a cabernet or two and relax. It’s a great time to discover the Margaret River region; its wine, food, landscape and culture.

lie beneath and the lighthouses that mark our two capes, Naturaliste and Leeuwin. For those that prefer being guided by a local expert, there’s few that can beat Sean Blocksidge of Margaret River Discovery Co. His passion for the region is clear in everything he does, as he takes you from vineyards to the best coastal spots for an unforgettable photo moment.

Visit margaretriverdiscovery.com.au

DISCOVER THE REGION CAPE TO CAPE

FOOD BY THE CHEF

Head to a visitors centre for self drive maps and information, plan your trip and discover the region. Just taking a route from Dunsborough to Augusta along Caves Road is enough to taste wines through the sub regions. If you fancy a break from all that wine, explore the caves that

Want the gourmet experience , but without the hassle of heading out? Local chef George Cooper heads up Food by the Chef with wife Kayleigh. Their in-home events bring George’s experience in Michelin starred resturants in the UK to your table. Matching modern culinary

technique with the produce of local growers, butchers and fishmongers, as well as foraged items, it’s going out without leaving your home away from home. Visit foodbythechef.com

TRUFFLE SEASON

Winter in the south west sees the black truffle season, in and around the Southern Forests. Easily accessible from Margaret River, the annual pilgrimage for food and wine lovers is Truffle Kerfuffle (June 23 to 25) while The Truffle & Wine Co. have dining and hunt options available throughout the season. Head onto a trufferie, in the southern hemisphere's most productive truffle region, for a hands-on truffle hunt; have rustic dining experiences with Australia’s top chefs and soak up the down-to-earth country atmosphere of Truffle Kerfuffle. Stay for the weekend or visit for the day.

Visit truffleandwine.com.au/ trufflekerfuffle.com.au australiantruffletraders.com

cellar door awards 2017 best tasting

experience

margaret river

TASTY TREATS Winter is the best time of year to sample black gold (right) otherwise known as truffles.

so take the CABIN FEVER (July 14 to 23)

t ime to enjoy it

The inaugural Cabin Fever will showcase over 25 unique events from chocolate and coffee appreciation, secret speakeasies, wine dinners, bonfires, brews and live music. Showcasing local talent organisers advise you to grab the wellies, don a rain jacket and head to the Margaret River region for 10 days of wintery goodness.

There’s a lot of activities you can only really enjoy during winter down south, including the most decadent food and wine pairing imaginable at Howard Park.The event, which pairs pinot noir and truffles will see guests enjoy five courses of gourmet fare prepared by guest chef, Tim Whitty, and served in the opulent surrounds of the Howard Park Wine Chapel. Featuring Marchand & Burch Australian and French Pinot Noirs, and Howard Park sparkling wine, this is just one of the incredible winter foodie treats in store during this first event of its kind in the region over winter.

And while you're in the region, make sure you make time to fit in a viewing of the annual whale migration, stormy seas, green expanses and misty forests - that is, if all that food and drink doesn't leave you snoozing by the fireside instead.

Visit cabinfeverfest.com.au Stevens Road, Margaret River // Open every day from 10am - 5pm +61 (0)8 9757 6354 // Book online at voyagerestate.com.au

Wine & wineries

WHY NOT GO OFF THE BEATEN TRACK AND TRY SOME OF THE LESSER KNOWN WINE VARIETALS NEXT TIME YOU’RE IN THE MARGARET RIVER REGION? LIZZY PEPPER HAS ROUNDED UP SOME FASCINATING LOCAL DROPS.

Dare to be

different

I

n the Margaret River region’s 50 years of winemaking, producers have sussed out that their cabernet and chardonnay game is particularly strong. But it’s great to play with different varieties – they give colour and diversity to our region’s offering. So, what is an alternative variety wine, and what inspires our winemakers to make them?

Alternative varieties in the Margaret River region are the lesser known grape types, the ones we’re not (yet) famous for. That’s everything from the gewurztraminer planted in Margaret River back in the 70s when it was groovy, to the Yallingup-grown petit manseng from south west France.

Each winemaker had a different reason for going off piste with varieties. The recurring theme is that they’re having fun, experimenting

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and indulging their natural curiosity. And we’re lapping it up, giving alternative varieties a great reception at cellar door and in restaurants, according to Mark Warren of Marq Wines.

“There is a growing interest in this region for both alternative varietals and winemaking techniques. It’s really exciting to see winemakers stepping out of the box of convention.”

So if you’re keen to explore and try something different, take an alternative tour of the Margaret River wine region.

FRASER GALLOP ESTATE -

Misceo

The parterre chardonnay is next-level, but if you’re keen to try something different, then our money is on the Misceo, a full and fragrant mix of cabernet franc, malbec, merlot and petit verdot.

“We have always blended these varieties in to our cabernet sauvignon, but they are so impressive as a group-of-four that they are now a standalone entity” says winemaker Clive Otto.

If you love cabernet, try the Misceo, says wine critic Campbell Mattinson. “Lovers of cabernet would enjoy this wine. It has structure, it has fruit, it has a seriousness and yet it simply drinks well.”

493 Metricup Road,Wilyabrup.

Visit frasergallopestate.com.au

SWINGS AND ROUNDABOUTS -

Malbec Nouveau

Sometimes it’s happy luck that leads to the release of a new wine; the team at Swings and Roundabouts were tasting individual wines ready to make a cabernet blend. The malbec was particularly delicious, and had enough panache to make it as a standalone wine.

The malbec nouveau is reminiscent of a beaujolais nouveau; light and fruity. If you love pinot noir, or you’re not fond of tannins, give it a whirl.

It’s available exclusively at Swings Taphouse, so why not stay for lunch or dinner?

85 Bussell Highway, Margaret River.Visit swings. com.au

MARQ WINES – Sparkling

Vermentino and Petit Manseng Mark Warren loves to experiment with different grapes and styles. Working with varieties such as vermentino, petit manseng, malbec and fiano, Mark makes the sort of foodfriendly wine he loves to share with friends.

Two years ago he started work making a sparkling wine, and decided to use vermentino for its light, fresh character. “It was very much an experiment and we weren’t sure if we’d release it, but we’re thrilled with the result.”

The sparkling vermentino is smooth, dry and pairs beautifully with oysters.

Mark also teaches wine science in Margaret River, and it was a student who put him onto the French grape petit manseng. By chance he found it growing in Yallingup. It’s a dry, chardonnay-esque wine, fermented in 25% new oak but still retains a unique fruit flavour. Perfect with Asian food or any dish with fresh ginger.

860 Commonage Road,Yallingup.Visit marqwines. com.au

FLOWSTONE WINES –

Gewurztraminer

For Stuart Pym it’s pure serendipity that he’s making alternative wines; his first job in the wine industry was hand-picking gewurztraminer grapes in Margaret River in 1983, back when most vineyards in the region had some in the ground.

Thirty-something years later and with vintages at Voyager Estate, Stella Bella and Suckfizzle under his belt, Stuart’s making his own wine from that very planting.

The gewurztraminer is beautifully perfumed; try it if you love riesling.

By appointment: 11298 Bussell Highway, Forest Grove.Visit flowstonewines.com.au

CULLEN WINES –

Mangan East Block and Amber Famous for their Diana Madeline, it’s worth visiting to taste these two lesser known beauties.

TASTE IT

Take a walk on the wild side with these alternative varieties. These wineries don’t have a cellar door, but look for them in the liquor stores, bars and restaurants listed below.

Amato Vino Skinnydip – Sauvignon blanc, but not as you know it. Skin fermented in amphorae.

Dormilona Skinnie – skins are left on, giving this sauvignon blanc a pink hue.

Mr Barval Mistral – Viognier marsanne blend, named after the Rhone Valley breeze.

Mr Barval Nebbia – inspired by Robert Gherardi’s vintages in Barolo, where nebbiolo is king.

Oates Ends Tempranillo – the quintessential BBQ wine; great with smoky, grilled meat.

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Wine & wineries Better still, stay for lunch and taste the wines with food.

Winemaker Vanya Cullen says the Mangan East Block came about from applying the principles of fun and good taste. Made from biodynamic petit verdot and malbec, she makes the wines separately, looks at the different personalities and blends accordingly. It’s hard to resist with venison, root vegetables and black pepper sauce.

The amber is made from semillon and sauvignon blanc in the centuries-old style of orange wine. Normally, white wine is taken off skins, but amber skins are left on the grapes for up to 40 days, giving the wine that beautiful amber blush.

4323 Caves Road,Wilyabrup.Visit cullenwines.com.au

CHURCHVIEW ESTATE - Wild

Fermented Marsanne and Zinfandel Spike Fokkema has a special claim to fame; at age 13 he cycled from Perth to Prevelly. Prevelly Caravan Park let him camp for free on the condition he handed out flyers once back in Perth. Margaret River always held a special place in his heart.

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A ROAD LESS TRAVELLED Lesser-known grape varieties are making the Margaret River region's vineyards a hot spot for connoisseurs with a thirst for something different.

Spike, wife Lanie and son Ray did plenty of research before choosing which grapes to plant on their Wilyabrup vineyard. “We picked some classics, but also chose some different varietals. We loved the Rhone Valley blends and tasted plenty of French and Australian examples,” said Ray. Our picks are the wild fermented marsanne, an aromatic white wine made with organic fruit, and the zinfandel.

8 Gale Road, Metricup.Visit churchview.com.au

You’ll find many of the wines here Liquor Barons Busselton 38 Duchess Street, Busselton The Village at Margs Cnr Town View Tce & Willmott Ave, Margaret River Settlers Tavern 114 Bussell Highway, Margaret River Settlers Liquor 110 Bussell Highway, Margaret River Dunsborough Cellars 58 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough Cape Cellars 170 Bussell Highway, West Busselton

MARGARET RIVER

EST. 1967

TASTING BAR • WINE LOUNGE • RESTAURANT • THE VAULT • ART GALLERY • TOURS Open Daily 10AM - 5PM Caves Road (Cnr Tom Cullity Drive), Cowaramup WA 6284 Phone 9756 5000 Restaurant Reservations 9756 5050 C E L E B R AT I N G 5 0 Y E A R S

Wine & wineries

W

hile most of us drink wine, not all of us feel capable of tasting and talking about it. A thought looms that we need to know the etiquette, the drill, some routine or procedure that will unlock the vault. It can all seem too much.

As part of our Margaret River Makers video series we chatted to a host of winemakers in the region to get their take on tasting. Their advice exposed the simple truth that there’s nothing to feel nervous about. It’s a case of diving in, experiencing as much as you can and above all having fun!

As the wine region celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2017, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Margaret River wine with our video masterclass.

Featuring five short films with some of the region’s iconic wine personalities, you’ll learn fascinating facts about what has helped to put the region on the map, before taking the masterclass Facebook quiz for your chance to win a two-night stay in the region.

Vines and winemaking are an essential part of the Margaret River region’s DNA. Since the first commercial vineyard planting at Vasse Felix estate in 1967, the region has grown to produce a massive 20% of Australia’s premium wine, and there are now over 95 cellar doors to be explored, set against spectacular vistas of farmland, vineyards and the coast.

Time to explore To get the best out of any wine region you need to be realistic with the time you’ve got, do your research, try what you like and sometimes what you think you don’t.

“Taste everything you can. Learn to spit. It really will allow you to taste and learn more. Talk to everyone you can. Get their recommendations and learn what you like. Don’t be closed off, walking into a cellar door saying “I don’t like chardonnay” because as a region we have so many styles of chardonnay. Even if you just stick your nose in a glass and smell it you might surprise yourself.”

Kate Morgan, Winemaker, Ipso Facto

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TAKE OUR MARGARET RIVER REGION WINE MASTERCLASS AND WIN A HOLIDAY TO THE REGION!

Test your knowledge -

and win a holiday for two!

To enter, head over to margaretriver.com/masterclass, answer the questions. Good luck!

The prize

• 2 nights’ luxury accommodation at 5-star boutique hotel Cape Lodge • The Epicurean Tour at Vasse Felix, the Margaret River region’s founding wine estate –

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour, three-course gourmet lunch with matching wines, and a bottle of Vasse Felix Premier wine to take away

• Wine Essentials Session at Voyager Estate – Discover your ideal wine and learn wine tasting techniques in an interactive and fun way

• • •

Two bottles of wine by Domaine Naturaliste – Floris Chardonnay and Rebus Cabernet Two person entry to one Margaret River region cave of your choosing Two person entry to one Margaret River region lighthouse of your choosing

Loving

the land

Winemakers in the Margaret River region take their guardianship of the land upon which they farm very seriously. Lisa Shearon reports.

B

ehind the scenes of the wineries of the Margaret River region, small but hugely important steps are being made to preserve our planet. Although these sustainability efforts are more often than not occurring quietly in the background, they’re of huge ecological importance, and quite possibly, indicative of the

future of winemaking.

“For us, it’s part of a whole-business mentality,” Arimia wine manager Cameron Haskell says. “Our restaurant and cellar door are off-grid as far as water, waste water and electricity go, and we’re growing more and more of it on site in terms of marron, pigs and all sorts

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Wine & wineries GUARDIANS OF THE VINES Winemakers like Ryan Agiss of Aravina Estate (this page) take their responsibilities very seriously in terms of tending the land.

of fruit and veg.

“It only makes sense for us to treat the vineyard the same: to both tread lightly, and to make the most of expressing and representing our surrounds.”

Aravina Estate’s Ryan Aggiss says that his vineyard operates on similar principles, and for similar reasons.

“We live in a beautiful part of the world and we want to maintain that for years to come.

“The Margaret River region winemakers have environmentally sustainable mindsets because we live in a beautiful part of the world.

We’ve caused enough natural alternation to land and waterways, and we know we can save money for the business and reduce capital overheads by operating sustainably.

“For us, it comes down to water and compostable waste. We’re pretty blessed at Aravina; the water flows on through the creek line. We’re mindful of making sure that whatever rain falls on the roof gets directed back to the natural environment.

“In regards to vegetative waste, we have a kitchen with a huge turnover which generates organic waste. Food doesn’t go into the bin, it goes into a mulching pile, which goes to the gardens around the estate, to reduce evaporative movements. We also feed the plants with that,

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which negates the needs for inorganic matter.”

Cameron adds: “People often want to try to express terroir as some mystical, spiritual notion, but that’s miles off the mark. It’s an idea that’s more connected with looking after your bit of earth to maximise the quality of what it produces, now and into the future.

“We’re managing the whole site organically because we feel it’s how you get the best, clearest transmission of it in a bottle or on the plate or into the olive oil.

“It’s not about philosophy, hairshirts or patchouli – it’s about composting, soil structure and microbia; about doing things hands-on.

Perhaps more than anything, it’s about a more integrated management mentality; a kind of gestalt, where it’s all inseparable.

“This goes right down to our staff ’s experience here too – we want them to be closely involved in our production; for this to be an interesting place to work, where we have broader job roles, that affords us all the chance to learn and do more when coming to work.”

At Voyager Estate, environmental sustainability comes first. “Our objective to achieve environmental balance involves us becoming a wholly-sustainable enterprise,” winemaking and viticulture manager Stephen James says.

“Our efforts are led by our Environmental Stewardship Team, which brings together representatives from every part of the business.

The team firmly believes that we are custodians of the land for future generations, so ensuring we protect and improve our special place is a goal very dear to our hearts.”

Voyager is focused on the revegetation of large areas of land, with a particular focus on watercourses. Around 40,000 native plants have been planted as part of an ongoing program over the past 15 years.

The winery has adopted a natural farming approach to vineyard management with a strong focus on building a healthy and resilient vineyard through the use of natural products and encouraging biodiversity.Voyager is also the custodian for the Boodjidup section of the Cape to Cape track.

“All areas of the business are involved in helping to maintain this beautiful natural resource,” Stephen says.

“We have an extensive annual control program for the management of noxious weeds such as arum lily and thistles; we compost our grape skins and stalks for reuse in our vineyards; and we focus on water management, which includes extensive monitoring of waterways for flows and composition.”

At Arimia, the focus is on a connection with

the land. “You’ve got to get out and do things with your hands,” Cameron says. “We only have 9.5 hectares at Arimia, and we have a real sense of each little patch. It’s important for us to walk up and down the rows, to get a better sense of the vineyard. We know what each vineyard can sustain, what will get ripe, and what will get a good vintage.”

Attracting wildlife is also important to the wineries, particularly at estates such as Aravina and Passell.

Passel is the collective noun for possums, and the story behind Passel Estate’s name is one of conservation and sanctuary. Following the Margaret River bushfires of 2011, estate owners Wendy and Barry Stimpson provided refuge to a family of endangered western ringtail possums that had been displaced by the fires. Their property was identified as particularly suitable for

plight of the now critically endangered western ringtail possum.

Several conservation measures have since been established within the property to promote the survival of the Western Ringtail Possum and other native species. The peppermint trees (which are the primary shelter and food source for the possums) are now irrigated to ensure a lush canopy with plenty of young foliage. The canopy also provides safety (in the form of aerial cover) and mobility. Additional peppermint trees will soon be planted within the existing bushland sanctuary and to link this area to surrounding remnant bush, providing critical “bush corridors” throughout the property. Feral predator and weed control measures have also been put in place.

At Aravina, two large water bodies attract migratory birds, who in turn do their bit for the vineyard by acting as natural pest predators.

“We’ve got a moving flock of 100-odd waterseeking birds, which has a really positive balance on the estate in regards to keeping pest pressure down,” Ryan explains.

For the sustainably-minded wineries, caring for the earth isn’t about keeping up with passing fads; it has real economies of scale from a business point of view.

“As a winery, our biggest resource is the

2014 Serie Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon 97 Points Best of Margaret River Region 2016 Halliday Cabernet Challange this species given the prevalence of giant native peppermint trees within several large areas of untouched bushland (around 10ha in total).

Passel Estate is also home to 6.7ha of grapevines, including some very established Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz vines dating back to 1994. The Stimpsons are passionate about conserving native bushland areas and the

vineyard,” Cameron says. “Just like homeowners perform upkeep on their houses, winemakers build up their soil, to make it better, stronger and healthier.

“Philosophical notions of being organic tend to overwhelm the practicalities, but at Arimia, we believe in it because it’s the right thing to do.”

Visit margaretriver.com/wineries.

Best Red Wine Best Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Margaret River Wine Show Available at our Cellar Door Open daily 10am to 5pm 205 Rosa Brook Road Margaret margaretriver.com 2017 53River | WINTER stellabella.com.au - 9758 8611 -

Wine & wineries

Winter Warmers THE MARGARET RIVER REGION IS RENOWNED FOR ITS FABULOUS RED WINES - WHY NOT RUG UP AND POUR A GLASS OR TWO, SAYS FERGAL GLEESON.

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“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Jack Frost nipping at your toes….”

N

o, it isn’t Christmas but it is winter in Australia when things get slightly cooler.

Picture the scene: a platter of slow cooked meat, a boat of homemade gravy, rich roasted vegetables are on the table, you’re wearing that ancient Aran sweater again despite the feedback. So let that belt buckle out a notch and fetch yourself a glass of red.

Here are some recommendations from the Margaret River region’s vineyards to savour this season.

Bordeaux Varietals

VASSE FELIX FILIUS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014

$

28

“It’s extraordinary how stunning the middle truly is!” says chief winemaker at Vasse Felix,Virginia Wilcock. What is she talking about? Vasse Felix have entry level and prestige offerings but the real value is in the middle. Filius has a fragrant dark fruit nose which follows through to the silky texture on the palate. Tannins stand discreetly at the back of the hall. The other ‘middle’ is Vasse Felix Cabernet (RRP $45) which is more structured. Though enjoyable now it is also engineered to last two decades. As the region’s first winery, you’ll be drinking a bit of history.

Visit vassefelix.com.au

CAPE MENTELLE WALLCLIFFE CABERNET & CABERNET FRANC 2014

49

$

FLAMETREE CABERNET MERLOT 2014

30

$

Flametree’s Cabernet Merlot has excellent form. They won the Jimmy Watson Trophy for the 2007 vintage of what was the first red that Flametree had ever released. This year Flametree celebrate their 10th anniversary. 2014 was a near perfect vintage for the region so not surprisingly this wine has been rewarded with plenty of medals. Having a winemaker of Cliff Royale’s ability also helps!

Visit flametree.com.au

ARAVINA ESTATE WILDWOOD RIDGE CABERNET RESERVE 2013

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FRASER GALLOP ESTATE PARTERRE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013

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Lovely floral aromas lead to a red that has structure, complexity and intensity. This is 86% Cabernet with support from other Bordeaux varietals. It has black fruit, cedar oak and a refreshing finish. An orchestra needs time to tune up. Because of Parterre’s structure it improves an hour after opening the bottle. The balance and integration of all the elements are there to see.

Parterre is keenly priced for such a sophisticated wine. Impressive.

Visit frasergallopestate.com.au

Estate director Cameron Murphy is pretty excited about the newly released Wallcliffe Dry Red. This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc from the original 1970 vines. “The 55% Cabernet provides the classic Margaret River backbone, structure and length. The 38% Franc provides the seductive, pretty floral characters.

This assemblage is not uncommon in Bordeaux but unusual here.” Given Cape Mentelle’s owners (LVMH) and chief winemaker are French, they can’t resist a few Gallic touches. If you’ve noticed the percentages don’t add up to 100%, I salute your maths. Merlot & Shiraz are the extras.

Visit capementelle.com.au

There are many strings to the Aravina Estate bow. Apart from the winery there’s a cellar door, restaurant, a function room for weddings or business, a kitchen garden and an orchard. There’s even a sports car gallery for rev heads. There’s also Aravina Estate Reserve Cabernet which has picked up plenty of medals and points from Australia’s leading wine critics. Not hard to see why, the sour cherry flavours are gently cloaked in tannin making for an easy drinking and approachable wine.

Visit aravinaestate.com

LEEUWIN ESTATE ART SERIES CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013

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Art Series is Leeuwin Estate’s premium range of age-worthy wines. The Art Series Cabernet has been described as Margaret River’s Mouton Rothschild. The 2013 is a 96% Cabernet, 4% Malbec blend and is on release in June 2017. It’s always one of the regions finest and you’ll find it is age-worthy, if you have exceptional will power.

Visit leeuwinestate.com.au

margaretriver.com

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Wine & wineries

R hone Varietals

VOYAGER ESTATE SHIRAZ 2013

CLAIRAULT CELLAR RELEASE PETIT VERDOT 2012 Petit Verdot often makes up 1% or 2% of a Margaret River or Bordeaux blend. It’s added for fragrance. What does the 100% Petit Verdot

by Clairault taste like? It’s fresh and medium bodied in weight. Tastes of bright red cherries and tobacco. A great mix of fruit and savoury flavours happening, this would make a killer lunchtime red. So moreish infact my wife couldn’t keep her hands off it. An undiscovered gem - you must try this.

Visit clairaultstreickerwines.com.au

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MOSS WOOD RIBBON VALE VINEYARD MERLOT 2014

Moss Wood make a powerful, concentrated and spicy merlot. It has proper grippy tannins.

I recently tasted a wide range of Grand Cru Bordeaux in Sydney. This Merlot would fit comfortably into that company. Interestingly Clare Mugford, joint owner and winemaker, was telling me that Moss Wood sell more of their Merlot in Asia and Europe than in Australia. A prophet unappreciated in his own land? Yes. This is the equal of their cabernets for which they are better known. Might well be Australia’s finest merlot.

Visit mosswood.com.au

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The Margaret River Wine Region was invented to produce cabernet but this profound Shiraz shows that the region has got versatility. This is a sophisticated wine from one of its powerhouses.

Voyager Shiraz probably speaks five languages and appreciates modern art! It’s a cool climate Shiraz with an intensity of flavour. The flavour is savoury with smooth tannins that provide a lovely texture. Case closed that Margaret River can nail this Rhone variety.

Visit voyagerestate.com.au

DEEP WOODS ESTATE RESERVE BLOCK 7 SHIRAZ 2014

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You’d be thrilled if you opened a Shiraz of this quality from South Australia,Victoria or the Hunter. This uses the dark side of the force - it’s no pretty little thing. It’s brooding and intense.

The Block 7 has powerful black fruit and finishes with a long refreshing aftertaste. Deep Woods are also dux at Cabernet, Chardonnay and Rose with Jimmy Watson and Halliday trophies. Wild Thing by the Troggs played in my mind with this one.

Visit deepwoods.com.au

ARIMIA MOURVEDRE 2014

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Just like Meryl Streep can do any accent it would appear that Margaret River can handle any variety. Arimia make one of the only single varietal mourvedres in the region. The perfumed nose follows through to the palate which is fruit driven and opulent. Mourvedre is normally gnarly but Arimia have made a smoother style similar in flavour to a good Côtes Du Rhone.

Visit arimia.com.au

Spanish Varietals

WOODY NOOK LIMITED RELEASE GRACIANO 2014

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ARGUABLY AUSTRALIA’S BEST

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

This wine won a trophy at the Langton’s 2016 Margaret River Wine show for Best Alternative Red. Wine makers Neal Gallagher and Craig Dunkerton really know what they are doing with this obscure variety. Graciano, which is a native of Rioja, is characteristically tannic.The tannins are present but smooth making for a very quaffable wine. Note how it drops slowly down your glass at tortoise speed reflecting the power. It was a huge hit at a recent tasting that I ran. A lovely wine.

Visit woodynook.com.au

FISHBONE BLACK LABEL TEMPRANILLO 2016

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Pronounced (tem-pran–ee-o), any extra Hispanic lisping is entirely up to you. Hand picked from the single vineyard at the Fishbone Farm in Wilyabrup, this wine has flavours of cherry fruit and tobacco. If you prefer to stick with the Margaret River script, their Black Label Cab Merlot picked up a cracking 97 points at the recent Halliday Cabernet Challenge.

Visit fishbonewines.com.au

STELLA BELLA TEMPRANILLO 2014

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Lovely nose that has a touch of caramel and toffee.

This offering is made in classical Spanish style showing assertive tannins characteristic of the varietal but balanced out with the fruit and acid for a very refreshing drink. I could have selected any wine from Stella Bella across this range which includes Cabernet, Sangiovese Cabernet, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. The quality/value proposition is excellent ($25-35). But I selected their Tempranillo as it isn’t always done well in Australia.

This is the real deal.

Visit stellabella.com.au

Read more from Fergal Gleeson at greatwineblog.com

CELLAR DOOR OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY 11AM TO 5PM 889 COMMONAGE ROAD YALLINGUP

PHONE 9756 6066 margaretriver.com | WINTER SHOP ONLINE2017 AT

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Nature & Environment

Down on the farm

WHAT COULD BE MORE DELIGHTFUL THAN WAKING UP TO THE SOUNDS OF THE FARMYARD IN THE HEART OF THE MARGARET RIVER REGION? LISA SHEARON REPORTS ON THE BEST PLACES TO ENJOY A FARMSTAY.

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MARGARET RIVER STONE COTTAGES are unique and private stone and timber cottages set amid 115 acres of jarrah forest. They boast woodfire heating, outdoor fire pits and rustic appeal, with all the self-contained comforts you’ve come to expect from quality accommodation. It really is the perfect country retreat, just 15 minutes south of the Margaret River township.

Nature is at your doorstep and the attractions of the region are a short drive away. “We are also pet friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the serenity by your side where they belong,” owners Stacey and Felix say.

Margaret River Stone Cottages 67 Rowcliffe Rd, Forest Grove 6286 08 9757 7523 Visit margaretriverstonecottages.com

MARGARET RIVER HIDEAWAY & FARMSTAY provides comfortable accommodation on a 23 hectare Land for Wildlife property, just 5km from Margaret River township.

“Our collection of farm animals include sheep, alpaca, cattle, emus and a variety of birds,

all of which range freely around the property,” owner Brian Spitteler says.

“Each Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, we offer animal feeding and children in particular are encouraged to participate.

“Guests are welcome to bring their wellbehaved dogs, which can be accommodated in fenced enclosures.”

Accommodation comprises 2x1 bedroom studios, 3x1 bedroom cottages and 3x2 bedroom cottages, catering to individuals and families of up

HOME FROM HOME The kids will love getting up early to feed the animals when you stay on a local farm.

to eight persons.

“Guests love to interact with the animals and to stroll around this expansive property, getting the feel of the Australian countryside.

They also enjoy the fact that we’re so convenient to Margaret River township and to the region’s best tourism attractions,” says Brian.

Margaret River Hideaway & Farmstay 225 Osmington Road, Bramley 6285 08 9758 8005 Visit margaretriverfarmstay.com Established in 1992, TAUNTON FARM HOLIDAY PARK provides an ideal base to explore and enjoy the Margaret River wine region.

Situated on a working beef and sheep farm, it boasts 18 fully self-contained farm-style cottages, large drive-through sites and bushy green camping area, all with views of the stunning surrounding scenery.

There is plenty of fun to be had for the whole family including daily animal feeding, kids’ playground, bouncing pillow and large margaretriver.com

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NATURE & ENVIRONMENT

Nature & Environment barn-style campers’ kitchen with log fire and free gas barbecues.

Located 20 minutes south of Busselton and 15 minutes north of Margaret River town, Taunton Farm is central to the Margaret River region. And with close proximity to some of the area’s best wineries and attractions, it’s not to be missed.

Taunton Farm Holiday Park 8113 Bussell Highway, Cowaramup 6284 08 9755 5334 Visit tauntonfarm.com.au

WYADUP BROOK COTTAGES is situated on a 250-acre farm close to Yallingup’s pristine coastline, providing a perfect base for family holidays, walking the Cape to Cape Track, or just chilling out. Accommodation options to suit singles, couples, families and groups are available in fully self-contained one, two or three-bedroom cottages nestled under native peppermint trees on the farm.

“There are always cheeky chickens to feed, and guests are welcome to collect eggs from September through to May,” owners Judy and

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Mark Fisher say.

“Contented cows roam the 250 acres with their calves. From February through to June we supplement feed hay, and guests can take part in this two to three times a week during these months.

“There are usually one or two calves to handfeed March through to October. They are bottle-fed twice a day and guests are welcome to assist with this.”

During the spring months, the farm becomes abundant with native birds and wonderful wildflowers, and a walk through the wildflower patch on the southern side of the property is well worth the effort.

Wyadup Brook Cottages 33 Wyadup Road, Yallingup 08 97552294 Visit wyadupbrook.com.au

Guests are in for a treat when they book a farmstay at BURNSIDE ORGANIC FARM. Ideally located between the town and the beach, Burnside adjoins national parkland.

Two luxurious spa bungalows make this the

perfect location for a romantic getaway, while the family bungalows have everything a family would need and are fully self-contained.

“Children love the, open natural spaces to play and explore,” host Lara McCall says.

She and her husband Jamie have spent 20 years creating an incredibly productive certified organic farm.

Each day, guests are welcome to join in on the morning farm walk, including animal feeding, and you can learn about how Jamie and Lara’s family became self-sufficient and be inspired to grow your own food. They'll also show you how to pick food from the garden, and whip up your own feast for dinner.

There’s so much to see on the farm, from avocado trees, caper bushes, beehives and the vineyard, to cows, pigs, geese and chickens.

Wine, honey, capers and breakfast baskets are also available when you stay at Burnside.

Burnside Organic Farm 287 Burnside Road, Margaret River, WA 08 9757 2139 Visit burnsideorganicfarm.com.au

COWARAMUP

TM

CANDY & FUDGE

GOURMET FOODS ANIMAL FARM Guests are able to handfeed calves until October at Wyadup Brook Cottages, while at Burnside Organic Farm, why not pick up a breakfast basket to take home?

WINE TASTING

BODY & BATH

GIFTS & GALLERY

SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF BOTTRILL STREET & margaretriver.com | WINTER 2017 61 BUSSELL HIGHWAY, COWARAMUP

Nature & Environment

A traveller’s ta i l It’s hard to leave our furry friends behind when we go on holiday - so why not bring them along? Tori Wilson reports.

PAWESOME ADVENTURES Packing your bags for a weekend away of wining and dining, surrounded by clear air and stunning natural landscapes sounds like an easy thing to do. However, we understand the dire struggle of leaving behind a vital family member - your beloved pooch.

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Paul and Geri from Grape Escape South West Tours feel that same pain when parting with their own French Bulldog and Great Dane.

As a food and wine-obsessed couple from Perth, they realised that the incompatibility of their two loves was a problem.

“We decided to offer Pawesome Private

BUNKER DOWN FOR

r e t n i W

NEW WINTER MENUS AND TRADING HOURS

Escape Tour lunches at top class awardwinning winery restaurants.”

From wineries and cafes, to breweries and beaches, Paul and Geri have located some of the South West’s best dog-friendly locations where canine-invested visitors can BYO their furry friend.

With just four seats available for this private charter tour, you can be sure that you and your pooch-pal will have their undivided attention for the best experience possible.

Pawesome Tour with Grape Escape South West Tours, Margaret River.Visit grapeescapewa.com.au for more info.

HAPPY HOUSE FOR HAPPY DOGS

DOG DAYS Book a stay at Happy Dogs, and bring your best (furry) friends with you on holiday.

Charters because as pet owners we believe that our furbabies, big or small, are part of the family too,” say Paul and Geri.

“We are also foodies, so we are doing things a little different to our competitors, we’re lifting the bar when it comes to dining options on all our tours with even our entry level Grape

The Margaret River region has so many wide open spaces.You'll discover forest trails and white, sandy beaches, perfect for you and your dog to explore together. It can, however, be hard to find the right accommodation to house your furry family member for the duration of your stay.

Happy Dogs is a quaint, self-contained cottage that is canine-friendly and more than happy to welcome your pup.

“We set up Happy Dogs in September 2014 because we felt there was a shortage of accommodation close to (Margaret River) town where people could bring their fury friends on holiday with them,” says Rachel, referring to herself and her husband Stuart who manage Happy Dogs.

“Happy Dogs has a private and secure backyard so people can explore the region while their pets are safe at the cottage,” says Rachel.

By no means is the quality of the BOOK NOW AT

BUNKERSBEACHOUSE.COM.AU 08 9756 8284

Nature & Environment TREAT YOUR PAL Choose Jarrah Grove Forest Retreat for a special escape with your pooch, and stay among the beautiful woodland.

accommodation comprised either. This spotless cottage has an inviting lounge that includes a large screen TV, DVD player and even a fireplace to keep you feeling nice and cosy over winter.

One queen-sized bed with fresh white linen is available for a comfortable stay.

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Happy Dogs is located in the heart of Margaret River, and there is no shortage of dog-friendly activities to hunt down. With many wineries and breweries now opening their doors to dogs, Rachel is happy to help with planning doggie day trips.

Disclosure: We have good news and we have not so good news. Rachel and Stuart are expecting a baby! For that reason Happy Dogs will be closed from June to mid-August.

Contact Rachel and Stuart directly via their Happy Dogs facebook page to secure a spot

between August and January - vacancies may be limited.

Happy Dogs, 23 Merchant Street, Margaret River.

A DOG’S LIFE It can be hard finding accommodation that welcomes your pet. It can be even harder if you’re looking for luxury. Jarrah Grove Forest Retreat can offer you both – the name even sounds lovely.

These newly refurbished, self-contained chalets are incredibly clean and contemporary.

Constructed with rammed earth, they nestle in beautifully among the jarrah, marri and karri tress that can be seen from the king-sized bedroom.

Outside, you and your pooch can enjoy the open air and listen for the native birds while relaxing on the secluded timber deck. It overlooks the surrounding trees and extravagant wildflowers. Or you can also take a dip into the hot tub while gazing at the glittering stars.

If you prefer to soak inside, there is a deluxe two-person bath tub with another astounding view of the native flora and fauna.

Jarrah Grove Forest Retreat is one of few places where you can escape to absolute luxury without the stress of leaving your dog behind.

Disclosure: Due to the region’s precious wildlife, guests are asked to keep dogs on a lead when being walked around the property.

Jarrah Grove Forest Retreat, 705 Davis Road, Rosa Glen, Margaret River.

DOGGIE DELUXE Like children, from time to time we need a break from our playful pups. Though, as they are

a part of the family they can’t just be sent off to any old place. This is where Margaret River Pet Retreat can help.

With only 10 suites available, this luxury accommodation for dogs offers specialised care like no other. Suites are cleaned twice daily and include piped music, non-skid flooring, a web camera, climate controlled air, home cooked meals and a patio area. So, essentially, this is a dog’s paradise, and a home from home.

It’s not just about pampering either. With 1,500 square metres of lawn to enjoy, your dog will have plenty of space to be active and get the playtime he or she needs.

“My vision is to provide a home-like facility designed solely for the comfort and enjoyment of your pet, a place where you can leave your dog knowing it will be happy, healthy and safe,”

says the owner, Julia Bennett.

The pet haven is situated in a premium location too. Nestled on a 100-acre property, it is surrounded by native forest and lush vineyards, with a clear blue stream nearby, that, if arranged, dogs are welcome to visit.

As a lifelong dog enthusiast, Julia is passionate about making sure each dog has all that they need.

“Margaret River Pet Retreat offers everything that I would wish for my own dogs,” says Julia.

If you’d like to be dog free for a day, Julie also offers deluxe Doggie Day Care.You best friend may never want to leave.

Margaret River Pet Retreat, 1123 Osmington Road, Margaret River.Visit margaretriverpetretreat. com

DUNSBOROUGH

Ramada Resort Dunsborough

Be moved by the west, leave the rest to us.

Toll Free: 1800 200 007 reservations@ramadadunsborough.com.au www.ramadadunsborough.com.au Non-Club apartments subject to availability

Nature & Environment

ROCK W

hen the editor of this magazine approached me asking for pictures of my favourite rocks in the region I thought it was a bit of a strange request.

Then I went through my photo archives and discovered I apparently like rocks a lot, because I have a LOT of photos of rocks.

It was almost impossible to narrow it down but a few locations did come up a lot more than others. So here are my faves:

(ABOVE) I’m a little bit reluctant to share this pic, because I put it on social media a while ago and it went nuts. I think the secret might be out though. It’s the Natural Spa at Wyadup. I’m not telling you how to get there. You’ll need to ask a local nicely when you get here. Be bloody careful and watch the ocean for a while before getting in. Water can explode through the gap on a big swell day.

(RIGHT) Indjidup rocks pools is always a favourite for the dramatic colour of granite and gneiss against the white beach sand and blue sea

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Sean Blocksidge of the Margaret River Discovery Co knows more than most where the region’s most photogenic ancient rocks are - these are some of his favourites.

I APPARENLTY LIKE ROCKS A LOT, BECAUSE I HAVE A LOT OF PHOTOS OF ROCKS

(CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) Wilyabrup Cliffs is a dramatic display of ancient rocks.

This is my friend Troy Bennell. I look at this picture and wonder how many thousands of generations of Aboriginal people have sat on those exact same rocks, connecting with Country and contemplating the influence of the surrounding ocean.

There is something special about finding your own private rock to stand and watch a famous West Coast Sunset.

Rock-hopping with my son is our favourite activity we can do together.  He learns the skills of balance and coordination while having an adventure with Dad. There are some great winter waterfalls flowing over granite rocks. The Quinninup falls are a bit of a trek but totally worth it.

I guess rocks have always been special to me. I had an extensive rock collection as a kid and I chose to go rock climbing when I popped the marriage question.

Nature & Environment

YOUNG AT HEART (opposite, right) Tori Freestone (holding the chook), Estella Melville and Lucy Teasdale with Ian Parmenter at Margaret River Primary School.

LOCAL HERO

L A N O I T NA SURE A E R T

Ian Parmenter is one of the Margaret River region’s most recognisable characters, and after a long career in the spotlight, this red beretwearing foodie is showing no signs of slowing down.

By CASSANDRA CHARLICK. Images by ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER.

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T

he red beret can be spotted a mile off, quickly followed by a wide grin and a warm welcome from one of the Margaret River region’s most recognisable residents.

Ian Parmenter is hard to miss about town. For one, he is an active member (and quite likely the instigator) of a number of different community initiatives and groups. Secondly, his curiosity is ever bubbling: “stirring” is what Ian in his own words is best at – whether at the stove top or in the local coffee shop with a table of locals for the next important community endeavour.

He’s a national treasure, quite literally, having

been awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 2011 for his services to the Australian food and tourism industries. Indeed you would be hard pressed to find anyone in WA throughout the 90s who didn’t at least catch a glimpse of his recognisable beret either on television, in a cookbook or via a newspaper or magazine column.

One of the first local celebrity chefs, with over 450 episodes of the ABCTV series Consuming Passions under his belt, Ian’s life took a very different direction after he discovered his paradise, Margaret River.

It was 1988 when Ian was producing the first broadcast of the Leeuwin Estate concert featuring Ray Charles and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra that he really discovered the region. Four years later, in 1992, the first year of Consuming Passions, he and his partner Ann purchased their own little piece of that paradise in Rosa Brook, a cottage on five hectares of land on the Margaret River.

“We needed an escape,” says Ian. “Filming in our house was taking its toll and we needed a refuge.”

Once the cottage had been tidied up, they were keen to get to know the neighbours and break through any preconceived ideas of ‘the celebrity chef ’. Invitations were sent out and, while there were few replies, “69 people turned

up with their dogs, their eskies, their chairs, their rugs and their you-name-it,” he says.

“One of the locals, a close neighbour, arrived with just a small brown paper parcel to put aside for us to enjoy later. He winked and said, “you’ll know what to do with this”. I turned to Ann and said, ‘I think our neighbour has just dropped off a bag of dope!’ We put it at the back of the fridge and when everyone had finally gone home, we had a look.

"It turned out to be his prized French beans, which he had just picked. What a welcome. And that was our introduction to the Rosa Brook community.”

It was while doing the property up that Ian and Ann discovered what incredibly beautiful soil they had. With John Durham - then chief winemaker at Cape Mentelle - living next door and under the advice from a number of local vintners they were finally persuaded to plant vines on their property.

“It wasn’t our immediate plan,” says Ian. “When continually asked ‘what grapes are you planting?’ Ann would reply ‘we aren’t. We are planting big trees for the future’.

“We finally agreed to plant a hectare of chardonnay after Phil Laffer, chief winemaker

director – and G’day USA, first in Los Angeles, and then in LA and New York.

“It was all hard work and mostly good fun but it took up so much of the year that sometimes Ann had to holiday on her own to places that she loved, but I would be travelling somewhere else. Then I would get back and she would already be looking at my itinerary and packing for the next trip. She’s got the patience of Job!” he laughs.

Ann still manages the whole property herself and their business affairs: “She took it all on board, she’s the one that runs the ship.”

Once established in the community, the ever curious and socialminded Ian was keen to put his skills to use where he thought his media background and event organising might be of benefit.

“The region had developed so much since the Leeuwin Concert days but there were things that could be introduced.

“First up, I got involved with local producers, helping to establish the Margaret River Producers’ Association. Having spent much time at farmers’ markets around the country, I thought it was time for one in Margaret River.”

From humble beginnings, the market has become a weekly drawcard, attracting locals

“I thought I could help set up a kitchen garden at the Margaret River Primary School.

Ten years ago I organised a meeting with then acting principal Geoff McLeod and some staff members.

"I said to them, ‘I have a cunning plan’, and so it was that the seeds were sewn and a modest garden was created largely thanks to the support of the local community. It was some time later that a kitchen was installed, the garden expanded, and the school became part of the Foundation.”

Ian and his close friend and one-time kitchen assistant, Anna Gare, are now WA ambassadors for the foundation.

Ian also has been involved in assisting with cultural endeavours such as Margaret River Region Open Studios, the Readers and Writers Festival, and, with redevelopment of the Cultural Precinct coming up, he is on the board of the newly established Heart of Margaret River Foundation.

Ian’s to-do list is indeed full of worthy areas that will benefit from his “stirring”.

Two areas which concern him are the way he sees tourism money being spent on foreign companies running WA events and poor communications in the region, like low internet speeds and poor mobile coverage hampering

of the Orlando Wyndham wine group, told us it would be criminal if we didn’t plant some grapes.”

They planted more than a thousand trees and shrubs and 1,700 chardonnay cuttings which, for seven years, went into their own award-winning Artamus label.

Now they no longer produce their own wine but supply grapes to Vasse Felix, where it usually goes into the winery’s top flight Heytesbury chardonnay.

Ian was still busy working away from home up to seven months of the year until 2012 with projects such as Tasting Australia in South Australia – of which he was founding festival

and visitors alike and was a finalist in last year’s ‘Delicious Produce Awards’.

Ian claims its success owes everything to the fact that that the Producers’ Association has been firm on only allowing food and beverages – and musicians." Definitely no craft or trinkets!”

Another of Ian’s interests over the years has been the successful establishment of kitchen gardens in the nation’s primary schools, a concept originating in Melbourne by Ian’s long-term friend Stephanie Alexander, who established the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation, federally funded by the then Labor Government.

people involved in agriculture, wine production, tourism and hospitality.

In fact, he says, all of us.

As someone who has spent more than a halfcentury involved with writing, including for national magazines and newspapers, as well as his memoir, Sheer Bottled Bliss, I ask him if he has any more books in the pipeline.

“I have been asked by publishers to write a book about my 50 years in media from London to WA, but in the evenings, as I quietly contemplate the universe and the wine in my glass, I look at the stars and think: No, I’m really enjoying life to the full as it is.” margaretriver.com

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Nature & Environment

Y

Traveller’s choice The Margaret River region was named in the top ten of best destinations in Australia - and it’s not hard to see why it’s such a popular choice for visitors.

By TORI WILSON. Images ELEMENTS MARGARET RIVER

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ou’ll know this already, but it’s worth saying again.

Margaret River is not only the name of a stunning region but also an active community town that has so much to offer both visitors and locals. The place is renowned as one of the most attractive areas to visit within Western Australia and this has now been officially recognised. Not just as one of the top places in Western Australia either, but Margaret River has been awarded the 2017 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award for the seventh top destination within the whole of Australia.

The TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice award winners are chosen by millions of travellers each year, so it is a testament to the fact that more and more people are falling in love with the destination. To be ranked among some of the most recognisable places in Australia such as Sydney, the Gold Coast and Noosa is something to be exceptionally proud of.

The team at the Margaret River Region Visitor Centres are overjoyed their home has been recognised for its worth. They’re experts on all things Margaret River region so know just how pleased their visitors have been in the past and all about what the town and region have to offer.

“Margaret River was chosen for the award because it surpasses visitor expectations,” says Lisa Morton, a visitor consultant for the region.

“You can tailor your visit here to suit your own style. Our accommodation is diverse and the activities varied so this enables each individual to take away the holiday of a lifetime.”

Lisa described Margaret River as both a place for sports of all persuasions and as a location to relax and absorb the calming effect of the natural landscape.

“You can mountain bike, surf, walk, canoe or take to the skies while your friends can enjoy the scenery with book in hand on some of the most pristine white sands of the world.”

With long stretches of clear blue coastline and fine white sand, incredible ancient caves and magnificent karri forests, the Margaret River region truly does boast one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Australia.

The climate of the region also make for some of the finest wines and the tastiest produce; something the region is renowned for.There are foodie events to attend and premium wine tastings to be had here at any time of the year.

It’s not just the picturesque natural scenery, the range of available activities or the delicious food and wine that makes the Margaret River region one of the top destinations either. The region has also been recognised for its quality accommodation.

Baudins of Busselton, a B&B run by locals Greg and Linda Leuzzi, has been awarded the 2017 Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice award as one of the world’s best B&Bs. “The award was a huge surprise to us, however, we are terribly grateful for the recognition,” says Linda and Greg who bought Baudins five years ago for a lifestyle change and a life by the sea.

The couple love the flexible lifestyle of

TOP SPOT Venues like The White Elephant Café, right, are helping make the region a visitors' favourite.

running a B&B and the opportunity to meet and greet people from all around the world.

“We love making our guests happy and providing a great overall experience,” says Linda .

Along with Baudins of Busselton; Amalfi Resort, Aqua Resort, Basildene Manor, and Lantern’s Retreat were also recognised as some of Australia’s best places to stay. A testament to the breadth of quality accommodation within

the region.

With all that the region has to give: it’s natural beauty, adventure, relaxation, premium produce and superb accommodation, it’s a location that people can fall in love with for a lifetime and return to again and again.

“Just make sure you go at an easy pace so you have the chance to take it all in,” says Lisa. “And remember a week is never long enough!”

Whale Watching

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Active & adventure

WONDERS of the

DEEP

For many visitors, catching a glimpse of migrating whales is a highlight of any trip to the Margaret River region. Cassandra Charlick agrees.

O

ne of the most memorable occurrences to witness on a trip down south in the winter is the annual whale migration.

Along the coastline from Augusta through to Geographe Bay, it pays to heed tips from the professionals to ensure you are at the right place at the right time to witness these majestic creatures from the ocean's depths when they surface.

A far cry from the current respectful relationship between these giants of the sea and humankind, Western Australian waters were until recently home to one of the country’s most lucrative whale hunting sites.

One of the first industries in WA, it was only in 1978 that the mass killing of these huge creatures was ended and the preservation of whales began to take place. There are now numerous research programs operating to ensure that these awe-inspiring creatures are protected.

The south west coast is a hot spot for sea life and the variety of whales that call these waters home includes orcas, humpbacks, southern

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right whales, blue whales, pygmy whales and dolphins, in the waters from Augusta through to Geographe later in the season.

Whale watching is an important component in the research and preservation of these animals, as the more educated the public and scientists are about their habits, breeding patterns and living conditions, the easier it is to help protect and preserve them for future generations.

Recovery of their population is possible, even though threats such as pollution, disease and climate change continue to be challenges they face.

The start of the season begins further along the coast in Bremer Bay until about April each year. Paul from Naturaliste Charters says the relatively recent discovery of the incredible Bremer Canyon is one of the most exciting trips to take for killer whale sightings – it could quite possibly be the largest community of orcas in the Southern Hemisphere.

Alongside orcas, sperm whales, giant squid, whaler sharks and sea birds call this remote

Local knowledge

For those that prefer to keep their feet dry, these on-shore spots are touted as good bets to catch the ocean giants from land: WINTER LOOK OUTS Cape Leeuwin & Flinders Bay, Augusta. Numerous vantage points are along Leeuwin Road and enjoy fantastic views from the top of the lighthouse.

Hamelin Bay 18km north of Augusta, south of the boat ramp, follow the boardwalk up to the limestone headland.

Numerous sightings were seen at Gnarabup last year. If you are lucky see them leaping whilst sipping a coffee at White Elephant or venture up the dunes behind Grunters for a higher viewpoint.

SPRING TIME CHECK POINTS Cape Naturaliste Lookout Platform and Lighthouse 13km from Dunsborough take the 1.3km returnwalk from the lighthouse car park.

Shelley Cove, part of Bunker Bay 13km from Dunsborough walk from the car park to the viewing platform above the limestone cliffs.

Canal Rocks Rotary Lookout 4km south of Yallingup take the 400m walk from the car park.

habitat home. Taking part in a tour in this expedition is actively contributing to the Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Research Project, dedicated to preserving and understanding the mystery behind migration.

Moving along to Augusta, the prime season to catch humpback, minke, southern right and rare blue whales is from May through until August, says Dean Jensen from Legend Charters. The winter months are the perfect time to plan a trip down to the southern end of the region to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat.

Keeping group numbers small, Dean ensures a personalised service, making sure everyone gets a good view and minimal impact occurs towards the wildlife on their two to three-hour daily cruises. Family-friendly, kids are even offered the chance to catch the seafaring bug and try their hand behind the wheel of the vessel on the way back to harbour.

Most tour operators in the region have a 99% guarantee of viewing whales with a complimentary trip out for a second time to view these beautiful creatures if they don’t show up.

One of the newer operators in the region, Whale Watch Western Australia, are no exception and each trip is accompanied by marine professionals who enthusiastically help guests learn more about these curious animals.

The whales very often venture up to see what strange species are looking down at them from above the waves – they are just as curious about us as we are of them.

Bear in mind that especially during winter months while on board in the Flinders Bay vicinity, thinking about prepping with sea sickness medication before joining a voyage is important, as rough seas are common.

There are a number of reputable and wellrespected tour operators who are passionate about engaging with researchers as well as providing the public a chance to see these creatures for themselves up close and personal.

While winter is the ideal time to see them in the southern end of the cape, whales venture further up the coast from August onwards where you will be better off catching the growing pods with their babies in the safe and warmer waters of the Geographe Bay region.

Whether you choose to venture out to sea this winter with Legend Charters, Naturaliste Charters, All Sea Charters or Whale Watch Western Australia, it’ll be un unforgettable opportunity to see these incredible creatures in their natural environment, and you will be ensuring that these animals are protected through research and funding for future generations.

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10/05/2016

Active & adventure

The

EVER WANTED TO ZOOM AROUND ON THE OCEAN BETWEEN CANAL AND SUGARLOAF ROCKS? WELL, NOW’S YOUR CHANCE TO DO JUST THAT WITH JET ADVENTURES. BY LISA SHEARON.

A

love of the Indian Ocean saw Peter Kalbfell create a purpose-built jet boat in order to share unique, exhilarating tours along the exquisite south-west coast.

“I started Jet Adventures to offer tourists a great opportunity to not only experience a thrilling high-speed jet-boat ride in the calm waters of Geographe Bay, but also to showcase our amazing coastline up close from the safety of a custom-built vessel,” Peter says.

“We also offer people the opportunity to see the marine life such as whales, dolphins, seals and sealions up close and personal in a small, intimate setting.”

Being jet-propelled and flat-bottomed,

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Jet Adventures’ vessel needs very little water to operate in, and doesn’t harm any marine creatures that may choose to swim underneath.

“People are loving these adventures because we can get into areas no other vessel has been able to go,” Peter explains. “We also have many close encounters with whales, dolphins and seals, which often swim right up to the boat, as they may be intrigued by the bubbles the jet units create.

“Having a maximum of just 12 passengers also means that people are in a small, intimate environment and can book the boat for a private charter with just family and friends at a very affordable price if they choose.”

A keen fisherman, Peter has always had a passion

for watching and learning about different marine creatures such as whales.Through the tours, he has the chance to share the knowledge he's gained and experiences he’s had over his time on the ocean.

Jet Adventures offers four different tours, including Whale Watching, Sea Safaris, Canal Rocks Indian Ocean Adventure, and Thrill Rides.

“Whale Watching is a two-hour tour departing from the beautiful Old Dunsborough Boat Ramp,” Peter says. “Having a high-speed vessel we often travel out to the Cape Naturaliste where the whales are in abundance.

“It is an amazing sight to see such huge creatures from a small vessel.”

Sea Safaris is a two-hour tour up to Cape Naturaliste stopping at many historical places along the way, such as the Castle Bay whaling station, Eagle Bay, the Europeans’ first landing sight, the seal colony, and the amazing limestone caves up underneath the lighthouse, an area inaccessible by land.

“We always see over 100 seals and sealions,

DRIVING THROUGH THE CANALS WOULD RATE ALONGSIDE GOING THROUGH HORIZONTAL FALLS

EXCITEMENT MACHINE All aboard the Jet Adventures vessel to enjoy an adrenaline-fuelled experience at sea.

generally see dolphins in Bunker Bay, and often come across large schools of fish.”

Canal Rocks Indian Ocean Adventure is a three-hour trip out around Cape Naturaliste, stopping at many historical sights and the seal colony along the way.

“From there we venture out around the

Cape and showcase the great surf breaks on the western side. The highlights of this premium tour are driving inside the magnificent rock formations of Sugarloaf Rock and Canal Rocks, which are particularly exciting because we can drive through the narrow canals. Customers are then returned via tour bus back to their starting point at Old Dunsborough.

“This is our premium tour and is amazing from start to finish,” Peter says. “The trip is highlighted at the end by driving through the narrow open ocean canals. Driving through the canals would rate alongside going through the Horizontal Falls as one of Western Australia’s most exciting tours.

“This is something that has never been done before and we have gained special permission from Department of Parks and Wildlife to traverse through the canals.”

Finally, Thrill Rides is perfect for the adrenalin junkies: 30 minutes of high-speed action including 270-degree spins, power stops, power slides and more.

According to Peter, the feedback from customers has been excellent, with many international guests who have travelled the country saying this was the highlight of their holiday.

Visit jetadventures.com.au or call 1300 325 115 for more information. margaretriver.com

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Active & adventure

Shore

thing

It’s been the heart of the town for over 150 years, so what’s in store for Busselton Foreshore? Lisa Shearon finds out more.

W

ith work on Jetty Precinct about to begin, Busselton’s Foreshore redevelopment is nearing its innovative climax. Developed in consultation with the local community, the upgraded foreshore celebrates Busselton’s proud past, present and future.

“Busselton Foreshore has been at the heart of our town’s social, economic and recreational activity for over 150 years,” Mayor Grant Henley says.

“We wanted to ensure we retained that strong link to the past and each stage of the development has been undertaken with respect for community sentiment, the environment and our history.”

The iconic Busselton Jetty is the centrepoint for the redevelopment, with many of the old timbers being utilised in projects across the foreshore. Railway House, a new building on the foreshore, incorporates the original Busselton Railway Station in its build, as well as the new Busselton Visitor Centre, and provides an authentic link to the past.

A key feature of Railway House is the inclusion of an interpretive centre, which showcases the region’s rich timber heritage, and is home to the historic Ballarat Engine. Railway House also marks the northern end of the Wadandi Track, which follows the old rail line

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that once connected Flinders Bay in Augusta to Geographe Bay in Busselton.

“While we’ve undertaken the Busselton Foreshore redevelopment to ensure the region’s future, we’ve also taken every opportunity to

COMMUNITY HUB The new Jetty Precinct will provide a great place for the whole family to enjoy, whether they are locals or visitors.

include historical references and use existing materials that provide a genuine link to the past,” the mayor says.

Located between the Goose and Equinox restaurants, Jetty Precinct is set to be a vibrant hub connecting Busselton’s beachfront, the CBD, and the new cultural precinct, as well as the youth activity and Barnard Park sporting precinct.

“It'll provide a central hub for visitors and locals to enjoy," says Grant.

“Our goal is to create a family-focused area for formal and informal gatherings along with public facilities, play areas and some commercial offerings that will enhance the foreshore experience.”

Designed with the community in mind, Jetty Precinct will be landscaped to complement the already-completed sections of the foreshore. It will feature a central piazza, a stage for community events, and a large grassy amphitheatre. A nautical-themed, adventure-

style playground is also planned, along with new picnic and barbecue facilities. The area will be dominated by green space, providing a central location for community events and gatherings.

“Every stage of the foreshore redevelopment has been exciting,” the Mayor says. “While this central core area is a distinct precinct, the truly exciting aspect is seeing how it will complement other sections of the foreshore already upgraded, and provide a natural and welcoming link between the CBD, the beach and the youth precinct.”

As with the foreshore redevelopment as a whole, Jetty Precinct is being created with community input.

“The entire redevelopment has been undertaken in accordance with the Busselton Foreshore Masterplan, which was developed by a community working group in 2010/11,” the mayor explains.

“Many of the ideas developed during community consultations have been realised in the redevelopment, including development of a skatepark, an emphasis on public open space and foot travel, preserving a possum corridor for wildlife, and creating a vibrant central hub.

“In fact, the whole look and feel of the Busselton Foreshore has been very much directed by the community, and we’ve received a great deal of positive feedback.

“We’ve stayed very true to the community’s aspirations for this central core area and it’s a pleasure to be delivering this stage. I think people are going to be very happy with what’s ultimately created.”

Restaurant | Jetty Bar | Functions Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Located at Busselton’s main foreshore overlooking the historic Busselton Jetty, The Equinox is a top tier Busselton Restaurant who pride themselves on providing good quality food, with great service in a relaxed atmosphere. Soak up the magnificent views overlooking the tranquil waters of Geographe Bay and the historic Busselton Jetty.

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www.theequinox.com.au

Going

Active & adventure

underground Discover the Margaret River region’s magical underground world. By JANINE PITTAWAY. Images ELEMENTS OF MARGARET RIVER.

N

gilgi Cave is a fantasy fiction writer’s dream location. In its depths, my imagination was overwhelmed with ice kingdoms, flowing robes, sparkling jewels, deep-sea creatures and secret hideaways.

Located on Caves Road between Dunsborough and Yallingup, Ngilgi is the northernmost of the popular caves inspiring the picturesque road’s name.

Ngilgi Cave is rich in history. Like its structure, it has layers of stories to reveal. From its creation a million years ago to the Indigenous legend of the spirit Ngilgi, and its discovery by local farmer Edward Dawson in 1899, which led to it opening as one of the region’s first tourism attractions, you can’t help but think it still has more to unveil.

The local Wardandi people gave the cave its name, deriving from a battle between a good spirit of the ocean (Ngilgi) who summoned the spirits of storms, thunder, lightening, wind and rain to create a storm to fight to an evil spirit who once lived in the cave (Wolgoine).

Seeing the evidence of enormous rockfalls thousands of years ago, you can only imagine the tremendous noise and reverberation it created above ground, bringing to mind the dreamtime battle story that saw Ngilgi eventually win and drive Wolgoine from the cave forever.

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I had previously visited Ngilgi Cave on a selfguided tour, giving me just a taste of what it offers.

This time around I had a guide – passionate cave-mother Dominique – who has revealed Ngilgi’s mysteries to visitors for almost 10 years and shows no signs of stopping.

Throughout our three-hour Crystal Crawl Adventure Tour, her love and responsibility for the cave was apparent. While our energy levels were waning towards the end of the tour hers were only just firing up.

The Crystal Crawl Adventure tour ($110), along with the two-hour Ancient Riverbed Adventure Tour ($60), 2.5-hour Explorer Adventure Tour ($88), and the four-hour Ultimate Ngilgi Adventure Tour are the best ways to really do Ngilgi justice.

As well as the expected Stalactites and Stalagmites, of which there’s plenty of stunning examples, Ngilgi reveals a feast of formations, or speleothems, from sparkling crystals to hollow glass-like straws, shawls of varying sizes and shades, lava-like flowstone, and pillars and columns of creamy coloured, sparkling calcite crystal, made from limestone and rainwater. The only scientifically dated formation in the cave has been estimated at an astonishing 386,000 years old.

The tour commenced with a lesson on helmets, lights and gloves and how to negotiate the trickier parts of the cave before passing into the unassuming cave entry, down a number of stairs and into the beautifully lit public crystalencased chamber and amphitheatre where Dame Nelly Melba once performed.

As we ventured further into the Cave and away from all natural light, the walkways used for self-guided and semi-guided tours eventually disappeared and it was time to test out our training.

We were now 40 metres underground where the air was more dense and headlamps a necessity.

Dominique led us towards an extremely narrow gap in the limestone where we were to carefully edge our way through. She expertly showed us where to position our hands and feet to negotiate our way through the ‘pinchgut’.

After some stretching, pirouetting, ducking and crawling we reached a magical cavern where stalagmites were actually being formed in real time. The slow drips from above were the only sound in the peaceful quiet of the cave.

As part of the tour, the group spends several minutes sitting in silence then letting eyes and imagination wander in the darkness. It’s a perfect place to meditate with no distractions, complete darkness and silence.

This part of Ngilgi is so worth the effort.

Actually, the effort to reach this part of the cave is the adventure of the tour and is as much fun as actually taking in the magical caverns, making you feel like a true spelunker. Three hours passed by before we knew it.

You can only imagine what an adventure this must have been for visitors in the 1900s negotiating the cave whilst wearing petticoats, impractical frocks, suits, heeled shoes and while carrying lit candles.

Despite hosting more than a century of visitors, Ngilgi holds up extremely well and the Adventure Tours allow you to enjoy some unspoilt beauty. It really is quite breathtaking in parts, where a 360-degree view sees you surrounded by what feels like an underground ice palace.

There are often special events in Ngilgi Cave and many ways to enjoy its mysteries.

For instance Noah Shilkin created some swell jazz sounds as part of the 2016 Jazz by the Bay festival, and with tour guides Koomal Dreaming you can learn the ancient Dreamtime stories told to the sounds of the Didgeridoo using the amazing acoustics of the cave.

Ngilgi is one of more than 150 known caves beneath the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, and one of four with self-guided and guided tours run by Your Margaret River Region. It’s open every day except Christmas Day from 9am to 5pm.Visit margaretriverattractions.com for details. margaretriver.com

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Active & adventure

MY DOWN SOUTH

FAMILY TIMES Rayne and her three children love nothing more than heading down south for a chance to hang out together..

getaway

Fashion, lifestyle and motherhood blogger and mother of three Rayne Embley shares her favourite places to hang out down south and of course they’re family-friendly.

T

here’s an instant peaceful relaxation that takes over the moment I turn my engine on knowing that in just three short hours I will be out of the city and in our great south west. Is it the lure of world-class wine, the incredible wineries and their expansive grounds, the pristine beaches or perhaps just that familiar crackling sound of sitting by a fire in winter that I

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love so much? I’ll never be able to quite put my finger on it, but what I do know is that I am so blessed to live such a short drive to serenity.

From as far back as I can remember ‘down south’ was it. It was the holidays, the birthdays and the camping. It was high school leavers and quick little getaways with girlfriends. And now for me it’s more weddings, food festivals and my very

own sacred memory-building family holidays.

Safe to say that over many years of adventure in the south west not only have I grown to appreciate different aspects of what is on offer but the place itself has changed immensely.The caravan park we stayed at every new year's for 10 years running is now a group of town houses. The bakeries have been overtaken by beautiful raw food cafes and sensational coffee but, best of all, the revamp of the South West Highway has cut a good 20 to 30 minutes off of the drive making it more accessible and easier to saying ‘yes’ to a quick weekend getaway. With the many fabulous shops that have opened in recent times housing many a popular label, if you’re a shopper, they have you covered too.

Here are some of my favourite things to do

FAMILY FRIENDLY Rayne Embley (left) loves nothing more than escaping her busy city-based life and spending time down south with her three young children. Above, Olio Bello's beautiful groves are set to be the location of a new glamping site, while Colonial Brewing Co. is a great spot to enjoy a brew and a feed.

while adventuring in our great south west.

We love to have a meal at Vasse Felix. It’s an iconic estate in Margaret River and you just have to get there to have a look at the pristinely managed grounds.The food and wine is delightful.

Swings and Roundabouts is one of my favourite places to go with the kids. It’s surrounded by gorgeous bushland and a vineyard view with an extensive grassed area and activities. Fantastic for the kids and the wood-fired pizza and incredible.

Amelia Park would have to be one of my favourite cellar doors. It’s brand new and the interiors alone are worth a visit.The gold hardware in the bathrooms is to die for! You walk through a room of wine barrels to get to their cellar door which looks out over their spectacular grounds.

OPEN EVERYDAY FOR EVERYONE 11am - 5pm ph:08 97553554 | WINTER 2017 81

eaglebaybrewing.com.au margaretriver.com

Active & adventure

Olio Bello is another of my favourites little spots.

They offer fantastic tastings of local ingredients grown on their property.You can keep it casual with a takeaway picnic or sit and have a yummy café style meal. There is a grassed area for the kids and they have just introduced glamping options on their site. I can’t wait to try it!

The Margaret River Bakery has the best ‘down south’ feel I know. Their breakfast is delicious and they do the best banana smoothies in town.

If you’re after something a little bit different Fishbones Wines has a great Japanese restaurant in Margaret River.They offer takeaway which is perfect for when you just want to stay home and veg.

Yallingup Maze is one of those wonderful places which has nearly everything you could possibly want in a family friendly destination. There are activities for kids of all ages from the maze to bouncy castles as well as great indoor activities for through the winter. There’s a puzzle café and best of all . . . you can have a wine.

The Wonky Windmill Farm and Eco Park is a little animal farm where the kids can meet and feed the many animals. They do the most fabulous scones with jam and cream so make sure you don’t leave without trying one.

Breweries such as Colonial Brewing Company and Cheeky Monkey Brewery all have great playgrounds for the kids. Having a beer while the kids smash around on a playground, that’s a win win in my book.

Margaret River is world-renowned for its incredible beaches and world class waves and although this may eventually be our jam, right now it’s more about the little waves, if any, and what we can do with them. Finding secret hideaway beaches down south doesn’t sound too hard but unless you know where you’re going you could end up driving around for hours looking for the perfect slice of paradise for you and your family.

Point Picquet is one of my favourite beaches.

Its stunning turquoise water lends itself to swimming and snorkelling and the usually calm waters are great for paddle boarding.

Injidup Natural Spa is home to a beautiful rockpool. Through the cracks of the rocks the surf comes up and blasts through creating the most beautiful spa like experience.

Contos Beach is another of the region’s most stunning beaches, so stunning in fact that this was the setting for our beach photos on our wedding day.

When it comes to accommodation, for me nothing beats a nice big house by the beach. I have a large family and more often than not a few extra visitors will inevitably grace us with their presence. Dunsborough is a great option for this. If you get the right spot you can walk to the beach and walk to the cafés in town.

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IMAGE CRIB CREATIVE

THE PRIVATE CAVE UNDER THE HOUSE SCREAMS ‘HOST A PARTY’ TO ME! As much as I love heading out to all the amazing places the south west has to offer there’s something very alluring about having the option to ditch the car and have all you need within walking distance.

Wavehouse Retreat is a picturesque house high up on a cliff looking out over the famous surf at Injidup beach. The private cave under the house screams ‘host a party’ to me!

If you are looking to ‘treat yo’self ’ then Incognito Escape is the place for you. This stunning property boasts 180-degree ocean views of Gracetown, private en-suite baths, a designer

chef kitchen and a Jucuzzi room. This exclusive, luxurious stay lends itself to staying in blissful isolation of the world while still being a short distance to the wineries and activities that our incredible south west has to offer.

As many of you would know, the introduction of kids’ weekend sport has put a little dampener on the spontaneous family getaway, not to mention juggling my own hosting commitments on several TV shows. What I am blessed to have done is through my blog and social media, I have built a business that most of the time can go with myself and the kids anywhere.

Down South, we miss you but it wont be for long. With the Margaret River region boasting home to over 60 of the best Australian wineries, we wont be away for long. Bring on those school holidays! I’m due for a stunning Brooklyn Valley Cabernet Merlot by the fire.

TIME TO REFRESH Rayne and her children (left and below) are right at home on the Margaret River region's beaches.

Bottom, Contos beach is a favourite location to hang out.

Italy Uncovered Carlo and Sioban from Wildwood Valley invite you to join them for a magical week in Tuscany.

Experience sensational food, delicious wine and authentic Italian hospitality.

 “It was like being on holiday with loved family members. Thoroughly recommended.”

BLOG - rayneembley.com.au IG - @rayneembley FC - therayneembley

 “Professional, talented and down-to-earth people”

Sioban trained as a chef under Neil Perry and offers summer cooking schools in Yallingup. Carlo is proud to be Italian and together they would love to share Tuscany’s hidden gems with you.

T: 08 9755 2120 www.madabouttuscany.com.au www.wildwoodvalley.com.au

Active & adventure

fun

RAINY DAY

Don't let rain stop play - here are some ideas for fun and games when the clouds are stormy.

SWEET TOOTH Kids can be known for having a sweet tooth and while we understand you can’t always let them indulge (in case you disappoint the dentist), if there’s ever a time to make the exception and allow for a treat, Candy Cow in Cowaramup is the place to do it.

Every treat in Candy Cow delights the senses – the vibrant colours, mouth-watering aromas and the delectable sweetness. Choose from the incredible range of old fashioned sweets, their famous fudge and nougat, decedent chocolates and crunchy, golden honeycomb, all lovingly crafted in store.

Free demonstrations of how to create their treats are given every Wednesday to Sunday at 11am. Follow that with a tasting of Candy

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Cow’s specialties: the gourmet fudge, nougat and honeycomb for an entertaining (and delicious) day away from the rain. Visit candycow.com.au

NATURAL BEAUTY If you’d like to get back to nature but the weather isn’t on your side, head underground.

The Margaret River region is as spectacular below ground as it is out in the open air. There are over 150 ancient and incredible limestone caves hidden beneath the surface of Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge, with many open to explore.

These million-year-old caves were once an ancient sand dune about 90km long and 3km wide, stretching from Dunsborough to Augusta.

As rain fell, it was cemented into limestone and became home to the vast number of caves

present today.

Now, decorated with delicate crystal formations, each is a natural wonderland to behold.

As they are all beautiful, choosing which cave to explore first can be a challenge. Marvel at the reflections on Lave Cave’s glimmering lake, easily explore the realms of Mammoth Cave at your own pace, or be mesmerised by the vast nature of Jewel Cave’s enormous chambers.

To navigate these labyrinths, you can opt for tours ranging from ‘at your own pace’ self-guided tours, to ‘off piste’ hard hat tours, to boldly adventurous ‘abseil in’ expeditions.

Visit margaretriverattractions.com for more details about cave opening hours.

ME TIME Rainy days are the perfect excuse to stay indoors and relax without feeling guilty. Make the most of your me time and indulge at BodyBliss Margaret River, where they offer an extensive

and curl up with a blanket, cup of tea and a good book while feeling completely at ease.

Visit bodyblissmargaretriver.com.au

CLEAN BREAK If it’s pouring outdoors, head to Vasse Virgin’s gorgeous soap factory, nestled between rolling hills of bushland and vineyard and make your own lip balm, perfume or EVO. Immerse yourself in the ultimate olive oil experience as you enter a sensory wonderland. Witness the talented team produce all-natural products on site and be enveloped by the natural aromas of organic ingredients, pure essential oils and plant extracts. Join in a DIY experience like no other in the Vasse Virgin classroom. Pick from: Lip Balm Workshop 45 minutes duration $70 p/person In this quick and easy session, see how easy it is to craft natural luscious lip balms using organic, locally sourced ingredients.

Natural Perfumery Workshop Up to three hours duration $120 p/person Learn the basics to the ancient art of perfumery and choose from a wide variety of pure essential oils to create your very own personalised fragrances.

RESTORED - REVIVED - INSPIRED

WINTER MUSCLE MELT 60mins | $155* Hot Stone Massage Vie Reviver Facial Vitaminic Skin Booster

ME TIME The Margaret River region has plenty of places where you get to indulge yourself, body and soul.

an instant in skin boost that smoothes fine lines

Call 08 9756 9160 or visit pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au *Valid until 31 August 2017, subject to availability.

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range of massage and wellness therapies.

At BodyBliss Margaret River there are four uniquely inspired massage rooms that all emanate an ambience of their own. Choose from the Moroccan Room, the Azure Room, the Zen Room and the Tribal Goddess Room. From there, one of BodyBliss’s well-trained and fully qualified masseuses will help you to de-stress completely and elevate the state of both your body and mind.

Head home or back to your accommodation

EVOO 101 Master Class 30 minutes duration $50 p/person Be schooled by an internationally-qualified olive oil sommelier as you taste a selection of local and international olive oils to discover unique flavour characteristics, learn to detect faults, and how to pick the best oil for cooking, garnishing or flavouring.

Ts and Cs apply - visit vassevirgin.com.au/ collections/classes-workshops for more info. margaretriver.com

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Active Art & wellbeing & adventure

love � A place

of

Find yourself and make time for some nurturing at Premalaya, Margaret River region’s newest wellness retreat. By TOM DE SOUZA.

W

hen Hayley and Scott Lane bought their Yallingup bush block four years ago, there was nothing but a shack and a rat-infested shed.

Since then, the Lane family have invested their hearts and souls into transformed the property into a unique community hub, and the Premalaya Wellness Retreat has just opened to the public.

The idea for Premalaya – which means place of love in Hindi – first came to Hayley around 15 years ago when she began her journey as a yoga teacher and Ayurveda medicine healer.

“I always had this vision of creating a community hub where people of all kinds can gather and enjoy themselves,” she says.

“On a deeper, spiritual level, it’s a place where people can come and heal and remember who they are. My priority is to create a community.”

Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine, and seeks to treat and integrate body,

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mind and spirit by using a comprehensive holistic approach emphasising diet, exercise, meditation, breathing and physical therapy.

While guests of the eight self-contained chalets can reap the benefits of the in-house wellness program without leaving the comfort of their room, Premalaya isn’t exclusively for the spiritually minded.

“It’s not a prerequisite to come and stay here that you have to be spiritual,” Hayley says.

“Even if it’s just coming and sitting on the deck and opening up a nice bottle of wine and going, ‘oh my god I didn’t realise how stressed I was’, it’s all about peeling back all the layers.”

“You can come and go, ‘I’m going to completely transform my life’ and go on this spiritual quest and become a yoga teacher, or just come and realise you need to chill out. It’s about balance on all levels.”

While Hayley’s passions lie in women’s health,

Scott is also a keen fisherman and surfer, and he hopes to address men’s health by sharing his intimate local knowledge and utilising the region’s abundance of natural resources.

While the principles of Ayurveda treat specific individual health, Hayley and Scott also hope to provide a place where community wellbeing prospers, and people can combine their passions to create a unique space.

“It’s what we’re missing in the South West, we’re missing a hub, a community, a place where people can come and you don’t have to feel you need to spend lots of money, you can just come and hang out if you’re feeling a bit stressed,” Hayley says.

“I don’t want to employ people and be the boss, I want this to be a sacred place that you can come and bring your passions into, and offer it to the community and the international field.”

With many people traditionally migrating to

warmer climates over the winter months, Hayley and Scott hope to open up an affordable option for everyone, not too far from home.

“We really want to open up the winter to everyone,” Hayley says.

“People just seem to run and go to Bali, but we really want to embrace winter here and make it special and really utilise the beautiful region that we live in.”

Visit premalaya.com.au

HEARTS AND MINDS Premalaya - which means place of love in Hindi offers guests the chance to refresh and recharge.

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Art & wellbeing

CHILL OUT

MAKE THE MOST OF THE WINTER MONTHS AND BOOK A REJUVENATING TREATMENT OR TWO WHILE YOU’RE ON HOLIDAY. BY CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

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inter is a special time down in the Margaret River region. While the crowds flock to the beaches on sunshine-filled summer days, there is a wealth of treasures to be discovered during the cooler months. Along with red wine, cosy fireplaces and hearty meals it’s also the perfect time to spoil yourself with a spa treatment to keep the winter chills at bay. Why not take the time to try something a bit different this trip?

FLOATING EUPHORIA It might sound rather odd at first – floating for an hour in a darkened room in a pod of warm salted water - but odd can be great, so embrace it and try something new with a visit to Floating Euphoria in Gnarabup. It was one of the most surprisingly relaxing experiences I’ve had in a long time. A wellness centre with a difference, alongside the iconic float tank highly skilled therapists also offer reiki, Ayurvedic treatments and massage. For the full experience, I opted for the most popular package, a 60-minute float followed by an incredibly rejuvenating massage using a combination of Swedish and Hawaiian long, flowing strokes to ease out tightly wound muscles. Founded by Simon Tien, it was during his training as a paramedic that he first became acquainted with the benefits of floatation technology. Providing not only a physical release for sore muscles, the experience is as much about the mental benefits as anything else. From

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pro surfers through to wine makers, the pods have been winning praise left, right and centre.

The pods are filled with Epsom salts which when once you’re fully emerged give a real sense of weightlessness - just be sure not to get any water in your eyes as the salt levels are a bit more than a dunk at the nearby beach. After the initial 15 minutes drifting off to relaxing music, total sensory deprivation ensues without sound, light or gravity to distract from the peace of the floating experience. While it may take a little practice to settle into the float, once my brain

stopped ticking over, it was incredibly relaxing and I spent a fair amount of the time with a total sense of effortless relaxation. Research has shown regular floating can allow people to reach brainwave states that are normally only achieved by people who have practiced meditation for many years - I’d definitely recommend trying a float tank or two to experience it for yourself.

It’s truly one of those sensations that words aren’t able to capture and every person has a unique experience with an altered state of consciousness.

Visit floatingeuphoria.com.au

SEAHAVEN EXPERIENCE AT EMPIRE SPA RETREAT For the ultimate tranquillity treat, head to Empire Spa retreat for their newest addition to the menu. Set among rolling hills and lush bushland, it’s impossible not to feel your troubles drift away from the moment you set foot inside the ever-so stylish spa house. Winter is the perfect time to try out the new luxury treatment at Empire, the Seahaven Experience. At this time of year with fireplaces, electric heaters and cold mornings, it’s only a matter of time before dehydrated skin starts crying out for some love. Seahaven is a new locally-produced organic sea-scrub filled with all sorts of goodies to leave your biggest organ - your skin - glowing. Inspired by ocean seaweed exfoliating rituals, the scrub is packed full of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and more. Made just down the road in Margaret River, unique local ingredients include sea kelp, Australian sandalwood and sea salt. After a blissful scrub at the expert hands of one of Empire’s spa therapists it’s onto the steam room for half an hour of sweating it out and rehydration. Finally head back to the massage table for the finishing touch to your experience with a reviving massage combining Shiatsu and Swedish techniques.

Tensions melted away while the soft candlelit room disappeared into a haze of massage bliss. If your skin is in need of some tender care and a complete relax is in store, then look no further. The resulting soft skin lasts for days after more care than I would ever be able to apply myself. Plus, there really are only some places that another pair of hands can reach.

Visit empireretreat.com

GOOD TIMES • LONG LUNCHES • FUNCTIONS

PULLMAN BUNKER BAY The drive to stunning Bunker Bay alone is enough to feed the soul, but don’t let the view deceive you. Even more relaxing and reviving treats lie in store at the Pullman Bunker Bay VIE Spa. It’s hard to go past a ritual with the name Heaven On Earth, though the real treat here is their signature treatment White Flannel Flower. The unique ingredient in this treatment is the eponymous little-known Australian white-coloured flower and is especially useful for connecting one with inner joy and confidence (apparently) when used as an essential oil. Perfect for the cooler months, it is also perfect to balance out all the senses and works to restore a connection with our inner self.

Starting off with a luxe body polish that smelt like a lemon and coconut dream, all products are from the handmade Australian range IKOU. Organic, Fairtrade and ecologically responsible, every single product smelled like a piece of heaven and used Australian and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. After scrubbing off the winter layers, next up was a cocoon of wild yam and wild flannel flower along with a age-defying body soufflé while drifting off to a facial and head massage with baobab and neroli oil. To finish the treatment a blissful foot massage ensured that no inch of a tired winter body in need of some care was missed.

MUSCLE MELT WINTER SPECIAL 60 mins | $155 (normally $205) • Hot Stone Back, Neck & Shoulder • Reviver Facial • Skin Booster Available until August 31, subject to availability – not valid with other offers.

Visit pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au

WEDDINGS • ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

CAVES HOUSE HOTEL is ideally situated in the heart of the famous Margaret River Wine Region, and within walking distance of the famous Yallingup Beach.

Winter is synonymous with cosy fireplaces, mulled wine, long lunches or dinners or romantic getaways.

Come and experience our NEW WINTER MENU, beautiful accommodation, as well as our famous HIGH TEAS.

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

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Art & wellbeing Margaret River Artisan Store

Stellar and the Chief

Margaret90 River WINTER Artisan Store 2017

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The Zephyr Collective

Saharan Daze

Milc

Vasse Virgin

Margaret River Artisan Store

The Zephyr Collective

Rug up WITH TEMPERATURES DIPPING OUTSIDE HERE’S OUR PICK OF STYLISH BOUTIQUES FOUND IN THE SOUTH WEST TO KEEP YOU WARM AND TOASTY.

BY CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

Vasse Virgin – Yallingup and Margaret River

135 Puzey Road, Wilyabrup Open 7 days, from 10am to 5pm 2 Rosa Brook Road, Margaret River, Open 7 days, from 10am to 5pm Before you pull on the winter woollie,s be sure to give your skin some serious loving to ensure it remains silky smooth under all of those layers.

Vasse Virgin is locally made and their all-natural skin care products are heaven for dry and chapped winter skin. Especially recommended is the Chamomile & Lavender range as the soothing gentle ingredients are great in the winter months when skin has been exposed to cold winds and constant air conditioning.

The Zephyr Collective – Dunsborough

3/237 Naturaliste Terrace, Dunsborough Those who like to keep it local and not be caught out in the same outfit at the latest hot restaurant opening, The Zephyr Collective is for you. All pieces are designed locally in Dunsborough and aim to make you feel as good as you look, whether hitting the town or curling up at home in them. An emphasis on natural fabrics, their range of silk maxi dresses and skirts are perfect for long lunches in one of the many wineries in the region. Or for curling up in front of the fireplace, try their comfy, cable-knitted jumpers and bamboo cotton basics – all that is needed is a good glass of red and it’s the perfect combo.

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Art & wellbeing

Milc – Dunsborough

Shop 2 DVSC Naturaliste Tce

All bases are covered at Milc – whether you are after some out-there pumps, a flowing boho maxi dress or a homely knitted coverup (some of those long lunches are rather filling!). These girls have style. With brands such as Camilla & Marc, Rowie,Velvet and Zimmerman, it’s easy to whip up an outfit from head to toe and get set for a very fashionable weekend down south. Be sure to schedule some serious time in the changing room here once you set foot inside their front door and treat yourself to one of the divine smelling candles to relax after a day of flexing the shopping biceps.

Stellar and The Chief – Margaret River

115 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River Margaret River is home to a number of fashion treasure troves. Get your shopping and coffee fix in one go at Stellar and The Chief alongside their new espresso bar instore. Talei Manners, owner, designer, author and buyer, has an eye for exceptional detail. It’s a treat for sore eyes just to venture into the store filled with luxe mohair winter pullovers, edgy leather accessories and form-fitting jeans. Put together an effortless look of winter sophistication with sharp silhouettes and cozy knits to keep the chills at bay.

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designs in nature

The Margaret River Artisan Store – Margaret River Located in Margaret River Central 2/110 Bussell HIghway Open Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm Sunday & Public Holidays 9.30am to 1.30pm

Saharan Daze – Cowaramup Shop 2/24 Bussell Hwy Cowaramup

What better way to beat the grey skies of winter than a trip to the warm climate of Morocco?

Saharan Daze is an Aladdin’s cave of Moroccan wares, fashion and jewels that captures the gypsy heart. Husband and wife team Freya and Adrian, who met and fell in love in Bali and years later travelled to Morocco, visited the Saharan desert, Atlas Mountains, Fez and Marrakech and began

their life adventure bringing back beautiful artisan products and selling them in Cowaramup. More than a fashion and homewares store, it’s an experience, complete with Bedouin tent, Shisha and traditional mint tea that is guaranteed to transport you to another land, even briefly while the rain pours down outside. Take home a genie's lamp, a warm woollen jacket or some bright, soul-uplifting Moroccan slippers for the winter months ahead.

Margaret River Artisan Store is a retail space created from the concept of giving local artisans a place to showcase and sell their products.

Starting with a pop-up shop in 2014, each member of the collective spends time in-store working directly with the public, so it’s the perfect chance for you to stop in and chat with the designer of your new purchase! It's home to clothing, accessories and gorgeous homewares all made locally by artists of the south west. If you want a special something to take home to remind you of your winter holidays, it is bound to be found inside these doors.

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River Open Daily 10am - 4pm 611 Boodjidup Road 08 9757 6885 info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com.au

Art & wellbeing

Food for

thought The combination of art, wine and food is one of the big drawcards for any visit to the Margaret River region. Cassandra Charlick suggests the perfect day to follow the art and food trail.

FEED THE MIND Take a day trip around some of the region's most beautiful art galleries, and dine in style along the way.

T

railing through the region’s numerous art galleries can be tiring work, which is why your day should be carefully planned to ensure that, as well as enjoying a feast for the eyes, rumbling tummies are also kept happy.

From a hearty breakfast to set the day up, through to a well-earned lunch before finishing up with a cheeky wine, we’re here to help create your perfect day exploring the creative corners of the south west.

BORANUP CAFÉ It would be impossible to start anywhere other than the peaceful Boranup Café. Nestled among the marri trees of this pristine forrest, with blue wrens darting about in the bushland, it’s the

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perfect spot to order a coffee and decide what to choose from the menu. Chef extraordinaire Cindy Watterson-Bolst has something for all tastes and dietary requirements, whether it’s a healthy start with cacao nib and coconut muesli or something more decadent for those with a sweet tooth - like coconut milk pancakes.

Favourites such as Eggs Benny and Eggs Florrie haven’t been forgotten though and I’d highly recommend giving one of their specialities a go. It’s a tough choice between Miss Piggy, a brioche double-decker sandwich of pulled local pork, spinach, mustard, a fried egg on top and aioli, and Figinshrooms, a heady mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach on fig toast with a lip-smacking blue cheese sauce.

Suitably fuelled for the day ahead, it’s time to move on, just a hop, skip and a jump away, to your first arty port of call.

the year the space also holds exhibitions for local artists and photographers, ever-changing so no two visits will be the same.

BORANUP GALLERY

MARGARET RIVER GALLERY

Right next door and before hitting the road in earnest, this gallery is a beautiful space both indoors and out, the perfect place to browse through artworks from local artisans.

Owner James Howieson has some stunning examples of his work on display. Those on the hunt for a unique dining table, side table or something a little smaller such as a chopping board or breakfast tray should give up the search: they’ll find it here. All are handmade using local timber, and every piece is a oneoff and will last a lifetime. Be sure to explore the sculptures outside as well and delve into all of the nooks and crannies filled with local

Owned and run by local artist Salli Coppin, Margaret River Gallery has an eclectic and contemporary mix of jewellery, paintings, textiles, ceramics and glassware by emerging Australian artists. A beautiful, light-filled space highlights each piece and, with a range of affordable gifts, it is the perfect place to find a special something to take back home and remember your creative adventure in the region.

For those with upcoming nuptials in the area, the gallery also provides a gift registry, though the trickiest decision will be what to narrow it down to, of course.

LOCAL FOOD LOCAL ARTISTS COFFEE . BREAKFAST . LUNCH Nestled in native Australian bushland, five minutes from the town of Dunsborough, Goanna is quirky, unpretentious and relaxed.

The menu changes seasonally and showcases fantastic Yallingup and Margaret River region produce.

Enjoy looking through the gallery and gift shop, which displays local and Australian designs, and monthly art exhibitions.

Goanna also offers quality catering packages for weddings and functions.

ceramics, glassware, jewellery and paintings inspired by the surrounding beaches and that ever-present forest.

PAYET GALLERY Wind your way up beautiful Caves Road and within 15 minutes you will reach the peaceful studio and gallery space of brothers Nicholas and Francois Payet.

A working studio, it’s captivating to watch the talented pair transform precious raw metals into pieces of alchemy, wrought with precious jewels and pearls. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants and a selection of engagement and wedding rings are on show, and if you invest in a Payet piece, it’ll reward your for a lifetime. Throughout

JAHROC GALLERIES While there are several galleries in the town of Margaret River, Jah Roc is one that’s hard to miss.

Just look for the giant metal sculpture out the front.

From horses through to giant lizards and fish, Jordan Sprigg’s creations from recycled metals get snapped up quickly when welcoming visitors to the gallery on the front awning. Home to custommade and designer furniture, a range of styles and timbers are used from local sources including marri, blackbutt, jarrah, sheoak and more.

Open for breakfast and lunch from 8.30am, closed Tuesdays, fully licensed.

Refer to website for seasonal hours – margaretriver.com | WINTER 2017 95 visit goannacafe.com.au

Art & wellbeing COLLECTABLE AND EDIBLE While you tour the galleries and discover more about the region's artists, you'll work up an appetite no doubt.

Of course, there are also plenty of other options for those who already have a house full of furnishings. Art exhibitions from established artists occur regularly throughout the year and you can be guaranteed a selection of vivid landscapes that capture the essence of Australia’s stunning coastline year round in the everchanging selection on display.

THE STUDIO BISTRO With lunchtime looming, it’s time to head up to the ideal place to rest your legs and treat both eyes and tastebuds. After a picturesque drive up towards Yallingup from Margaret River, Studio Bistro is the perfect place to start the afternoon’s art viewings at the northern end of the cape after a good feed of course.

You’ll face a tough choice as the mouthwatering menu uses seasonal and local produce.

Highlights include the chicken with Bois Boudran sauce (a testament to the south American heritage of the chef and his classical French training in the kitchen). It’s just as difficult to choose your mains, with a melt-inthe-mouth fish of the day through to the crispy yet tender duck leg with root vegetables and cream sauce on offer. With a solid afternoon of art expeditions to continue, it would be criminal to pass on dessert.

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The black sesame semifreddo, white chocolate and green tea seemed to disappear from our plates in record time This stop isn’t just for food. The gallery at Studio Bistro is home to a number of local and Australian artists with regular exhibitions gracing the contemporary space. Dinosaur Designs have a key place here as well with their iconic resin pieces, perfect as a take-home gift for someone special – or for your own treat from creative browsing.

YALLINGUP GALLERIES An Aladdin’s cave, you will have a hard time choosing where to start with the artistic gems within this gallery. Filled with a combination of local and WA based artists, there are actually two locations to visit while you’re in this neck of the woods. The main gallery is located on Caves Road and includes a range of different art forms –from canvases through to textiles, furniture and jewellery. Be captivated by the stunning colours from the contemporary artists inspired

by Western Australia’s vast landscape. Choose from emerging artists through to established and highly sought after pieces by names such as Judy Prosser, Rob Malcolm and Larry Mitchell.

The Garden Art Studio is a little further up the road and is the space where seasonal art exhibitions are held throughout the year in the tranquil surrounds of the manicured gardens.

JOHN MILLER DESIGN John Miller’s striking jewellery pieces are unmistakeable to his legion of fans.Taking shape from the natural elements surrounding his studio, precious metals are transformed into seascapes, flowering bushland and scenes filled with wildlife swimming, hopping and flying through his designs.

The studio itself has been constructed with every element considered to impart minimal impact on the environment, with 24 solar panels producing all the power needed and water on the property collected from the rooftops of the buildings. Operating since 1971, it is hard to leave the studio without having placed a piece at the top of your wish list for that next special occasion.

WILYABRUP DREAMING Travelling back down Caves Road, be sure to pop into the studio and gallery of artist and potter Bill Meiklejohn. Surrounded by native bushland in his rustic surroundings, Bill will take you through the range of beautiful ceramic pieces he creates on site – from whimsical sculptural artworks through to functional and hand-crafted homewares.

A working studio, one of the highlights of speaking with the artist is to learn about where his inspiration comes from and the unique glazing techniques he has developed to give his

ocean-inspired pieces their other-worldly finish. The hand-crafted coffee mugs are made to treasure and perfected suited to a cuppa to keep warm now that the afternoon is getting on and winter days are here to stay for the next few months.

VASSE FELIX By now it’s most definitely time for a well-deserved glass of wine and a bite to finish up the day before heading home full of inspiration and local art filling your head - we are travelling through a wine region after all.

A few minutes down Caves Road and you’ll find one of the region’s best known wineries,Vasse Felix, the perfect end to the day.

Pop in for a glass of wine at the region’s founding winery and a shared charcuterie board before admiring works of art by some of Australia’s most celebrated artists. The art gallery has an impressive collection, with works on rotation in the gallery space that has been transformed from its original function as the vineyards winery.

Over 4,000 pieces of art currently reside in the Holmes a Court collection, formed in 1960, it is internationally recognised holding important pieces of Australian and Indigenous heritage. A fitting end to the day and the perfect spot to put your feet up after a day of exploration for both the tastebuds and the creative juices.

Art & wellbeing

Fire

& ice

THE JEWELLERS OF THE MARGARET RIVER REGION CREATE SOME OF THE MOST STUNNING WORKS OF ART YOU'LL LOVE TO HAND DOWN THROUGH THE GENERATIONS.

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1. 'Southern Star' - 1.04 Ct. Rubellite Tourmaline with 18 $2E VS Diamonds in a hot-fused 18 Ct. yellow gold pendant, $12, 590, John Miller Design (johnmillerdesign.com); 2. Stunning champagnes and an orange fire diamond in tea-cup style bezel settings of 18 carat white and yellow gold, POA, Nina's Jewellery (ninas.co); .3. Oval shaped fancy-intense yellow diamonds with white centre-diamond, 18 carat white gold setting, POA, Nina's Jewellery (ninas.co); 4. Two-tone 18 carat gold party ring with natrually coloured bezel-set diamonds, Argyle Pink daimonds, champagens, burnt orange fire diamond, POA, Nina's Jewellery (ninas.co); 5. Hot pink sapphire and diamond pendant, 1.6 Ct. Ceylon pink sapphire, 21 diamonds, 18carat white gold, $4,650, John Miller Design (johnmillerdesign.com); 6. Reticulated sterling silver and 18ct yellow gold bracelet, featuring a rough natural aqua marine and Broome seed pearls $5,500, Payet Gallery (payetgallery.com.au); 7. 18ct yellow gold coral-inspired ring shank featuring a rock quartz set in 18ct yellow gold, $4,500, Payet Gallery (payetgallery.com.au); 8. 'The One and Only' - 1.10 Ct. VS Princess cut champagne diamond, 8 carat white gold, $10,500 John Miller Design (johnmillerdesign.com); 9. A bracelet being created by the team at Payet Gallery.

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Art & wellbeing

Stars of the silver screen Celebrate 10 years of CinefestOZ Film Festival this August with a jam-packed program of Australian and international cinema, sidebar events and spectacular galas. We find out more about this Busselton-born festival from festival chair and co-founder, Helen Shervington.

YMRR: What exactly is CinefestOZ Film Festival?

HS: CinefestOZ is a unique festival in that it is the only destination festival in Australia that celebrates Australian films and all things connected to them. CinefestOZ features a five-day cinematic program of Australian, French and international co-productions, starstudded galas and exciting sidebar events in Busselton, Bunbury and Margaret River.

The festival proudly promotes Australian and West Australian film to a broad audience in the inviting south west region and enables international, national and West Australian filmmakers to meet, discuss and collaborate on their current and future projects in a unique and facilitating environment.

YMRR: How did the festival start?

HS: We held the very first CinefestOZ in Busselton in 2008. I remember holding a planning session with David Barton (cofounder) at the Equinox Café and writing on a whiteboard our vision – to be the Cannes of the Southern Hemisphere. Of course we had no idea how to run a film festival and at that point had never been to Cannes Film Festival, so we really didn’t know what that meant.

We had been to St Tropez’s Antipodean

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Film Festival in 2006 and understood that film festivals meant lots of celebrations and mixing with film stars, but weren’t aware of the serious nature of a film event. Luckily, the Busselton community and local cinema were extremely supportive. At our first festival, we screened West Australian film Last Train to Freo and Black Balloon, which was written and directed by West Australians. Now, we’re celebrating 10 years of the festival!

YMRR: Since 2008, CinefestOZ has grown from an audience of about 1,800 to 25,000.

What’s the festival’s drawcard?

HS: Over the years, many West Australian films have had their premieres at CinefestOZ, including Paper Planes and Jasper Jones.

Being able to present new West Australian and Australian films to Australian audiences six months before they get released in theatres, then providing the opportunity for people to meet and discuss these films with their directors and actors is what makes the festival so special. There’s no VIP tent – festival guests and the local community mix and mingle with film talent at breathtaking locations across the Margaret River region.

We can ask the filmmakers why they made the decisions they did and how they feel about

the result. Team rubbing shoulders with movie stars with the allure of the south west, and you get a unique getaway celebrating film, food and wine.

YMRR: How has the festival changed over the years?

HS: The event has grown to being the largest regional film festival in Australia and now presents an annual $100,000 award to an Australian feature film, which is the richest film prize in Australia. The festival now attracts filmmakers from as far away as Hollywood, New York, Hong Kong and Shanghai as well as from all over Australia. For the last five years we have had interest from Chinese filmmakers who have attended CinefestOZ as individual filmmakers or as part of formal delegations. We have screened three ChineseAustralian co-productions and held formal film collaboration workshops and forums as part of these delegations. Each year the number of producers from the USA, Singapore, China and Hong Kong increases and this year we hope to have several international filmmaker delegations attend the festival.

YMRR: Why Busselton?

HS: CinefestOZ has become a world-class stage for showcasing new films and in many ways, it is already fulfilling that ambitious goal to be the Cannes of the Southern Hemisphere. Just as Cannes Film Festival changed the small fishing village of Cannes in the South of France and turned it into the film mecca of the world, CinefestOZ has expanded throughout the South West region enabling it to grow. I hope Busselton and the South West will continue to nurture and support this festival, and I believe it has the capability to make very positive changes to Busselton and place it firmly on the international cultural map; to give Busselton the international marketing image boost that wine provided for Margaret River.

YMRR: How is the CinefestOZ team planning on celebrating 10 years of the festival?

HS: We are planning a festival of delightful surprises for our 10th anniversary. We are working on presenting an intriguing, engaging, fresh and new program featuring a brilliant line-up of film talent. This year we hope to hold some of our gala events in the new facilities at Busselton’s city offices, as well as several new and iconic locations around the Margaret River region, and will bring each venue to life with film, music, fine food and wine. There might be cake and candles too, you’ll just have to wait and see!

Visit cinefestoz.com

SOUTH WEST COACH LINES South West Coach Lines’ express coach services connect Perth and the south west region, offering unrivalled comfort, convenience and reliability.

Their omplete network provides a vital link within and between south west communities, including Busselton, Manjimup, Collie, Bunbury, Perth, and Perth Domestic and International airport terminals.

Visit southwestcoachlines.com.au

WA GETAWAY WA Getaway travels from Perth to Margaret River every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with optional drop-offs along the way and returns to Perth the same day. Keep hold of your ticket and return to Perth at a later date.

Visit wa-getaway.com.au

BY CAR MARGARET RIVER RENT A CAR To see the best of the region, hire a car or people mover from Margaret River – all you need is a driver’s licence, even if it’s an interstate or international one. Visit margaretriverrentacar.com.au

BUSSELTON & SOUTH WEST RENT A CAR Offering delivery and pick-up throughout the south west, Busselton & South West Rent a Car is a local, family-owned car rental company.

Visit busseltonswrentacar.com.au

AVIS SOUTHWEST CAR HIRE Explore the beautiful Margaret River region at your own pace with a rental from Avis Southwest Car Hire in Busselton. One-way rentals are available back to Perth.

Visit avis.com.au

IN STYLE MCLEOD TOURS Take in Margaret River’s scenery and attractions with the knowledge of local expert and awardwinning guide Neil McLeod. The three-day Escape tour provides pick-up from your Perth hotel or Perth train station, comfortable bus transport, three days touring with a dedicated tour guide, delicious food and wine, and an exciting itinerary. Visit mcleodtours.com.au

WESTWARD AVIATION CHARTER SERVICES Depart from Jandakot Airport as the sun rises and enjoy stunning views of the Swan River, Fremantle Harbour, Rockingham, Mandurah, the Peel Inlet and Bunbury then on to either Busselton or Margaret River. Westward Aviation will transfer you from the airport to the city and take you back at no extra cost.Your return journey will be just as spectacular with the sun setting over the Indian Ocean and the night lights of the City of Perth.

Visit margaretriver.com/members/westward-aviationcharter-services/

ESQUIRE CLASSIC CHARTERS Want to travel in style? It doesn’t get more stylish

than in a Silver Spirit Rolls-Royce from Esquire Classic Charters. There’s no better way to enjoy a private charter, special event or winery tour in the Busselton, Dunsborough,Yallingup and Margaret River region. Visit esquireclassiccharters.com.au

VIRTUALLY YOUR MARGARET RIVER REGION APP The latest version of the Your Margaret River Region app features more than 1,000 things to do, as well as service points located throughout the region. Available online and offline for both Apple and Android devices, the app also features an audio tour of the Busselton Jetty.

WINERY EXPLORER APP Explore Western Australia’s incredible wine regions from the palm of your hand with The Winery Explorer App. It lists every WA cellar door and wine region in beautiful detail and offers up-to-date information. The app is available to download for free for Apple devices.

OUR FAVe INSTA ACCOUNTS @southwestlife_ @tweetsouthwest @elementsmargaretriver @margaretriver @margaretriver_style @discovermargaretriver @experiencesmith

Your holiday starts now.

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

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

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

| WINTER 2017 101

GETTING AROUND

BY COACH

KNOWN FOR:

tasty pinks and

fine

champagnes

Visit a Nina’s showroom to taste the best of the South West.

See stunning and unique jewellery crafted with love, featuring rare and beautiful pink, orange, yellow and champagne diamonds.

D U N S B O R O U G H Centrepoint Shopping Centre, 55 Dunn Bay Road, 08 9759 1366

www .ninas.co

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25

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27

28

29

30

31

32

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APPROXIMATE

Drive Times Perth

Perth

Busselton

4hrs

3hrs

3hrs

2hrs 30mins

Dunsborough

2hrs 20mins 50mins

Yallingup

30mins 10mins

2hrs 2hrs 3hrs 30mins 50mins

Cowaramup

1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 30mins 30mins 30mins

30mins 30mins 30mins

3hrs

Margaret River

3hrs 45mins 45mins 45mins 15mins 15mins

Augusta

Da ws

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Elsegood

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GUGELHUPF

Gugelhupf Bakery 0477 427 770

•

Margaret River Bakery 08 9758 79779

•

Yallingup Bakery 08 9756 6306

BREAD

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

In Yallingup off Balmoral Dr and in Margaret River on Boodjidup Rd, both open on Mon 3pm to 6pm, Tue to Sat from 7am to 6pm. Hot bread straight from the oven at 3pm.

nd Rd Hammo

Leeu

Wardanup Cres

PICK UP YOUR MAP AT THE VISITOR CENTER!

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guide to the directory 104. STAY

108. FOOD & DRINK

110. ARTS & ACTIVITIES 111. WINE & BEER 113 . TOURS

45mins

30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins 15mins 1hr

10mins 30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins

45mins

20mins 30mins 30mins 45mins 1hr 30mins

3hrs 4hrs 15mins

DRIVE TIMES

margaretriver.com/app

mobile app from

you’re here? Grab our

Going offline while

NEED INFO ON THE GO? or tablet.

from your smartphone

Visit margaretriver.com

STAY

ABBEY BEACH RESORT LUXURY HOTEL AND APARTMENT ACCOMMODATION IN A RESORT SETTING, LOCATED ON THE BEACH IN BUSSELTON Enjoy fully serviced, self contained apartments and studios, each with a private double spa and balcony.

Abbey Beach Resort is a 4.5 star leisure resort with countless facilities and amenities. The Resort has an atrium restaurant, pool side café, several bars, a 25 metre indoor heated swimming pool, 2

outdoor pools, tennis and squash courts, spa, gym and sauna for your enjoyment.

Stroll to the beach, tour wineries, art galleries and many other local attractions.

For a holiday or short break you are assured of comfort and style at Abbey Beach Resort

595 Bussell Highway, Busselton WA Freecall 1800 017 097 • Ph 61 8 9755 4600 • info@abbeybeach.com.au www.abbeybeach.com.au

DUNSBOROUGH INN BACKPACKERS

SUPERIOR BUDGET ACCOMMODATION SITUATED RIGHT IN THE HUB OF TOWN For those on a budget, the self-catering aspect of the complex and it’s proximity to the supermarket can be a great money saver. Dunsborough Inn Backpackers provides a variety of accommodation ranging from self-contained units to our non dormitory hostel style rooms. Our large communal kitchen/dining room and spacious recreation areas provide an environment for guests to relax and exchange experiences of the day or just to meet new people.

50 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough WA Ph 08 9756 7277 • bookings@dunsboroughinn.com.au www.dunsboroughinn.com.au

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DUNSBOROUGH CENTRAL MOTEL

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

50 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough WA Ph 08 9756 7711 • reservations@dunsboroughmotel.com.au www.dunsboroughmotel.com.au

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.

STAY

DUNSBOROUGH BEACH COTTAGES

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT ON THE SHORES OF GEOGRAPHE BAY

Set on a beautiful bay and taking in the picturesque South West coastline between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, Hamelin Bay Holiday Park is 15kms north of Augusta and 30kms south of Margaret River. Choose from well appointed camp sites, caravan sites, cottages and cabins.

bookings@hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au Ph 08 9758 5540 • www.hamelinbayholidaypark.com.au

BIG VALLEY CAMPSITE

Dunsborough Beach Cottages is situated on the pristine waters of Geographe Bay just 2.5 hours south of Perth. We offer beautifully appointed self-contained 2 & 3 bedroom resort style cottages, including our adults only beachfront cottages.

From here you can walk to the Dunsborough town centre or within a short distance you can experience a range of award winning wineries, galleries and restaurants, making

Dunsborough Beach Cottages the ideal choice for families, couples or anyone looking to enjoy a beachfront escape in the Margaret River region.

Be sure to visit our website for the latest offers and rates.

Ph 08 9756 8885 or freecall 1800 816 885 e dbcottages@netserv.net.au • www.dunsborough-beach.com.au

PEARL RIVER HOUSES

Don’t miss out next time

The farm encompasses a beautiful secret valley from the outside world by natural forest. Bring your Caravan, Motorhome or Tent to relax and enjoy the open space, amazing nights skies, friendly farm animals and the family friendly atmosphere. Pet Friendly.

Ph 08 9757 5020 bigvalleymargaretriver.com.au

SKY, FOREST, RIVER AND SEA. UNFORGETTABLE Pearl River Houses is set on five acres of exclusive land in Margaret River and comprises of two short-stay residences, Pearl River House and River Valley Villa.

The location is one of exceptional beauty, with views of the River Mouth and National Park forests.

A truly unique and magical property. www.pearlriverhouses.com.au

Contact Natalie to book your space in our next issue of Your Margaret River Region Magazine.

Call 0426 752 352

E: natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au

JACARANDA GUEST HOUSE

WISTERIA COTTAGE

PARK YOUR CAR AND WALK EVERYWHERE

REST, RELAX, EXPLORE.

Busselton famous Jetty, beach, shops, cafe and restaurants all just a short walk away.

Jacaranda Guest House is centrally located, has 7 guest rooms all with own ensuite, r/c airconditioning and free wifi.

It is nestled amongst english style gardens, where You can just relax or enjoy a bbq.

Continental breakfast is included in the price.

Whether you are here for rest and relaxation or to explore our amazing atttractions we hope you enjoy the peace and tranquility that is Wisteria Cottage. A one bedroom self contained cottage.

30 West Street, Busselton, WA Ph 08 9751 5973 • jacarandaguesthouse1@westnet.com.au www.jacarandaguesthouse.com

31 Dekkers, Rd Deepdene WA 6290 M 0407 084 086 wisteriacottageaugusta@gmail.com

Wisteria Cottage

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DIRECTORY

NESTLED AMONGST THE HILLS OF OUR FAMILY OWNED WORKING SHEEP FARM, JUST TEN MINUTES SOUTH EAST OF MARGARET RIVER.

STAY

SUNFLOWERS ANIMAL FARM & FARMSTAY

RAC BUSSELTON HOLIDAY PARK

Spacious & Comfortable Cabins + Caravan Sites

We offer farmstay accommodation in 4 fully self contained units, sleeping between 5 and 9 people, near Margaret River in the South West of Western Australia.

Sunflowers Farmstay is ideal for big groups of friends or families (max 28 people).

Wander through the Animal Farm, with over 350 very friendly (mainly) farm animals, at any time during your stay. Sip local wines while admiring our stunning views: wild kangaroos grazing on rolling hills covered in beautiful wildflowers.

5561 Caves Road, near Margaret River Ph: (08) 9757 3343 • farmerjones@sunflowersfarm.com www.sunflowersfarm.com

Get away this winter to www.geographecove.com.au Geographe Cove Resort

Get away this winter to Geographe Cove Resort

www.riverviewtouristpark.com

9757 2270 | 1300 666 105

Winter Specials from May - Sept Winter Specials Geographe Cove Resort isfrom nestled Stay 7 nights and pay for 5 - Sept among someMay of nature’s most stunning Stay 5 nights and pay for 4 scenery beautiful coastline 7 and nights and for 5at StayStay 3 nights and pay for pay 2* Geographe Bay, Dunsborough. only and pay for 4 Stay*Off5 waterfront nights This collection of luxury self-contained villas, Includes schooland holidays StayJuly 3 nights pay for 2 *

some located right on the beach front, can be a *Off waterfront only With cosyescape log fires most villas holiday for romantic forintwo, a fun-filled all of thefamilies creature comforts a and couple or an unforgettable getaway Includes July school holidays you’d expect a resort as log well for a group ofat friends.

Cozy fires, pool and as tennis all thecourt South Westforhas offer an to ideal destination With cosymake log fires in most villasall why not book a Winter Break round. comforts and all today theyear creature

you’d expect at a resort as well Ph: or 08 Tim 9756 8700 Karen on as Phone all the South West has to offer Ph:Gifford 9756 8700 Road,a Dunsborough why87 not book Winter Break E: manager@geographecove.com.au www.geographecove.com.au today Phone Karen or Tim on Ph: 9756 8700

TAUNTON FARM HOLIDAY PARK & HISTORICwww.geographecove.com.au FUNCTION CENTRE

DIRECTORY

CENTRAL TO THE CAPE TO CAPE REGION Offering friendly service in a relaxing, peaceful, rural environment.

Farm-style cottages, caravan & camping Barn-style campers kitchen.

Farm animals & feeding, kids playground & bouncy pillow.

Weelchair access.

Multiple Tourism Award Winner.

Only 10 minutes north of Margaret River – off Bussell Highway, Cowaramup.

Ph 08 9755 5334 • Freecall: 1800 248 777 enquiries@tauntonfarm.com.au www.tauntonfarm.com.au

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Function Centre for 200 plus.

Fully equipped catering kitchen & amenities.

Any unique function at affordable rates with accommodation onsite.

Inspections are always welcome.

MULTI AWARD WINNING FAMILY HOLIDAY PARK Centrally located between Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River. Set amongst 8 hectares of natural bushland it’s only a short stroll away from the pristine beach of Geographe Bay. Close to the Wineries, Restaurants, Art Galleries, Fishing, Golf and lots more…. Self-contained one and two bedroom cabins, Studio apartments and budget family accommodation, Wheelchair friendly camping and 1 bedroom cabin, Ensuites sites and Big rig friendly sites, Powered and un-powered sites, Spacious fully-equipped modern Campers Kitchen, New Entertainment Hub – Kids club and special group gatherings.

97 Caves Rd, Abbey, Busselton WA ph 1800 871 570 Busselton info@RACbusseltonholidaypark.com.au Holiday Park RACbusseltonholidaypark.com.au

ASK a LOCAl! Drop in to one of our four accredited visitor centres in Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and Augusta for friendly, expert advice.

6 amAzing ATtracTIons tO diSCoveR

THOUSES GH LIStill with their lifesaving purpose from dusk to dawn, Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin

Lighthouses offer the unique experience of going inside and up to the top of a working lighthouse.

Enjoy breathtaking views across the treacherous oceans and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

Learn about the history and listen to stories of unimaginable tragedy and rescue.

VES CA Your Margaret River Region is as spectacular underneath the ground as it is on top. Over 150 highly decorated limestone caves lie beneath the surface of the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge.

Venture inside Ngilgi, Lake, Mammoth and Jewel Caves and be amazed by these massive labyrinths decorated intricately with limestone crystal formations.

Discounted multi-cave and lighthouse packages are available.

Visit margaretriverattractions.com, email attractions@margaretriver.com or call +61 8 9757 7411

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FOOD & DRINK

BARNYARD 1978

pasta factory, casually classy restaurant with cellar door & Barnyard Bees honey store…

12 Canal Rocks Rd, Yallingup WA Reservations welcome 08 9755 2548 Visit www.barnyard1978.com.au for opening hours and menu

CAFE BORANUP

COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE IN THE FOREST 10am-4pm Weekdays. 8am-4pm Weekends.

Great coffee. Home baked scones and cakes.

Augusta Abalone and Whiting.

Variety of vegetarian and GF options.

Breakfast and Lunch Menu.

Next to Boranup Gallery.

7981 Caves Road Forest Grove WA 6286 Ph 08 9757 7279 www.cafeboranup.com

08 9588 8877 107 BUSSEL HWY (MAIN STREET)

w: www.elkamo.com.au • e: info@elkamo.com.au COCKTAILS + TAPAS + FOUR HOTEL SUITES

BLUE OCEAN FISH & CHIPS

GABRIEL CHOCOLATE

BLUE OCEAN FISH & CHIPS

VISIT WA’S FIRST “BEAN TO BAR” CHOCOLATE MAKER

THE MARGARET RIVER REGION’S

BEST OCEAN VIEW

OPEN 7 DAYS BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER pullmanbunkerbayresort.com.au

Come eat where the two oceans meet in the spectacular location of Augusta. Experience the taste of our mouth-watering local fish, grilled or fried with yummy gluten-free chips.

Blue Ocean have a variety of seafood products and combo packs to suit all. We also offer a great selection of kids’ packs, burgers, drinks and ice creams.

Blue Ocean is located in the centre of town, next door to the Visitor Centre.

Open 7 days a week Lunch 11.30am ~ 2.00pm Dinner 5.00pm ~ 8.00pm 73 Blackwood Avenue, Augusta Ph 08 9758 1748 eftpos facilities available

Discover the vast array of naturally occurring chocolate flavours – everything from cherry, citrus through to rum raisin – in the single-origin, multiple award winning chocolate bars.

We turn the world’s best raw cocoa beans into heavenly chocolate. Daily behind the scenes tours, sample fresh chocolate, enjoy decadent hot chocolate, coffee and our handmade ice-cream, chocolate cookies and cakes.

Open 10am to 5pm daily. Daily tours.

Cnr Caves & Quininup Rds, Yallingup Ph 08 9756 6689 www.gabrielchocolate.com.au

DIRECTORY

With wines from both Margaret River &

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

Cellar Door is a truly unique experience.

Howard Park & MadFish Winery

Howard Park & MadFish Winery 543 Miamup Road, Cowaramup 543 Miamup Road, Cowaramup Open 10am--5pm 5pmdaily daily| |08089756 9756 5200 Open 10am 5200 www.burchfamilywines.com.au www.burchfamilywines.com.au

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FOOD & DRINK

Award Winning Nougat

~ Margaret River Nougat Co. ~ Honey & Coffee Liqueurs ~ ~ Single Vineyard Estate Wines ~ Wedding Venue

MARGARET RIVER NOUGAT CO.

Open Daily 9:30am—5pm

Present at cellar door to receive 15% OFF Not in conjunction with any

WA's Own Icecream

WWW.MARGARETRIVERNOUGAT.COM.AU

Corner Tom Cullity Drive & Miamup Rd, Cowaramup other offer.

WA's Own Icecream

With over 60 flavours of delicious icecream made on the premise, sundaes, hot waffles and coffee.

There is something for the whole family!

Kids can go crazy in the adventure playground or challenge the whole family to 18 holes of mini golf.

fish 'n' chips with a gourmet twist AUTHENTIC ITALIAN GELATO AND SORBETTI

THE PERFECT TAKE-AWAY OPTION FOR THE BEACH OR THE RIVER. ENJOY SOME TODAY!

Authentic Italian gelato and sorbetti made in-store by owner Andy using natural ingredients. Dairy & gluten free flavours available.

Opening hours *Open 7 days between 26 Dec - 31 Jan 2017 (10am - 9pm)* Thereafter open Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri (10am - 5.30pm) Weekends (10am-9pm) 32 Queen Street, Busselton WA Ph 08 9751 1477 / gelatobuonissimo / gelatobuonissimobusselton

THE LARDER

www.squidlips.com.au

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING OTHER THAN A RESTAURANT DINNER TONIGHT?

161 Commonage Road Dunsborough

08 9755 3745

www.simmos.com.au

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

squidlips is a must do for lovers of high quality seafood, delicious chips & fresh, healthy salads.

DIRECTORY

Enjoy a BBQ or picnic in the shady landscaped gardens.

DUNSBOROUGH Ph: (08) 9759 1799 Dunsborough Centrepoint Shopping Centre Shop 27A, 55 Dunn Bay Rd MARGARET RIVER Ph: (08) 9757 9§a960 Settlers Tavern Arcade 118 Bussell Hwy

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES

THE DIVE SHED

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS

MARGARET RIVER CULTURAL AND EVENTS CENTRE The major arts and entertainment venue in the region. Providing weekly cinema screenings and monthly Foyer Gallery Exhibitions.

Live performances this winter include ‘Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival’ 2nd- 4th June, ‘WA Youth Jazz Orchestra’ 6th June, ‘Cirque Africa’ 7th June, ‘Saltbush’ 25th & 26th July and ‘Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium’ 28th & 29th August.

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

Visit our website for information and ticket purchases.

9758 7316 (Mon-Fri 10am to 4pm) • 51 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River www.artsmargaretriver.com

MARGARET RIVER GOLF CLUB Bookings are essential

STREATER GALLERY IS A MUST SEE

PLAY AROUND IN MARGARET RIVER Keen to combine some golf with a trip to WA’s wine country?

Margaret River Golf Club is the highlight of any golf tour to the south west. There aren’t many golf courses in the region that rival Margaret River for scenic beauty and sheer golfing challenge. The 6,092 metre, par 72 course is highly regarded by golfers from all over WA and beyond.

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

Ph: (08) 9757 3161 • E golfshop@westnet.com.au 599 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River margaretrivergolfclub.com.au

ARTGEO CULTURAL COMPLEX

DIRECTORY

WHERE ART AND HERITAGE MEET 4 – 7 Queen Street, Busselton • 9751 4651 • artgeo@artgeo.com.au www.artgeo.com.au

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John Streater Fine Furniture Open: 10am to 4pm. Closed Fridays.

Ph 08 9755 1211 105 Blythe Road, Yallingup Siding streatergallery@bigpond.com www.streaterfinefurniture.com

John Streater has been a pioneer in the West Australian art industry for over thirty years. His bespoke furniture is showcased alongside other internationally recognised artists at his gallery in Yallingup Siding.

Directory

ARTS & ACTIVITIES | WINE & BEER

SKYDIVE GERONIMO

Guiding you to WA’S BEST BEACH SKYDIVES

awaken & elevate your

Tandem Skydive from 10, 14 or 15,000ft over the spectacular Busselton and Margaret River regions!

Enjoy a breathtaking flight to altitude, taking in views of Geographe Bay, the famous Busselton Jetty, Cape Naturaliste and the wineries beyond. Then it’s time for the door to open, and ready? set? GO! The adrenaline starts pumping as you leave the aircraft, securely attached to your instructor and free-falling at 200km/hour for up to 66 seconds, before safely landing on one of the beaches along the famous Busselton Foreshore. Celebrating with a complimentary drink!

consciousness for leading an inspired life catordcoaching.com

Guiding you to awaken e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching & elevate your consciousness for leading an inspired life Guiding you to

Ph 1300 449 669 skydive@skydivegeronimo.com.au www.skydivegeronimo.com.au

catordcoaching.com

awaken & elevate your e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching consciousness for leading

an inspired life catordcoaching.com

Buy your copy of Artists of the Margaret River Region at any visitor centre.

e catordcoach@gmail.com f fb.com/catordcoaching

DIRECTORY

RI M A RG A RET

LH WY

d Bre we E R Bo rn & V

Y

THERE’S A CHEEKY SIDE IN ALL OF US,

let yours run wild!

SEL

B

ER & CI D Y R E REW

BUSSELTON

BUS

Y E K N MO

DUNSBOROUGH YALLINGUP

C AV E S R D

Y K E E H C

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

Cape GraCe

CELLAR DOOR ONLY SINGLE VINEYARD WINES LIMITED PRODUCTION BASKET PRESSED REDS

JAMES HALLIDAY 281 Fifty One Road, Cowaramup T: 08 9755 5669 | Open Daily

www.capegracewines.com.au

Killerby Cellar Store featuring premium Margaret River wines & local produce.

Visit Killerbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cellar Store (adjoining Cheeky Monkey brewery) for a friendly, informative wine tasting.

The store features a range of local and interesting gourmet produce including

Margaret River cheese, truffle products, chocolates, Hobo & Hatch scarves and jewellery, lifestyle books, wine accessories and much more. Mention this ad to receive 10% discount.

4259 Caves Road, Wilyabrup WA 6280 Tel. 08 9755 5983 www.killerby.com.au

caves DIRECTORY

Discover an ancient wonderland at Ngilgi, Mammoth, Lake and Jewel Cave.

To book drop into your nearest visitor centre or call: (08) 9757 7411

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TOURS

CAPE TO CAPE TOURS LUXURY MARGARET RIVER PRIVATE WINE TOURS Choose from premium sedans, people movers, stretch limos, mini buses 12 to 24 seater and limobuses.

We take you where want to go or we can help you prepare an itinerary.

Sample amazing foods, wines and breath taking scenery in comfort and style.

Half day and full day tours available.

Private Wine Tours, Scenic Tours, Weddings, Airport transfers.

GREAT RATES & SERVICE at Bunbury, Busselton & Collie Oneway Rentals (to Perth) available

M 0427 294 212 • Ph 08 6595 3232 bookings@capetocapewinetours.com.au www.capetocapewinetours.com.au

Call 1800 679 880

To make a booking visit avis.com.au Wine tours & Charters 2015-A00073

Best value winery tour in the Margaret River region

HALF + FULL DAY Wine & Scenic Tours

INCLUDED

0

ily

am

Da

10.3

Affordable Full Day Winery Tours to 5.30p m

• Pick-up and drop off to your accommodation • Pre booked wine tastings at 5 award winning boutique Margaret River wineries • Gourmet lunch inclusive • Top quality chocolate sampling

$60

PLUS

• Complimentary bottled water • Personal wine tasting record and pen • Mystery raffle • Email group photograph

VOL 3 | ISSUE 3 | APRIL 2016

PROPERTY • LIFESTYLE • IDEAS

FREE –

Take me home!

• Local cheese and produce tasting

E: cellardortours@bigpond.com M: 0428 179 729 PO Box 852 Busselton, WA 6280 W: cellardortours.com.au

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS

Sample plate at Venison Farm Sample French Nougat at Bettenays Cellar Door Cheese & Crackers at Knotting Hill Samples at the Cheese & Chocolate Factories Sample Liqueurs & Cocktails at The Grove Free bottled water on board Gourmet Lunch at an Iconic Restaurant (full-day tour only)

VOL 3 | ISSUE 3 | APRIL 2016

PROPERTY • LIFESTYLE • IDEAS

Ooh la la!

FREE –

Take me home!

VOL 3 | ISSUE 3 | APRIL 2016

new VISIT OUR

MANU'S STAGE SHOW COMES TO PERTH

WA’S LATEST PREMIUM PROPERTY LISTINGS PROPERTY • LIFESTYLE • IDEAS

FREE –

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WEBSITE!

cheerstours.com

9757 2270 or 0474 721 836

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DIRECTORY

Page turners for brands.

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS PREMIUMPUBLISHERS PREMIUM PUBLISHERS Page turners for brands.

181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008. Ph 08 9273 8900. Visit premiumpublishers.com.au turners for brands PagePage turners for brands.

181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008.

Ph9273 08 9273 8900. Visit premiumpublishers.com.au 26 John Street, Northbridge, WA 6003 | Ph 08 8933.

Professionally guided HORSE RIDING TOURS, suitable for all abilities. From forest treks to beach rides, we have a premiumpublishers.com.au horse riding adventure just for you.

181 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008. Ph 08 9273 8900. Visit premiumpublishers.com.au 1549 Rosa Brook Rd, Margaret River Ph 08 97574 562 bookings@jestersflat.com www.jestersflat.com /JestersFlat

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TOURS

MARGARET RIVER BUBBLES TOUR

THE MOST FUN YOU CAN HAVE IN ONE DAY! margaret river

bubbles tour

A tour to suit everyone!

Gourmet food, great wines and iconic locations.

Private tours for 4-11 people.

Tel Mark on 0437 618559 margsbubblestour@hotmail.com

www.margaretriverbubblestour.com

MARGIES BIG DAY OUT BEER & WINE TOUR

EXPERIENCE THE BEST… OF WHAT THIS WORLD FAMOUS REGION HAS TO OFFER! Visit 7 venues including 3 wineries, 2 breweries and the Cheese & Chocolate Companies.

Enjoy a lunch of delicious local produce at a Margaret River Brewery. Make friends, have a laugh and relax whilst your friendly Tour Guide takes you on an amazing day out in the Margaret River Region.

Pick up and drop off to your accommodation included.

CALL US TODAY!

Ph 0416 180 493 margaretrivertourswa.com.au

MARGARET RIVER TOURS

. affordable . quality .

MARGARET RIVER’S ORIGINAL Half Day and Full Day Gourmet Wine & Dine.

Visiting 6 wineries daily, including Voyager, Watershed, Leeuwin, McHenry Hohnen, Vasse Felix, Pierro, Stella Bella & Cape Mentelle.

Full Day tours feature lunch at Watershed.

All tours enjoy complementary vineyard platter as well as tastings of small goods, cheese & chocolate.

Ph 0419 917 166 info@margaretrivertours.com www.margaretrivertours.com

DIRECTORY

Book your spot in the spring issue

Contact Natalie to book your space in our next issue of Your Margaret River Region Magazine.

Call 0426 752 352

E: natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au

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Margaret River Food & Wine Tours phone: 0417 948 933 email: vintagetours@bigpond.com www.winetoursmargaretriver.com.au

Margaret River WA

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s everything you need to explore the region!

The most comprehensive list of things to do in the region Build your holiday itinerary

Find whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s near you

Book tours & accommodation

Interactive map

Visit www.margaretriver.com/app for full details Download the Your Margaret River Region app at

Available online and offline

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