Readers rally behind local authors
Artzability’s Voices of Resilience project has empowered twelve local authors to share their stories, experiences, and creativity with the wider community through a collection of individually written and illustrated books.
e books were o cially launched at a sold-out community celebration attended by family, friends, supporters, and community members at the Heart – Nala Bardip in Margaret River on May 25.
e event was exceptionally well supported by the local community, with most of the
books selling out on the night.
Additional copies are now being printed to meet ongoing demand.
One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity for each author to share something about their book.
ose who were comfortable speaking took to the stage to talk about their creative journey and what inspired their stories.
Others chose to express themselves in di erent ways— one author danced, another sang, and another played music while encouraging the au-
dience
standing of the authors and the stories behind the pages.
Artzability coordinator, Tania Davey believes that the evening helped build stronger community connections while providing an opportunity for people to gain a deeper understanding of the lives, talents, and experiences of local people living with disability.
“ e response from the community has been overwhelming. People were deeply moved by the stories, the courage of the authors, and the creativity on display. e feedback from those who attended has
been amazing.”
Tania was especially thankful for the support provided by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, which helped fund the project through a Community Development Grant. She also acknowledged the invaluable guidance of Kate Heaslip of e Book Incubator in helping bring the authors’ stories to life.
e enthusiasm shown by the community at the launch demonstrates that these stories have truly resonated and will continue to inspire readers for years to come.
Forty Years of Fire Dreaming
SIX DECADES OF HEALTH RESEARCH CELEBRATED
Sixty years ago, the people of Busselton made a decision that would quietly change the health of millions around the world. ey agreed to be measured, tested, and followed — to give their time and their health data to a study that was just beginning.
Today, the Busselton Population Medical Research Institute (BPMRI) launches a yearlong celebration of that extraordinary act of community generosity.
e Busselton Health Study — now one of the world’s longest-running population health studies — has generated more than 500 scienti c publications and in uenced clinical guidelines for management of cardiovascular disease, sleep apnoea, diabetes, asthma and iron overload.
It is now investigating changes in asthma prevalence, the e ects of long COVID and aspects of healthy ageing.
None of this would have been possible without the ongoing participation of generations of Busselton families.
e anniversary celebrations will include a Caravan of Discovery touring Busselton and the South West, a Gala Dinner on 14 November 2026 at Saltwater in Busselton, a Community Celebration Day on 28 November 2026 (open to all), and a permanent community story archive.
“ is anniversary belongs to the people of Busselton,” BPMRI Director Dr Michael Hunter said.
“For sixty years, the community has generously contributed their time, their trust, and their health data.
“ eir contribution has supported breakthroughs in areas such as cardiovascular health, respiratory disease, and early risk detection, helping to inform clinical practice and public health policy both nationally and internationally.
“While the ndings have been extraordinary, it is the participants and volunteers who are the heart of the Busselton Health Study”.
BPMRI is inviting all community members with a connection to the study to follow #BusseltonHealth60 on social media.
to sing along, re ecting the themes of their books.
ese heartfelt presentations gave guests a deeper under-
The group of authors with Kate Heaslip, the facilitator of the project, at the opening night event. Photo: Freedom Garvey
NATURE Conservation Margaret River Region is celebrating another powerful local success story from its Arum Lily Blitz, with local landholder, complimentary therapist and nurse Sarah Moore seeing the return of abundant native wild owers and orchids a er several years of dedicated weed control.
Sarah has spent nearly three decades restoring her rural property on Glenellie Road, between Margaret River and Redgate, a er moving to the area in 1996.
“We moved here to basically a blank canvas,” Sarah said.
“ e house was a cottage, and it was bracken and sand with only a couple of trees.
“We bought 200 seedlings of native trees and started planting.”
Over 29 years, the Moore family has transformed the once-cleared land into thriving native habitat supporting possums, frogs, lizards, bobtails, snakes and birds of prey.
“It’s become a paradise for native wildlife,” Sarah said.
“We love the quiet and solitude, waking up to the sound of the birds and looking out onto the gardens and trees.”
However, like many landholders across the Margaret River region, Sarah has faced the threat of invasive arum lilies – a South African weed that spreads rapidly through
bushland and wetlands, displacing native ora and fauna, and degrading habitat.
“Arum lilies weren’t a problem when we rst moved onto the property,” she said.
“But they have very quickly become a problem, encroaching onto our property from all sides.”
Sarah joined Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s Arum Lily Blitz in 2021 and has been actively managing outbreaks each year as part of the community-led program.
She has always mindful of chem-
ical use, but came to understand that targeted, arum lily-speci c herbicide applied responsibly was the only e ective way to control this highly invasive weed and give native plants the chance to return.
“We have been spraying yearly ever since, and we have noticed the di erence” she said.
e results of consistent control e orts are now being seen in the bushland’s recovery, with native plants returning and delicate orchids ourishing once more.
“We are now getting more native
orchids and native plants coming back,” Sarah said.
is includes beautiful pink fairy orchids and cowslip orchids, now appearing in greater abundance where invasive weeds once dominated.
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region says Sarah’s story highlights the importance of coordinated community action to protect biodiversity and restore bushland health across the region.
“If we don’t act, we will lose the natural habitat that is required to sustain the native ora and fauna,” Sarah said.
“Otherwise where will they go?”
She is encouraging other landholders to stay involved and committed to long-term weed control.
“Keep up the ght and encourage others to do so,” she said.
“Absentee landowners need to be made more responsible in maintaining their properties, as o en that’s where the problem lies.
“Councils also need to get on board in the ght against arum lily.” e Arum Lily Blitz is one of Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s key community conservation initiatives, supporting landholders to reduce invasive weeds and protect high-value bushland, waterways and habitat corridors.
Landholders across the Margaret River Region are encouraged to sign up, access free advice and herbicide, and be part of the community-wide e ort to control this invasive weed. See natureconservation.org.au.
Sarah says three decades of work has seen stunning native orchids thriving at her Glenellie Road property. Photos: Obelia Walker
After moving to the region in 1996, Margaret River local Sarah Moore and her family have transformed once-cleared land into a flourishing native paradise, supporting wildlife and rare fauna.
HALF PRICE MEMBERSHIPS! ARTSMARGARETRIVER.COM
Margaret River family business Resident Co ee Roasters is encouraging locals to ditch single-use packaging with the launch of a new co ee bean re ll service, timed to coincide with Plastic Free July.
e micro-roastery, operated by Kieran and Emma Weir from their shed in the heart of Margaret River, introduced reusable coffee canisters at the Margaret River Farmers’ Market from last Saturday, giving customers a more sustainable way to buy freshly roasted beans while raising funds for Nature Conservation Margaret River Region.
e stainless steel canisters will also be available online, with customers receiving 50 per cent o their rst lled canister throughout July.
From then on, $1 from every re ll will be donated to Nature Conservation Margaret River Region to support habitat protection for local wildlife, including the endangered western ringtail possum.
“Since our launch late last year we’ve wanted to provide a more environmentally friendly way of taking home our co ee beans,” Mr Weir said.
“Our bags are made from recycled plastic, but giving customers an option other than
single-use packaging has always been a priority, and many of our customers have shown interest in the idea.”
Mr Weir said supporting Nature Conservation Margaret River Region was a natural t.
“We have great respect for the work they do and we’re wildlife lovers ourselves.
“We love seeing the resident ringtail possums and quendas that have made them-
selves at home in our backyard.”
Resident Co ee Roasters sources its beans ethically and has built a reputation for helping home baristas make great co ee, while also giving back to the community.
Earlier this year the business raised funds for Just Home through a special-edition coffee blend and also supported Breast Cancer Care WA through the Big Boobie Ball in Busselton. ey are also proud sponsors of Radio Margaret River’s Friday ‘Breakfast with Janine and Jaime’ show.
During July, customers can purchase a reusable canister lled with 300 grams of freshly roasted co ee beans for $30 – half the usual retail price.
e empty canister is normally priced at $20.
Resident Co ee Roasters can be found every Saturday at the Margaret River Farmers’ Market from 7.30am to 11.30am.
Customers can also re ll their own containers with “naked” co ee beans at Marmalade in Witchcli e or order online at residentco ee.com.au, with free e-bike delivery available within a ve-kilometre radius.
To nd out more and place your order online, visit residentco ee.com.au
World class lineup for Pair’d Festival
THE Margaret River Region is preparing to welcome some of the biggest names in international food and wine, with the full program for the 2026 Pair’d Margaret River Region festival o cially unveiled this week.
Returning from November 19-22, the four-day festival will once again transform wineries, restaurants and iconic venues across the region into a celebration of world-class food, wine, music and local produce.
Now entering its third year, Pair’d has quickly established itself as one of the region’s signature events, a racting thousands of visitors while showcasing the people, places and produce that have made the Margaret River Region one of Australia’s premier culinary destinations. Last year’s festival featured more than 30 sold-out events involving more than 150 Western Australian businesses, while the event was recently recognised with a Silver Award at the international Eventex Awards.
This year’s program combines internationally acclaimed chefs with many of the South West’s bestknown wineries, restaurants and producers.
Among the headline acts are Michelin-starred chefs Dave Pynt (Burnt Ends, Singapore), Ma Abé (Bonheur, London), Ma Abergel (Yardbird, Hong Kong) and the team from London’s famed St John
restaurant, alongside celebrated American barbecue pitmaster Rodney Sco .
However, the festival remains firmly rooted in the region, with many of Margaret River and Dunsbor-
ough’s own chefs, winemakers and hospitality businesses taking centre stage.
Familiar local names including Mal Chow (Chow’s Table), Brendan Pra (Wayfinder, Dunsborough), Evan Hayter (de’sendent), Jessica Court (Glenarty Road), Josh Whiteland (Koomal Dreaming), Ely Jarvis and Jed Gerrard (Wills Domain), Cam Jones and Virginia Willcock (Vasse Felix), Nic Bowen (Howard Park Wines), Luke Jolli e (Stella Bella), George Cooper (The Tiller Farm), Jason Beste (Supper Road) and many more will feature throughout the festival.
New and returning events include the popular Pair’d Beach Club at Meelup Beach, the two-day Grand Tasting at Howard Park Wines, Burnt Ends and Friends at Wills Domain, New Wave Gathering at Chow’s Table, and a series of premium wine dinners pairing international chefs with leading Margaret River wineries. With many experiences deliberately kept intimate, organisers expect demand to be strong once again.
Last year, several events sold out within minutes of tickets being released.
General public sales open at 10am today, Wednesday, July 1.
The full program and ticket information is available at pairdmargaretriver.com.
Resident Coffee Roasters - owned by Kieran (right) and Emma Weir, has embraced the message behind Plastic Free July, launching a new coffee bean refill service from their home business in Margaret River. Images supplied.
During July, customers can purchase one of the new reusable canisters, filled with 300gm of freshly roasted coffee beans for just $30 - half the usual retail price.
THE SHIRE of Augusta Margaret River, in collaboration with the Augusta Community Resource Centre, has curated a series of community information sessions to encourage residents to have open conversations and prepare for the inevitable.
e “End of Life Matters” series will explore topics relating to death, dying and end-of-life planning and aims to create space for participants to re ect on what matters most and feel empowered to have important conversations.
e four-part series has been planned to coincide with the national Dying to Know Day initiative, held annually in August to encourage end-of-life planning.
It also aligns with several actions is the Shire’s Age Friendly Plan and supports
residents in all stages of life.
Acting Shire President Tracey Muir said normalising conversations about end-of-life matters was an important area of community education and support.
“Research tells us only half of all Australians feel able to talk to their family about end of life1, yet the more we can talk about and plan for death, the easier it will be for our loved ones when the time comes,” said Cr Muir.
“We’re hoping the sessions will help remove some of the stigma around talking about death and help people come to terms with the emotional and practical realities that are part and parcel with dying.”
Each session will focus on a di erent topic and be delivered by facilitators from WA Country Health
Service’s Southwest Palliative Care Service, the WA Voluntary Assisted Dying Statewide Care Navigator Service as well as an Endof-Life Guide.
Topics will include
· Getting your “death ducks in a row”
· Palliative care link to web
· Voluntary Assisted Dying
· Advance Care Planning
All sessions will be held at the Augusta Community Resource Centre (66 Allnut Terrace, Augusta) and include morning tea.
To RSVP, contact Community Development Ocer Olivia Knowles via oknowles@amrshire.wa.gov. au or by calling 9780 5667.
e Shire notes that the sessions are intended for general information only, and attendees should seek professional advice relevant to their individual circumstances.
Differential Rating Category Rate in $ Minimum Payment (2026-27) (2026-27)
GROSS RENTAL VALUATION PROPERTIES
Allnutt Terrace Augusta - Tue to Thu 9am to 4pm Margaret River Library, Fearn Avenue - Mon to Sat 10am to 3pm Augusta Library, Allnutt Terrace, Augusta - Tue to Thu 10 am to 4pm
Ratepayers and residents are invited to make a submission in relation to this proposal via www yoursay amrshire wa gov au no later than 9am on Wednesday 22 July 2026
Andrea Selvey, CEO
WHAT’S ON
Push for better support
In 2024, 3,307 lives were lost to suicide in Australia.
In June, Australians dropped to the oor for a cause—completing 3,307 push-ups over 24 days, one for each of those lives, to honour their memory and push for better mental health.
Locally, headspace teams and their communities across the South West have been pushing, squatting, and sweating their way through Australia’s largest mental health and tness event, e Push-Up Challenge.
Now in its tenth year, the Challenge has exed from a fundraising idea among four friends in Perth in 2017 into one of the world’s most successful mental health events—with more than one million Australians taking part and more than $60 million raised for mental health services.
“What began as a simple tness challenge has become a fun way for every Australian to connect with their community, get t, learn about mental health, and honour the lives tragically lost to suicide,” said founder Nick Hudson.
is year, more than 200,000 Australians of all ages and abilities have stepped up—completing push-ups (or sit-ups, squats, or tailored exercises) while learning a new mental health fact each day via the dedicated app.
e number of daily push-ups changes throughout the challenge to re ect di erent mental health statistics, making every session as meaningful and educational as it is physical.
headspace Bunbury, Busselton, and Margaret River are all part of the challenge, rallying locals,
businesses, gyms, clubs, and schools across the South West to join Team headspace and help push for better mental health together.
Rebecca Banks, Manager of headspace Services, says the challenge does more than raise funds—it changes conversations.
“ e Push-Up Challenge is a powerful way for young people and the wider South West community to come together, get active and start important conversations about mental health,” Rebecca said.
“At headspace, we see every day how connection and early support can make a real di erence, and this challenge helps break down stigma in an accessible, positive way.”
More young people than ever are reaching out
to headspace for support, making the funds raised through the challenge more important than ever.
For those aged 12 to 25 across Bunbury, Busselton, and Margaret River, headspace o ers free, vital mental health support, along with help with work, study, physical health, and more.
Janalie Nelson from Relationships Australia said the community has wholeheartedly embraced the challenge in recent years.
“South West locals have had so much fun pushing up and learning about mental health with us over the past few years, and we’re thrilled to do it all again in 2026,” Janalie said.
“More people than ever are reaching out to headspace for help and support, and the funds raised through e Push-Up Challenge will help us continue to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people in the south west.”
Rebecca believes the community response sends a message that matters deeply to the young people that headspace supports.
“ e incredible response from community members joining our e orts and taking part in the challenge sends a powerful message to young people: there is no shame in talking about mental health,” she said.
“By coming together to bring mental health into the spotlight, our community is helping create a culture where young people feel seen, supported, and empowered to reach out when they need help.”
Donations remain open, and every dollar goes directly to supporting young people in our region.
To donate visit thepushupchallenge.com.au/ fundraisers/headspacemargaretriver
A RARE white tru e has been unearthed in Manjimup — and it’s believed to be a rst for WA. Australian Tru e Traders has discovered 1.5kg of bianchetto white tru es growing beneath stone pine trees on its Southern Forests property, marking what is believed to be the rst successful harvest of the species in WA.
“We weren’t expecting this when we went out tru e hunting yesterday morning,” owner Gavin Booth said.
e family planted 500 stone pines in 2022 as something of an experiment, with no guarantee the prized white tru es would ever grow in WA conditions.
While Manjimup is already recognised as the Southern Hemisphere’s black tru e capital, producing around 80 per cent of all black tru es grown south of the equator, white trufes have remained largely the domain of Europe and a handful of growers on Australia’s east coast.
Worth up to $3,000 per kilo, the bianchetto tru e is prized for its intense garlic and onion aroma.
“It is the kind of aroma that lls a kitchen the moment you walk in the door with one in your pocket,” Mr Booth said.
Within hours of announcing the nd, interest had already arrived from chefs around Australia and overseas.
And this may just be the beginning.
“Who knows, maybe by the end of the season we’ll have a white tru e hunt experience that guests can book,” Mr Booth said.
Festival unveils expanded hub
CABIN Fever’s popular festival hub is set for its biggest makeover yet, with organisers announcing The Cabin will move into Busselton’s new Saltwater performing arts centre as part of this year’s 10th anniversary celebrations.
Running from July 17-19, The Cabin will o er three days of free live music, food, wellness activities, family entertainment and local art, with organisers promising an expanded program in a purpose-built indoor venue.
After several years on the Busselton foreshore, the move to Saltwater provides a weatherproof home while
maintaining the relaxed community atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the festival.
Festival director Erin Molloy said The Cabin had become one of Cabin Fever’s most popular a ractions.
“It’s where people come together, discover new music, grab something delicious to eat, catch up with friends and soak up the atmosphere of the festival,” she said.
The free program features performances from more than a dozen WA artists across the three days, while families can enjoy face painting, circus workshops, balloon twisting, arts and crafts, giant bubbles and daily Pilates sessions.
Sunday morning will also feature a community ocean dip led by Cold Nips.
Art lovers can browse The Cabin Collection, a pop-up gallery presented by Margaret River Region Open Studios featuring works by 10 local artists, with all commissions donated to River Angels.
Food is another major drawcard, with acclaimed chef Jason Beste giving festivalgoers a preview of his new Cowaramup café, Pip & Co, ahead of its August opening.
The weekend kicks o with the popular Food Truck Frenzy on Friday evening, when Queen Street will come alive with local food vendors
everything from dumplings and
The headspace Busselton team threw their support - and their bodies - behind this year’s push up challenge.
serving
pasta to burgers, Thai cuisine, fish and chips, donuts and ice cream, alongside live music and local drinks.
The Cabin is free to a end and forms part of the wider Cabin Fever Festival, which runs across the Margaret River region from July 17-26, celebrating the South West’s food, wine, music and winter culture. For the full programme, tickets and information, visit cabinfeverfest.com.au
Live music including Margaret River’s Dan White, plus local, art and food will be showcased at The Cabin at Saltwater Busselton across the festival from July 17-26.
Gardens go bananas despite winter chill
TERRI SHARPE
IN YOUR PATCH
THE longest night of the year – in terms of the shortest number of daylight hours – has passed.
Let’s all be grateful for that.
Plants have a unique ability to recognise that fact, but it will still be a few months before they awaken and start to send out new growth as they are also affected by temperature and require warmer soil to activate.
What edibles can we plant this time of year that don’t mind the cold?
Broad beans, peas, you can still get in some Asian greens (they’ll end up bolting if you leave it too much longer), asparagus crowns, carrots, and the alliums – onions and leeks, silver beet, chard, beetroot, and English spinach.
I wouldn’t bother with the brassicas in July here in the southwest unless you have a particularly warm, sunny spot in your plot.
Capsicum and chili can be started in a hothouse.
Early flowering stone fruit may bud in late July so keep a close eye on those and be sure to spray with a leaf curl remedy - a copper-based fungicide – with correct timing the key to preventing this disease.
I’ve been harvesting late ripening
KP mangoes from my home tree and Dwarf Ducasse bananas from the school, along with an abundance of lemons, limes and mandarins.
School-grown Washington Navel oranges on our dwarf tree are also very close.
The thing I love about citrus here in the southwest is that for the most part, they aren’t touched by parrots, possums, or rats – probably because there’s such an abundance.
Parrots hit my mandarins quite late so I harvested the remainder from the tree, ate some, donated some to the Community Pantry,
and made mandarin jam with the rest.
Preserving is a simple way to reduce food waste and ensure your pantry is full.
Several people enquired about growing bananas when they saw these boys helping me to transport this 100+ finger thirty-kilo bunch to the car.
Positioning is very important. Try to find or build yourself - as we did - a suntrap in your garden.
Our school bananas face north west and are positioned against a fence with school demountables on
their south side. This gives them a beautifully warm, protected, microclimate in which to thrive.
Once the plant has flowered it begins to die, but it will have sent out pups before that time to ensure the line continues.
Pups can grow from the mother plant at any stage, and unless you have too many or your banana clump is getting too big, you do not need to remove them.
They can grow in unison with the mother plant and will be ready to take over production when she dies off.
It took about three years from planting a young two-foot-high pup before we saw our first flower on a twelve-foot-high mature plant. We chop and drop at the school, cutting down the dead plants and dropping them on the ground in-situ.
Because their water content is so high they make a fantastic mulch that decomposes fast, making them an ideal fertiliser.
When our pups were small we fed them each season with an organic fertiliser, but once the mother plants started dying and we instigated the chop and drop method, we no longer needed additional fertilisers.
They also like plenty of water especially in their establishment
phase so don’t let them dry out.
Winter is a great time to plant bananas as the additional water is highly useful for that phase.
Look for Dwarf Ducasse or other varieties that are tried and tested in our southwest conditions.
Not all species are so well suited to our region.
And that’s a wrap for July.
Start to prepare for August now, when we’ll start spring and summer crops in seed trays in hothouses or in so-called poor man’s hothouses – upside down clear plastic tubs.
They work a treat. Collect your tubs, seed trays, and the seeds you want this month so you’re ready to start propagation in August with seedlings grown by your own hand ready for spring planting.
It’s very rewarding to germinate your own stock from seed, plant them, see them thrive, harvest and eat them, perhaps preserve some, and eventually seed save again.
If you’ve been meaning to do it but never seem to have the time, July is your moth to prepare.
No excuses - get to it!
Terri Sharpe is the Coordinator and Garden Specialist of the Margaret River PS Kitchen Garden Program and a Horticultural lecturer at South Regional TAFE.
These students from Margaret River Primary School sparked some questions from locals after they were seen helping out with this huge bunch of Dwarf Ducasse bananas harvested at the school’s kitchen garden in winter!
JULY 15TH
KIDS & WILDLIFE ARE ON OUR
DRIVE SAFE DESIGNATE
Driving under the influence
DRIVE SAFE OR DESIGNATE
Speeding
KIDS & WILDLIFE ARE ON OUR ROADS
the influence use
WILDLIFE ARE ON OUR ROADS
Driving under the influence
DRIVE SAFE OR DESIGNATE
KIDS
Speeding
Passengers
lights
unlicensed manner to evade
Mobile phone use
& WILDLIFE ARE ON OUR ROADS
Mobile phone use
Unbelted Passengers
Driving under the influence
Speeding
Unbelted Passengers
Mobile phone use
speed camera
Running red lights
Unbelted Passengers
Driving unlicensed
Running red lights
Driving in a manner to evade detection of a speed camera
Running red lights
Driving unlicensed
Driving unlicensed
Driving in a manner to evade detection of a speed camera
AND BE AWARE OF THE WILDLIFE ON THE ROAD OUT
Driving in a manner to evade detection of a speed camera
The following businesses would like to remind DRIVE SAFE THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
The following businesses would like to remind everyone to DRIVE SAFE THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
The following businesses would like to remind everyone to DRIVE SAFE THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
businesses would like to remind everyone to THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Finals push for hockey club
HOCKEY
THE MARGARET River Hockey Club women’s team has continued its outstanding season, recording an emphatic 8-0 victory over Capel to strengthen its position near the top of the ladder.
The win was the side’s ninth of the season, to go with two draws, leaving Margaret River sitting second in the competition and firmly in the hunt for a grand final berth.
Coach Wally Zalewski said the experienced squad was playing some of its best hockey of the season and had its sights set on challenging for this year’s premiership.
The goals were shared across the team, with Debbie Storey and Leanne Cordero each scoring doubles.
Aimee Keast, Maxine Williams and Tibby Tuckett also found the back of the net, while Chelsea Pickford capped off the performance with a perfectly executed tactical lob.
Margaret River’s defence was equally impressive, restricting Capel to very few opportunities inside the circle.
Strong attacking pressure from Aimee Keast also helped create scoring opportunities, including earning a penalty stroke that Leanne Cordero converted.
The side combined well across the field throughout the match, with plenty of support from club members cheering from the clubhouse balcony.
The challenge steps up this Friday night when Margaret River hosts competition leaders Robbins in what
shapes as a crucial clash.
The match gets underway at 7.15pm.
BOYS WANTED FOR SECOND HALF OF SEASON
THE Club is also encouraging boys in Years 6 to 8 to join its junior boys team for the second half of the season.
MAGPIES CONTINUE CHARGE AS HAWKS FALL TO HBL LIONS
SWFL
BUSSELTON continued its impressive South West Football League campaign with a commanding 65-point win over Dunsborough, while Augusta Margaret River was unable to halt Harvey Brunswick Leschenault’s winning streak in Round 14.
Playing in wet and windy conditions at Dunsborough Playing Fields on Saturday, the Magpies overcame an even opening quarter before taking complete control, restricting the Sharks to just one goal after quarter time.
League leading goal kicker Liam Creighton starred once again with five goals — the fifth time this season he has booted five or more in a game.
Jalen Hoffman continued his outstanding form around the ground, while Bailey Sanford and Mitch Tenardi were influential through the midfield as Busselton ran away to a 14.5 (89) to 3.6 (24) victory.
For Dunsborough, Brody Giglia battled hard and was again among the Sharks’ best in a difficult afternoon.
At Gloucester Park on Sunday, Augusta Margaret River made the perfect start against the inform Lions, holding Harvey Brunswick Leschenault scoreless
in the opening term.
Goals to Jed Spence and Josh Fry helped the Hawks establish an early advantage, with Fry extending the lead early in the second quarter.
However, the visitors quickly found their rhythm, kicking three goals in seven minutes before taking a 13-point lead into half-time after two late majors.
The Hawks remained within striking distance throughout the third term, with Leroy Anderson reducing the margin to six points before another late Lions goal proved costly.
Harvey Brunswick Leschenault gradually wore down the home side in the final quarter to claim an 11.11 (77) to 7.11 (53) victory.
Kieran Yakas and Jed Spence were among Augusta Margaret River’s best performers, while Connor Carbone and Ty Anderson continued their strong form for the Lions, who have now won six consecutive matches.
The results leave Busselton well placed heading into another important clash this weekend, when the Magpies host Augusta Margaret River at Sir Stewart Bovell Park.
Dunsborough will be looking to bounce back when they travel to face Eaton on Sunday.
The club has vacancies available as it looks to build numbers and develop the squad ahead of next year.
New players of all experience levels are welcome to attend Wednesday night training sessions.
For more information, visit www.margaretriverhockey.org.au
Clean sweep for men’s team
WHAT a week for the Busselton men, finishing undefeated to be crowned Division 4 Champions at Mens CBH Country Week 2026.
A massive congratulations to Daniel Schilling, who capped off a phenomenal tournament by being named Division 4 Fairest & Best.
A well-deserved recognition after an outstanding week.
A special shout-out also goes to our fearless leader, Dave Watson, who made sure the team had a later opening fixture, allowing everyone travelling from Busselton to avoid an early Friday morning start. Thanks, Dave!
Some match results from the
Men’s undefeated games. Game 1 was a 5-0 win over WA Country, an emphatic opening performance with Luke Wilson setting the tone by unleashing a spectacular reverse-stick tomahawk to open the scoring.
Game 2 was a 2-0 win over Eastern Goldfields with Daniel Schilling hammering an unstoppable strike into the top-right corner.
Game 3 was another great 2-0 win over Geraldton, with Oliver Heslewood calmly rounding the goalkeeper before finishing his one-on-one.
Game 4 another 2-0 win against Upper Great Southern, this game’s highlight was Rob Lord producing
a classy lob over the goalkeeper for one of the goals of the tournament.
Game 5 was 3-0 win over Roe Districts, Kade Denham scoring twice while playing on the field before returning to his regular role in goals for the rest of the match.
Game 6 ended in a 3-0 win over Central Great Southern, Daniel Schilling’s two goal performance sealed the championship in style.
An incredible team effort from every player, coach and supporter.
To finish with six straight wins, score 17 goals and keep six clean sheets is a remarkable achievement. Congratulations to everyone involved—an unforgettable Country Week.
It was a powerful 8-0 victory for the Margaret River Hockey Club’s womens team as they took down Capel for their ninth win of the season, maintaining second place on the competition ladder. Photo supplied.
HOCKEY
The Busselton men’s squad managed to stop every team they met across their six games from scoring a single goal, finishing the undefeated run with a 5-0, 2-0, 2-0, 2-0, 3-0, 3-0 score sheet to take out the Division 4 Championship. Image supplied.
Surfers are all smiles at Yalls
SURFING
On Saturday, 20 June, the Indian Ocean Longboard Club (IOLC) held its fourth club round of 2026. With winter conditions well and truly setting in, members were fortunate to once again contest at Yallingup Beach--the fourth time the club has enjoyed the location this year.
A field of 28 competitors took to the water in light northerly winds, which eased and strengthened throughout the day, keeping everyone on their toes when it came to wave selection.
Fortunately, the forecast proved kinder than expected, delivering contestable waves for the competition.
The club sincerely thanks local businesses One Palm Studio and Harsun Australia for their generous sponsorship.
Tegan and Peter Arnold kindly donated a fantastic selection of merchandise and prizes for the day’s winners. Presentations were held afterwards at Southcamp Brewery.
Congratulations to the round winners: Bridget Churack, Shae Sheridan, Courtney Wigger-Smith, Neil Hayward, Paul Burke and Ryder Meerman.
Special mentions also go to Ryder Meerman for taking out Best Wipeout and Ryan Clark for earning the Highest Scoring Wave of the day.
The club extends a warm welcome to new members Tim Trew and Jarred Eason, and a heartfelt thank you to Jane and Barrie for
their valuable volunteer efforts throughout the event.
A special thanks also goes to Mick Marlin and Andrew Kenworthy for capturing footage of the day’s action.
The next club round will be held on Saturday, 8 August, proudly sponsored by the Beerfarm, with presentations to follow at the brewery.
Whatever the winter weather brings, the club is looking forward to another fantastic day of surfing
and catching up with members in one of our favourite locations.
The IOLC Committee is also looking forward to our annual Yallingup Malibu Classic, to be held from 4–6 December 2026.
We warmly welcome sponsorship and support from local businesses to help make this year’s event another success.
If you would like to get involved, please contact us via email at iolccommittee1@gmail.com or through our social media channels.
YOUNG PLAYERS FIND SILVER LINING IN STORMS
FOOTBALL
MARGARET RIVER
WILD weather made for a memorable final round before the school holiday break, with rain, wind and muddy conditions testing players across the region. Despite the winter blast, FMR’s junior teams embraced the challenge, producing some excellent football, determined defence and plenty of goals before a three-week break in the season.
U7 Shadows
The Shadows played with terrific teamwork against the Busselton Jaguars, combining well through the middle and sharing the goals between Ted, Kai, Elkie and Harry. Kaden and Jim-
my were strong in defence, while Ted earned Player of the Week after bouncing back from a heavy fall to score twice.
U8 Falcons
The Falcons finished the first half of the season with a spirited display against GMAS Glory in difficult conditions. Matthew was named Player of the Day after another impressive defensive performance.
U8 Breakers
The Breakers shrugged off the squally weather to produce a strong team effort against the Panthers, with Liam and Sophie recognised as Players of the Day.
U9 Magic Magic battled hard against
the Vasse Rattlesnakes in challenging weather. Goals to Oleg, Savannah and Mason highlighted the attack, while Mitch and Zephyr impressed in goal. Oleg was named Player of the Day for his fearless tackling and determination.
U9 Messi Kids
The local derby with the Raptors ended in a hardfought 1-1 draw. Quinn scored the equaliser after a Clancy assist, while Clancy earned Player of the Match following an outstanding display up front.
U9 Raptors
The Raptors matched the Messi Kids in an entertaining derby, with Ollie scoring their goal after an early corner. Strong defensive efforts
from Will, Lochie, Aston and Beau helped secure the draw in difficult conditions.
U10 Legends XI
The Legends combined brilliantly to record a win over GMAS Cyclones, with Delasi and Emma recognised as Players of the Day for their excellent all-round performances.
U10 Mavericks
The Mavericks edged out the Rovers 4-3 in a thrilling contest at Gloucester Park.
Ziggy Farina and Samson Durlick shared Player of the Day honours.
U11 Hornets
The Hornets overcame wet and windy conditions to record a strong victory over BCFC Possums. Declan
was named Player of the Day after an outstanding performance.
U11 Serpents
The Serpents played attractive passing football against the GMAS Tornadoes, with Jonnie starring both in goal and on the field to claim Player of the Day.
U12 Roos
The Roos held their nerve in a thrilling local derby against Storm. Charlie Bursey produced the goal of the game with a stunning long-range strike, while Ray Gardiner was named Player of the Match for his tireless work in midfield.
U12 Storm
Storm matched the Roos in one of the season’s best
contests, dominating possession for long periods before sharing the points in an entertaining draw. Sunny and Billy were named Players of the Day.
U13 Breakers
The Breakers claimed derby honours over the All Stars, with Lennox and Fynn scoring goals. Ronan and Fynn shared Player of the Day recognition after influential performances.
U14 Stingrays
The Stingrays battled through torrential rain to defeat GMAS in a top-ofthe-table clash. Oscar Atkins opened the scoring before Louis Bebbington sealed the win late and was rewarded with Player of the Match honours.
Women’s Handicap winners Bridgette Churack, Shae Sheridan and Courtney Wigger Smith.
Men’s Handicap winners Neil, Bourky and Ryder. All photos thanks to Mick Marlin.
ABOVE: Courtney Wigger Smith - Biggest smile winner. BELOW: Shae Sheridan took a win in Round 4.
