Nina’s Jewellery proudly supports White Ribbon Australia. Stand up, speak out and act to end men’s violence against women.
DIGGING DEEPER
expert Mark Tupman (left) with dairy farmer Neville Haddon.
From backyard beauty to winery bounty
FROM a creative suburban sanctuary to a thriving winery kitchen garden, the 2026 Edible Gardens Festival is set to showcase the incredible diversity of food growing across the Margaret River region.
This year’s program features six open gardens, including two standout spaces that highlight very different — yet equally inspiring — approaches to growing food at home and beyond.
In Margaret River, Rose and Adam have transformed their quarter-acre block into a lush, productive and visually stunning suburban haven.
Blending edible and ornamental plantings, their garden proves that food-growing can be both highly productive and beautifully designed.
With more than 30 fruit trees, alongside strawberries, herbs and pollinator-friendly flowers, the garden supports both people and wildlife.
Sculptural raised beds add structure and visual appeal, while compost bins and a rainwater tank underpin a chemical-free growing approach.
Creative use of art and up-cycled materials adds personality, showing how everyday items can be repurposed into functional garden features.
Visitors will be able to take part in hands-on demonstrations, with Rose and Adam sharing how to build simple DIY raised strawberry and herb planters, as well as how to construct durable raised vegetable beds using limestone blocks.
Meanwhile in Wilyabrup, a very different — but equally inspiring — garden awaits at Snake and Herring Winery.
Here, gardener Eve Franssen produces organic food for Yarri restaurant’s head chef Aaron Carr and his team, showcasing what can be achieved through smart, smallscale permaculture design.
Built and managed by Eve as a solo operation, the garden is a model of efficient, low-cost, closedloop growing.
Visitors will see worm farms, compost teas, pollinator plantings, bees, chickens and highly productive market garden beds all working together to create a resilient and abundant system.
Festival-goers can hear directly from both Eve and Aaron about how the garden supplies fresh produce to the restaurant, before enjoying wine tastings and local fare at the cellar door — making it a unique paddock-to-plate experience.
This garden also features a strong line-up of practical demonstrations and stalls.
Permaculture West will share the best ways to build soil health and choose the right compost system for your home, while Yates Hort and Ag will cover when, how and why to use seaweed extracts and
trace elements.
Donnybrook Busselton Bee Supplies will also be on site offering beekeeping equipment and advice.
Visitors can enjoy cellar door wine tastings, hot food and coffee from Beans+ throughout the day.
Both gardens are part of the broader Edible Gardens Festival, which returns from May 22–24 across the Margaret River region.
The annual not-for-profit sustainability festival features six open productive gardens, along with a full program of live demonstrations, gardener talks and hands-on workshops designed to inspire and educate home growers of all levels.
Saturday’s open gardens are now sold out, but a handful are still available for Sunday’s open garden program.
For the first time, the festival also features a seasonal long table lunch — now sold out — celebrating the best local produce and growers.
The expanded workshop pro-
Experts inspire at eSafety event
EDUCATION
A lineup of leading experts shared their expertise with more than 60 parents and educators at the recent ‘eSafety, Sleep, Resilience & Wellbeing’ presentation held at Margaret River HEART.
Hosted by Margaret River Independent School (MRIS), the evening offered practical and common-sense strategies for raising healthy, balanced children in today’s digital world.
Presenters included National Child Safety Expert and Founder of eSafe Kids, Kaylene Kerr; National Sleep Ex
pert and Founder of SleepSpot, Amanda Slinger; Parenting Coach and Educator and Founder of Family Flow, Anke Lasserre; and Clinical Psychologist and Founder of Life After Birth Psychology, Yara Heary.
MRIS Principal Rachel Fox said it was a privilege to host such an outstanding panel of experts.
“The combination of topics complemented each other, with each presenter sharing valuable insights, practical advice and realistic strategies families could apply at home,” she said.
gram has proven equally popular, with most sessions already sold out and only limited spots remaining across the weekend.
Festival buses are also running as a green transport option, but these have also now sold out.
“From a suburban backyard to a working winery garden, these two spaces show just how adaptable and creative food growing can be,” says festival organiser Trevor Paddenburg. “They’re packed with practical ideas, but also really capture the joy of growing — whether it’s for your family, your community or even a local restaurant.”
Tickets remain at 2025 prices, with single-day open garden tickets $20 (free for children 16 and under) and workshops $25.
With both days of open gardens selling fast and the festival having sold out for the past four years, early booking is recommended via www.ediblegardensfestival.au, where the full program is available.
Gardener Eve Franssen at Snake and Herring Winery (left), where she produces organic food for the Yarri Restaurant team; and Rose and Adam’s Margaret River garden (right). Photos: Trevor Paddenburg
Hands-on initiative to support farmers
DAIRY farming is a tough industry. And it’s hard to do it alone.
But what if you had nine of the best farmers in the South West, plus nationally recognised farming experts, working alongside you for the next year?
Just imagine how powerful that shared thinking power could be.
e Lower Blackwood LCDC is inviting 10 farmers to join ‘Dirt to Dairy’, a dedicated dairy peer group. is group will be part of the national Dairy Resilience project, designed to strengthen dairy farm resilience through shared experience, expert input and real-world practice. is project is jointly funded through Soils for Life and the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust.
But this is not a typical workshop series.
Participants will walk paddocks together, discuss real challenges and get direct input from both fellow farmers and industry experts.
Each host farm becomes a learning centre, with the group working through what’s happening on the ground and what could be done differently.
Lower Blackwood LCDC Executive O cer Joanna Wren said the program is built around practical, on-farm value.
“Farmers are making decisions every day, o en on their own,” she said.
“ is program gives you the opportunity to test your thinking, hear what others would do, and get expert input at the same time.
But ultimately, it’s all about building better, more resilient and more productive and pro table dairy farms.”
Participants will also have access to a local demonstration site, where di erent approaches to soil health and pasture management will be trialled side by side, including control and treatment areas.
“It allows farmers to see the out-
comes for themselves before trying something new on their own property,” explained Jo.
e program focuses on improving soil health, boosting pasture performance, managing water use and improving feed quality.
Participants will also receive subsidised plant and tissue testing, supporting more informed fertiliser management decisions.
Time commitment e peer group will take part in a series of small group sessions, including on-farm visits and eld days, with ongoing support from local experts.
is local program is backed by a national series of webinars, practical guides and podcasts, along with the sharing of insights from experts and peers across Australia.
“ ere’s no doubt that the peer program will demand a time commitment, but it’s designed to deliver real value,” explained Jo.
“ e bene t is multi-layered –participants have local, boots-onthe-ground advice, plus an ongoing support network from dairy farmers and experts across the country.”
is is a free program, but places are strictly limited to allow for meaningful discussion and practical outcomes.
Dairy farmers interested in being part of the Dairy Resilience program’s Dirt to Dairy peer group are encouraged to register their interest on the Lower Blackwood LCDC website at www.lowerblackwood. com.au/projects/dairy-resilience or contact joanna.wren@lowerblackwood.com.au
RESIDENTS have raised concerns about a proposed 12-bay service station development in Cowaramup, with public submissions on the application closing this Friday.
e development applicationproposes a service station and convenience store development on the corner of Peake Street and Bussell Highway.
e proposal includes a 234sqm retail building, a central forecourt canopy with 12 refuelling bays, eight vehicle parking bays, two vehicle access crossovers from Peake Street, bicycle parking, landscaping, and an air and water bay.
Operating hours are expected to be between 6am to 10pm daily, with two to three employees expected onsite.
e application is being assessed through the Development Assessment Panel (DAP) process, meaning the nal decision will be made by the DAP, rather than the Shire itself.
However, the Shire is currently seeking community feedback to help prepare its Responsible Authority Report.
“Under the State’s planning reforms, if a development is valued over $2million, the landowner or developer can opt to have it assessed by the Development As-
sessment Panel (DAP) – which is what has occurred in this case,” Augusta Margaret River Shire President, Julia Jean-Rice told the Mail this week.
“We have no say on whether a project is assessed this way.”
“Our role in this process is to provide advice and recommendations, and write the Responsible Authority Report (RAR), but the application won’t formally go before Council, and the nal decision will rest with the DAP panel.”
DAP panels are comprised of ve members appointed by the Minister for Planning: three specialist technical experts and two local government councillors.
Ms Jean-Rice said it was important that locals shared their views through the Your Say portal, to inform the Shire’s recommendation to the panel.
“We recognise our community feels very strongly about this proposal and we’re committed to keeping everyone informed and involved,” she said.
“We’ll share the details of the DAP meeting once they are conrmed, so residents can make verbal presentations directly to the decision-makers.”
Nearby residents say they are concerned about tra c safety, pedestrian access, parking shortfalls
and environmental impacts associated with the proposal.
One resident said the development could signi cantly increase tra c movements on Peake Street, which is used by families and school children accessing Cowaramup Primary School and the nearby oval.
Residents have also questioned whether su cient supporting technical documents have been made publicly available as part of the assessment process, including tra c studies, tanker turning diagrams and environmental assessments.
e Cowaramup Precinct Plan 2026–2036 identi es the Peake Street and Waverley Road intersection as a pedestrian safety priority, with some residents arguing the proposed access points could con ict with those objectives.
Key planning matters to be assessed include consistency with the Cowaramup Village Centre Design Guidelines, setbacks to sensitive land uses, streetscape impacts, and alignment with the objectives of the Town Centre zone under Local Planning Scheme No.1.
Community submissions close at 4pm on Friday, May 15.
Visit yoursay.amrshire.wa.gov. au/development-applications to nd out more.
The proposal includes a 234sqm retail building, a central forecourt canopy with 12 refuelling bays, eight vehicle parking bays,
crossovers from Peake Street, bicycle parking, landscaping, and an
Hi there!
Nina’s Jewellery has seen a lot over the years and I’ve been reminiscing…
We were the first-ever jewellery store in Kununurra, the first to purchase Argyle diamonds, and one of just thirty jewellers in the world to be recognised as Argyle Pink Diamond Select Ateliers™. We’ve made it through the global financial crisis, Covid, the closing of the Argyle Mine, store openings and closures, good friends coming and going - and more!
Through it all, one vital thing has remained the same - YOU! That is, all you wonderful people who’ve stopped in for a chat, shared stories with us, and in some cases, left with a Nina’s piece to call your own.
You‘ve included us in countless weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and unique family traditionsinviting us into your lives to help add a little bit of sparkle to moments worth remembering. It’s our privilege to be a part of the family!
Other heroes of this story are our wonderful staff members. Over the last sixty years we’ve had some extraordinary people in our small business (locals just like you and me) and they’ve been some of the most passionate people you’ll ever meet (If you’ve met them, I’m sure you know what I mean!). I can honestly say that Nina’s would not be what it is today without these gems and their precious contributions.
So, as we celebrate 60 years of incredible sparkle, we don’t want to do it without all of you!
This month you’re all invited to visit and celebrate with us in-store.
Come in for a free jewellery cleaning, a special treat or two, and just maybe a new sparkly treasure (don’t worry, I’ve made sure the best stuff is half price)! The drinks are on mewe don’t let fuel costs get in the way of a good time!
Cheers to another 60!
Steve Turner
Steve Turner, Master Jeweller & Nina’s Jewellery CEO
Did you know?
When we started as Kununurra's first jewellery store back in the sixties, our name was Djaaru Gems. ( This was 15 years before they found diamonds at Argyle! )
Colour me happy!
Purple, orange, apricot, green, yellow, pink, champagne, white...
Some of the pieces in our birthday-edit have so many colours in them, we had to change our systems to accommodate them all!
The HALF PRICE birthday edit is live until 31/05/2026. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.
Centrepoint Shopping Centre, Dunn Bay Rd, Dunsborough
You should check out…
Invoice #0001 from the Argyle Diamond Mine.
As the proud holders of this historic record we have it, and more Nina's history on display in-store this month.
Most of the pieces we selected for our birthday-edit are designed to be a party on the hand!
Each is one-of-a-kind; constellations of natural, coloured diamonds along with a showcase of white diamonds. We filled it out with a few of our personal favourite designs we just haven't had a chance to make a fuss of before now!
You’re all invited to visit and celebrate with us in-store this month. Come in for a free jewellery cleaning and a special treat or two We'd love to see you!
Shop the birthday-edit online now
ere is a last time for everything — a nal brushstroke, a nal canvas stretched, a moment when your hands can no longer do what they once did.
Anwen Handmer understood this when she sat down at the piano to write.
She knew her ability to perform, like her ability to paint, would shi with time.
So she captured it: ten songs, recorded in this moment, before the next transition arrived...
is weekend, Anwen will launch her debut album, Gold Like Yours, at gallery ths in Margaret River.
e evening will feature the premieres of two music videos, an artist talk, and an exhibition of 17 un nished paintings — works she describes as her “Miss Havisham’s House”: tragic, absurd and unresolved, yet still deeply tied to an important part of her life.
Anwen is a visual artist and songwriter living with muscular dystrophy, a neuromuscular condition that a ects her ability to do physical tasks.
As creating tangible art became more di cult, she turned to the piano and her voice.
“When I began songwriting, I was aware that my ability to perform, like my ability to paint, would also change over time,” Anwen shared.
“My work has become a practice of transition, shaped by attention, adaptation and a sense of what remains and endures.”
Anwen’s creative life began with painting.
Early on, she exhibited alongside Jo and Genny Broadhurst at Margaret River Art Galleries, where their generous support — along with that of other WA collectors — gave her a strong foundation.
From there, she moved to London, where she completed a Master’s in Visual Art at e Slade, later exhibiting in Bloomberg New Contemporaries and the Saatchi
collection.
When Anwen returned to Australia, she was raising her young daughter.
She was not yet using a wheelchair, but her mobility was already signi cantly a ected.
By the time her daughter was old enough for Anwen to return to work, she had lost a great deal of strength.
As painting became physically harder too, she knew she would need to adapt, and hoped she could.
What she did not expect was that this adaptation would open the door to an entirely new passion: songwriting.
“Songwriting for me was born out of need, not ability,” Anwen said.
“Shi ing from painting was humbling, exhilarating and frustrating.
“It completely destroyed my ego and probably annoyed the neighbours — and a few nearby households — with my loud practice sessions, but I was hooked!
“And I had stories I needed to tell.
“ e thing that never le me was the need to make art, to make sense of the mess and magic of lived experience.”
With support from Creative Australia, Anwen spent much of 2025 in the recording studio with producers Noah Shilkin and Ethan French.
e project was about capturing these songs while she still could, before her ability to perform changed further.
Writing and performing with piano and voice has now grown more di cult, so the recording process gave Anwen room to work in different ways.
On some tracks, she recorded piano and vocals separately; on others, she is captured sitting at the piano and singing.
She recorded the album with internationally respected musician, artist and producer Noah Shilkin — a former Margaret River local who once ran his production company, Lollybox, from the region — and fellow artist and producer Ethan French.
“It has been an incredible priv-
ilege to work with Noah and his brilliant fellow artist-producer, Ethan,” Anwen said.
“ eir support and enthusiasm for this project have been truly humbling.”
Promoting an album through the usual channels — touring and live performance — is more complex for Anwen as a disabled artist.
e idea to pair the launch with an exhibition came from Shayne Hadley at gallery ths.
“I’m a visual artist foremost, and my approach to songwriting is much the same as my approach to painting,” Anwen said.
“Bringing those art forms together like this, in Margaret River, where it all began, feels right to me. Together, the work tells another story, one that helps frame the whole, which feels incredible to me.”
Anwen completely trusts Shayne, and Merinda Garrett with their vision.
“What they are doing at gallery ths is exciting,” she said.
“ ey have created the kind of place that is essential for contemporary art to thrive in any community, whether regional or urban.”
Gold Like Yours tells the tale of Anwen’s creative journey, a shi from visual art to music that does not pretend to neatly resolve the struggles along the way.
“My lived experience is messy
and un nished, but that’s o en where unexpected beauty — gold — appears,” Anwen shared.
“Absurdly gorgeous and deeply human, those moments carve themselves into the soul. I feel deeply honoured to share that story through this exhibition.”
Two music videos — Brave and Never Say Never — will also premiere, created in collaboration with lmmaker Rodney Stratton and dancer-choreographer Holly Carter.
Rather than performing the songs live, Anwen will speak about the work and introduce the album.
Released in full on 16 May, Gold Like Yours will be available across all streaming platforms.
Inspired by artists including Low, Mazzy Star and Sascha Ring, the album nds beauty and richness in unexpected places — much like the paintings that accompany it.
“ is show is for anyone who has faced challenges they didn’t ask for, and who gets wildly excited when surprised by joy!”
Gold Like Yours opens at 6pm on Saturday, 16 May at gallery ths, and runs until 31 May.
Audiences are invited to come for the music, the art and the stories — and for the reminder that creativity nds a way, even when the path changes.
Especially then….
Unfinished portrait of Alba, oil on ply, 2025, by Anwen Handmer.
Portrait of Anwen Handmer: Photography by Tashi Hall
Released in full on 16 May, Gold Like Yours will be available across all streaming platforms.
The quiet force behind our community
ACROSS the Margaret River region, there’s a quiet force shaping community life every single day — volunteers.
From emergency services and school programs to festivals, sporting clubs and conservation projects, much of what we enjoy simply wouldn’t exist without people giving their time freely to help others.
It’s easy to take this for granted, but as one local volunteer leader puts it, “you can’t even contemplate what it would be like without them.”
e scale of volunteering in our region is remarkable. In the Augusta Margaret River Shire alone, around 4,600 volunteers contribute an estimated 1.7 million hours each year — the equivalent of more than $80 million in value.
But the true impact goes well beyond economics.
Volunteers strengthen community ties, support mental wellbeing and create opportunities for connection.
For many, it’s also deeply personal — a way to meet people, learn new skills or simply feel part of something bigger.
Carl Holroyd from the Busselton Dunsborough Volunteer Centre says people volunteer for many reasons.
“New people moving into the area love to volunteer because they make new connections,” he said For people who have had a work-
place injury that’s laid them o for a couple of years, it’s a great way of getting reconnected back into activities,”
“ e health impacts are fully researched, and they show that people who volunteer don’t get as sick as easily, the mental health aspects are immense,” said Mr Holroyd. “Feeling a part of something is one of the biggest payo s for volunteering.”
One of the biggest misconceptions about volunteering is that it requires a major time commitment.
In reality, opportunities are more exible than ever.
From helping out at a one-o event to spending a couple of hours a month, or even contributing online,
there are ways to get involved that suit almost any schedule.
“Even a small amount of time can make a di erence,” says Holroyd.
“Once people start, they o en nd they don’t want to stop.”
Local organisations are a powerful example of what volunteers can achieve together.
e Margaret River O -Road Cycling Association, known locally as MRORCA, has built and maintains a network of mountain bike trails that attract riders from across the region and beyond. What started as a small group of enthusiasts has grown into a structured organisation managing more than 50 trails on Crown land.
Members contribute countless hours maintaining tracks, running events and mentoring young riders — all while raising funds through memberships, sponsorship and community events.
“It’s a labour of love,” says MRORCA Chair, Damian Barton. “We’re riders ourselves, so we get to enjoy what we build.”
“We do feel that we are very lucky to have such good trails so close to town. at’s really what’s brought about the popularity of mountain biking, which has also helped tourism within the region.”
eir programs don’t just maintain infrastructure — they build skills, con dence and pathways for young-
er generations.
Volunteering isn’t just for retirees or those with spare time later in life. Across the region, young people are stepping up and making a di erence.
Seventeen-year-old Izzy Forte is one of them.
Named Youth Volunteer of the Year by the Augusta Margaret River Shire in 2025, Izzy has been actively involved in youth programs and community events.
rough initiatives like Rec Connect — a program designed to give young people a safe, social space — she’s helped organise activities, support participants and create a welcoming environment.
“I’ve made so many new friends and feel more connected to the community,” Izzy said. “It’s just a really great feeling to be part of something
and help out.”
Her experience has even led to paid employment — demonstrating how volunteering can open doors as well as strengthen community.
For those new to the region, volunteering is one of the quickest ways to meet people and feel at home.
For others, it’s a way to stay active, give back or try something new.
And while motivations di er, the outcome is the same: stronger, more connected communities.
Because in our region, volunteering isn’t just something people do, it’s what makes this place work.
FOR many visitors to the Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival, the festival experience does not begin in a theatre or auditorium.
It begins amongst the shelves of the Margaret River Bookshop.
Owned and operated by Pauline and Keith McLeod, the independent bookstore has become one of the South West’s most recognisable literary spaces, playing a longstanding role in supporting local readers, visiting authors and the region’s thriving writing community.
e family-run business has deep roots in Margaret River, with the McLeod family’s connection to the area stretching back generations.
Over the years, the shop has evolved into far more than simply a place to buy books.
From author talks and launches to community conversations and literary events, the bookstore has become a gathering place for readers and writers alike — particularly during the annual Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival.
As the festival’s onsite bookseller at the Margaret River HEART Festival HQ, the McLeods and their dedicated team help connect audiences directly with authors, stocking featured titles and facilitating signings throughout the event.
Festivalgoers regularly queue to meet writers and purchase signed
copies, with the festival bookshop becoming a bustling hub of conversation and discovery during the multi-day celebration.
Keith has also played a visible role in the festival beyond the shop oor, including co-hosting the ‘Happy Endings’ series on Radio Margaret River, alongside past festival director, Sian Baker.
“We’ve been involved for eighteen years, and hope to be for many more,” Keith McLeod re ected.
While locations have changed over the years, the South West’s passionate arts and literature community have overcome challenges and setbacks to create what is now one of the region’s most beloved annual events.
“It rained at Voyager one year, but it was pretty cool with all the
big white marquees and Germaine Greer squeezed into a corner of our tent, signing books,” Keith recalled.
“Every year, I think of Heather Locke and her passion for getting it rolling,” he continued, noting the trials and tests which have been ably handled by a long list of leaders and volunteers.
“ ere are challenges that begin as a kind of mirage...like the shape of authors moving amongst clouds.
“And then, you have to make them real, they have to be there, on a stage in our town.
“Coaxing, cajoling, imploring... it’s all part of ‘throwing out the net’ to drag them in! “
Festival organisers describe the bookstore as “one of the bedrocks of the literary community in Margaret River”, re ecting its longstanding contribution to the cultural life of the town.
“ at’s an exciting part of it: adding a tiny Bookshop ingredient to the powerful mix that Arts Margaret River put together,” Keith said.
Pauline agreed, saying the Bookshop team felt “really lucky” to work alongside the Arts Margaret River team and volunteers.
“ e Bookshop crew is always on the lookout for potential high prole Australian and international authors, particularly through connections we make with guest authors at the annual Australian Booksellers
Association Conference,” she said.
“It is totally rewarding to help deliver to our community, the festival and other year-round events that encourage literacy, conversation and connection.
“ e festival has become such a special part of our Bookshop lifein fact, former sta members love to come back to help over the festival weekend.”
e McLeods are well known for their highly personal approach to bookselling, with many customers relying on their recommendations and knowledge of Australian literature, regional authors and emerging writers.
eir support of the festival and
broader literary community has helped cement the bookstore’s reputation as an important cultural institution in the South West.
“It’s a great community event, and Arts Margaret River can be proud,” Keith said.
“ e Festival is a journey, a voyage!”
Meet Keith, Pauline and the Bookshop team at the Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival, which kicks o on Friday in Margaret River, Busselton and venues across the Capes region. For the full programme, tickets and information on free events for the whole family, visit www.mrrwfestival.com
Keith McLeod recalls many of the challenges and special moments over 18 years of the festival. All photos: Daniela Tommasi Photography
Pauline McLeod puts a special emphasis on encouraging authors to travel to the South West for the festival, promoting the event and the region to the many writers she meets through the publishing industry.
WHAT’S ON
LECTURE
Preparation of the University of the Third Age Margaret River (U3A) Semester 2 program of almost thirty long and short courses is nearing completion. The Program will be viewable at www.u3amr.org.au/courses as of July 20, with enrolments opening on Monday July 27 on-line at 11.30 am, and in-person at The HEART from 11.30 am to 1.00 pm.
Semester 2 2026 course enrolment will be available online at https:// u3amr.org.au/members from Monday July 27 on-line at 11.30 am and inperson at the HEART from 11.30 am to 1.00 pm where you can pay with cash, cheque, or credit card.
For those who have not paid their membership for 2026, the fee for the remainder of the year is only $25 with courses costing either $10 or $15 each.
at Home
We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank our Board members, who generously give their time and
Your
The Margaret River Lions Club thanks the local community for its ongoing support and looks forward to welcoming visitors on opening day.
Margaret River Lions Club Announces Opening of New Car Parking Area
LOCAL ARTISTS IN WA SHOWCASE
FIVE artists from Margaret River HEART’s Radical Futures: Gathering Ground exhibition have been selected for inclusion in one of regional WA’s most significant contemporary art showcases, in a major endorsement of the region’s artistic strength and cultural voice.
Artists Jane Tangney, Yu-Hua Lan, Katharina Meister, Ruth Halbert and artist-curator Elisa Markes-Young will join 44 other artists in the Radical Futures exhibition at the John Curtin Gallery later this year.
The exhibition will coincide with the Regional Futures Summit, placing regional artists at the centre of a statewide conversation about identity, belonging, community and the future of regional life.
The selected artists were originally part of Gathering Ground at the HEART in January.
Curated by Elisa Markes-Young, the exhibition brought together 12 artists exploring themes of inclusion and exclusion, identity, power and the shifting meaning of home in an increasingly fragmented world.
At its heart was a central question: what would it take to create a “gathering
ground” where belonging is not a privilege, but a shared right?
The strong representation from the Margaret River exhibition is being seen as a significant recognition not only of the individual artists, but of the exhibition’s curatorial vision and the growing influence of regional artistic practice.
Organisers say the selection highlights the important role regional exhibitions play in shaping broader cultural conversations, particularly at a time when communities across Australia are grappling with climate pressures, mobility and increasing social fragmentation.
The works selected for Radical Futures contribute to a wider dialogue about how communities live together, create belonging and respond to change.
Additional South West artists have also been announced for inclusion in the statewide exhibition through other Radical Futures projects around WA.
They include Dwardinan Vivian Brockman Webb, Waljin Mitchella Hutchins, Elaine Clocherty and Martine Perret.
The statewide Radical Futures exhibition opens at John Curtin Gallery on September 17.
Giving back on the Track
NATURE Conservation Margaret River Region is celebrating a powerful new move by local ecotourism operator Cape to Cape Explorer Tours, which is turning every journey along the Cape to Cape Track into a direct investment in the region’s future.
rough a new partnership with Nature Conservation, the wellknown local hiking and ecotourism business is contributing $5 for every guest on its multi-day experiences to fund native tree planting across the region.
Guests can also amplify their impact, with options to contribute further — $5 for one tree, $25 for ve, or $100 for 20 trees.
e program directly funds locally grown native tube stock and on-ground planting, with sta from both organisations also getting involved in community planting days.
Cape to Cape Explorer Tours founder Gene Hardy said the initiative re ects a simple belief: tourism should leave places better than it found them.
“ is region gives so much to our guests — the wild coastline, ancient forests, and incredible biodiversity,” Mr Hardy said. “It’s only right that we invest in its future. is program is a simple, tangible way for every walker to leave a positive footprint behind.
“We’re seeing people really embrace that idea — not just walking
through nature, but helping in a small way to restore it.”
e initiative builds on Cape to Cape Explorer Tours’ strong sustainability track record, including two gold awards for ecotourism at the WA Tourism Awards.
Mr Hardy was also recognised as the inaugural Local Legend for his contribution to the region. eir accommodation base, Surfpoint Resort, has likewise been recognised for sustainability leadership and guest experience.
“ e Cape to Cape Track is one of the most spectacular coastal walks in the world. But what makes it truly special is the living landscape — the forests, the wildlife, the sense of wildness,” he said.
“If we want future generations to experience that, we all have a role to play.”
Nature Conservation CEO Aaron Jaggar said the initiative is a standout example of tourism and conservation working hand in hand.
“ is is exactly the kind of leadership we love to see,” he said. “Cape to Cape Explorer Tours is showing how tourism can be a force for regeneration, not just visitation.”
Mr Jaggar said the organisation is seeing growing momentum from businesses wanting to take meaningful climate and biodiversity action.
“We have a simple model ready to go for all types of businesses, wheth-
er they want to start small or go big, depending on the level of conservation impact they’re ready to make,” he said.
“We’d love to talk with any local operators who are curious about how they can be part of this movement.”
He said broader participation could signi cantly amplify restoration outcomes across the region.
“If more businesses step into this space, the collective impact for biodiversity and climate resilience could be enormous,” he said.
Nature Conservation is encouraging tourism operators, accommodation providers, wineries, and experience-based businesses across the region to explore how they too can embed practical, on-ground conservation into what they do and to get in touch if they want to partner with the conservation group.
Ask us about the Toyota Tundra today
Maximum vehicle braked towing capacity is subject to state and federal regulatory requirements. Before towing, customers should consider the vehicle’s limitations, including towing capacity specifications, gross vehicle mass (GVM), gross combined mass (GCM), kerb weight specified by the manufacturer, and ensure that individual front and rear axle load limits are not exceeded as also specified by the manufacturer. Vehicle payload calculation is GVM less kerb weight or as otherwise specified in the vehicle owner’s manual. Actual payload is affected by any added load to the vehicle, including the number of occupants, luggage, accessories, and tow ball download weight. It is important to consider the actual payload, to ensure the fully loaded vehicle remains within the specified GVM limits.For more details, please refer to the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual/ Toyota Basic Towing Guide or consult your authorised dealer. Toyota recommends use of a Load Distribution Hitch (LDH) when towing loads greater than 2.2T as specified in the Owner’s Manual. Based on road conditions, a LDH may not be suitable. Refer to Toyota Basic Towing Guide.
Maximum vehicle braked towing capacity is subject to state and federal regulatory requirements. Before towing, customers should consider the vehicle’s limitations, including towing capacity specifications, gross vehicle mass (GVM), gross combined mass (GCM), kerb weight specified by the manufacturer, and ensure that individual front and rear axle load limits are not exceeded as also specified by the manufacturer. Vehicle payload calculation is GVM less kerb
Toyota Genuine LDH sold separately at additional cost. Warranty conditions apply. Refer to Toyota Warranty Advantage Guide. Pre-production model shown.
Gene Hardy of Cape to Cape Explorer Tours.
The original exhibition featured Ana Brawls, Carmen Griffin, Cassandra Bynder, Elisa MarkesYoung and Ruth Halbert, Jane Tangney, Kate Alida Mullen, Katharina Meister, Michael Wise, Moritz Müller, Shelley McNab, Shayne Hadley and Yu-Hua Lan.
AUTUMN SALE
VALLETTA 3 SEATER WITH CHAISE
Elevated comfort meets timeless elegance in the Valletta 3 Seater with Chaise — a luxurious modular lounge designed for modern living with classic taste.
Upholstered in velvet, this statement piece brings a textural warmth to your home while offering the flexibility of a customisable configuration. Deep, plush cushions filled with high-density foam, a spring support system, and solid European beech wood legs combine to deliver next-level lounging without compromising on style.
Each modular section features refined tufted detailing, allowing you to rearrange and expand your seating as your space or lifestyle evolves.
This configuration features: 1 x 2 Seater with LHS or RHS Arm and 1 x RHS Chaise or LHS Chaise
Available in Mystique Fern (pictured) and Mystique Heritage.
3 SEATER WITH CHAISE $3998 SAVE $2800
ILIAD 2400 DINING TABLE
Crafted from New Zealand Pine, carefully cloaked in a Mortex decorative plaster finish, based on the natural materials of cement and lime. The Mortex finish is applied entirely by hand and delivers each table top with its own unique structure. Finished with varnish for added protection, resulting in a stunning table, with a stone-style finish.
Busselton Toyota
$15,990
2015 Hyundai i30 Active X 5 Door Hatch 1EUZ 771. Automatic transmission, 1.8Litre
$20,990 2017 Subaru Forester 2.5iL 4D Wagon BSN 64GA. Automatic transmission, 2.5Litre petrol, 152,961kms travelled, good service history and trade-ins welcome.
TOYOTA CERTIFIED
CLASSIFIEDS
O'DEA
Roslyn Lois
Passed away on 6th May 2026, aged 75.
Beloved Wife of Barry.
Loving Mother of Gemma and Krista and Mother-in-law of Justin and Charles.
Adored Nanna of Jayden, Joshua, Lucy and Mia.
Ros will be deeply missed by her family, friends and wider community.
In lieu of flowers, donations to River Angels would be greatly appreciated.
O'DEA
The Memorial Service for the late Mrs Roslyn Lois O'Dea of Margaret River will be held in Lumen Christi Church, 54 Blackwood Ave, AUGUSTA commencing at 11.00am on FRIDAY (15.05.2026). Roslyn's Service will be webcast via her tribute at barrettfunerals.com.au
SHEEP MANURE
MARGARET RIVER UNITING CHURCH 60 Tingle Avenue We are an inclusive and affirming church with a contemplative sprituality and a passion for social justice. Worship Sundays at 9:30 Meditation Thursdays 13:00 Intergen Playgroup Thursdays 9:30 www.margaretriverunitingchurch.org.au
Margaret River Sundays 10am 34 Station St Busselton Sundays 5.30pm 132 Caves Road www.surfsidechurch.org.au
MARGARET RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH
28 Tunbridge Street, Margaret River
Seeking to follow Jesus Christ, share the Good News and care for God's world. Weekly Sunday worship at 10am
All are welcome to connect with our vibrant family minded community. www.margaretriverbaptist.org.au www.facebook.com/margsbaps 9757 3881
Death Notices
Tidy win for the Hawks in Harvey
AUGUSTA Margaret River took down the Harvey Bulls at the Harvey Oval on Sunday afternoon, in round seven of the 2026 South West Football League season.
The final margin would be 43 points in favour of the Hawks, but that doesn’t give a true reflection of the match, with the Bulls leading for the second week in a row in the third term, taking the contest up to their much more fancied opponents.
After leading by a point at half time, the Bulls were only seven points down with four minutes remaining in the third quarter, before the Hawks blew the game open, with the final eleven scores of the game, keeping the Bulls scoreless in the final term.
Trailing by five points at quarter time, the Bulls took the challenge up to Augusta Margaret River in the second quarter, with good goals to Dylan Chatley and Zac Raykos.
Jacob Pickett put the Bulls 13 points in front late in the first half before two goals in the last two minutes to the Hawks, snuffed out the Bulls momentum, as the home side led by a solitary point at half time.
Jed Spence played a good game for the Hawks, and kicked three goals, including two in the second quarter, while Kieran Yakas and Quinn Donaldson also played well.
Dylan Marino played well in his milestone match along with Spence Wiggers and Jacob Orsi.
The Hawks are fourth on the ladder and will be at home in round eight, hosting Bunbury in what is now a massive match, while the Bulls will face Dunsborough in Dunsborough, as they search for their first win of the season.
Aug Marg River 12.12.84 def. Harvey 6.5.41
Collie Have Big Win Over Sharks
THE Collie Eagles played their best football for the season when they
recorded a big win over Dunsborough on Sunday afternoon.
The Eagles broke several records in the match including winning their first ever match at the Dunsborough Playing Fields, recording the biggest ever winning margin against Dunsborough, along with equalling their highest ever score against the Sharks.
In what has been a tough season for the Eagles who are still yet to play at home due to the playing surface, headed to Dunsborough to take on the Sharks, with both sides having one win each for the season.
In an even first quarter, Collie would lead by six points at quarter time. Collie would kick a spate of behinds to start the second term, before David Cowan eventually found the major opening, giving the Eagles a 16 point lead.
In a big quarter for the Eagles, they would kick five goals to one for the term, to make life difficult for the home side, with the margin 34 points.
The second half would be all Collie who would kick ten goals to three in the second half, kicking
seven goals in the final term, to record a 77 point victory.
The Eagles had multiple avenues to goal, with four players, Matt Burton, David Cowan, Mat Michael and Paul Rinder all kicking three goals, while Zac Pilatti and Corey Holmes played good games. Caleb Stephens who is having an outstanding season for the Sharks, was again amongst their best players.
The Eagles will face South Bunbury next Sunday at Hands Oval, while the Sharks will be at home again when they play the Harvey Bulls on the same day.
Collie 18.10.118 def. Dunsborough 6.5.41
Pies Hold On In Desperate Finish BUSSELTON defeated Harvey Brunswick Leschenault by three points at Brunswick Oval on Sunday afternoon.
In a match that won’t go down in the annals of history, Busselton controlled the match for three quarters, courtesy of an excellent first quarter.
The Lions though, never were more than five goals out of the
contest, and the match ended 30m from goal with a ball up, after a kick into the forward line required a mark with five seconds remaining, with the ball coming to ground and was bottled up by the Magpie defence just as the siren sounded.
Busselton looked likely to blow the game wide open, kicking four goals in a nine minute period, before Robbie Turnbull gave the home side something to cheer about.
It would be short lived, as Liam Creighton then kicked his second goal for the term, as the Magpies led by twenty four points at quarter time.
Ben Ganzer gave the Magpies a five goal lead early in the second term before the Lions started to claw their way back into the contest. From there the game became a grind, with both sides making mistakes and at one stage the ball was kicked 40m in the wrong direction, leading to a last disposal out of bounds which led to a Lions goal.
Bronson Martin and Riley Preece kicked two quick goals mid term and when John Manuel goaled towards the end of the term, the margin was back to just eleven points.
Liam Creighton and Ryan Ekert kicked long range goals to start the third term, and at this stage Busselton again looked to have the game under control.
Blake Soulos and Jarrad Humphries would kick to clever goals
to again reduce the margin, but a late goal to Alexander Steed gave Busselton a twenty point lead with a quarter to play.
Bronson Martin gave the home fans some hope with an early goal, and when John Manuel and Ty Anderson both converted within three minutes of one another, the margin was three points with eleven minutes to play.
Remarkably there was no further score with the ball going from end to end and as time ran down, the stakes got more desperate.
With 25 seconds remaining the ball was in the Lions defensive end of the field, before a passage of play along the members wing transferred the ball into their forward line as the siren sounded. A thrilling finish to a game that didn’t reach many highlights on a beautiful Autumn day, in front of a big crowd.
Busselton remain undefeated and will face Donnybrook at Sir Stewart Bovell Park in round eight, while the Lions have the bye, with two wins from seven matches with four consecutive losses by 15 points to Bunbury, six points to South Bunbury, eight points to Augusta Margaret River and this weekend’s loss to Busselton.
In round nine they face Donnybrook at VC Mitchell Park in a match they must win.
Busselton 9.8.62 def. Harv Bruns Lesch 9.5.59
Longboarders rise to the challenge
THE Indian Ocean Longboard Club (IOLC) held its third club round of 2026 on Saturday, May 2, at Yallingup Beach.
Once again, members were fortunate to enjoy a contest at one of the south west’s iconic longboarding locations.
While conditions weren’t as pristine as the club’s previous round in March, there was still a solid run of contestable waves throughout the day.
A southerly wind and small swell persisted for much of the morning, but competitors rose to the challenge, showcasing impressive longboarding performances
across all divisions. Sponsored by Aravina Estate and The Board Store, the day attracted 45 competitors. Presentations were later held at the WA Surf Gallery,
curated by several IOLC members.
The gallery provided a unique opportunity to reflect on the rich surfing history of the south west, with
an impressive collection of memorabilia celebrating the foundations of the sport in the region.
The club was grateful to make the most of the favour-
able weather and another successful contest day.
Winners of the Gill Warman Memorial Handicap included Andrew Bland, Vinnie Williams –who also celebrated his birthday on the day– Ryan Clark, Ed Bramich and Michelle SoaresMendes. Ryan Clark earned recognition for recording the highest scoring wave of the event.
The club’s junior surfers were another standout, with Ryder, Wahnu, Sunny, Lola, Kai, Charlie, Jack and Liam all braving the tricky conditions while enjoying a great day in the water with mates.
Amy Blakemore was also
warmly celebrated as she returned to competition for the first time after becoming a new mum.
Several IOLC members are now preparing to compete in the upcoming WA Longboard Titles later this month.
The club is also looking ahead to its next club round on June 20, as well as the annual Yallingup Malibu Classic at the end of the year.
We would like to thank our committee and volunteers who do a wonderful job ensuring our competitions run smoothly, as well as Andrew Kenworthy and Mick Marlin for taking memorable photos.
The Harvey Bulls took a slim lead in the first half of the game before the Hawks fired back to take the win by 43 points. Photo: JLG Photographics
It was heartbreak at home for the Dunsborough Sharks with a 77 point loss to the Collie Eagles on Sunday. Photo: JLG Photographics
Handicap division winners at the presentations at the WA Surf Gallery. Photo thanks to Mick Marlin.
Backflips and hat tricks in Round 2
FOOTBALL MARGARET RIVER
Round 2 brought another stunning day of sunshine, smiles and plenty of great soccer across the region.
While the scoreboard didn’t always go FMR’s way, the spirit, teamwork and sportsmanship on display certainly did.
U7 Lightning
Lightning played a strong defensive first half before lifting their attack after the break.
Everly McNie earned Player of the Day from Golf Gardens for her toughness, bouncing back after taking two close-range hits to the face.
U7 Shadows
The Shadows showed fantastic energy against the Mambas, with strong defence, great saves and plenty of goals.
Excellent sportsmanship all round.
U8 Falcons
The Falcons faced the polished Ninjas in a spirited local derby.
Eleanor impressed in her first game, while Ashton claimed Player of the Day for his powerful midfield runs.
U8 Breakers
The Breakers showed excellent improvement against the Dunsborough Stingrays with strong teamwork in attack and defence.
Dylan and Daisy earned Players of the Match thanks to their hard running, tackles and passing.
U9 Magic
Magic travelled to Busselton for a tough clash
against the GMAS Wolves.
Led by captain Mason, the team played smart, composed football under pressure.
Austin impressed in his first game, while goalkeeper Remi earned Player of the Day after a string of courageous saves.
U9 Messi Kids
Messi Kids delivered an exciting win over the CSC Comets, with Quinn, Jack and Luke all finding the net.
Max worked tirelessly throughout the match, while Quinn earned Player of the Week after scoring multiple goals.
U10 Mavericks
With no substitutes available, the Mavericks worked tirelessly in Capel.
George scored a first-half hat trick, while River’s positioning and passing helped link the team beautifully.
Players of the Match were George Gray and River Yates.
U11 Hornets
The newly named Hornets secured a win after strong attacking football from Dylan, Declan and Chase. Kai earned Player of the Day after scoring a brilliant goal.
U11 Dragons
The Dragons put their training focus into action with improved passing, scanning and teamwork against Dunsborough Fire.
Birthday boy Jedd celebrated with a strong performance and a goal to claim Player of the Day.
U11 Serpents
The Serpents played a high-energy match against Dunsborough Lightning.
Finn starred in defence, while Elsie earned Player of the Day for her outstanding work both in defence and goals.
U12 Storm
Storm impressed in a hard-fought derby, scoring two outstanding second-half goals.
Billy Bebbington and Alex Griffiths-Varin shared Player of the Day honours.
U13 Breakers
The Breakers drew 1-1 with Capel Wolves in a tight contest.
Cohen was outstanding in defence, while Zoe impressed at both ends of the field.
U15 Rockets
The Rockets secured a dominant 7-1 win, with Tommy scoring a hat trick and earning Player of the Match.
Strong midfield control from Alby and solid teamwork capped off an excellent performance.
U15 Warriors
The Warriors fought out an entertaining draw with Dunsborough Mariners. Nigel celebrated a goal with a backflip, while Kalani earned Player of the Day for his clever play.
U17 Mustangs
The Mustangs battled hard against Hay Park in a much tighter game than the final score suggested.
Kai and Jarrah stood out defensively, with the team showing plenty of intensity and determination throughout.
