AFTER 32 years behind the scenes (and o en out the front, mid-conversation) Margaret River Mitre 10’s Paul ‘Browny’ Brown is hanging up the high-vis.
And while he might insist he was “just scanning a few products” when he rst stepped into management, anyone who’s crossed paths with Paul knows that couldn’t be further from the truth.
His time at the store tells a much bigger story.
One of growth, community, loyalty, and the kind of everyday connection that turns a hardware shop into something far more meaningful.
Paul rst joined the business more than three decades ago under Lloyd and Anne Shepherdson, starting out as a truck driver working with plasterboard.
Eighteen years ago, he stepped into the manager’s role - a move he admits he initially underestimated.
“I thought it would be quite easy,” he laughs. “But it was far from the case.”
What followed was nearly two decades of leadership that helped shape the store into what it is today.
When he took the reins, the team sat at around 30 sta .
Today, it’s grown to more than 60 across the week - a re ection not just of business success, but of a workplace people wanted to be part of.
Alongside long-time co-manager Noelene Wilcox, ‘PB’ helped guide the store to numerous state and national awards across both the Home Hardware and Mitre 10 groups, achievements he’s quick to credit to the people around him.
“ e sta have been amazing… that’s why I came to work every day,” he says.
But ask Paul what mattered most, and the answer comes quickly: the community.
More than a place to pick up tools or timber, the store became, in his eyes, a meeting place.
A hub where conversations stretched well beyond shopping lists, and where a quick visit could easily turn into a 20-minute “wongi” out the front.
“Half the time, people forget what they came in for,” he says. at sense of connection extended far beyond the store’s doors.
Paul speaks with pride about supporting local groups, working alongside suppliers, and stepping up during di cult times - particularly during the devastating bush res that impacted Prevelly, when the business and its networks rallied to help however they could.
“It shows we’re all in it together,” he says.
Over the years, he’s also watched generations pass through the store, from young locals on gap years to quali ed tradies returning years later.
“It’s such a buzz to see them living life and doing their trade.”
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Browny
story without a bit of mischief.
Among his favourite memories is the now-infamous Mitre 10 cow — a life-sized model that, thanks to a hidden remote, would unexpectedly pu smoke from its rear to the delight (and shock) of unsuspecting customers.
“We used to wait until people were right behind it… then press the button,” he grins. “It was an absolute crack up.”
It’s moments like these, with equal parts humour and heart, that have cemented Paul as something of a local character.
A man who arrived in town knowing no one, and leaves with a nickname, a reputation, and more connections than he can count.
“Everyone calls me the Lord Mayor,” he jokes. “Everyone knows me.”
As Paul steps away, the store enters a new chapter under manager Lockie Hill, who is already earning praise as he takes on the role.
But the foundations laid over the past three decades in the business’s culture, in care, and in community spirit,
remain rmly in place.
Former owner Lloyd Shepherdson says Paul’s impact is impossible to overstate.
“It was the team of Paul and Noelene Wilcox that took the business to numerous award-winning accolades,” he said.
“Paul is a people’s person who values his sta and customers alike.
“He is very supportive and thoughtful of the community in which we live and rely on for our joint future and success.
“Paul is certainly a man of action — with sometimes management having
to slow and moderate things down a little!”
As for what comes next, Paul is keeping things open. But one thing is certain, he won’t be a stranger.
A er all, you don’t spend 32 years at the heart of a community without becoming part of its fabric.
And while the doors of Mitre 10 will keep opening each morning, there will always be a familiar absence — no doubt felt somewhere between the front counter, the timber yard, and the spot out front where conversations tend to linger just a little longer than planned.
Six day search for missing dog ends with Reefa’s safe return to Perth family
A FOUR-YEAR-OLD German Shepherd is back where he belongs after a week-long ordeal that captured the heart of the South West.
Reefa went missing from Canebrake Pool in Treeton on April 28 while holidaying with owners Mandy and Dave Hays, sparking an immediate and emotional search through dense
bushland.
“It was honestly one of the scariest feelings we’ve had,” the family said, describing days of panic, exhaustion and uncertainty.
As the days passed, the toll deepened, with li le sleep and no clear leads.
But what began as a desperate search soon became a remarkable community e ort.
Social media posts spread quickly, drawing in volunteers from across Margaret River, Busselton, Nannup and beyond.
Locals joined the hunt on foot, bikes and paddleboards, while others brought drones, thermal scopes and communications equipment. A helicopter was also deployed to search from above, as the search expanded across the region.
After days of uncertainty, a breakthrough came on Monday morning when a local resident reported a German Shepherd sighting near Chapman Hill on social media.
The response was immediate, with the family and searchers racing to the area.
Reefa was soon located and safely reunited with his owners after seven days on the run.
Tim's market knowledge insured we had 8 independent offers after just 1 week of advertising.
After accepting the most competitive offer we hit a glitch at our end with council approval required for an aspect of the property. This delay in settlement could have seen our offer fall over - not in Tim's hands!
He shepherded us and the buyers through this process with a completely calm and professional manner at all times.
Thanks to Tim we settled and achieved a sales outcome beyond our expectations!
A check at Margaret River Vet Hospital found him in good condition, with no injuries and only minor weight loss.
The family has since expressed deep gratitude to the many people who stepped in to help, describing the support as overwhelming.
For the full story, visit our Facebook page facebook.com/ amrmail.
Paul ‘Browny’ Brown (centre) at one of the celebratory events to mark his retirement from Margaret River Mitre 10 after a massive 32 years at the business.
Paul Brown embraced the community spirit in many ways- including donning bright pink feathers and snazzy purple underwear for important store fundraisers.
Alongside past owners (left) Anne and Lloyd Shepherdson, and co-manager Noelene Willcox, Paul guided the store to many awards and achievements for their sales, standards and service.
Ten years of toasty winter wonders
THE program has landed for the 2026 installment of the region’s annual Cabin Fever Festival, with a series of cosy events and delicious destinations to make the most of winter in the South West.
is year marks ten years of the festival, which puts venues, wineries, breweries, makers and producers together to deliver quirky, unique events with a distinctly South West vibe.
Festival Director Erin Molloy said Cabin Fever 2026 would make sticking around in the South West for winter a worthwhile proposition.
“We are so proud that each year this event gets bigger and better, celebrating all the incredible venues and producers that our unique region has to o er.
“To reach 10 years is a dream, we thank all of the punters who keep coming back to Cabin Fever each year and all of the local businesses who jump on board to make the event what it is.
“ e event’s success is only possible with their support.”
Past favourites returning to the 2026 lineup include Beerfarm’s popular Blazing Brews bon re event, while Hair of the Tru e Dog o ers the chance to pull on your boots and follow - with bubbles
in hand, of course - the Margaret River Tru e Farm’s clever hunting dogs as they sni out some prized tru es.
One event sure to sell fast is the annual Cheese Toastie Battle, pitting chefs against each other in a ve-sandwich ght for toasty success, this year to be held at Strange Brew Wine Bar in Cowaramup.
New experiences include the collaboration between de’sendent’s Evan Hayter and Hearth’s Brian Cole for a special edition of the restaurant’s signature dinner service.
Across two intimate evenings, the pair will collaborate on a seasonal, produce-led menu built
around the best local ingredients, with thoughtful beverage pairings.
e Grove Distillery and Cassia Fremantle will partner for e Distiller’s Table, a reside feast for lovers of bold avours and handcra ed spirits.
Discover the story behind each whisky, with a guided tasting by head distiller Shannon Grigg, and a vibrant menu made to complement each pour as well as cocktails from the bar mixed with the distillery’s signature spirits and housemade liqueurs.
Margaret River’s Normal Van is serving up a hit of nostalgia on the Main Street with FAST.FOOD. FANCY Express Edition.
Chefs Rob Webster and Blaze Young (Foxtrot Unicorn and Edward & Ida’s) are behind a roaming line-up of elevated throwback snacks, from bite-sized canapés to ame-kissed eats o the hibachi, with funky retro cocktails and pours from Jess Waldron’s Jingalup Wines.
Five years in, and Dunsborough’s Lady Lola is serving up her greatest hits for one night only.
You’ll get all the dishes and pours that have earned the venue a cult following, with dishes by chef Michelle Forbes ( e Ritz-Carlton Sydney, Rockpool) and a wine list from sommelier Marinela Antonic.
And there’s something for the live music fans.
A er touring the world for the past ve years, energetic four-piece e Jungle Giants return to stages down under with their h studio album, ‘Experiencing Feelings of Joy’.
ey will be supported by up and comers e Tullamarines and Tear Drive at Shelter Brewing Co. Tickets for more than 40 events on the 2026 program go on sale from 9am today, Wednesday May 6. Cabin Fever Festival is supported by the State Government through Tourism Western Australia’s Regional Events Program, the City of Busselton, Shire of Augusta Margaret River, and Endeavour Foods
LEFT: Blaze Young and Rob Webster will team up at Normal Van for FAST.FOOD.FANCY in Margaret
Broad beans and big green dreams in May
It’s time to plant broad beans.
I wasn’t a fan until I learnt how to prepare them properly.
It’s all in the double shelling, rst removing them from their pods, then give them a quick steam to a minute maximum, then remove the second pale coloured outer skin.
ey should come out of that skin a vibrant, almost uorescent, green.
Stick blend for a few seconds, add salt and pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice. Yum.
What else to plant in May?
Broccoli, kale, all cabbage varieties, all Asian greens, celery, cauli, lettuce, chard, all peas including snow peas, and there’s still plenty of time to get your garlic in the ground.
What to fertilise?
You would know by now I’m a fan of feeding the soil, rather than an individual plant.
at said, I still give my citrus a feed in May. But I also add composted organic matter to all beds, and tend to clean out the worm farms too, adding a layer of castings and waiting for the rain to help disperse it into the soil.
Many of the stone fruits are heading into dormancy so those I leave alone.
What pests to attend to? Rats will start to get very active as the temperature drops and they seek indoor spaces to stay warm.
Dispose of them as you see t.
Cabbage moth caterpillars will eat your brassicas to the ground so continue with Dipel spraying as needed.
Snails become active and breed with the rst decent rains so keep an eye on leaf damage caused by those.
Pellets are e ective or perhaps try Diatomaceous Earth for a greener solution.
If you’ve not heard of it Google it for information on its many uses.
Citrus leaf minor causes tunnel
like lines on the backs of all citrus leaves and distorts new growth so cut back infected parts and dispose of in the bin and regularly spray with a horticultural oil.
May is also a very busy month on the gardening social calendar with the Edible Gardens Festival May 22 to 24.
is unmissable event showcases edible gardens throughout the Margaret River region, highlighting what has worked (and hasn’t) for a wide range of property owners.
Very few tickets are le so hop online at ediblegardensfestival.au if you’d like to be part of what is sure to be a memorable weekend.
Also celebrated this month is Mother’s Day, Sunday May 10.
e Margaret River Primary School Kitchen Garden Honesty Stall on Forrest road will have paper daisy seedlings on sale before the day, at a price that should suit everyone.
Just $2 for a single seedling, or $5 for a pot of three.
It’s also a lucky dip, with colours being any combination of white, yellow, orange, deep red, pale pink, and dark pink.
Perfect for the budget-conscious among us and a good reminder
that you don’t need to spend a fortune to show someone you care.
Happy gardening to all our South West residents.
May we get good rains this month. Collect it any way you can.
Any drop collected is a drop saved.
The vibrancy and longevity of the Paper Daisy is hard to beat.
Pick up your Paper Daisy seedlings in time for Mother’s Day from the MRPS Kitchen Garden Honesty Stall on Forrest Road.
You’re all invited to visit and celebrate with us in our Dunsborough store this month!
Come in for a free jewellery cleaning, a special treat or two, and just maybe a new sparkly treasure (don’t worry, all the best stuff is half price)!
Nina’s Jewellery proudly supports White Ribbon Australia. Stand up, speak out and act to end men’s violence against women.
Expert advisors sign on to advocacy team
PROTECTING the natural values of the Margaret River Region increasingly requires informed, science-based advocacy — and a dedicated volunteer team is working behind the scenes to ensure the environment has a voice in key decisions.
tors proposals across multiple levels of government — including local planning applications, environmental assessments and policy changes — to identify where submissions may help achieve better conservation outcomes.
Ms Hillier, a lawyer with extensive experience in the health and environment sectors, said protecting the region’s biodiversity required thoughtful engagement with the systems that shape land use and environmental management.
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region has welcomed several new volunteer advisors to its advocacy team, further strengthening a program that provides expert input into planning proposals, policy changes and environmental decision-making across local, state and federal levels.
range of proposals including development applications, policy reforms, native vegetation clearing and environmental regulations.
e conservation group’s advocacy program relies almost entirely on volunteers with specialist expertise who contribute their time behind the scenes to research proposals, assess environmental impacts and prepare submissions aimed at improving outcomes for nature.
Leading the team is volunteer board advisor Emma Scaife, who brings both legal and environmental expertise to the role.
“Our advocacy work is about making sure the natural values of this region are properly considered in decisions that a ect them,” Ms Scaife said.
“We take a pragmatic, science-based approach and aim to work constructively with decision-makers, developers and government agencies to nd solutions that protect biodiversity – while allowing communities to thrive.”
Since establishing the program in 2022, the Nature Conservation has
Each submission typically takes several days of volunteer work and involves a small team reviewing technical reports, planning documents and potential environmental impacts.
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region chair Dr Ann Ward said the advocacy program played a crucial role alongside the organisation’s education, community and on-ground conservation work.
“Strong environmental outcomes require informed voices contributing to policy and planning processes,” Dr Ward said.
“Our volunteer advocacy team generously contribute their professional skills and experience to help ensure the environment is properly represented in those discussions.”
e advocacy team also includes board member Suzanne Hillier along with planning guidance from advisor Charles Johnson. Lawyer Sarah Low joined the team as the rst specialist volunteer.
Together, the team moni-
She said the Margaret River Region is globally recognised for its natural beauty and biodiversity, and advocacy is an important mechanism to try and ensure planning and policy decisions re ect the longterm environmental values of this special place.
e organisation typically prepares around six major submissions each year, focusing speci cally on environmental conservation and supported by scienti c evidence and local knowledge.
“Given the pressures of climate change, biodiversity loss and land-use change, it’s more important than ever that the environment has a clear, credible voice in decision-making,” Ms Scaife said.
“Our specialist volunteer team is proud to contribute that voice.”
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region welcomes community members who would like to learn more about its advocacy work or share information about proposals a ecting local environments.
We also encourage any volunteers with backgrounds in environmental science, law or planning who are interested in making a specialist contribution to consider joining our advocacy team.
Volunteer board advisor, Emma Scaife.
Community Notices & Tenders
Rivermouth beach lifeguard season wraps up
Our Rivermouth beach lifeguard season finished on Sunday 26 April
A big thank you our Surf Life Saving WA lifeguards for their quality service keeping our community safe at this popular beach With no major incidents reported, we’d like to thank everyone for swimming between the flags, surfing outside of the flags and listening to the expert advice given
Beachgoers are encouraged to keep up the good work and stay safe along our coastlines through the colder months ahead
Help shape the future of Witchcliffe’s main street
The revised draft Witchcliffe Streetscape Plan and Village Centre Character Controls are now open for community feedback The plans set a long term vision for Witchcliffe’s main street, public spaces, and commercial areas whilst aiming to maintain Witchcliffe s unique village character as the town grows
Visit Your Say www yoursay amrshire wa gov au/witchcliffe for more information
Shire works watch
WITCHCLIFFE TENNIS COURTS
Works to finish the court resurfacing start in mid-May These works are weather dependent and may be rescheduled if rain is forecast The court works will take around 10 days, before line marking can be done to complete the job The car park and playground will remain open as usual
WALLCLIFFE LOOKOUT
We are upgrading the Walcliff f e Road lookout with works due to begin in mid-May The lookout will be closed for approximately two weeks
CHURCHILL AV A ENUE
Drainage upgrades and kerb renewals on the eastbound lane Traff f ic management in place
WIRRING ROAD
Maintenance works including pruning, drainage and verge clean-up on the sealed section near Bussell Highway
WADANDI TRACK
Maintenance and drainage works are in progress on a section of the Wadandi Track (south of Boodjidup Road) to improve the surface for winter There may be some impacts to access during the works
JINDONG–TREETON ROAD
Pipes have been installed and we will keep you updated as project milestones are achieved Road remains closed, with local access only
Tenders
CURRENTLY OPEN
Tender RFT 26-003 Wa W dandi Tr T ack Construction Closes 5pm Wednesday 14 May Applications must be uploaded through Ve V ndor Panel: https:// / www vendorpanel com au/PublicTenders aspx
Burn Permits no longer required
MONDAY 4 MAY 2026
Permits to Burn are no longer required for residents conducting burns across the Shire, provided all burning is carried out safely and in accordance with local fire regulations
While Permits are longer be required residents are reminded that safe burning practices are still essential Please monitor weather conditions carefully, never leave burns unattended and ensure all fires are fully extinguished before leaving the area
For more information on burning regulations and safe burning practices, view the Shire website and check Fire Danger Ratings at Emergency WA before burning
Tender RFT 02-26 Tu T rner Street Jetty Replacement Closes 2pm Friday 8 May Applications must be uploaded through Tenderlink: https://portal tenderlink com/amrshire
Margaret River Ultra Marathon
We’re delighted to welcome runners from across Australia and around the world, as well as local runners for this incredible event There will be runners on local trails and along shared coastal pathways, so please keep an eye out, create space, and give them a cheer when you see them pass by
The following temporary changes will be in place on Saturday 9 May Riflebutts Reserve will be closed as a dog exercise area for the day Riflebutts dog beach will be open but please keep dogs on leads if passing through Gracetown Hall Oval will also be closed as a dog exercise area Head to Melaleuca Beach for off leash exercise Fifty One Road will be closed from 12 30pm on Saturday 9 May to 4pm on Sunday
Big Ideas
Bold Conversations Brilliant Stories
VISITORS to the Margaret River Lions Club shed on Burton Road will soon enjoy improved access thanks to a new carpark next door.
Located on land adjacent to the Lions Club shed, the site has been leased from the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and will accommodate up to 50 vehicles.
e development is expected to signi cantly improve access for customers attending the Club’s popular sale days, while also reducing parking congestion in surrounding areas.
In preparing the site, essential works have been undertaken to ensure it is safe and t for purpose.
ese include fencing, levelling, and compacting gravel to create an even surface.
Some dead tree removal and professional pruning have also been necessary as part of the development.
“We believe this investment will make life more convenient for our customers, neighbours, and local businesses,” a Lions Club spokesperson said.
e shed will be open ev-
ery Saturday sale day from 7:00am to 12:00pm. Please note that the car park gates will be closed and locked at 12:00pm sharp.
Any vehicles remaining in the car park a er this time will be locked in, in accordance with lease conditions set by the Shire.
e o cial opening date will be announced soon. Please keep an eye out in the Augusta Margaret River Mail, on the Margaret River Lions website, and on the Club’s Facebook page for further details.
Works on the newly-leased vacant lot include dead tree removal, fencing, levelling and compacting, to provide up to 50 additional parking spaces for Lions Shed visitors and customers.
The case for grazing harder, not lighter
FOR generations, livestock producers have been encouraged to avoid overgrazing by spreading stock across paddocks where they can graze lightly over large areas.
But what if a change in grazing patterns could support your livestock even better - and proactively build healthier soils and pasture at the same time?
The upcoming Smarter Grazing for Better Land workshop hosted by Lower Blackwood LCDC and supported by the AMR Shire, Regen WA and the WA Landcare Network will explore a very different approach.
Dr Judi Earl will demonstrate how short, controlled bursts of intensive grazing followed by adequate rest can improve pasture health, boost ground-
cover and significantly revitalise depleted soils. Traditional set stocking and continuous grazing, involves keeping livestock in the same paddock for
long periods. This system relies on matching stocking rates and average pasture growth to avoid feed shortages.
While widely used, this approach can restrict plant recovery, reduce pasture diversity and seriously compromise soil function.
Judi will introduce an alternative approach that works in sync with natural growth and grazing cycles.
Grazing more intensively for shorter periods can support stronger root systems, improve water retention and make better use of available feed.
LCDC Executive Officer Joanna Wren said the session is designed to give landholders practical insights they can apply immediately.
“Many producers are already managing grazing carefully, but small changes in timing and recovery can make a significant difference,” she said.
“This workshop is about understanding how pastures respond and using that knowledge to improve performance across the farm.”
Participants can also register for one-on-one property consults with Dr Judi Earl, offering tailored advice based on their own pasture types, layout and management goals.
“This is an incredible opportunity to spend a morning or afternoon with one of the top grazing experts in the country on your own farm. Judi will walk your paddocks with you, discuss your current processes and offer per-
sonalised advice that could have immediate results,” explains Jo.
With farm costs rising and seasonal conditions becoming less predictable, improving pasture productivity without increasing inputs is critical for farm survival. This workshop provides a practical starting point.
The workshop will be held on Monday May 18, at The Barn, Bridgelands Road, Rosa Glen.
Bookings: lowerblackwood.com.au/ events/smarter-grazing-for-betterland or contact admin@lowerblackwood.com.au
‘SLOW HORSES’ AUTHOR HEADING TO MARGARET RIVER
JOIN internationally bestselling author Mick Herron for a conversation about Clown Town, the latest novel set in the world of Slow Horses.
Returning to Slough House, Herron reunites readers with the unforgettable Jackson Lamb and his team of disgraced MI5 agents as they are drawn into another mess of institutional failure, hidden agendas, and political farce.
As ever, incompetence proves as dangerous as malice.
Best known for the Slow Horses series — now a global TV sensation — Herron brings his trademark wit, moral bite, and dark humour to a story that skewers power while delivering a tightly wound, unsettling thriller.
Hosted by Will Yeoman Q&A and book signing will occur after the author talk.
Clown Town: In Conversation with Mick Herron is on Friday, 29 May from 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM at Nala Bardip Mia – Margaret River HEART.
Doors open at 6.00, with a complimentary glass of Clairault Streicker wine or non-alcoholic beverage from Waves & Caves on arrival.
Tickets ($15 or $34.99 for ticket and book) can be booked at www.artsmargaretriver.com
Children under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult as the bar will be open.
Grazing expert Dr Judi Earl will lead the upcoming workshop.
Best selling author Mick Herron will appear in Margaret River on May 29.
WHAT’S ON
IT’S just two weeks until the 2026 Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival lands in town, and this year’s program o ers a wide range of exciting ways to engage with talented authors, journalists, presenters, historians and more over the three day event.
is year’s program marks 18 installments of the festival, which is held at venues across the region with festival hubs at Margaret River HEART and Shelter Brewing Co in Busselton.
Once again, big name stars are heading to the South West, with 2025 Booker Prize winner David Szalay, New York Times bestselling author and social philosopher Sarah Wilson, comedian and screen icon Shaun Micallef, trailblazing environmentalist Bob Brown and legendary storyteller Bryan Brown leading the lineup.
Writers workshops put fans and budding authors together with literary icons and bestselling writers to learn more about the process and philosophies behind the books.
Free and low-cost programming, runs throughout the weekend at e Discovery Tent, while outdoor excursions o er a chance to understand the stories and traditions of the region through the eyes of local experts.
Arts Margaret River General Manager, Michelle Wright, said while ticket sales had been strong, there were still plenty of opportunities to catch your favourite literary legends in person.
“We are delighted to have
sold out every Highlight Event, featuring many of our Main Stage Authors in both Margaret River and Busselton – testament to the incredible line-up of authors joining us at this year’s Festival,” Michelle said.
“ e beauty of our Festival and its unique regional location is that every event and venue throughout the weekend, from a writing workshop to a Main Stage presentation, o ers a genuinely intimate opportunity to connect with the authors.
“Connecting readers and writers is at the heart of what we do.
“Big Ideas, Bold Conversations and Brilliant Stories await - we look forward to welcoming everyone to our 2026 Festival.
The Underworld
Margaret River HEART Sun, 17 May, 12noon
Dive into the vivid imagination of acclaimed author Sofie Laguna as she brings her evocative new novel, The Underworld, to life.
The Hiding Place Shelter Brewing Co. Sat, 16 May, 3.30pm Join acclaimed author Kate Mildenhall in conversation about her riveting new book, The Hiding Place.
A Great Act of Love
Margaret River HEART Sun, 17 May, 3.30pm
Join award-winning Tasmanian author Heather Rose for a moving closing session on her stunning novel A Great Act of Love.
David Whish-Wilson In Conversation Shelter Brewing Co. Sat, 16 May, 12noon
Join acclaimed WA crime writer David Whish-Wilson for a gripping session on his stunning new novels Cutler and O’Keefe.
How to Write Naturally About Nature
Shelter Brewing Co. Fri, 15 May, 2pm
Join author and science writer Katherine Johnson to learn how to incorporate nature into fiction in ways that deepen characters and stories while captivating readers.
Women Who Win
Margaret River HEART Sun, 17 May, 2pm
Join award-winning journalist and human rights advocate Antoine e La ouf for a conversation about her bold new book Women Who Win and her landmark experience with the ABC.
How to Manage the Future
Margaret River HEART Sun, 17 May, 9am
In an era of rapid technological change, from AI to transhumanism and escalating global crises, Professor A.C. Grayling challenges us to rethink the future.
Brigid Delaney In Conversation Shelter Brewing Co. Sat, 16 May, 2pm
Join writer and thinker Brigid Delaney for a vibrant conversation exploring her acclaimed books and her role as co-creator and writer of the hit Netflix series Wellmania, starring Celeste Barber.
Character Sketching
Margaret River HEART Sun, 17 May, 2pm
Great writers can capture a character’s essence in just a few lines. In this practical workshop, acclaimed WA crime author David Whish-Wilson (O’Keefe, Cutler, True West) explores the art of character sketching through visual cues and sensory detail.
Flesh
Margaret River HEART Sat, 16 May, 9am
Join Booker Prize 2025 winner David Szalay in conversation about his novel Flesh.
Professor AC Grayling, Hiroko Yoda, and Shaun Micallef are just some of the literary talents heading to the South West for the 2026 Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival.
Rain dance celebration this Sunday
JOIN the Wondrous Wild puppet and bush animal friends for a joyful gathering at Memorial Park this Sunday afternoon to give thanks for a year of nourishing rains.
Come fly, roll, tumble and stroll into the park with Parents for Climate, the Tipping Point project and local performers for Celebrate the Rain, Sunday 10 May 3-5pm.
Bring a small container of water, and take part in a shared water ceremony with our Wondrous Wild puppets and community.
Together, we’ll create a temporary pond and sprinkle a little water on our big bush creatures as a simple
Guitarists in tune for June fundraiser
A special concert featuring some of WA’s finest musicians will land at the HEART next month, in aid of housing advocacy group, Just Home Margaret River.
Presented by the UWA Classical Guitar Studio, the seventh annual concert tour of the South West region will offer a varied program of solo and chamber works for the classical guitar, all while helping to raise funds for housing justice in the Augusta Margaret River region.
From the fiery rhythms of Latin America to the elegance and poise of the Baroque, this exciting concert offers something for everyone.
The UWA Classical Guitar Concert Fundraiser for Just Home Margaret River is on Friday, June 26 from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the Margaret River HEART Studio Theatre.
Children under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult as the bar will be open.
Tickets ($27 Adult, $17 Youth (age 10-15 years), Solidarity $4) are available at artsmargaretriver.com
offering back to the animals, forests and oceans we love.
A fun chance to join in storytelling, circle song and dance about to honour Mother Nature, the greatest nurturer of them all, on Mother’s Day afternoon.
Lots of kids created native animal costumes last weekend at Gathered Organics - a team of local artists raided their old clothes bag and donated felt and colourful scraps to help kids make wings and colourful coats, and masks galore from collected bush material.
So make a costume or just come along to lift your spirits.
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• Re-roofing • New roofs • Roof painting
• Roof and gutter cleaning
• Gutter and downpipe replacements
• Gutter mesh installation
Your home is your greatest asset. Investing in your roof not only ensures its longevity, it can transform the value of your home.
Whether it’s a roof restoration you need or you’re looking to put a beautiful new roof over your head, get in touch and our team will arrange a quote.
Busselton Toyota
2015 Hyundai i30 Active X 5 Door Hatch 1EUZ 771. Automatic transmission, 1.8Litre petrol
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2017 Subaru Forester 2.5iL 4D Wagon BSN 64GA. Automatic transmission, 2.5Litre petrol, 152,961kms travelled, good service history and trade-ins welcome.
Hatchback 1HTL 826. Automatic transmission, 1.5Litre 4cylinder petrol with balance of 5 year unlimited km warranty and travelled 64,184kms. Trade-ins welcome.
Riders rise to the challenge
THE WA Interschools Championships were held during the school holidays at the State Equestrian Centre, coordinated by Equestrian WA.
Despite rising living and fuel costs, 200 horses and 189 riders from across WA competed in events including show jumping, show horse, dressage and combined training.
The event offers students a rare opportunity to represent their school, with top riders eligible for state team selection and the annual National Interschools event.
Margaret River Senior High School was represented by Sunny Cowen, Kenzie Manson and Chaise Fowler.
Year 7 student Sunny Cowen competed in her first event for MRSHS with her pony Yule Tara’s From Paris With Love, known as Pearl, a 13-year-old Australian Riding Pony bred by Peta Gallagher. Sunny, who has ridden since age four, favours dressage.
She said, “I loved being part of a team, all cheering each other on and supporting each other.
“I loved being with my friends, my family and my beautiful pony all camping together for 5 days at The State Equestrian Centre, it was so much fun.
“The highlight for me was being
the youngest member of the MRSHS Team, the older girls Chaise and Kenzie were super supportive and gave me lots of great advice.
“I can’t wait for next year!”
Sunny and Pearl placed first and third in Dressage (Prep level Senior), second in both Show Horse Rider and Show Horse Ridden, and third overall in Champion Show Horse Senior.
Year 10 student Kenzie Manson competed on Onyx LW (Willow), an eight-year-old Hanoverian mare by Weltruhm, focusing on show jumping.
“My highlight was improving so much on Willow, placing in the Championships and then seeing my
other teammates placing and doing so well,” Kenzie said.
Kenzie placed second in the 90cm Senior Secondary Championship, sixth in Combined Training 95cm, fourth overall in Show Horse Senior, and recorded multiple placings across show jumping events.
For Year 12 student Chaise Fowler, this marked her final Interschools.
She competed with Global Supreme “Zac,” a 19-year-old Arabian gelding, placing third overall in Senior Novice Dressage, fifth in Secondary Elementary Dressage, and third in Senior Show Horse.
Across five years, the pair qualified for Nationals each time.
Her second horse, Jaydanna Flamin Impressive “Sparks,” also an Arabian gelding, achieved sixth overall placings in both Senior Preliminary Dressage and Senior Show Horse.
“Sparks was generously loaned to us when Zac sustained an injury, and he has remained a special part of our team ever since,” Chaise said.
Reflecting on her experience, she said, “My favourite part about Interschools is the friendships, memories, and experiences gained along the way.
“I love the sense of team unity and the incredible support riders have for one another.
“Across the five years I have competed, I have always come home smiling and feeling so grateful for the opportunity to represent my school alongside the horses I love most.”
She added, “While I am saddened that this was my final year competing at Interschools, the friendships and skills I have gained are truly invaluable.
“It has been one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of my riding journey.”
Team managers Corien and Jess Ridley were recognised for their dedication.
“We feel incredibly fortunate to have two women so passionate about interschools, grassroots development, and supporting young riders,” Renae Fowler said.
Corien added, “our future Olympians come from within these riding disciplines, and it’s so important these young riders are given local and national opportunities at the Interschool competitions to be nurtured and encouraged.”
Kenzie Manson, Chaise Fowler and Sunny Cowan celebrate their successes at the WA Interschool Championships at the State Equestrian Centre.
Mixed results in first hockey clashes
HOCKEY
THE Margaret River Hockey Club took on Capel across 5 divisions on Sunday, April 26 at the Busselton Hockey Stadium, for the first weekend of fixtures for juniors in the 2026 Busselton Hockey Association winter competition.
The Girls 6/8 team started the day and drew their match.
The Boys 6/8 team followed and lost to Capel 3-0.
Both games were a first round warm-up for the respective 2025 premiers, with the new younger players playing the full field format for the first time.
The 9/12 Boys from Margaret River won convincingly 10-0, their speed and strong tackles dominating the game for a preview into an exciting season for the boys and their supporters.
The MRHC Women’s team, who are currently top of the ladder, showed solid strength linking through their nucleus
of experienced players, allowing the juniors to utilise speed and agility in the mid and forward lines.
Their classy teamwork resulted in a 3-1 win to Margaret River.
The Men’s group was bolstered by a good bench for the first time this season and it paid off for the first win.
They were held to a one goal deficit until half time but blew away their competition 6-1 by the end of the match.
Junior players Hugo Underwood & Seb Urquhart scored their first senior goals and Margaret River Hockey legend, Brynley Jenkins, was awarded the top votes for his impenetrable defensive game.
The club is still welcoming members for the season.
If you would like to make a return to the sport, meet new people and be part of a team, check out the club website at www.margaretriverhockey. org.au today.
Hawks triumph in Brunswick thriller
SWFL
ROUND six delivered a thrilling finish at Brunswick Oval, with Augusta Margaret River defeating Harvey Brunswick Leschenault by eight points.
In a low scoring affair, the match was close throughout, with the Hawks leading by a point at quarter time, while the Lions turned the tables in the second term, taking a one point advantage into half time.
With both sides having just three goals each to half time, the scoring practically dried up in the third term, Byron George kicking the only goal of the term within the opening minute of play, as the Hawks held the Lions scoreless, to take a nine point lead into the final term.
The Lions dominated the early part of the final term, having five
scoring shots, and Jai Rout put the Lions in front at the eight minute mark.
They continued to attack, but Jake Rodgers repelled several forward movements, intercepting a pass which went the length of the ground, resulting in a goal to Byron George, putting the Hawks back in front by a point.
Sachi Radice converted shortly after to give the Hawks some breathing space, but the Lions would come again, with the Hawks defcnce repelling more forward advances by the home side.
The siren sounded to jubilation from the Hawks bench, as they defeated the Lions for the first time since 2023.
Zac Dronow and Kaspa Donovan played particularly well for the Hawks, while Riley Coulson and Zavier Williams played well for the Lions.
MAGPIES MAUL SHARKS
BUSSELTON were too strong for Dunsborough at Sir Stewart Bovell Park on Saturday afternoon, in the opening match of round six of the South West Football League Season.
Aside from Busselton’s large victory, Mitch Tenardi dominated the contest, gaining a multitude of possessions and finished the match with four goals.
There were ominous signs of what was to come, when Busselton had scored three times in the opening three minutes, with the third score being the first of five goals for Liam Creighton.
Six minutes into the match, Tom Kusal kicked the Magpies second, while Harrison Allardyce took a great pack mark on the goal line
to extend the lead even further.
The Magpies would kick six goals for the term, with Bailey Sanford kicking two of them.
With goals to Ben Ganzer and Liam Creighton, Busselton had extended the advantage to 52 points, before Matt Russo kicked accurately to give Dunsborough their first goal at the fourteen minute mark of the second quarter.
Leading by 59 points at half time, Busselton only needed to replicate the first half to record their highest ever score against the Sharks, while conversely, the Sharks had to score another goal to avoid having their lowest ever score against Busselton.
The Magpies aided their cause by kicking eight goals for the term, with Tenardi dominating.
After conceding seven consecutive goals, Matt Russo kicked the Sharks second goal, with two
minutes remaining in the third quarter.
Dunsborough would dominate the final term, outscoring the home side who had well and truly put the cue back in the rack.
Busselton would fall short of their highest ever score against the Sharks by three points, with Matt Russo kicking the final goal of the game to bring the winning margin back under 100 points.
Mitch Tenardi had a string of possessions, while Bailey Sanford also played extremely well. Liam Creighton kicked five goals to again be a leading light up forward.
Dunsborough’s defence were under pressure from the first ball up, with Taj Edmonds and Bailey Jenkin amongst their best players. Busselton 19.14.128 def. Dunsborough 4.7.31
A tough illegal tackle against Rupert Ensor.
Josie Herrera covers the pitch.
Claire Sieber is strong against the defence.
Dr Jon Parry injects for the short corner penalty.
Hugh Pawelski scores for MRHC.
JASON CROWE
Augusta Margaret River 6.10.46 def. Harv Bruns Lesch 5.8.38
SPORT
Special start to season at Cowaramup
THERE was an exciting start to the season for the young players, parents and supporters of the Cowaramup Junior Football Club as two local legends stopped by over the weekend.
Lifetime local Don Miller and son Peter were on the oval to sound the rst siren of the season, and were welcomed with a guard of honour before cutting a ceremonial ribbon to mark the rst game, honouring the club’s rich local history.
Players and families enjoyed hearing Don’s stories of playing on Cowaramup Town Oval over 50 years ago, when there were rocks to dodge and gravel to avoid.
Mr Miller played an instrumental part in creating the town oval space as we know it today.
Players were also inspired by Peter Miller’s achievements, having started his football career as a Cowaramup Bull and then in youth football at the Augusta Margaret River Hawks.
He then moved on to East Perth andnally was selected for the inaugural Fremantle Dockers side, kicking his rst goal in the rst ever Western Derby.
“How tting for a Round 1 Cowaramup Derby for our Under 9 and Under 11 players,” Jessica McFarlane, CJFC President
said.
“It’s wonderful to see the faces of the children when they make the connection that their dreams can come true.
“Starting right here in Cowaramup, leading to the AFL and AFLW.”
During pre-season, the club also welcomed past and present WAFLW, AFL and WAFL players to run clinics and support coaching sta in player development.
Ties with East Perth Football Club grew even stronger, as current East Perth players travelled to Cowaramup to coach at the 2026 Build It! Clinic sponsored by Semini Enterprises.
“ e kids enjoyed challenging current
WAFLW players to 100m sprints and longest kick competitions,” Jessica continued.
“We have to say, those East Perth girls can run!”
Jessica said the club valued its strong connection with the Cowaramup community, local businesses and residents.
“We are enjoying creating a welcoming space for past players and families to continue to connect and rekindle the sense of belonging back at the Club.
“Junior football is played at the Cowaramup Oval each week during the football season and our canteen is open and welcome to all who would like to eat, drink and enjoy a great game of grassroots footy!”
ABOVE: Peter and Don Miller sounding the first siren of the season. BELOW: Cutting of the ribbon - 2026 season now open!
Players formed a guard of honour to welcome Don and Peter Miller, and recognise their impact on the game and the local Cowaramup community. Images supplied.
