Tales and Trails - the Margaret River Region Magazine

kaya / hello

Our magazine is proudly crafted for you by the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association (MRBTA). We’re Australia’s largest Local Tourism Organisation (LTO) and have over 50 years of experience in supporting the Margaret River Region to thrive through tourism. It’s our vision that tourism in the region will be an experience that excites visitors, stimulates the regional economy, contributes to rich social and environmental values, and supports a vibrant local Aboriginal culture.

Our Tourism Division supports 650+ member businesses, undertakes destination management and marketing, and provides

Welcome to the Margaret River Region

visitor information under the Margaret River Region destination brand. Our Capes Foundation Division manages and invests in projects that connect visitors with the incredible natural abundance, historical richness, and cultural vibrancy of the region. Capes Foundation’s cornerstone naturebased tourism experiences include the Ngilgi, Mammoth, Lake and Jewel Caves; Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouses; Forest Adventures, and Capes Raptor Centre.

For over 60,000 years the Margaret River Region has supported one of the world’s longest, unbroken human occupations resulting

Thank you to our magazine contributors

in an immensely deep cultural knowledge. MRBTA honours the Wadandi (Saltwater) People as the traditional custodians of the land on which we have the privilege to live, work and play. Join us in learning, sharing and experiencing what is the wonderous Margaret River Region.

Follow what we do:

margaretriver.com

@margaretriver

@MargaretRiverWineRegion

MargaretRiverTourism

Bronte O’Donoghue, Cydnal Petty, Greta Codyre, Holly Winkle, Jodie Reynalds, Jono Outred, Jordaine McAuliffe, Kate Jones, Lisa Ikin, Lizzy Pepper, Sarah Robinson, Sharnae Watson, Stuart Hicks, Taya Reid, Tom de Souza

Abby Murray, Ange Wall, Brian Hoehn, Daniela Tommasi, Dylan Alcock, Ed Martin, Elements Margaret River, Gordan Becker, Holly Winkle, Jarrad Seng, Jasmine Ann Gardiner, Jess Kerr, Joaquin Robredo, Josh Ball, Meghan Tharratt, Lauren Trickett, Lewis French, Luke Latty, Matt Deakin, Monica Sutton, Ovis Creative, Peggy Voir, Rachel Claire, Russell Ord, Ryan Murphy, Taya Reid, Tim Campbell, Tom de Souza, Tom Pearsall, Tourism Western Australia, Zac White, Sean Blocksidge

Tales & Trails is proudly brought to you by the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Vanguard Publishing and Vanguard Print. For advertising enquiries contact Natalie Du Preez: natalie@vanguardpublishing.com.au

Design & publishing Cally Browning & Natalie Du Preez

Cover image Castle Bay by Russell Ord

WADANDI BOODJA

The Wadandi (Saltwater) People are the traditional custodians of Wadandi Boodja (Saltwater Country), the South West region of Western Australia. “Whilst living, travelling, visiting and holidaying on Wadandi Boodja, we ask that you respect the area and walk softly on country taking time to listen to Boodja (Country) as she Wongi (talks) of the season, and leave nothing but footprints.”

~ Pibulmun Wadandi Yunungjarli Elder Dr. Wayne Webb

Learnmoreatundalup.com

kambarang / October - November

As the rain eases and Boodja (Country) begins to warm, Kambarang (the Season of Birth)also known as wildflower season - brings an abundant explosion of colours, djet (flowers) and life to the region. As the clouds open and the ngark (sun) gifts us longer and warmer days, plants used for mereny (food), medicine, crafts, tools, kaal (fire), and ceremonies are collected. Look out for the Moodja or ‘Australian Christmas Tree’ with its bright orangey yellow flowers signalling the temperatures are set to climb.

wadandi SEASONS

The Wadandi People follow the six-season Noongar calendar.

The six-season calendar represents and explains the seasonal changes we see and experience in the yearly cycle. The seasons can be long or short and are indicated by what is happening and changing around us, rather than by dates on a calendar.

birak / December - January

Arid easterly or northeasterly winds in the mornings and a coastal sea breeze in the afternoon announce the beginning of Birak season. The sun shines hotter, the days are longer and the Wanajet (peppy flowers) have fallen, telling us the rains are easing up. With calmer, warmer waters, the larger djiljit (fish) species come closer. Groper, abalone, and crab are plentiful in the seas. Keep an eye out for Kaarak (red-tailed cockatoos) chewing away and dropping marri maada (honky nuts) from the trees.

bunuru / February - March

The hottest of the six seasons, Bunuru brings long days, short nights, and little to no rain. This is an ideal time to be living and fishing on the river or by the coast. Also known as the Season of Adolescence, it is considered the ‘second summer’ when trees are bearing fruit and freshwater food, and seafood is plentiful.

Finalist - Best Value Winery in Australia

Stella Bella

Halliday Wine Companion 2025

Cellar Door | Open Daily | 10am to 5pm

BYO picnic + wine by the glass stellabella.com.au || 9757 6377 205 Rosa Brook Road, Margaret River

ON WADANDI BOODJA

For over 60,000 years, the Margaret River Region has supported one of the world’s longest, unbroken human occupations, resulting in an immensely deep cultural knowledge and connection to the land.

It is the traditional land of the Wadandi (Saltwater) People.

The Margaret River Region is a living and breathing embodiment of ancient geography and Wadandi song lines. Natural beauty, abundance of space, fine wine and fresh coastal air make a holiday here the remedy to modern life.

Telephone: (08) 9780 5911

Email: welcome@margaretriver.com Web: margaretriver.com

WHAT’SNew

// NEW POURS

Rocky Ridge Brewing Co’s latest brew Juicy Mid has landed canning up all the summer vibes. Bursting with tropical haze and sitting at a breezy 3.5%, this easy-drinking mid is made for long days in the sun.

Margaret River Brewhouse have just added four new taps, now pouring up to 20 locally brewed beers including venue exclusives. From October, they’ll be pouring their limited-edition coastal IPA Sunseeker – a collaboration with Copper & Oak. It’s hop forward in character with a crisp finish, perfect for summer.

Lo-fi, laid-back wine bars, premium rustic accommodation, and new chocolate spots. New seasons means plenty of fresh experiences in the South West. Here’s our wrap-up of what’s new in the Margaret River Region

//wine & dine

South West Bottega offers casual Italian dining, a playground for the kids, artisan pantry goods, and vintage wares in the heart of Vasse. Alongside coffee and lunch, their evening service features a seasonal menu designed for sharing. The space also includes a deli with small-batch truffle products and an on-site olive grove where they produce their own olive oil.

Great wine with good friends, backed by a vinyl soundtrack. Brought to you by the Skigh Wine team, Strange Brew Wine Bar features

their same signature laid-back, lo-fi approach they are cherished for. Stop in for a glass and a charcuterie board, or grab a bottle to go.

The new home of McHenry Hohnen Cellar Door and Vintners Wine Bar offers their same signature tastings, with the addition of a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Featuring produce from McHenry farms with an everchanging list of local and international wines, expect rare gems from Murray McHenry’s private cellar too.

For spirit lovers, Wild Lot Distillery’s new and seriously limited-edition Passionfruit & Yuzu Gin is a vibrant, citrus-forward release made in collaboration with Kolective Co, and features Augusta grown passionfruit and locally sourced yuzu. Also returning this spring is Lime Wire Gin, a bright, zesty spirit showcasing Augusta grown finger limes.

// SWEET SPOTS

TemperTemper now has a second home in Margaret River, offering a truly hands-on chocolate experience. While their Cowaramup space is a much-loved staple, this new location is all about immersion. Think ‘make your own’ chocolate bars, a flowing chocolate fountain, and up-close engagement with the chocolatiers themselves.

If you’re in Busselton, get your fix at Little Otto’s Big Choc Shop. House-made chocolates, gelato and shakes await inside this sweet wonderland. With chocolate-making views, get a behind the scenes look at their fun flavour creations.

// TASTINGS & TOURS

Create your own custom gin with Beyond Distilling and their new Gin Academy. In this hands-on experience, choose your botanicals, run your own mini still, and walk away with a bottle of your unique creation.

Forage Safaris’ newest tour Margaret River Wine and Dine is a bespoke experience of a thoughtfully curated selection of food and wine

experiences, including a two-course winery lunch.

Rústico at Hay Shed Hill is now offering seamless round-trip transport with Rústico Ride. They’ll pick up and drop off groups of up to 11 people from set spots in Yallingup, Dunsborough, Busselton, Vasse, Cowaramup and Margaret River, leaving nothing for you to do but relax and indulge.

Voyager Estate has achieved Sustainable Tourism Certification and has launched a refreshed suite of personalised wine experiences to celebrate. Choose from four curated offerings, including tours of the estate, bespoke, tailored tastings, and hands-on experiences like custom wine blending.

Tannin Road and Margaret River Wine Academy have joined forces for a new exciting offering. The Margaret River Icons Tour is a six-hour guided tour including a workshop with regional wine expert Leah Clearwater, three wine tastings, and a gourmet winery lunch.

// ACCOMMODATION

Rustic charm meets luxury at Chalet Grandis, Tree Chalets’ new premium chalet. Designed with the same attention to detail as their original chalets but with its own unique flair, Chalet Grandis features a cosy seating nook, a dedicated coffee and wine corner and an outdoor bath for taking in those South West sunsets filtered through the gum trees.

Sundance in Yallingup offers two stylish, spacious villas ideal for group getaways or family gatherings. Part of the Indah Stays family, Sundance offers a relaxed, comfortable base set among landscaped gardens with lake views.

WINERY

RESTAURANT

The highly anticipated Saltwater is set to open in early 2026 with live performances, entertainment, and events to follow. Busselton’s new convention and performing arts centre features a dedicated gallery space, with its opening exhibition ‘In the Quiet of the Land’ featuring works by eight regional artists.

Artisan potter Jacob Lyon Pottery offers hands-on clay experiences with a local touch. Jacob’s Pot & Sip classes and beginner courses are a relaxed and creative way to get messy in the best possible way. Learn traditional wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques in his Cowaramup studio.

DISTILLERY

// RETAIL & WELLNESS

Blue Manna Bistro’s seafood shop is back open two days a week serving oceanfresh local fish and delicious, chef-made takeaway meals on Thursdays and Fridays. From premium fillets to ready-toserve dinners and their famous chowder, enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home – plus, fish and chips on Fridays!

Part treasure hunt, part foodie escape, Secret Picnic Adventures is a self-guided gourmet wander through Busselton and Dunsborough. Solve clues to uncover hidden gems and gather artisanal local produce, making your way to any of the town’s scenic picnic spots. Margaret River coming soon!

TAMA Wellness has evolved into a fullspectrum holistic sanctuary, now offering facials, massage treatments, breathwork and guided meditation in addition to their ever-popular infrared sauna.

Spring and summer come alive with energy in the Margaret River Region as the calendar fills with events from Busselton to Augusta and everywhere in between. With something happening around every corner, it’s the liveliest time of year—so be sure to book your tickets and accommodation early.

WHAT’Son

September

Margaret River Region Open Studios // 13-28 September

Pair’d Margaret River Region // 20-23 November

From painters to potters and printmakers, timber craftspeople to textile creators, and illustrators to installation artists, this annual event brings over 150 artists together to showcase their work. Go behind the scenes and explore their diverse galleries, sheds, and home studios. It’s no wonder this is the first arts event to ever win silver at the 2024 Qantas Australia Tourism Awards. mrropenstudios.com.au

October

Cape to Cape MTB // 16-19 October

Australia’s largest and longest running MTB stage race across four days. Starting at Cape Leeuwin and finishing at Cape Naturaliste, the course weaves through coastal trails, National Parks, forests, and farmland. capetocapemtb.com

November

Yahava KoffeeWorks Cool Water Classic // 15 November

The Yahave KoffeeWorks Cool Water Classic will return to the stunning waters of Geographe Bay for its third year. The open water event begins in Dunsborough and follows the scenic coastline to a spectacular finish in front of the Busselton Jetty. geobayswim.com.au

The region’s newest festival, Pair’d Margaret River Region is a world-class, four-day wine and food celebration. The Pair’d program features over 20 events throughout the region, showcasing both expected and unexpected pairings unique to the South West, where adventure meets indulgence. pairdmargaretriver.com

Good Day Sunshine // 29 November

Good Day Sunshine is back, bigger and better than ever with a mammoth line up including The Teskey Brothers, Boy & Bear, Meg Mac, The Beautiful Girls, Charlie Collins, Dear Sunday, Carla Geneve, and Tanya Ransom. Due to overwhelming demand, Good Day Sunshine 2025 has relocated to be smack bang in the heart of Margaret River on the glorious grounds of Gloucester Park. gdsfest.com

Cowaramup Christmas Fair // 29 November

Considered by many to be the best fair in the South West for those seeking handmade, locally designed and/or locally produced, highquality Christmas gifts. cowaramuplions.org.au/community-fairs

Yallingup Malibu Classic // 6-7 December

Margaret River might have the Pro, but ‘Yalls’ is home to the Yallingup Malibu-Longboard Classic. Established by a bunch of local surfers for a bit of fun, Yal-Mal has been running for over 40 years. facebook.com/yallingupmalibuclassic

Ironman WA // 7 December

For over 20 years, Ironman WA has been enormously popular amongst athletes and spectators alike. Incorporating the iconic Busselton Jetty, Ironman WA is recognised as a world-class sporting event and spectacular destination race.

ironman.com/im-western-australia

January

Lunar Sensation // 31 December to 11 January

Step into the magical world of the Lunar Sensation in the heart of Margaret River- a summer escape filled with laughter, wonder and unforgettable shows from the team behind Karnidale Circus Festival. Enjoy everything from enchanting kids shows to bold performances under the big top – there is something for everyone over two jam packed weeks. With an open air bar, delicious food and a laid back whimsical vibe, it will be the ultimate summer hangout. lunarcircus.com

Festival of Busselton // All January

A program packed full of free family events and activities in the Busselton city centre and foreshore. festivalofbusselton.com.au

February

Busselton Jetty Swim // 7-8 February

One of WA’s most loved open water swimming events, the Busselton Jetty Swim is held over two days in the turquoise waters of Geographe Bay and includes a range of distances to suit all ages and swimming abilities. busseltonjettyswim.org.au

Geographe Bay Race Week // 14-20 February

WA’s premier yachting regatta where competitors, spectators, family and friends come together to enjoy the schedule of onwater and off-water events. gbyc.com.au/raceweek

Undalup Bunuru Festival // 21 February

A celebration of the South West region’s rich Aboriginal cultural heritage, our beautiful country and pristine environment. Includes workshops, cultural dance performances and

entertainment by First Nations artists. margaretriver.com/event/undalup-bunuru-festival

March

Dunsborough Arts Festival & Sculptures by the Bay // 7-9 March

Dunsborough’s annual long weekend celebration of free evening concerts, arts markets, and the much-loved Sculptures by the Bay. dunsboroughprogress.com.au/events/artfestival-sculpture-by-the-bay

Outdoor Movies

Wineries by day and outdoor cinemas by night. Experience movies under the stars throughout the warmer months, kicking off December to February with programming to suit both children and adults.

Movies at Cape Mentelle, Margaret River: capementelle.com.au

Lentedal Outdoor Movies, Marybrook: lentedalwine.com.au

Stay in the know

Sign up to our monthly What’s On newsletter and follow us on social media for the most up-to-date event information. margaretriver.com/community

CIRCUS PRESENTS

of the

THE SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE nuytsia tree

The Nuytsia Floribunda Tree, known to many West Australians as the ‘Christmas tree’ for its intense flowering displays in the summer, is referred to as Moodja by the region’s First Nations People – the Wadandi (Saltwater) People. This story has been generously shared by Wadandi Knowledge Custodians and written by Wadandi Pibulmun writer, Sharnae Watson.

The Moodja tree is known as a spirit tree to the Wadandi People as it holds great significance.

The Nuytsia or Moodja tree is easily recognisable, as it displays bright yellow-orange flowers. Flowering in summer, it is most vibrant in December during Birak (one of the six seasons of the Noongar calendar). This is what gives it the more commonly used name, ‘the Christmas tree.’

What is the significance of the Nuytsia or Moodja tree?

The Moodja tree holds great significance to us Wadandi People as it’s known as a spirit tree. It’s believed that each flower represents the spirit of a person that has passed on. Quite often, if a person was feeling unwell, they would sit under the Moodja to pass away, and the Moodja would take their spirit, adding another flower. Its vibrant colouring resembles a sunset, which too is significant to us Wadandi People. It is believed that our spirits travel across country, through the caves and over the ocean where the sun sets for our final resting place.

How should visitors interact with the tree?

Because the Moodja tree’s flowers are such a vibrant yellow and orange colour, it is tempting to want to pick them. However, this is something that’s strongly discouraged because of its spiritual significance.

The weight of the flowers and leaves of the Moodja tree can cause its branches to break off. It is said not to stand under the tree for prolonged periods – as it’s believed that if you hear a branch break, someone you know will pass on.

Remember when on Wadandi Boodja to respect and care for Country by leaving nothing but footprints, and Country will care for you in return.

SOME FACTS ABOUT THE NUYTSIA OR MOODJA TREE:

• The Moodja tree is native to South West Western Australia

• They were once commonly seen around Perth, but have been largely cleared since colonisation

• They can grow up to 10 metres in height

• The flowers produce a large amount of pollen and nectar, making them a good source of food for birds and insects

• The trees begin to flower on Wadandi Boodja (Country) around Kambarang (October / November) and reach full flower in Birak (December / January)

• The tree is believed to be the largest member of the mistletoe family. It is a hemiparasitic tree, meaning it can photosynthesise itself, but also attaches itself to the roots of other trees around it to ‘feed’.

Extraordinary

FOR Escapes:

UNIQUE STAYS WORTH TRAVELLING

Sometimes, a getaway calls for more than just a change of scenery – it asks for a complete shift in rhythm, a place that slows you down and transports you somewhere unforgettable – and the South West delivers just that. From secluded forest retreats to luxurious coastal hideaways, here’s a handpicked list of extraordinary stays.

1 TRUE SECLUSION AT HIDDEN VALLEY

FOREST RETREAT

This secluded, adults-only retreat is all about reconnecting with nature on your own terms. Deep within 104 acres of native bushland near Carbunup River, Hidden Valley Forest Retreat feels worlds away, yet it’s just a short drive from the region’s wineries and beaches.

Each self-contained chalet offers maximum seclusion, with floor-to-ceiling views of the forest, private outdoor tubs, fireplaces for the cooler evenings and a gentle soundtrack of birdsong. It’s the kind of place where you can truly switch off and rejuvenate.

2 STEP BACK IN TIME AT

BASILDENE MANOR

Basildene Manor offers an elegant, old-world atmosphere with plush rooms, soaring ceilings and a warmth that lingers long after checkout. Spend golden afternoons by the pool or on the tennis court, then retreat to the lakeside

pergola or fireside in the reading room for a moment of stillness. Perfect for a couple’s retreat, the manor was named one of TripAdvisor’s top 25 hotels for romance in Australia.

3 BOHO BY NATURE AT BOOGALOO CAMP

This off-grid glamping experience provides the perfect balance between adventure, relaxation and comfort. Located two kilometres from Augusta town centre, Boogaloo Camp offers an array of unique glamping options, all decked out with hotel-quality linen and thoughtful touches. The shared camp kitchen is equipped with everything you need, and you’ll also have access to their unique sea-container bathroom, where you can shower to the sound of nature. It’s wild, whimsical and just the right amount of unexpected.

Sail

away in style

Set sail with Eclipse Expeditions –offering exclusive voyages along the stunning Cape Naturaliste coast. Hosting just eight guests in ensuite cabins, Eclipse is an all-inclusive retreat where luxury and adventure are the standard.

If the Blackwood River is more up your alley, Blackwood River Houseboats offer three unique, eco-certified vessels for you to drive. No skippers ticket required!

4 FIVE-STAR COASTAL BLISS AT SMITHS BEACH RESORT

Discover Smiths Beach Resort, nestled on the edge of the Cape to Cape track in Yallingup. Think spacious, light-filled accommodation, an infinity pool, in-room massages and unforgettable sunsets over one of WA’s most beautiful beaches. It’s perfect for those seeking a refined coastal escape in the heart of the South West.

5

LUXE AND OFF-GRID WITH LITTLE HOUSE REPUBLIC

Located just outside Nannup, the Little House Republic property has been in the same family for over 120 years. Blending comfort with simplicity, each tiny home interior is minimalist yet warm, featuring natural textures, luxurious linens and small details that help you feel grounded and restored. The family behind the tiny homes aims to create a place where guests can pause, breathe deeply and feel truly connected to nature.

Take a break with your best mate

Opting for a pet-friendly vacation means you experience the joy of exploring new places alongside your beloved pet. Indah Stays, Margaret River Properties and Private Properties all offer extraordinary dog friendly accommodation, so you can enjoy all the luxuries without the worry of leaving your furry friend behind. For a full list of pet friendly properties, visit margaretriver.com/info-hub/dog-friendly.

6

NOSTALGIA MEETS MODERN INDULGENCE AT THE TIMOTHÉE RESORT

Wind back the clock and soak up retro motel vibes reimagined at The Timothée Resort. “We’ve made it our mission to make old memories new again,” says owner Jamie Brady, and this boutique Busselton escape brings all the nostalgic flair. Enjoy fun pops of colour, curated local artwork and a poolside scene worthy of a 70s postcard. Each room is a masterclass in stylish comfort – with the choice of drinks by the pool, an on-site restaurant and a riverside fire pit to enjoy, you may never want to leave.

7 WILD LUXURY AT WILLOW WOOD GLAMPING RETREAT

Located on a peaceful 100 acre farm just 15 minutes from Busselton, Willow Wood Glamping Retreat invites you to immerse yourself in nature, without compromising on comfort. Each beautifully styled eco-tent offers space, privacy and comfort with premium linens, a private bathroom, fully equipped kitchenette and a complimentary breakfast hamper featuring local produce. And if that’s not enough to make you exhale? Picture yourself soaking in a steaming tub, glass in hand, as the resident Highland cows amble by. Bliss.

into your weekend away at

8 AN EXTRAORDINARY SEAVIEW ESCAPE WITH MARGARET RIVER PROPERTIES

Discover this luxurious sanctuary in the heart of Yallingup with Margaret River Properties Seaview Retreat has spacious interiors, elegant bedrooms and a sun-drenched deck inviting rest and connection, while an infrared sauna and ice bath provide the ultimate relaxation and recovery. We guarantee it will be a stay to remember.

9 SPA BY THE SEA AT INJIDUP SPA RETREAT

Set high above the turquoise expanse of Injidup Beach, from the moment you arrive at Injidup Spa Retreat the pace slows. Spend your mornings soaking in your private pool, afternoons indulging at the day spa and evenings by the fire or stargazing from your

private deck. Located directly on the Cape to Cape Track, it’s also the perfect launch point for coastal walks and quiet reconnection.

A SOUL-SOOTHING STAY AT EMPIRE RETREAT

Nestled within 265 acres of vineyard and bushland, Empire Retreat is a sanctuary where luxury and stillness go hand in hand. A beautifully restored farmhouse offers an impeccable dining experience, and eleven beautiful suites blend natural stone, timber and soft lighting for total serenity. Be sure to indulge in a sensory reset at their spa – plenty of soul-soothing treatments await in this serene Yallingup hideaway.

WanttoexploremoreuniqueSouthWest stays?Headtomargaretriver.com/uniquestaystodiscoveryournextgetaway.

Hidden Gems

Think you’ve seen all the Margaret River Region has to offer? Think again.

WORDS | Jordaine McAuliffe

There’s no doubt the region’s vibrant collection of venues is reason enough for a week in the South West. You might’ve heard of some of these spots, or even wined and dined with them already, but did you know burger bosses Normal Van also sling some of the best cocktails in town? Or you can sip on ocean-cellared wines stirred by the Southern Ocean swells in Augusta? From retro wine bars to repurposed petrol stations, this is your guide to the most unexpected and underrated gems of the region.

Har Bar Dunsborough

Bestforclevercocktails,andseashantiesthat hit harder than the rum

Har Bar Dunsborough is a small nauticalloving bar, that takes committing to the theme to another level. With no windows, or overt signage, a large wooden door with a port will let you know you’re in the right place. Once inside, beams, ropes, and other nautical artifacts

will leave you feeling as if you’ve just stepped foot onboard a pirate ship. Cocktails like Dutch Courage, Pegleg and Scallywag are a must, and for the full effect, on Wednesday nights catch local sea shantymen The Dunn Bay Wailers (including owner Daz) on board and join in for a shanty or two.

Wayfinder Wines

Bestforspontaneoustastingsturned afternoonwinebarhangs

Cellar door, restaurant and wine shopWayfinder Wines is a spot you’ll want to settle into for the afternoon. Loved for their fresh takes on classic varietals (hello chillable reds and skinsy whites), their relaxed space in the heart of Dunsborough makes it a little too easy to linger. Start with a guided tasting then slide into wine bar mode with a glass, or surrender completely to the Wayfinder experience inside the restaurant with a seasonal menu curated to pair perfectly with their wines.

Bungalow Neighbourhood Social Wine Room

Bestforrarewinesoverthecrackleofvinyl

This one is just for the grownups. Tucked just beside the hustle of Bungalow Neighbourhood

Social is their Wine Room. Open on the weekends, this moody, intimate bar was made for slow pours and deep conversations backed by vinyl tunes. With a penchant for boutique wines and specially imported beers, there is sure to be a drop you’ve not come across before.

Yonder Bar

Bestforlow-profile,low-litafter-darkdrinks

If it wasn’t for the red glow of the neon signs and the hum of classic rock, you might just walk straight past Yonder Bar and that’s exactly how they like it. Tucked just behind the

main street in Margaret River, this late-night hideaway is moody, minimal, and made for those in the know. With a concise drinks list and a cocktail menu that walks the line between nostalgic and inventive, it’s the kind of spot where one drink can easily turn into three. No big crowds, no nonsense - just good music, good drinks and a cool kind of quiet.

the Servo Taphouse

Best for craft beer in the coolest conversion

What was once Cowaramup’s petrol station, The Servo Taphouse is now servicing the town

in another way, swapping the petrol pump for beer taps. Its three hand-pull beer engines are dedicated to beers hailing from the UK, with their remaining 12 side-pulls seeing a constant rotation of the best local and international beers, with a special appreciation for brews borne from Belgium.

Rhum Burgundy

Best for rum and cocktails with personality

If you like your cocktails a little bit theatrical, Rhum Burgundy delivers in spades. Neatly tucked in on the Margaret River main street, this rebellious but classy bar leans into its namesake spirits rum, Burgundy wine and Anchorman. The dark interiors and intimate floor space set the scene for anything from a quiet sundowner to a full-blown night out with a rotating line-up of local DJs and events.

Normal Van

Bestforburgersyes,butalsoequallyimpressive cocktail creations

Normal Van boasts a cult following. Take just one look at their picture-perfect, stacked burgers and it’s no surprise why. They’re the American-style diner in the heart of Margaret River famed for their menu, but their cocktail creations will keep you at the table. The warmer months call for margaritas and Normal Van has you covered with a classic Spicy and Tommys variation. For something a little more fun, try their Sour Watermelon, house signature Normal Marg, or their always exciting rotation of seasonal creations.

Dear Darnell’s

Bestfordisheskissedbyflamesandabighitof localhistory

The nostalgia-charged decor of Dear Darnell’s will draw you in as its wood-fired dishes and

impressive drinks list will keep you in. It’s packed with memorabilia and a circular bar crowned with an old windmill sail in honour of the building’s past life as a trading post. The drinks list is full of local legends, and the food, fuelled by fire, heroes fresh, locally sourced dishes like burnt Caesar salad, octopus, parmigiana, and woodfired pizzas.

Subsea Estate

Bestforauniquetastingexperienceof winesagedbeneaththeocean

Right at the southern point of the region is a wine tasting like no other. At the Augusta Boat Harbour marina, you’ll find the Subsea Estate cellar door. They’ve taken winemaking to new depths with a range of reds and whites stirred by the ocean. Explore these ocean-influenced wines through immersive tastings paired with fresh abalone and gain insights into this exciting approach.

Eagle Bay Brewing Co is a family owned and operated brewery, restaurant, retail space and bar.

Open 7 days a week. Bookings can be made online or you can contact us on (08) 9755 3554. Walk ins welcome.

252 Eagle Bay Rd, Eagle Bay WA 6281.

E @eaglebaybrewingco

Q eaglebaybrewingco

eaglebaybrewing.com.au

Gather the gang for lunch at our place. Whether you’re after a cosy afternoon wine by the fireplace, or beers in the sunshine, we’ve got you covered for all occasions.

A Nature Lovers’ Guide TO MARGARET RIVER

We asked four local guides how to experience the Margaret River Region’s natural wonders, shaped by the six seasons of the Noongar calendar.

Keen to learn more?

Wadandi Custodian Josh Whiteland offers cultural tours through Koomal Dreaming Join him on a gentle bush walk as he speaks to the seasons, welcomes you to Country, points out traditional foods, and spots native animals.

Kambarang, Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru and Djilba are the six seasons of the Noongar calendar, guiding the Wadandi (Saltwater) People to live in harmony with the land. Noticing nature’s rhythm –whether it’s spotting delicate orchids or spying a joey peek from a pouch – can fill your holiday with awe.

KAMBARANG October – November Traditionally,thisiswhenWadandifamilies journeyedbacktothecoast.Theycamped beneathmelaleucatreesandcaughtoctopus, crayfishandabalone.

“Kambarang is the best time to be out on the Cape to Cape Track if you’re into whales, wildflowers, and feeling like you’ve wandered into nature’s version of a rave,” says Sean Blocksidge of Margaret River Discovery Co. “Some days we’ll spot over 20 whales in under half an hour off the Wilyabrup Cliffs. It’s like a conga line of humpback whales lighting up the coastline. On land, the wildflowers are blooming like someone spilled a packet of Skittles in the coastal heath.”

Gene Hardy agrees, “the track becomes a sea of yellow flowering acacia, followed by the stunning pinks of pimelia and purples of the scavola.” Gene and his Cape to Cape Explorer

Sugarloaf Rock. Image Jarrad Seng

Tours team offer guided and semi-guided experiences. “We go nuts for all the stunning orchids on the Cape to Cape Track, from rare and wonderful spider orchids to fields of fairy orchids and cheerful yellow cowslip orchids.”

For orchid specialist Hank Durlik of Margaret River Exposed, it’s a chance to experience an ecosystem millions of years in the making. “It’s a kaleidoscope of colour in the forest. Native orchid species which have not been seen for years suddenly appear, and it’s a mystery why they’ve been dormant for so long.”

It’s also the time for spotting crepuscular wildlife and the epic Aurora Australis on Southwest Eco Discoveries’ Nocturnal Wildlife Tour, says guide Ryan White. “Watch joeys leave their mum’s pouches, skipping around getting used to their legs and newfound freedom. Look up in the trees and see baby possums hitch a ride on their mothers’ backs.”

BIRAK December – January Balgaandbanksiablossom.TheNuytsiatreeis brightwithflowersandreeffishareabundant.

Birak brings a crush of sun-loving holiday makers, so it’s vital that we minimise our impact by staying on the paths, picking up rubbish and slowing down for native animals.

“During Birak we spot reptiles sunbaking in

quiet places, raptors patrolling the skies and bottlenose dolphins showing off their surfing skills,” says Ryan White. “On the nocturnal tours we watch scorpions glowing bright blue under ultra-violet lamps and Tuan (brush-tailed phascogales) darting around banksias.”

BUNURU February – March

The second summer brings flowering marri and eucalypts. It’s the beginning of the Ngari

(salmon) season migration, and there’s lots of herring, skippy, mullet, tuna, kingfish and baitfish.

“See black cockatoos gorging on gum nuts and left over grapes on a Wine and Sights Discovery Tour or spend the morning looking for colourful birds like the golden whistler on our Coastal and Wildlife Eco Tour,” says Ryan White.

Marvel as the Southern Cross ascends in the starry night sky on his Nocturnal Wildlife Tour, where you’ll also see native plants loaded with sweet fruit like the emu plum and snotty gobble tree.

DJERAN April – May

Theseasonofadulthoodbringscoolerweather andprevailingsouthwesterlywinds.Ngariare plentifulalongthecoastandaromaticwillow myrtleblowinthebreeze.

Josh Whiteland’s Koomal Dreaming tours transcend the seasons, giving insight into flora, fauna and culture adapted to the time

of year. Josh contributed artwork, stories and knowledge to the Ancient Lands Experience at Ngilgi Cave, and his favourite tour takes place in the new Meeting Place. “On the Food Tour, we acknowledge the spirit of Ngilgi, visit the cave and then enjoy a barbecue lunch and a campfire.” Djeran’s cooler days are ideal for gathering round the campfire, listening to Josh play the didgeridoo.

Canoeing the Wooditjup Bilya (the Margaret River) with his guests is magic any time of year, but Sean Blocksidge reckons that in Djeran, it’s something else. “Black cockatoos turn up in force for the marri trees’ honky-nuts. Splendid fairy wrens flit among the tea trees flashing their disco blues, and the whole place hums with life.”

Djeran is a magical time to hike the Cape to Cape Track, says Gene Hardy, with gentle breezes, mild temperatures and gorgeous sunny skies. “Hikers will be blown away by the rare flora and the roaring Indian Ocean.”

Djeran

is a magical time to hike the Cape Track, says Gene Hardy, with gentle breezes, mild temperatures and gorgeous sunny skies.

MAKURU June – July

Thecoldestandwettesttimeofyearwithsomeclear,crispdays. Redflowersareblossoming.Familiesmoveinlandtotherivers, forest and lakes.

The season of fertility starts with a splash off Augusta. Southern right whales birth their young in the protected waters and can be spotted from local whale watching charters Whale Watch WA, All Sea Charters WA or Naturaliste Charters. Missed the Makuru performance? Thousands of humpbacks migrate along the coast and through Geographe Bay in Djilba and Kambarang, making the South West a hotspot for one of the longest whale-watching seasons in the world.

Cold days call for vigorous activity and the Wooditjup Mountain Bike Trails are plenty of heart-racing fun for the whole family.

DJILBA August–September

Theseasonofbirth,babymarsupialsandbirdsemergefrom pouchesandnests.Yellowandwhiteflowers,plusorchids,appear.

“The second rains fill up creeks and it’s waterfall time – it’s the best time of year to check out the local waterfalls” suggests Josh Whiteland.

As the weather warms up, Gene Hardy prepares for his three to eight-day guided hiking adventures, where he shares fascinating insights into the local geology, First Nations culture and the history of local settlement. “It’s a sensational time to be out on the Cape to Cape Track and the most popular time of year.”

The Longest Lighthouse Keeper

Australia’s longest-serving lighthouse caretaker, Paul Sofilas, lived and breathed Augusta long before he took up residence at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

GOOD VIBES HOME GREAT BEER • TASTYFOOD

Before making one of the cottages at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse his home, Australia’s longestserving lighthouse guide and caretaker used to cycle to work. He pedalled past humpbacks traversing Flinders Bay in June, and explosions of wildflowers in August, observing the Cape’s seasons and rhythms. Uniform tucked in his backpack, Paul Sofilas let the onshore wind dictate whether his morning swim would be in the Southern or Indian Ocean each day, immersing in nature, bodily and mentally, before commencing the tasks of modern lighthouse keeping.

Paul’s always had a keen sense of place. Raised in a fishing family in Bunbury, Paul credits his father’s boat building as the catalyst to his enduring love for Augusta. In the late 1960s, Paul accompanied his family to deliver a handmade timber boat to its new owner before the first of many family

holidays to the town. Enamoured by the area, Paul’s parents built a holiday home in Augusta and eventually retired there. Paul worked up north in mining construction but was always drawn back to the region for surfing, camping and family connection. During a visit in 1998, Paul rediscovered its unique beauty through the newly forged Cape to Cape Track, which he roamed daily in sections, alongside two-wheeled exploring on his mountain bike. “Seeing the region up close links it all together and you begin to understand it as a greater picture” Paul says. Magnetised by the wonders of the local natural world, he recalls visiting the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse with friends and telling them afterwards, “That’s the sort of place I’d be happy to do the odd day as a volunteer.” Six weeks later, he was staring at a newspaper job advertisement for a Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Supervisor. “The joke there is that there was one guy doing

In the heart of town, set among

In the heart of town, set among towering karris, the Margaret River Brewhouse philosophy is simple...

GOOD VIBES, GREAT BEER, TASTY FOOD.

OPEN 7 DAYS

Some people are there for the climb and the view, others will spend hours reading in the museum, and return again the next day, you have to be flexible.

three days, and this role was four days, and you never saw each other, so you were mainly supervising yourself.”

A lot has changed in the 25 years since. Initially, the visitor experience amounted to selling tickets from a back room and sending punters off on self-guided tours. Despite having no training in the industry, Paul took his hybrid local-tourist’s eye and personable nature and turned it into a passionate vocation. He has overseen the site’s restoration and revegetation plus additions of the interpretive centre, Leeuwin Bean Café, and enhanced services for visitors. From early in his tenure, Paul carefully kept and collated information and items for future projects, and they became vital to the detail of the current museum. He attended conferences, joined the historical and other societies and campaigned continuously for improvements to regional tourism, including a mixed-use trail from Augusta town centre to the lighthouse site. His colleagues call him a trove of information and a steadfast pillar of the community - much like the lighthouse.

It’s not just Paul’s vast knowledge that sets him apart, it’s his muck-in and get it done

attitude - letting a contractor in on his day off or riding into town through 120kmh wind and pouring rain, just because he promised he would. He adapts his tours to suit his audience, children torn from their devices or those with limited English. “Some people are there for the climb and the view, others will spend hours reading in the museum, and return again the next day, you have to be flexible.”

One of Paul’s fond memories is of a gentleman who arrived very late one afternoon and shared with Paul that his own father had rounded Cape Leeuwin on merchant ships many times and often spoke of how intense the experience was. It’s these gifts, of sharing the Cape and its history, that keep Paul motivated over so many years.

He loves to see walkers completing their Cape to Cape trek, tired but inspired with a contagious buzz that he says he can catch even at the end of a long day climbing stairs. He grins at the memory of resident sheep silently mowing the site’s vast lawns. Luring the naughty one, Feta, back inside the gate with an apple, or watching her nuzzling into the hands of delighted visitors who’d never been outside a

landlocked city. He recalls that it was always children who stopped to notice he’d shaped some seeded grass into a smiley face for the rock parrots, and one parent’s good-natured jibe that maybe he’d been out there too long if he’d begun doing things like that.

And the lighthouse? “I’m often asked if it’s still working,” he says. “Solar flares, sunspots and atmospheric conditions mean there’s still a need for it.”

The vulnerability of GPS is another reason the light is kept in mint working order, with the jagged incisors of the rocks no less dangerous than they were in 1910 when they got the better of a passenger liner.

You get the impression that if Paul were around back then, he’d be one of the keepers lighting fires to guide the evacuees to the safety of the sandy beaches, rescuing everyone on board. He often thinks of the 10 sailors who left Melbourne in 1945 and were swept off their deck into the swirling brine and perished. He laments that they’d likely be able to see the light from the ocean, bleating the presence of land into the night with no way to reach it. He’s that kind of guy.

3:30pm thursday. independence on tap.

The pre-schooler mantra surely must be, “I can do it myself.” At Dôme, we go out of our way to help little people feel like big ones by encouraging independence. They’re free to help themselves to water from the dispenser – and if they spill a bit, we’ll just discretely mop it up. We’ve also designed our Junior Menu with plenty of pictures, so they can ‘read’ it by themselves. A little bit of freedom means every meal comes with a side order of self-esteem. For gently building confidence, there’s no place like Dôme.

Pair’d Perspectives:

THE CHEF AND THE SOMMELIER

A few days immersed in Pair’d Margaret River Region - the homegrown festival bringing together the best of culinary, music and cultural experiences - is guaranteed to leave you with a fresh perspective on this iconic corner of Western Australia.

WORDS | Bronte O’Donoghue

Pair’d invites guests to step into a world curated through the lens of a modern sommelier, designed to create an unforgettable celebration of the senses.

The eclectic line-up of over 20 events is loaded with experiences you’ve never seen, heard, or tasted before including icon event Nature’s Table, held deep in the forest at Tanah Marah, and the exclusive Pair’d Beach Club pop-up at Meelup Beach.

Just as a sommelier puts forward the best wine and food pairings, Pair’d illuminates an incredible story of place, alongside exceptionally talented people.

One such person who is making waves in the food world is West Australian Chef, Blaze Young. Blaze originally fell into hospitality by accident. Her first job was only meant to pay the bills while studying at university, but she soon rose

through the ranks to Front of House Manager at Bivouac on William Street in Perth. “Back in 2011, it was one of the first venues in WA that treated food and wine with equal importance, and an early part of the emerging small bar scene. That tight-knit community really shaped me. I completely fell in love with the rhythm of service, the way people gathered over meals, and how vibrant the energy was when a restaurant was firing.”

Blaze became obsessed with learning how the kitchen worked, but as a woman, the idea of jumping into a male-dominated space felt intimidating. That all changed when she met Kurt Sampson, who was preparing to open Propeller, in 2014. “He was creating these exciting, unconventional bar snacks at Dominion League that were unlike anything else in WA at the time. I forced him to have

Being so close to regions like Margaret River gives us access to not only incredible ingredients, but also the people behind them.

~ Blaze Young, Executive Chef for Foxtrot Hospitality Group

a coffee with me and that ended with him offering me a job in his kitchen. I had zero formal training. But his response was, ‘don’t worry, I’ll teach you’.”

Fast forward ten years and the title of WA Good Food Guide’s 2025 Chef of the Year, Blaze has quickly established herself as a chef who can build a kitchen culture with an eye for both quality and creativity, leading the charge as Executive Chef for Foxtrot Hospitality Group.

When asking Blaze how she approaches food and wine pairings across her three venues, she responds with ease, “When we first opened Nieuw Ruin, the original concept wasn’t a restaurant — it was a wine bar. So our food had to complement the wine. That meant designing dishes that made sense in a bar context: flavours that lifted the wine, ingredients that offered contrast or harmony, and textures that made you want to sip again. Now, our menu changes weekly, and every time the food changes, so do the pairings. Jack, our Wine Director, and I are constantly in conversation.”

Blaze and Jack often invite winemakers in for collaborative wine dinners - an extension of their wine and food ethos, but more intimate.

“Being so close to regions like Margaret River gives us access not only to incredible ingredients, but also to the people behind them. Winemakers drop by to talk us through their process. You get a feel for their passion, their land, and their challenges. That kind of storytelling inspires dishes, deepens our understanding, and helps us craft better experiences.”

Blaze is returning to Pair’d for the second year after flexing her talent at the inaugural festival last November. This time around, you can catch her at Skigh Wine’s New Wave Gathering alongside another award-winning chef, Drew Dawson. A celebration of rulebreakers, tastemakers, and wine redefined, New Wave Gathering puts the region’s next generation of chefs and winemakers in the spotlight.

Blaze believes Pair’d is especially exciting because of the Margaret River Region’s tight-knit hospitality crew. “It feels like walking into a big warm hug. There’s this energy and generosity that’s hard to describe, but you feel it instantly. Everyone’s there to cook great food,

You will have the ultimate privacy on our unique 240-acre private estate. Relax your mind, recharge your soul, enjoy a private massage and yoga session during your stay.

Surround yourself with nature and the soothing sounds of our abundant birdlife. Find balance in your busy life by booking your next escape with our friendly, experienced team who will ensure you leave feeling refreshed and renewed.

Forest Rise is nestled in the heart of the Margaret River Wine Region. Surrounded by the finest wineries, restaurants and only a short drive to stunning beaches along our coastline.

pour great wine, and have a good time doing it.”

Also back for round two at Pair’d is Cyndal Petty, another talented woman who is best known for her authentic, relatable and often sassy booze reviews. Cyndal is a sommelier (although her Instagram bio cheekily claims she is ‘not a som’), and her mission as a wine educator boils down to ‘making the wine world a safe place for all to enjoy.’

She enjoys breaking down the lingo and simplifying the complicated world, stating “Wine is for everyone. It should be inclusive, not exclusive. It’s just fermented grapes after all.”

When questioned on why she doesn’t call herself a sommelier, she confidently responds “I never thought much of it. It started from continuously being asked what I do — as if a title might help people pin me down or position me in the world. If I pull it apart, it comes from a natural resistance to structure, mixed with a bratty defiance toward being told what to be. I want to be whatever I feel like on the day.”

And this is exactly what she is doing, spreading her time between writing, reviewing, judging, presenting, mentoring, and sharing the narrative of wine.

20-23 November 2025

Cyndal’s favourite wine and food pairing from last year’s festival is unsurprisingly daring. “Hands down, it was the Trivet x Vasse Felix wine dinner. Vasse Felix’s Tom Cullity Cabernet was paired with the opening course. A bold move by sommelier Isa Bal, leading with red before white, flipping the script and giving the king of Margaret River cabernet the spotlight it deserves.”

Pair’d will once again transform the South West into the ultimate wine, food and music celebration.

Full event program: pairdmargaretriver.com

Couch TO Cape

Mountain biking is fast becoming one of the South West’s most popular activities, and thanks to a growing network of purpose-built trails weaving through the region’s breathtaking backdrops, it’s not hard to see why. But you don’t have to be a serious athlete to give it a go. More and more people are discovering just how fun, social and rewarding riding can be.

One of the best ways to experience it all is by joining the iconic Cape to Cape MTB (Mountain Bike). The event is a four-day adventure that starts at the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in Augusta and courses through a network of trails along the coast, forest and bush, ending in Cape Naturaliste in Dunsborough. What started as a field race with about 100 riders, is now Australasia’s largest and longest-running multistage endurance race. But don’t get caught up in big words; the ride is much more about the experience than on a stopwatch. Each stage finishes conveniently (and

strategically) close to a brewery or winery, and the casual camaraderie with fellow riders offers a ride that is more about the journey than the destination.

Just ask Emily Hayes, a 19-year-old university student from Perth, who, with zero mountain bike riding experience, is getting on the bike for the first time to take part in the Cape to Cape MTB. Documenting her experience, dubbed ‘Couch to Cape’, from start to finish, Emily is proving just how much fun and accessible getting on the trails is.

“I never realised how big the sport was, but I am absolutely loving it and so surprised by how quickly I am picking it up. My confidence on the bike has grown so much just between my first and second ride.”

What was also surprising to Emily at first was just how inclusive the mountain biking community is. Participating in a training clinic as part of her preparation, she was blown away

with just how many women of all ages were giving it a go – and succeeding.

But Emily’s biggest takeaway so far is just how enthusiastic her new mountain biking mates are. “Everyone is so encouraging and willing to help one another. There is no pressure from experienced riders; they’re more than happy to share the trails and their tips with you.”

Whether you’re a first-timer or just haven’t been on a bike in years, the mountain biking community proves that there’s a place for everyone on the trails. As Emily puts it, “Just get out of your comfort zone and give it a go. It’s so much fun to support each other and there are so many people out there, each at different levels.”

The Cape to Cape MTB takes place from 16 to 19 October. For more information and to register for future rides, head to capetocapemtb.com

Trail Tips

Ready for a piece of the Cape to Cape MTB action? The region is home to three distinctive trail areas, each catering to a different level of rider, with a mix of green for beginners, blue for intermediate, and a few black trails dedicated to the advanced.

The Margaret River Trails are generally grouped into three areas totalling nearly 65 kilometres of single-track trails. For any service, new or hire equipment, or just a few friendly tips, the teams at The Hairy Marron, Burnside Bikes or Life Cycle Bikes are more than happy to help.

The Return of the Jedi Trails are cruisy, beginner-friendly green trails through a brilliant natural bush setting. Best ridden in the springtime to see wildflowers at their most abundant.

The Wooditjup Trails are professionally designed and curated trails that range from beginner-friendly green trails to dedicated black jump lines. These trails are all about flow, with each trail running smoothly into the next and more difficult track.

The Creek Trails are all blue trails and some of the more advanced of the lot. You might sometimes hear them referred to as the ‘oldschool’ trails. These include technical rocky descents, log runs, and steep drops. There are plenty of beautiful nooks to stop along the river for a quick break or even a swim.

The Middle Earth trail and stage three of the Cape to Cape MTB is a fan favourite and a rite of passage for any mountain biker headed to the region. It is a 24-kilometre cross-country style track designed to test a rider’s technical skills.

The Dunsborough Mountain Bike Park aka Meelup Trails, features 25 kilometres of technical and rocky trails, with the majority a twisting single track and the rest fire access tracks. A $5 access fee at the Dunsborough & Districts Country Club will get you onto the trails, and if you’re in need of any equipment or hire, head to the Bike Shed Dunsborough

GO WITH THE PROS

Not quite sure where to start? On Track Mountain Biking, Margaret River Adventure Co and Margaret River Mountain Bike Tours offer guided experiences from beginnerfriendly bush rides to more technical trail adventures. They’ll provide the gear and guidance while showing you the best tracks and views.

Everyone is so encouraging and willing to help one another. There is no pressure from experienced riders; they’re more than happy to share the trails and their tips with you.

~ Emily Hayes

Creativity IS brewing

The small but mighty South West brewing scene is as dynamic as ever.

WORDS | Jono Outred

While the region’s breweries all have locality in common, outside of that, each brewer has a unique take on the creative process. From collaborating on limited releases, to using seasonal produce, freshly picked hops and locally malted barley, meet the family-owned breweries that are refining, reimagining and raising the bar for craft beer.

One brewery leading the charge on

innovation is Rocky Ridge Brewing Co, whose warm and friendly Busselton taphouse has over 20 beers on offer at any one time. If that sounds like a lot, it is. The inventive team also released 120 new and individual brews in 2024, with even more in the works for 2025.

For Rocky Ridge, the brewing process is all about creativity and ensuring that the craft beer industry remains fun and vibrant.

“There’s a relentless desire to explore the

endless possibilities of brewing and have fun while doing it” Liam Marsh, Head of Brand Direction, explains. “We see beer as an opportunity to tell a story, experiment with new ingredients, and push the boundaries of what beer can be. We’re inspired by everything – local ingredients, quirky pop culture and amazing collaborations with other businesses.”

Rocky Ridge’s onslaught of beers includes everything from lactose-laden pastry inspired stouts and fruited sours to resinous IPAs and obscure lagers, all contributing to a lengthy list of styles coming out of the region. For neighbouring Shelter Brewing Co., seasonal beers are an important part of their brewery offering, where their brewers focus on nailing

specific styles, occasionally enhanced with interesting local ingredients like squid ink, beetroot or spent wine barrels.

Head Brewer Jason Credaro’s ethos is simple - what do we feel like brewing and drinking? “In autumn and winter, we go for maltier styles,” Jason says, “spring is all about IPAs, and in summer we’ll play around with lagers and lighter styles.”

“Where we take our inspiration from is another key factor - maybe there’s a new hop variety, a new local hop grower or maltster, or we’ve been chatting to other brewers in the region. We try not to chase hype beer styles, but if a style does pop up that we enjoy drinking, it will generally find a spot in the brewing schedule pretty quickly,” Jason explains.

The South West is well regarded for its produce, and although much of it ends up on the region’s restaurant menus, breweries like Eagle Bay Brewing Co also manage to find use for it within their brewery. Grab a four pack of their recently released Single Series beers, where freshly picked yuzu features in an India Pale Lager, and grapefruit from their farm orchard adds bright citrus flavour to their hazy pale ale. For Eagle Bay’s Head Brewer Rhys Doherty, it’s all about striking a balance between innovation and tradition.

“As brewers and beer fans, we push ourselves to evolve and adapt to modern styles as much as honouring the classics. We’re aiming to develop beers that reflect and complement the dynamic seasons we find here in the South West, while being approachable for everyone.”

Brewing beers with added ingredients means extensive recipe development for brewers but Eagle Bay certainly aren’t new to the concept having brewed with pumpkins, blueberries,

As brewers and beer fans, we push ourselves to evolve and adapt to modern styles as much as honouring the classics.

~ JasonCredaro,HeadBrewer ShelterBrewingCo.

vanilla and pickle juice, among plenty of other local ingredients.

The creativity of South West brewers is limitless. Though almost all the region’s breweries boast a sessionable range of beers available year round, they‘re also busy pushing the envelope with their limited releases – the likes of Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co, Margaret River Beer Co, Southcamp, Beerfarm, CBCo and Wild Hop Brewing Co are also well known for their interesting, innovative beers.

Liam emphatically believes, “the South West brewing scene is an absolute vibe!”

“You couldn’t ask for a more vibrant and supportive community full of passionate people who love what they do. There’s a real sense of camaraderie; we all learn from each other and push each other to get better.”

And Jason agrees.

“Our breweries have become an important part of tourism in the South West. They are innovative, inclusive and every venue in the region is family-friendly. It’s amazing to be a part of this incredibly collaborative group of talented people, working towards a stronger industry together.”

For those who want to explore the South West’s diverse and delicious beers across the capes, The Caves Trail and The Bay Trail, found on margaretriver.com, are a great way to see many of these breweries in one handy trip.

DiveInto

Discovery

Grab your snorkel and plunge into the deep South West’s spectacular underwater playgrounds.

WORDS | Tom de Souza

The Margaret River Region is renowned for its waves — but just beneath the surface lies a whole different kind of spectacle. The Ngari Capes Marine Park is a diverse underwater landscape, extending from Busselton down to Augusta. Discover limestone ledges hiding Western rock lobsters, kelp forests teeming with colour, and coral gardens where stingrays glide like ghosts. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just keen to dip your mask in, there’s always an underwater adventure waiting to happen down here.

1. Busselton Jetty

An icon beneath the waves

Stretching nearly two kilometres into Geographe Bay, Busselton Jetty isn’t just the longest wood-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere — it’s also one of the most unique dive and snorkel sites in Australia.

As you journey along the jetty, you’ll see the underwater landscape transform: from sandy shallows and seagrass beds to deeper waters home to squid, stingrays, sea lions, and even

the occasional dolphin.

Snorkel straight from the shore or leap off the many platforms to uncover a vibrant coral wonderland. Be sure to check out the Underwater Sculpture Park, featuring 13 hauntingly beautiful installations by WA artists. If you’re looking to dive, operators like Swan Dive offer scuba experiences at the jetty and the HMAS Swan, one of Australia’s premier dive wrecks.

2. Geographe Bay

Crystal waters, hidden life

Protected from the prevailing south-westerly winds, Geographe Bay is a haven for beginner snorkellers and marine life alike. Explore the glassy sand flats of Meelup Beach and Eagle Bay, or venture to rocky headlands like Castle Rock and Point Picquet, where the fish are even more diverse and plentiful.

Keep an eye out for octopuses, wrasse, and schools of baitfish. For those who prefer a guided experience, Oceania Experiences offers eco tours by boat out to Cape Naturaliste, providing views of the Bunker Bay seal colony.

3. Yallingup Lagoon

Where the tropics meet the south

This sheltered lagoon marks the southernmost reach of both tropical and subtropical fish. Calm, clear, and always inviting, Yallingup Lagoon is ideal for families and beginners. Thanks to its sanctuary status, marine life thrives here, with larger species taking refuge while using the reef as shelter from ocean swells.

4. Canal Rocks

Nature’s wild aquarium

A dramatic meeting point of granite, surge channels, and turquoise pools, Canal Rocks offers a snorkelling spot for the adventurous. Tucked beside the boat ramp, a small, protected cove reveals herring, wrasse, groper, and even abalone. Confident swimmers can take a thrilling drift through the canal, where a natural current will sweep you under the bridge, but it’s essential to only attempt this when swell conditions are low, as the current can be unpredictable.

Goanna Bush Café is a welcoming bush hideaway where you’ll find tasty, daytime dishes that are full

5. Injidup Point

A walk, then wonder

To reach Injidup Point, take a scenic walk along a vast stretch of pristine beach, where the ocean features granite outcrops and lush kelp beds. You might spot dolphins feeding in the shallows or rays cruising through weed beds, making this ideal for serene snorkelling and nature-lovers seeking solitude.

6. Gnarabup Beach

Limestone hideaways and lobsters

Nestled beside The White Elephant Beach Café, Gnarabup Beach is protected by offshore bomboras and features a limestone seabed, the perfect habitat for Western rock lobsters and reef fish. You can snorkel around the limestone headland to discover ledges, caves, and coral fans, with the family-friendly beach offering food, shade, and easy entry points. Just be mindful of occasional currents near the reef breaks.

Whether you’re hunting lobsters or simply floating through seagrass, there’s a snorkel spot to suit everyone

7. Hamelin Bay

Rays, reefs, and relaxation

Famous for its friendly stingrays, Hamelin Bay is one of the region’s most beloved spots, boasting sheltered waters and a mix of limestone and granite seabed for fantastic underwater exploring. Rays often come close to the shoreline, so please remember to respect their space and never touch or feed them. The gentle, calm conditions make this spot ideal for kids and beginners.

8. Flinders Bay

Where two oceans collide

Near Augusta, Flinders Bay is tucked behind Cape Leeuwin, where the Indian and Southern Oceans converge, creating one of the most unique snorkel spots in the region. The bay is often calm and glassy with good wind protection and features a jetty perfect for jumping into your underwater expedition and a grassy foreshore ideal for a post-dive picnic.

... You might spot dolphins feeding in the shallows or rays cruising through weed beds.

With so many coves, lagoons, and reefs tucked along the coastline, the Margaret River Region is more than a surfing paradise – it’s an underwater playground. Grab a buddy and check the weather conditions before you head out. Remember currents can often change without warning.

If you’re unsure where to start, head to a patrolled beach or jump on a tour with an experienced guide. Check out Surf Life Saving WA and the Ngari Capes Marine Park WA digital visitor guide for more information.

exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au

SUMMERSTAR TOURIST PARKS

A WEEK OF

Wellness

The South West is a place like no other — a vast landscape of ancient forests, rolling coastline, and fresh, salty air that feels like a breath into your lungs. Here’s a gentle guide to how a week of wellness, woven with nature and stillness, across this breathtaking region could unfold.

WORDS | Jodie Reynolds

From the moment you arrive in the Margaret River Region, your edges begin to soften. The gentle rhythms of Wadandi Boodja pulse beneath your feet, inviting you to slow down, breathe, and simply be. Calming yoga flows, nurturing treatments and soothing saunas complement this restorative environment, enhancing your connection to the land and deepening your sense of wellbeing.

MONDAY: Ground and begin

Ease into your week with an infrared flow at Gnarabup Yoga Studio. With ocean views and gentle warmth, it’s the perfect place to ease into your body. Afterwards, visit KaHuna Bodyworks, located at The Healing Hut — a peaceful garden sanctuary where nature holds space for emotional release and reconnection. Let the morning be intuitive, and unhurried. Also nearby, Margaret River Massage provides deep, restorative bodywork paired with a gentle infrared sauna, located in the peaceful heart of the Margaret River town centre.

TUESDAY:

Rooted healing

Begin your day with Yoga and Therapy with Amber in Witchcliffe, where heart-led yoga, breathwork, and craniosacral therapy flow gently amidst towering trees and serene silence. Amber’s sessions are deeply personal, guiding you back to your own rhythm through compassionate presence and embodied awareness. It’s a space to soften, release, and reconnect with your true nature. Then, head

to Flourish Wellness in Margaret River for a nervous system-based session that gently dissolves stress and reconnects you to yourself. In the afternoon, take time to rest, journal, or walk the river trails — letting the integration happen naturally.

WEDNESDAY:

Sauna and stillness

Let your body exhale midweek with a visit to Aura Yoga Retreats in Quedjinup. Set on seven acres of bushland, it’s the perfect place for a warm sauna, a calming yoga session, or simply sitting in stillness. Slowly find your way to the calm creative space of Tama Wellness, a quiet rebellion against the rush of the world. Here, facials aren’t just treatments, they’re sculptural rituals that turn the everyday into something sacred. Massage follows, a rhythmic language of touch that reconnects you with your body’s own story. Each session is crafted to slow time and sharpen presence. Opt for an infrared sauna or specialised facial add-ons to deepen the journey. Let the day end by the ocean, grounded and whole.

THURSDAY: Flow into sound and light

Move gently today — perhaps a light Pilates at SKUHLPT, or a slow yin practice in a quiet corner of your day. Relax your senses with a treatment at Frequency of Light or a soundbased session with Uniquely Balanced in Margaret River, where seasonal energy work and fascia-focused care help the body remember its rhythm. Afterwards, book an acupuncture session at Margaret River Wellness Centre or drop into MEND Margaret River for a modern bathhouse experience — sauna, ice, warm magnesium pool, and massage combine to melt tension and leave you feeling deeply restored.

FRIDAY: Forest and facial

Spend the morning wandering through Boranup Forest or visiting one of the many quiet bush trails around the Margaret River Region. Then, arrive at Meraki – Holistic Skin

Studio, nestled on a peaceful property, for an advanced facial or body treatment designed to restore and rejuvenate. For lunch, find a shady spot beneath the trees, or make your way toward the coast to breathe in the salt air. Let the day be slow, spacious, and self-directed.

SATURDAY: Retreat in place

Head to Bina Maya Yallingup Escape for a day centred around unwinding. Book a massage on the balcony or a private yoga session. Bathe in rainwater. Read by the fire. Do less. Let stillness be the experience. This is a day for retreating inward, reconnecting with nature, and being without the need to perform or plan.

SUNDAY: Spa ritual and release

Close the week in luxury. Begin at Empire Spa Retreat, a bushland sanctuary where every detail invites stillness from the warm scents of eucalyptus and wattle seed to the slow,

sensory care woven into each treatment. Then make your way to BODHI Yallingup, where treatments blend sound, breath, and native Australian botanicals like lemon myrtle and eucalyptus, to guide you back to balance. Afterward, sit quietly on the terrace and watch kangaroos graze near the lake. Let the land hold you gently, as the week softens to a close.

Check into one of these unforgettable retreats and check out their in-house spas or steam lodges:

Pullman Bunker Bay Resort

Empire Retreat

Injidup Spa Retreat

Willow Wood Glamping

Wildwood Eco Retreat

ORGANICALLY FARMED

100% ESTATE GROWN AND MADE

WINES OF PLACE

The rise

of rosé:

CYNDAL PETTY’S HIT LIST

Lately, I’ve been drinking a lot of local rosé. It’s one of the only wine styles I drink to simply enjoy - my antidote to overthinking wine.

WORDS | Cyndal Petty

Work has trained me to move quickly, pull wines apart and be ruthless. It’s also made me unable to detach from tasting critically. The irony is, the more involved you are in the world of wine, the harder it becomes to just enjoy a glass. No analysis, no critique – just pure enjoyment. That’s where rosé comes in.

Maybe it’s because, in the wine world, pink is the new orange – and I’m loving that fancy rosé is finally trending. Or maybe I’m just not looking for grandiosity. So, if it’s structured and complex, that’s a bonus - not a requirement.

It could also be that Margaret River doesn’t have a single rosé style, it has many. There’s creativity in the rosé making process and no strict mould to fit into. Winemakers have freedom over colour, grape variety, sweetness, and vessel, allowing them to put their stamp on the final product. A personal statement like a fur coat or cowboy boots.

It’s a labour of love and madness. The best rosés are fresh, expressive, dry, and so scrumptious they make you want to call in sick and take the day off. They’re effortlessly nonchalant yet somehow manage to over-deliver.

They spark innocence in pink (until the winemakers start flexing their trophies). Rosé is my easy escape from overthinking wine, but in Margaret River, the competition is tight. Each year, winemakers battle for ‘the pink jacket’ - the region’s most coveted and slightly ridiculous prize.

The Pink Jacket

Since 2015, the Margaret River Wine Show has awarded not just a trophy to the winning rosé, but a custom pink jacket. Very sophisticated. These days, the final wines in contention for Rosé of Show are judged right on the

coast, overlooking the wild Indian Ocean at Gnarabup beach. This happens just before the ceremony kicks off and last year’s winner is officially knighted. I caught up with McHenry Hohnen’s Jacopo Dalli Cani, who received his jacket at last year’s ceremony for his 2023 Chloé Rosé. He paints a vivid picture of the moment.

“It was a beautiful spring afternoon, icecold rosé flowing, and DJ Erik playing on the terrace. Every rosé winemaker on the planet wishes for their wine to be enjoyed in a place like Margaret River.”

Jacopo also shared how the pink jacket came to be. “It started when Julian Langworthy rocked the very first P. Johnson tailored pink jacket after winning a trophy for his rosé,” he explains. “He made a statement: pink wine is serious business!”

What began as playful humour has now grown into a proud tradition. “Initially, it was some dodgy, poorly tailored jacket,” Jacopo explains. “Until Murray McHenry suggested winners get something more luxe. He generously offered to sponsor a fine pink jacket from P. Johnson for the winners past and present.”

Come and enjoy a wine tasting with beautiful vineyard views and our friendly local team.

We craft small-batch wines, including highly praised Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. All highly rated by James Halliday Wine Companion. We are Western Australian family owned and operated. Est 1997.

Holben Road, Cowaramup Wednesday to Sunday 11am-4pm Bookings preferred – not essential wine@victorypointwines.com

Margaret River rosés to drink now

Recommended by Cyndal Petty, wine writer, reviewer and sommelier.

2023 Idée Fixe Brut Rosé

Foot-stomped cherries, red berries, and lemon balm – this fizz has swept through WA hearts. Traditional method, chardonnay dominant, fresh and clean.

2025 Dormilona ‘Floppet’

Pétillant Naturel

Verging on a chilled red –Jo Perry is the local pet nat queen. Orange juice, red apple, strawberry tart, red snakes. Unsure if pet nat is your style? Start with Dormilona and start with the best.

2024 L.A.S. Vino

Albino PNO

Winemaker Nick Peterkin is always up to something. Pushing boundaries, making great wine, challenging paradigms. Ripe stone fruit, crystal dust, green figs and tart rhubarb parfait. The epitome of fancy rosé.

2025 South by South West Rosé

Floral, layered, and textural. Pressed jasmine, Meyer lemon, fresh basil, sweet peaches and pomegranate. Lots of character and a long finish.

2024 Deep Woods

Estate Rosé

With so many medals, I’m surprised it’s still standing under the weight. Simply delicious. Cherry, dried strawberries, and toffee apple. The kind of wine that seems to disappear.

NV Howard Park

Jeté Rosé

Fittingly named after a leaping ballerina - I enjoy the elegance and sophistication of this wine. One of my favourite bubbles out of WA. Tangerine, raspberries, lemon zest and blood orange. Drink at sunset.

2024 McHenry Hohnen

Chloé Rosé

100% Mourvèdre from their certified biodynamic Hazel’s Vineyard. Peach cobbler, wild strawberries, and salty vermouth. Gentle, precious, refreshing.

2024 Glenarty Road

Wildlings Pétillant Naturel

Rhubarb, watermelon and mandarin oil. Textural, fun, salty and raw. The perfect apéritif. Drink with Grandma.

2024 Lenton Brae In Good

Hands Rosé

A juicy, peachy-pink sangiovese bursting with mandarin, watermelon, rose petals, and spice. Dry, generous, and a little cheeky. The kind of wine that makes you grin mid-sip.

2024 Victory Point Rosé Made from 100% Pinot Noir – it screams elegance. White strawberry, pomegranate and nectarine salad. A silent achiever – never disappoints.

Also, track down: Fraser Gallop Estate Rosé, and Marq Wines Serious Rosé. Where to Buy: For the optimal experience, visit each winery’s cellar door or a local, independent retailer such as Margaret River Regional Wine Market and Dunsborough Cellars Liquor Store

life for a moment

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A Cave Guide

FOR CURIOUS TRAVELLERS

The experience of simply being underground leaves people of all ages with a dropped jaw and a big smile.

Georgia May, Ngilgi Cave Guide

Stalagmites, stalactites, underground streams and sunken forests, some of the Margaret River Region’s most compelling landscapes lie just beneath the surface.

WORDS | Holly Winkle

Carved over thousands of years, more than 100 limestone caves run the length of the Leeuwin–Naturaliste ridge. Six of these caves are open to the public, each offering a unique view of the Margaret River Region from below - think tranquil reflections and ancient fossils to softly lit chambers and climbable passages.

All six caves line the aptly named Caves Road between Yallingup and Augusta. Whether you choose a self-guided exploration, fully guided tour with a local expert or a hands-on climb, there’s a cave experience here that will fit naturally into your trip - one step down at a time.

Ngilgi Cave & Ancient Lands Experience in Yallingup

Self-guided,family-friendlyandfullofhighlights

Begin on the Ancient Lands Experience, an interpretive trail through native bushland. Interactive installations trace 600 million years

of geological history, showcase local flora and fauna, and honour the Wadandi People’s enduring custodianship. At the cave entrance, descend into softly lit chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, helictites and vividly coloured shawls. A guide in the main chamber shares stories and insights, but you set the pace. Feeling adventurous? Detour into the crawl tunnel, a rite of passage for all ages, then finish your visit at the nature-based play area where kids can continue the adventure above ground.

Ngilgi Cave was Western Australia’s first tourist attraction and has been wowing visitors for over 100 years.

Ngilgi Cave Guide Georgia May first visited the cave when she was young and has been amazed by its natural wonder ever since. “The mystery of Ngilgi’s chambers and changing depths brings a real sense of awe, but what really excites me are the crystals found further into the cave – their purity and untouched beauty is an experience in itself.”

Calgardup Cave in Forest Grove

Self-guided,helmets,torchesandabriefing providedbyfriendlystaff

Stroll down into magnificently decorated chambers to discover colourful crystals, stalactites, stalagmites and walls of flowstone. Relax on seating throughout the 300 metre long cave that branches into two wings. Easily accessed on boardwalks and stairs with handrails, Calgardup is suitable for all ages. Interpretive signs explain the cave’s formation and role as habitat for cave fauna, some of which is endangered. Finish with a roof top walk over the cave to see enchanting spring wildflower displays.

Mammoth Cave in Boranup

Self-guidedwithaudiocommentary,fossils and forest immersion

Descend a gently sloping boardwalk into the accessible entrance chamber, where a shallow stream meanders across the floor through spring before retreating during summer. With your headset (available in several languages), wander at your own pace as the commentary reveals Mammoth’s story: limestone formed over millennia, the palaeontological digs that uncovered thousands of megafauna fossils, and the rare sight of a 50,000-year-old Zygomaturus jawbone still embedded in the wall. Emerge through a moss-draped doline into towering karri and marri forest, follow the forest trail, then choose one of two paths for a peaceful return beneath the canopy.

Lake Cave in Boranup

Fully-guided,spectacularformations and water reflections

Follow a dramatic stair descent through a sunken karri forest to the cave chamber below. The fully guided tour takes you along the cave’s length, where the lake’s glassy surface mirrors delicate shawls, flowstones and the iconic Suspended Table – a multi-tonne flowstone shelf poised just above the water. As the region’s most active show cave, gentle water movement and dripping formations create a tranquil atmosphere. Watch droplets gather on straw stalactites before they fall into the lake and send ripples across its surface. At the end of the tour, ascend the steps at your own pace through the doline and back into the forest.

designs in nature designs in nature

designs in nature designs in nature

Lake Cave is the region’s only cave with a permanent underground waterbody.

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River

611 Boodjidup Road

611 Boodjidup Road

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River

handmade in Margaret River 611 Boodjidup Road

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm 08 9757 6885

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River

611 Boodjidup Road

Margaret River

611 Boodjidup Road

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm 08 9757 6885

611 Boodjidup Road

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm 08 9757 6885

info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com.au

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River 611 Boodjidup Road

Mon - Sat, 10am to 4pm Closed Sunday 08 9757 6885

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm 08 9757 6885

info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com.au

info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com.au

611 Boodjidup Road

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm 08 9757 6885

jewellery designed and handmade in Margaret River 611 Boodjidup Road

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm 08 9757 6885

info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com.au

info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm 08 9757 6885

info@payetgallery.com.au www.payetgallery.com.au

Mon - Sat, 10am - 4pm

info@payetgallery.com.au

Giants Cave in Boranup

Self-guided,mediumleveladventurecave; childrenunder6yearsnotpermitted

A unique physical experience as you negotiate a marked trail. Expect vertical ladder climbs, rock scrambles, tight squeezes and giant chambers. Traverse more than half a kilometre of natural cave floor and constructed boardwalks, descending to 86 metres deep. Marvel at ancient tree roots encrusted with colourful calcite along the way. After roughly an hour, emerge and stroll back to the guide hut through magnificent karri forest.

Jewel Cave in Deepdene

Fully-guidedtourthroughvastchambersand sparklingformations

As the largest cave open to the public in Western Australia, Jewel Cave unfolds in expansive chambers draped with feathery shawls, soaring stalagmites, and one of Australia’s longest straw stalactites. Jewel Cave Manager Rikki Andrew calls the cave “an underground wonderland, with its massive caverns and abundance of crystal formations, there is something to leave you in awe in every

Over 10,000 megafauna fossils have been discovered in Mammoth Cave

single cavern.” On a fully guided tour, you will learn about the cave’s dramatic origins and the slow geological processes that shaped each formation over thousands of years.

When planning your descent into your next cave adventure, always travel light, wear enclosed shoes and book in advance to ensure your spot. For more information visit capesfoundation.org.au or

Helictites are my favourite formation in Jewel Cave. They are crazy gravity defying crystals that will forever fascinate me.

~ Rikki Andrew, Jewel Cave Manager

exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au

OPEN DAILY 10AM - 4PM

HUNTING THE Ultimate South West Souvenir

Souvenir

noun 1. a thing that is kept as a reminder of a person, place, or event.

verb informal 1. take as a memento.

While teaspoons and plaster magnets have their place in the kitsch corner of a travel trinket collection, taking the time to hunt for a quality keepsake during your stay in the Margaret River Region is a joyful pursuit. Beyond a stubby cooler from your favourite brewery exists a thriving hub of craftspeople and artists with offerings made on Wadandi Boodja (Saltwater People’s Country) with skill and love.

The range is broad. You might fancy a custom shaped surfboard or a hand-painted serving platter. There’s olive oil soap, upcycled tableware and cottage craft for every taste and budget. Makers often weave, etch and hammer their magic in tucked-away studios down meandering roads, guarded by roos and hidden among trees, so finding them becomes part of the adventure.

Witchcliffe chandler Kirsten Jackson insists The Margaret River Candle Company is a souvenir shop, despite Google ejecting it from

the category every time she places it there. The tranquil retail space boasts the collected works of around 45 community artists. Shelves are decked with woodwork from local forest timber, vivid prints of the region’s wildlife and homewares with connections to wine, surf, and all the spoils we’ve come to associate with Australia’s South West. “To me, a souvenir is a memento of a place you’ve been,” Kirsten says. “Something made in the place you’re visiting.”

John Miller Design has been in the business of beautiful, wearable art since 1973. The jeweller is best known today for his silver bracelets, depicting natural and rural scenes, some with a bright gemstone as the setting sun or sparkling around a flourish of fins. Totems of the region’s flora and fauna are found on the heads of the stamps John has personally crafted for his work, including eucalyptus leaves, grevillea blossoms, starfish, grass trees and whales.

John’s studio spills over with the organised

chaos of someone deeply impassioned by their craft. His visual diaries burst with ideas about the myriad ways to execute a piece. You’re sure to find a reflection of your South West experience in John’s work, maybe the flickering foliage of the overstory as you drive along Caves Road, a playful seal or a mob of kangaroos. Treating yourself to a John Miller piece is a true Yallingup party favour – shiny, precious and one of a kind.

In a blue sea container in Vasse, Tammy Scott has taken what was her own therapeutic woodworking hobby to the next level. In Tammy’s hands, slabs of local timber are fashioned into furniture, homewares and wall hangings, frequently transformed with a river of resin containing florals or coastal finds. Tammy tends to multiple patches of everlastings around the Heartwood Timber Designs studio. Once blooming, they’ll be brutally beheaded and dried for future pieces.

Tammy’s previous life working with at-risk youth, and her own connection with the land through her farming family are elements of a wider story she tells within her creations. The signature intricate cross sections and vivid colours exemplify the essence of the region in each piece, some even featuring fragments of the old, burnt Busselton Jetty

ORIGINS THIRD

There’s a match for every budget and baggage allowance, from a karri keyring to a custom marri kitchen island.

Through a spattered glass studio window at Sensei Pots, located in Quedjinup, visitors are mesmerised by Ian Beniston throwing clay with over 40 years of experience in the mix. In a world that has grown to celebrate ceramic arts once more, there’s a greater appreciation for the intricate craft and its layers of demands - artistic, cerebral and scientific. Ian keeps it simple by dividing his time between the wheel and the waves, a clear and focused surfer’s

mind being the vital tool in the production of complex glaze pigments and shapes that marry form with function.

Ian has an instinctive process, driven by inexplicable forces to translate a design from his mind directly to the clay, concocting his own bespoke glazes and overseeing the kilns at night. Each piece sings with the sometimes months-long meditation of anticipating the unpredictable and tirelessly fine-tuning the balance. Ian wants you to use and enjoy your pottery daily. Feel the pleasing way a teacup fits your palm or admire a centre-piece rice dish full of steaming basmati, a souvenir to serve and delight you.

Back in Witchcliffe, Kirsten has you covered on the deeply personal side of choosing your memento. Her intimate candle workshops offer the ultimate gift – a souvenir you craft yourself. Dip beeswax, build kaleidoscopic colour or choose and blend bush scents in soy and return the next day to collect your unique, self-made memory.

In pursuit of the perfect mug?

Here are eight potters to visit:

• Stephanie Stokes Pottery | Dunsborough

• Happs Pottery | Anniebrook

• Jacob Lyon Pottery | Cowaramup

• Wilyaburp Dreaming | Wilyabrup

• Sensei Pots | Quedjinup

• Commonage Pottery | Dunsborough

• Busselton Pottery | Busselton

• Dilkes-Hoffman Studio Ceramics | MargaretRiver

STUDIO Gallery THE

The Studio Galler y, Ya llingup, is unde r the new owners hip of Olivia Ledger and Marco Bevilacqu a, and the duo behi nd t he successful Per th-based bu siness Mi Scusi, n ow bring their passi on for commun ity and creativity to the galler y. Oli v ia and Marco are committed to conti nui ng the gallery ’ s l e gacy of showcasin g e x ceptional artists a nd maintaining a welcoming space for art lovers of all kinds. Wi th their dedicatio n to supporting Western Australian and inte r state talent and fostering a deepe r c onnection wit h the a r ts, they are exci te d to lead The Studio Gallery into an exciting new chapte r.

The gallery program promises an exci tin g lineup of arti stic events: from artists such as Je a n Sher’s Small Walls sho w, to fea turing new work by Jules Sher during th e Margaret River R egion Open Studios (MRROS) period a l ong with Artists-I n -Residence Paula Wiegmink and S ue Smorthwaite. Thereafter a collab orative exhibiti on featuring Belinda Birchall, Jennife r S a d ler and Laura New bury followed by t he “Formed” a group exhibition by ceramicists and scu lpture artists of The Studio Galle ry. For more informati on please visit the gallery website.

We look forward to welcoming all visi tors, new and retu rn ing, to the gallery and sharing the v ib rant world of contemporary art wi th you.

What’s in a

Name?

THE STORY OF THE FRENCH SCIENTIFIC EXPLORERS WHO NAMED

WORDS | Stuart Hicks AO

Napoleon was taking power

France was embarking on a political and military transformation. It was eager to reassert proud national leadership in science and the arts. With a great ceremony, two sailing ships were farewelled at the French port of Le Havre. Theirs was to be the greatest scientific expedition ever launched. The ships were corvettes with guns, each just 40 metres long. They were given new names to reflect the expedition’s lofty aims.

Géographe and Naturaliste were to sail to the land called New Holland to explore along its coast, mapping and observing, engaging with the local people and studying them, drawing, collecting a vast trove of objects and

OUR COASTLINE

specimens, including quadrupeds, birds, plants and minerals. Interesting animals and plants were to be brought back alive.

Crammed with 238 men, the expedition was under the command of the experienced naval officer, Nicolas Baudin. In addition to their sailors, the two vessels were jam-packed with scholars, scientists, artists and even gardeners to care for the plants they would collect. The ships’ officers were quarrelsome. The scientists and artists were an unruly and impatient lot. They resented the rigours of shipboard life. In turn, captains did not abide landlubber passengers. When they were delayed in Mauritius to fix storm damage and collect supplies, more than forty officers, scientists and

artists walked away. Baudin pushed on for New Holland, now well behind time, making do with the grizzly lot he had left.

A left turn

The expedition arrived in the vicinity of Cape Leeuwin on 27 May 1801. They could find no safe anchorage and were confined to their ships.

The southern winter was approaching. Baudin decided to postpone his planned itinerary and instead sail north to Timor, where he intended to rest and repair through the winter months before returning south, around Cape Leeuwin, to proceed eastwards and explore Australia’s south coast after the weather improved.

It was the decision to turn left, not right, at Cape Leeuwin, which took Baudin’s ships along a part of the Australian coast that no Europeans had previously recorded.

This was land where the Wadandi People had lived for 60,000 years or more. These locals knew every rock and stream, every centimetre of their country, their Boodja – from the place in the south they called Tallinup (that we now call Augusta), through Wooditjbilyup (Margaret River), to Undalup (Busselton) and up to Goomburrup (Bunbury). They had names for everything, but the Europeans id not take that into consideration.

By tradition, when European voyagers described and mapped a stretch of coastline in the ‘New World’, they exercised the explorers’ privilege of naming the features they “discovered” along the way.

Baudin’s ships sailed north along the coast of what is now called the Margaret River Region. They mapped and sketched the landforms they imperfectly made out through telescopes from their ships while maintaining a prudent distance from unseen hazards along the shore. The French sprinkled names on the features they could identify at such distance – the little headlands. At length, the explorers were surprised to come to a prominent headland which they rounded, entering a giant bay. The headland they named after one of their ships, Cape Naturaliste . The bay was named after their other ship, Géographe

Near the place we today call Eagle Bay, Baudin permitted his excited scientists at last to row to shore in the small ship’s boats, to set foot on Australian soil.

A blundersome adventure

Over the next week or two, they made a bit of a mess of it.

One objective of the mission was to study the “character and customs” of the local inhabitants and to commence business negotiations, “to give them an idea of our arts

and crafts and industries and inspire in them the need for our products.” The few Wadandi People they found were not interested in cultural or commercial interchange. They made it clear where they wanted the visitors to go, which was far from Wadandi Boodja.

Before they were forced to flee the region in a gale, the French found a river. At its mouth,

the longboat of the Géographe became embedded in sand and had to be abandoned; a sailor, Thomas Timothée Vasse, was drowned. His name was given to the river.

In exasperation at the perceived incompetence of his officers and crew, Baudin named the river mouth Anse des Maladroits – Blunderers Cove.

So why is Baudin all but forgotten?

The scientific expedition collected 200,000 specimens of plants and animals, 2542 species of which were new to European science. It published the first detailed map of the entire Australian continent.

But Baudin died before he could return to France. By the time the ships came back, France and Napoleon had turned their attention to more military ambitions. The vast Australian treasure that the Baudin expedition brought back was never fully studied or appreciated, although a kangaroo and two black swans ended up in Joséphine’s garden at Malmaison, along with hundreds of unique plants.

The privilege to write the official record of the expedition was granted to the expedition’s last remaining zoologist, François Péron. Péron was “thoughtless, scatterbrained, quarrelsome, indiscreet, uncompromising”. (They are Péron’s own words, not mine.) “I have the capacity to make enemies for myself and to alienate my best friends,” he confessed. Péron and his late commander, Baudin, had been shipboard enemies. So, Péron wrote the expedition’s volume without once mentioning Baudin’s name. Following this lead, Baudin was largely washed from history.

In the official records, Péron and the cartographer Louis de Freycinet altered many of the names Baudin had proposed during the expedition. In the process, they attached their own names to some of the landforms while avoiding names that might recognise Baudin or his views of his officers and crew. The enmity was evident when they bestowed the name of Point Picquet on the eastern edge of Eagle Bay, where the men first set foot on Australian

Geographe Bay

After the French ship, Géographe

Cape Naturaliste

After the French ship, Naturaliste

Cape Clairault

After a French mathematician

Vasse River

After the French sailor who drowned there

After two scientific French brothers

Cape Hamelin After the captain of Naturaliste

soil. The name they chose honoured a junior officer who they considered Baudin had bullied during the voyage.

Within decades, the British came to settle the west coast of Australia. Preserving maritime honour, they retained nearly every French name that had been officially conferred by Péron and Freycinet. Baudin didn’t get a mention. One distinguished scholar of the French expedition, Leslie Marchant, has argued that Geographe Bay should rightly have been named Baudin Bay. Instead, it was British colonists who attached Baudin’s name to a south-western cockatoo species, which we don’t know Baudin ever saw.

After two brothers who sailed with the Baudin expedition learn more

But Baudin is making a comeback. His bronze head is today mounted near the land-side tail of the Busselton Jetty, glancing wistfully towards Blunderers Cove. It’s one of Baudin’s more colourful place names that’s disappeared; maybe more’s the pity because there’s a story in every name.

Geographe Bay is located at the northern end of the Margaret River Region and incorporates the towns of Busselton, Vasse and Dunsborough. For further insight into the European History of the region, visit Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, Railway House, Busselton Museum or Wonnerup House.

2024 Trophy Winning Vineyard, Accommodation and Cellar Door

Discover estate-grown, award-winning wines, and charming accommodation at our family-owned estate.

Cellar Door Open

Join us for a wine tasting and create your own charcuterie board. Friday through Sunday, 11am to 5pm.

Bussell Highway, Yelverton islandbrook.com.au

As the South West transitions through the Wadandi seasons of Kambarang, Birak, and Bunuru, we welcome sun-drenched days, the unmistakable scent of summer, and the cool sea breeze that rolls in every afternoon like clockwork.

Golden days on the water

Whether you’re a regular in the South West or soaking it all in for the first time, the warmer weather calls for days spent pursuing sun and salt. Watch the sunset aboard a charter boat on Geographe Bay, ride an aquabike along the iconic Busselton Jetty, hit the surf at Yallingup Beach or glide serenely over the still waters of the Margaret River.

Like our long hot summer days, the possibilities are endless. Make the most of these golden days in the South West and check out some seasonal activities on offer.

SUP at sunrise

What better way to start the day than with a morning paddle or stand up paddle board yoga session? Margaret River Stand Up Paddling offers a SUP paddle with breakfast on the crystal-clear waters of Gnarabup Beach, kitting you out with rash vests, board, paddle, and instructions before wadding with you to White Elephant Beach Café for a delicious breakfast. Prefer to paddle independently? SUP boards are also available for hire from Yallingup Surf School at several beach locations.

Surf’s up

The Margaret River Region is home to some of the best swells in the world. It’s rare a conversation in this region that doesn’t include talk of waves or wind direction. The South West is a spectacular surfing destination, so what better place to learn.

Big wave surfer Simon Tien and his team of

accredited coaches at Margaret River Surfing Academy provide private and group lessons so you can catch the perfect wave.

Simon also offers workshops designed to boost wellbeing and build confidence in the water. In his session, you’ll look at how and why we react to pressure and pick up practical tools to shift those responses to build lasting, positive change.

Get the whole family together and double the fun at one of Margaret River Surf School’s kid-friendly sessions – perfect for families with young children who want to personalise their experience or need more supervision in the water.

Yallingup Surf School also provides everything from individual lessons to corporate bookings along the Smiths Beach, Yallingup Lagoon and Bunker Bay coastline.

All surfing and SUP activities are weatherdependent and bookings are essential.

This guided jetski tour is a unique opportunity to encounter local marine life such as dolphins, fur seals, and migrating whales.

Adventures for everyone

Dunsborough Jetski Tours depart from Quindalup Boat Ramp exploring the stunning Geographe Bay coastline. This guided jetski tour is a unique opportunity to encounter local marine life such as dolphins, fur seals, and migrating whales from September to November. Their Meelup Tour is perfect for families with children six years and over.

Speaking of adventure, have you heard of coasteering? An adventurous day out that will have you rock-hopping, shore-scrambling, and immersing yourself in the ocean in a way that is both safe and challenging. If this sounds like your type of fun, contact Margaret River Adventure Co for a unique, customised experience.

For a captivating ocean adventure, Oceania Experiences offers family-friendly snorkelling and eco boat tours from Dunsborough to Cape Natualiste Lighthouse. Or climb on board the

GreyGoose,FluffyDuck , or Black Swan private charter vessels to watch the sunset while sipping a glass of bubbles.

Check out Aquatastic next to Busselton Jetty for a kid friendly aquabike tour or fun on inflatables! Aquatastic has a special inflatable zone for little ones four to five years old.

Still waters run deep

Water activities don’t end with the ocean. The South West is also home to some stunning rivers, the magnificent Margaret River being one. Margaret River Discovery Co offers “tours for the people who don’t do tours.” Their Discover Tour combines two of the finer things in life - wine and nature. Your river sojourn includes paddling to a winery lunch at Fraser Gallop Estate, visiting an ancient waterhole, a 4WD adventure and a walk on Wilyabrup Cliffs. Experienced guide Sean Blocksidge promises

you won’t get wet or dirty!

For those who want to DIY their day trip, Margaret River Kayaks & Canoes offers a range of hire equipment so you can paddle at your own pace up the peaceful Margaret River. Alternatively, travellers with a taste for Australian bush foods will love Bushtucker Tours’ canoe tour of Margaret River. The tour leaves from Prevelly at the river mouth and culminates in a full bushfood lunch including kangaroo, crocodile and emu, paired with bespoke local ingredients like pestos, chutneys, dips and breads.

Slip, slop, slap

Ready to chase sunsets, ride waves, and soak up every golden moment? Pack your hat, grab your sunnies, slather on your sunscreen and let the South West show you how unforgettable summer can be.

Live music LIVES IN THE SOUTH WEST

The warmer months set the stage for epic outdoor gigs, with balmy evenings and starry diamond skies. From laid-back acoustic sessions overlooking vineyards, powerhouse pub performances and festivals like Good Day Sunshine delivering world-renowned talent, here’s your guide to the hottest spots to catch live music.

WORDS | Bronte O’Donoghue

Pubs

Settlers Tavern

A pioneer of the South West music scene, Settlers Tavern, situated on the main drag in Margaret River, has been bringing live music to the region since the 1970s. Known by locals as ‘The Tav’ or simply ‘Settlers,’ they offer an impressive line-up of more than 150 live acts annually, with performances on the main stage every Friday and Saturday night and cruisy Sunday sessions on the verandah.

The River Hotel

The River Hotel is easily one of the region’s best spots for live music. Regular weekend gigs from local artists, DJs and tribute bands, their outdoor beer garden sets the scene for an

acoustic Sunday session to an energetic dance floor for a noughties throwback party. They’re known for hosting some of the best bands in the area and bringing legendary acts to town like The Waifs and The Whitlams.

Caves House Hotel

Caves House Hotel has been the go-to watering hole for locals and blow-ins since it opened in 1903. Established a stone’s throw from Yallingup Beach, you’ll find live music here most nights, especially during the dreamy summer months. If you’re looking for an iconic Sunday session destination, Caves is one of the best, known to draw a lively crowd. Proud supporters of local talent, live music here is a late afternoon and early evening kind of affair, washed down with a pint and a parmi as the sun sets.

Breweries

Shelter Brewing Co.

Poised at the foot of the famous Busselton Jetty, Shelter Brewing Co. is a local brewery and live music venue. Live shows have become a huge part of the Shelter experience - bringing energy, atmosphere, and a sense of community that aligns with who they are as a brewery. Their airy, open venue is the perfect setting for a music-filled afternoon, and they regularly host headlining tours clearing the space for epic nighttime gigs.

Beerfarm

Beerfarm has live music every Saturday all year round from local and nationally loved

artists, and it doesn’t stop there. Beerfarm host a range of events throughout the year including DJ driven disco nights, end of vintage celebrations, and the famous Beerfarm Rodeo, which includes plenty of authentic boot scooting beats.

Bars

Har Bar

If you’re looking for a buzzing live music destination in Dunsborough, Har Bar is where maritime charm meets modern-day revelry. Steeped in seafaring history, the venue is the perfect port for great tunes and good times, with live music setting sail nightly around 7:30pm. Want to join the fun? Thursday is HARaoke night, and it’s always pumping. Trust us, you don’t need any talent, just a bit of Dutch courage.

Bungalow Social

Big supporters of live music, Bungalow Social will often be buzzing with vinyl DJs in their lounge or bands (as many as seven piece) set up by their backyard bar. Whether it’s a date night or a catch up with all your friends, it’s the perfect destination to boogie the night away, with a tropical cocktail or spritz in hand.

The Servo Taphouse

A small bar with a big love for live music, The Servo Taphouse is a local hot spot any night of the week. Expect a fun turn out of diverse musicians on their open mic nights, or a spur of the moment dance floor party, in support of the local bands that play every weekend. Whatever the gig, the atmosphere will be high, and the crowd (and bar staff) will always be warm and friendly.

Wineries

Skigh Wine

Skigh Wine blends live music and natural wine. Here, you can expect everything from acoustic sets and DJ beats, to their signature Sunday Sounds – a monthly gathering featuring live tunes and mouth-watering burgers from The Hungry Brown Cow food truck. The Garden Sessions series also invites music lovers to kick back on the lush lawn or browse a curated vinyl collection in the Tasting Room, adding a nostalgic touch to their visit. Skigh’s sister venue Strange Brew Wine Bar, continues with the laid-back, vinyl DJ theme, nestled into a small bar setting.

Aravina Estate

Each year, Aravina Estate delivers endless days of sun-drenched fun with their Summer Festival. Enjoy daily live music on their lawn overlooking the vineyards, woodfired pizzas, oysters shucked to order and fresh beers at

There’s live music happening in every corner of the Margaret River Region –so much, we couldn’t possibly list it all here.

For your ultimate South West gig guide, head to margaretriver.com/events.

8Waves Brewing Co. Their music lineup features over 30 local performers and DJs, meaning you’re guaranteed to discover your new favourite South West musician.

LOCAL TIP Keep an eye out for winery events that are staples on the South West calendar – Vino Paradiso at Cherubino and the Orange Party at LS Merchants are a couple not to be missed!

Shelter Brewing Co. regularly have big names take to the stage in their beer hall, from heavy metal trailblazers Northlane to Aussie electronic superstars Peking Duk.

Plates with Mates

WHERE TO BOOK LUNCH WITH A GROUP

Lunchtime in the Margaret River Region? You’re in for a treat.

Managed to finally get the getaway out of the group chat? We’ve rounded up the best spots to share a meal with your crew. Best served alongside friends and family, just be sure to check opening hours and book ahead to avoid missing out.

1 Swings & Roundabouts

Head along Caves Road, and just out of Yallingup you’ll spy Swings & Roundabouts winery. The spacious cellar door leads out to a huge lawn, where you will find plenty of shaded tables set to a backdrop of an undulating vineyard and lake. Their mouth-watering woodfired pizzas and antipasto boards are made to be shared, plus two nature playgrounds and dog friendly venue means the whole crew can come along.

2 CBCo Brewing

CBCo Brewing is a large brewery in the heart of the Margaret River Region that ticks all the boxes when looking for a group lunch affair, especially with kids and dogs in tow. It is home to a large playground to keep the kids entertained, while their Short Iron Range has the adults covered as you enjoy CBCo’s range of craft beers and rotation of live music.

3 Blue Manna Bistro

For seafood loving groups looking for a nighttime feast, look no further than Blue Manna Bistro. They strive to serve all their seafood from local and sustainable sources and the quality ingredients wash down well with a glass of wine. Perfect booking for a special occasion or birthday celebration that deserves good food.

4 Wild Hop Brewing Co

Easily catering for groups up to 20, Wild Hop Brewing Co’s family style share menu is ideal for groups wanting to try a mix of dishes. They offer an ever-changing menu steered by their wood rotisserie oven. Their whole rotisserie chicken is a menu staple, so make sure to order ahead to avoid missing out. Pair your chook with fresh seasonal salads, beer battered pickles and condiments. Their beer range is small batch brewed and, like the food menu, is always changing.

Enjoy picnic baskets packed with seasonal dishes, sourdough bread, local cheese, house-made fig biscotti and more.

5 Shelter Brewing Co.

A stone’s throw from the iconic Busselton Jetty overlooking the calm waters of Geographe Bay, Shelter Brewing Co. is family, dog, and wheelchair friendly. Their menu has everyone covered. Think pizza, burgers and large share plates of whole fish and beef brisket. Pair with one of Shelter’s easy drinking brews or choose from the impressive local wine list.

6 Augusta Hotel

Set on the banks of the Hardy Inlet, the Augusta Hotel is an institution with arguably one of the best views in the region. The outdoor tables and grassed area look out towards the meeting point of the Blackwood River and Southern Ocean. The menu holds classics, such as chicken parmigiana, fish and chips and steak sandwiches, paired with a list of local wines and beers. Dog and kid friendly, it’s a relaxed spot to fuel up after a morning in the water or a visit to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

7 Aravina Estate

The ultimate crowd pleaser, Aravina Estate offers a wining and dining experience for everyone. A cellar door, fine dining à la carte restaurant, casual pizza bar and the 8 Waves Brewing Co Taphouse guarantees everyone will be well fed and watered. The picture-perfect property has plenty of lush lawn, towering trees and views over the lake and vineyard, while the restaurant serves the finest local seafood, meats and cheeses.

8 Cowaramup Brewing Co

With windows opening into the working brewery on one side, and the wooden deck overlooking the beer garden and dam on the other, Cowaramup Brewing Co is not one to miss on your quest for a big group feed. Spread out on the lawn, gather in the restaurant, or book in for a behind-the-scenes brewery tour. Did we mention the brewery tour finishes with a six-course degustation tasting platter? We’re talking about lunch after all.

9

Busselton Pavilion

A gastro pub featuring all your menu favourites, but with a signature, South West twist. Busselton Pavilion offers casual group dining for lunch and dinner. Spread out inside the pub or beer garden as you browse the menu centred around their specialty imported rotisserie and the region’s local produce. Plus, there’re weekly specials, live music on Friday nights, and South West Wine Shop conveniently located next door where you can grab a bottle to bring into the Pav or take home to enjoy afterwards.

Beerfarm

A winning combo of hearty food and top-notch brews. Beerfarm is a go-to for large groups with its vibrant atmosphere, ample seating, and casual approach. Their menu heavily features their Black Angus cattle, favouring smoked dishes and flavours from around the world.

Clairault Streicker

Swap plates for picnic rugs at Clairault Streicker and book a vinyard picnic experience. Enjoy picnic baskets packed with seasonal dishes, sourdough bread, local cheese, house-made fig biscotti and more. Find your private spot under the trees or between the vines, just remember to stay in the block pointed out to you by their friendly staff, as wandering unattended through the vineyard can host a bio-security risk to the health of the vines.

Rústico at Hay Shed Hill

Nestled in Wilyabrup, Rústico at Hay Shed Hill delivers its award-winning tapas & hospitality in a relaxed Mediterranean style fare. Their menu changes seasonally and they offer one of the best value degustations in the region, making them a popular option for delicious celebrations for friends. Their Rústico Ride service also means it’s easier than ever to ditch the designated driver, with round-trip service included.

LOCAL BREWS. EPIC VIEWS.

It’s not just a map. It’s a craft beer adventure.

The Margaret River Region Craft Beer Trails lead you to the South West’s best breweries — each with its own flavour, character and story to share.

Pick a trail, round up your crew, and explore the best in local beer, seriously good food, and fun vibes.

Download the app. Choose your trail. Get out there.

Art

paired with wine is truly divine

Wine and art are the type of co-dependent relationship we can’t get enough of.

WORDS | Sarah Robinson

Ever been a couple of wines deep and caught staring at an awe-inspiring painting for a long time? The wine teases you into the moment. Then, the art itself takes over, and you dive so deep you forget you ever worried about things like cargo pants coming back in a non-ironic way. That’s the mood.

French artist Jean Cocteau said, “a glass of wine is like a brushstroke of light in a painting”. The soil and the grapes make the canvas. The harvesting, fermentation and blending are all creative choices made by an artist with vision. A vision that becomes the glorious wine you hold in your hand, while marvelling at a piece of art deep in the South West.

If you want to experience these two art forms in one spot, Edwards Wines is the place. The Cowaramup vineyard is home to Flow Gallery, an art space located in an old shed hangar

showcasing the impressively powerful works of local big wave photographer, Russell Ord, as well as curated works from local artists. Gallery co-owner Catherine Ord says the connection started with friendship, a deep love for surfing and the desire to find the perfect space for their new venture.

“Both families have long called this coastline home, and it felt like a genuine flow-on effect of locals doing what they love,” she says. “The wine and the images each tell a story of this region, and together they create something that feels really grounded in t e spirit of Margaret River.“

In 2023, Edwards released a special Ocean Series wine collection. That meant sinking hundreds of bottles of chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon off the coast of Augusta, which then matured underwater for 12 months. After each collection resurfaces,

It was born out of a desire to create an experience that went beyond wine, a celebration of both local culture and lifestyle.

~ Noémie Russell Venue Manager, Aravina Estate

they do it all again. Catherine says the series pairs beautifully with Russell’s ocean-inspired photography.

The WA Surf Gallery is another art space dedicated to salty water. The gallery, which lives at Aravina Estate, is close to renowned surf breaks like Yallingup, Surfers Point and Gracetown. It is the first official Western Australian surfing museum, boasting an impressive collection of surfboards from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, as well as iconic photos, rare memorabilia, and trophies from major surfing events. Venue Manager Noémie Russell says the gallery offers up a nostalgic and inspiring look into local surf culture.

“It was born out of a desire to create an experience that went beyond wine, a celebration of both local culture and lifestyle,” she says. “By pairing our wines with an inspiring gallery space, we give visitors something unexpected and memorable to explore.”

Making moments that inspire people to slow down and take in the good stuff is one reason Tim and Sara Greay launched Yallingup Aboriginal Art, a beautiful, light-filled gallery brimming with contemporary Indigenous art. Visitors can read stories about the pieces, learn about First Nations artists, and enjoy wine from their cellar door side kick, Jilyara Wines

“We love their wine, but especially that their wine making story is intertwined with the Noongar six season calendar,” Sara says. “Sustainability, listening to the land, this is something we could all strive to live by, and this is what the six seasons are all about.”

Sara says the gallery, and their collaboration with Jilyara was everything to her husband Tim, who fought cancer while the pair converted the shed into the beautiful gallery visitors get to enjoy today.

“The gallery is something Tim can be so proud of,” she says. “He may have lost his battle but his passion and legacy to have this beautiful pairing in the region lives on.”

Yallingup Galleries is a five minute cruise from Yallingup Aboriginal Art and Jilyara. The gorgeous, purpose-built space is home to paintings, sculptures and ceramics by talented Western Australian artists. The gallery is nestled in stunning native bushland, which really cranks the serenity up to 11 out of 10.

Onsite is Vallée Du Venom’s cellar door, an urban micro-winery making minimal intervention vino in the neighbouring town of Dunsborough. Their terroir driven wines have developed something of a cult following amongst locals and tourists alike. Gallerist and Curator Emma Skinner says Vallée Du Venom’s cellar door complements the gallery’s collection perfectly.

“Their wines are small-batch, expressive, and made with care, much like the artwork we exhibit,” she says. “From the beginning, the energy was collaborative, a shared desire to create something that was more than just art or just wine.

If art and wine are among your favourite things, head to the wineries page on margaretriver.com and filter by ‘Galleries & Artisans’ to find more wineries and gallery couplings.

In Margaret River?

Start in town

Wander down to Swings & Roundabouts on Bussell Highway for a glass of their Backyard Stories label wine. Then, head next door to REDSEA Gallery for collections from beloved local and international artists. Owner Chris Churcher has over 20 years of experience curating exceptional art spaces, with a particular interest in the land, seascapes, flora and fauna from the Margaret River Region.

MAZE • PUZZLE SHOP • CAFÉ • TABLE GAMES

MAZE * PUZZLE SHOP * CAFE * TABLE GAMES *

18-HOLE MINI GOLF • NATURE PLAYGROUND

18-HOLE MINI GOLF * NATURE PLAYGROUND

3059 Caves Road, Yallingup

3059 Caves Road, Yallingup

S

and on your feet and sticky fingers from something sweet. This is what dreams are made of. Whether you’re a fan of a jam donut, a tomato sauce covered sausage roll, or a purveyor of a sandwich on freshly baked bread, you won’t leave the region disappointed. Salivating already? Here’s where to grab the best baked goods in the Margaret River Region, worth the pastry flake covered shirt.

1

Dunsborough Bakery

A South West stalwart, Dunsborough Bakery is the place to go for all the classics. Flaky, quality homemade pies, glossy vanilla slices, and fresh loaves of bread hot out of the oven. Grab a few treats or some of their fresh rolls and wraps to go, and head down to the foreshore to enjoy them.

2 Margaret River Bakery

Flooding town with the irresistible scent of buttery croissants since the 1960’s, the iconic Margaret River Bakery or simply ‘The Bakery’ to locals, is a must-stop. Between its bright pink signage and queue snaking out the door, you can’t miss it. You’ll have a hard time deciding

which jampacked sandwiches, bagels and baguettes you’ll devour, but it’s their famous cinnamon scrolls drowning in butterscotch sauce you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

3 Margaret River Woodfired Bread

While you’re sleeping, Margaret River Woodfired Bread are busy baking their certified organic loaves. The ovens are built from volcanic stones and heated by the flickering flames of a genuine woodfire. Pick one up at their Margaret River store or the Margaret River Farmers Market - although you’ll be lucky if half of the loaf survives the journey home.

4 Krissini

Masters of an authentic, Italian baking, Krissini’s signature breadsticks are a must for your cheeseboard. Their newly opened micro bakery is packed with all the classics, pastries, pies and sausage rolls, plus an exciting range of Italian treats like Torta della Nonna and pistachio croissants. Head to Doust’s Corner Wednesday to Friday, and if you can’t get there during the week, you’ll find them at the Margaret River Farmers Market every Saturday morning.

WINE, COCKTAIL & EUROPEAN FLAIR

Lady Lola, situated in Dunsborough within the picturesque Margaret River region, offers a modern bistro experience with a distinct European influence, where elegance seamlessly blends with warmth

We invite you to enjoy a refined selection of wines and meticulously crafted cocktails in a relaxed and stylish setting

In addition to our bistro, we provide a variety of thoughtfully curated function packages designed to elevate your next gathering into an unforgettable experience We would be delighted to assist you in creating a truly memorable event, precisely tailored to your vision

Our operating hours are Monday to Friday from 4 PM and Saturday from 3 PM

For the latest specials and upcoming events, please check our social media channels

5 Margaret River Farmers Market

Speaking of, The Margaret River Farmers Market is an exciting place to grab a baked feed. Every Saturday morning, an array of the region’s producers are ready, waiting to stuff your bags, and bellies. Be sure to check out Harlequin Desserts for brioche donuts filled with passionfruit curd, Nutella or dulce de leche. They’ve even got your gluten free friends covered with cakes, slices and desserts, minus the wheat.

6 Dusty Buns

Head inside Origins Market to find Busselton’s hidden gem with a range of sweet treats that will break even the strongest of will power. Cronuts, tarts, and croissants shaped like bows that are almost too cute to eat. Their innovative and exciting range of fillings and toppings will keep you coming back for more.

[Dusty Buns] is Busselton’s hidden gem with a range of sweet treats that will break even the strongest of willpower.

Miami Bakehouse

If you simply cannot wait until you get to the region, a pit stop at Miami Bakehouse should tide you over. With two locations on Forrest Highway, choose from a pie at their West Pinjarra or their Myalup store.

7 Augusta Bakery

A classic country bakery sitting high on the hill of Augusta town. Augusta Bakery is the place to fuel up before exploring the Blackwood River, Flinders Bay and the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Generously filled rolls, pies with golden, flaky pastry and a cabinet full of quintessential cakes and slices; cream donuts, matchsticks, strudel, and hedgehog slice.

8 Maison Lassiaille

A visit to Maison Lassiaille is like being whisked away to the rues of Paris. Chef Roman Lassiaille has worked in Michelin star restaurants, and his creations are more like works of art almost too beautiful to eat. The Metricup patisserie offers a serene spot for a coffee with exquisite cakes, slices, truffles and more treats you must see to believe.

9 Merchant & Maker

Experience a Danish take on your baked favourites with Merchant & Maker in Dunsborough. Their cabinet holds a large range of in-house specialties and freshly baked organic breads. Look out for their house-made focaccia, served up daily, glistening golden and warm from the oven.

+81

Pastries in the morning, followed by woodfired pizza and Italian desserts in the evening, +81 is Cowaramup’s goto destination for all day baked eats. Blending classic Italian treats with modern twists, their authentic Italian pastries include a flaky, freshly baked zabaione croissant filled with creamy, Marsala wine-infused custard.

your Summer Bucket List

There’s something magic about a South West summer. From beach days to bushwalks, great wine to wild encounters, this is a region made for memory-making.

WORDS | Greta Codyre

Whether you’re here for a weekend, a week, or all summer long, here’s your ultimate South West bucket list. A curated collection of uniquely Margaret River Region experiences to tick off, one unforgettable adventure at a time. And like all good summers, you’ll be left craving just one more day.

Sunrise dip and breakfast sips

Start your day with a salty dip beside the iconic Busselton Jetty, then wander over to Shelter Brewing Co. It’s all coastal cool here – delicious coffee and breakfast bites, with beachside beers for those visiting a bit later.

Go beneath the surface

Join Wadandi custodian Josh Whiteland on a guided Koomal Dreaming tour through Ngilgi Cave. Learn about traditional bush medicine, share local stories and discover spiritual connections to Country – finishing

OPTIONAL EXTRA hop aboard the train for a relaxed ride out to the Underwater Observatory at the end of the southern hemisphere’s longest wood-piled jetty.

with a spine-tingling didgeridoo performance deep underground. A powerful, grounding experience that will provide a deeper appreciation of this beautiful region.

Paddle at your own pace

Explore the serene, motor-free stretch of Margaret River by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard. Ideal for all ages, this peaceful three kilometre waterway winds through native bushland, offering calm conditions and total tranquillity. Hire gear on-site from Margaret River Kayaks and Canoes and enjoy a leisurely adventure on the glassy water.

Lunch amongst the vines

No South West escape is complete without a leisurely winery lunch – and Vasse Felix delivers in spades. Start with a tasting at the cellar door, then make your way upstairs to their acclaimed restaurant, where seasonal dishes are paired with estate-grown wines.

LOCAL TIP ask for a museum-release chardonnay – available exclusively on the restaurant wine list.

Cruise Caves Road

Caves Road is your slow-lane summer dream – a 111 kilometre tourist drive with the towering karri trees of Boranup Forest, limestone caves, hidden beaches and legendary cellar doors. Roll the windows down and take your time – the real treasures are in the detours.

Taste the legacy

Established in 1975, Gralyn Estate is one of the original pioneers of Margaret River wine,

producing elegant chardonnay, cabernet and award-winning fortifieds. Enjoy a complimentary tasting or book a behindthe-scenes experience with owners Annette and Scott Baxter, concluding in the Wilyabrup estate’s original 1978 cellar door.

Say G’day to growers and goodies Saturday mornings in Margs mean one thing – the Margaret River Farmers’ Market. From fresh produce and handmade cheeses to local

honey and award-winning bread, this is a feast for all the senses.

LOCAL TIP Get there early! The markets open from 7:30am.

Drink in a bit of local history

Cape Grace Wines is family owned and operated by the Karri-Davies, whose family have been part of the South West since 1875. Robert Karri-Davies is a great-grandson of M.C. Davies of Karridale, Timber Baron, builder of the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and instrumental in the founding of Magaret River. In 1996, Robert and Karen planted their 15 acre vineyard on the headwaters of the Willyabrup Valley. Taste the unique character, depth and style across their range of single vineyard wines. Their entire range displays a special sense of place and is exclusively available from their Cowaramup cellar door, which is open daily.

Choose a coastal hike

The Cape to Cape Track is 135 kilometres of unfiltered beauty, meaning there are countless short hikes to choose from. Sample a day walk from Injidup to Moses Rock or try the Boranup Forest stretch. Comfortable shoes, camera and water bottle essential – views, exceptional.

Take an ice cream break

A South West staple for both kids and grownups alike, Simmo’s Ice Creamery scoop up over 60 flavours of house-made ice cream. Set amongst lush parkland in Quindalup with minigolf and a playground, grab a cone and find some shade – summer just got even sweeter. If FROYO is more your thing, Margaret River FRO YO, located on Scoops Animal Farm, have got you covered.

Set sail in style

Hop aboard a local sailing charter and swap dry land for turquoise horizons with all the comforts. Expect to drop anchor at stunning local gems like Castle Rock, Meelup and Eagle Bay, with the option to toast the sunset on deck. Sailing Charters WA, Adventure Sailing, Eclipse Expeditions and Epic Marine Charters have got you covered with a range of charter options.

Enjoy breath-taking southern views

At the far southern tip of the Margaret River Region, the Augusta Hotel is a scenic gem. Grab a cold drink with your mates, head for the verandah and gaze across the Hardy Inlet.

For another epic photo opportunity, drive ten minutes further south and come across Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Cape Leeuwin stands at the most south-westerly corner of the continent, overlooking the point where the mighty Southern and Indian Oceans meet, making it the perfect place to pause and reflect on a summer’s day well spent.

Finish with sunset and seafood

Fish and chips with a view? Head to Surfers Point just before dusk, grab a takeaway parcel from The Sea Garden Cafe or Hooked Up Fish & Chips and settle in to watch the sky turn gold as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. Pure West Coast magic.

D I N E Y D I N E Y

B I G F L B I G F L

A N D S A N D S

things to do

IN AND AROUND BUSSELTON

1. Busselton jetty

The Busselton Foreshore offers what seems like an endless stretch of white sandy beach, so you’re pretty much guaranteed a swimming spot all to yourself. Explore one of only six operating Underwater Observatories in the world, dive into an immersive and educational experience within the Marine Discovery Centre or find 13 sculptures submerged on the sea floor doubling as marine habitats with Busselton Jetty’s Underwater Sculpture Trail

2. Busselton foreshore dining

Take in the beauty that radiates from Geographe Bay at one of Busselton foreshore’s charming restaurants. Right at the foot of the jetty, The Goose Bar + Kitchen offers beachside modern-Australian cuisine, while Together & Co at the Hilton Garden Inn serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and foreshore icon Shelter Brewing Co. are there to wash away the salt of the day.

3. summer events calendar

When the sun comes out, the City of Busselton certainly lives up to its title of Events Capital of Western Australia. With a vibrant lineup of arts, cultural celebrations, and sporting spectacles, there’s never a dull moment here. Don’t miss the Festival of Busselton, the Geographe Bay Race Week, the inspiring Ironman WA, or the Busselton Jetty Swim –there’s always something worth celebrating in Busselton.

Sip. Stay. Discover.

Pull up a seat at our Distillery Door and sip your way through our awardwinning spirits and liqueurs, handcrafted right here in the heart of the Margaret River Region

Best enjoyed with a grazing board on the deck overlooking the dam.

STAY AT THE GROVE

Unwind in a peaceful chalet tucked among the trees, just a short stroll f rom the distillery door

4.

cocktail crawl

For the perfect holiday happy hour, you can’t go past Tonic by the Bay. A frisbee throw from the crystal-clear waters of Busselton’s Geographe Bay, their expansive drinks menu and bustling beer garden are great for afternoon drinks with mates. Just a five-minute drive west to Abbey, you’ll find neighbours Ooze & Tang and Amelia Park Lodge. For a cocktail made with a whole lot of love and creativity, the Banksia Tavern’s signature Martini Mandarin is a delicious escapade, and if craft beer is more your thing, hit up Rocky Ridge Taphouse for over 20 rotating taps.

5. ambergate nature reserve & walk trail

Ablaze with wildflowers each spring, Ambergate Reserve is a 75 hectare regional park preserving remnants of the scrubland and woodlands once typical along the Busselton coast. The reserve boasts over 360 plant species, including 26 types of orchids, and provides habitat for a diverse range of native mammals and birds. Explore this vibrant landscape’s vibrant flora and fauna along the four kilometre loop walk trail. Finish your afternoon at Whicher Ridge Wines’ wine sensory garden, the centerpiece for their immersive tastings where each wine is paired with a ‘descriptor bed’ planted with the fruits, flowers, and herbs that reflect its unique flavour profile.

6. Busselton cultural precinct

Discover Busselton’s Cultural Precinct where creativity thrives! Enjoy a visit to this colourful quarter for the visual and performing arts housed in beautifully restored heritage-listed buildings on Queen Street, dating back 160 years. Immerse yourself in history as you wander through the Old Courthouse buildings and look out for Saltwater, a state-of-the-art performing arts centre opening early 2026.

7. busselton central

Shopping, dining, drinking and entertainment come together in Busselton’s most lively hub at Busselton Central – home to the region’s hottest gastro pub Busselton Pavilion and its ever-knowledgeable little sister South West Wine Shop. Dive into a culinary adventure with Benesse Cafe’s energising brews, savour the flavours of Levantine cuisine expertly crafted by chef Daniel Johnson at INARA, or delight in the timeless charm of Dome, overlooking Mitchell Park.

8. forest adventures

Forest Adventures is an adrenaline-filled high ropes course located amongst the majestic trees of the Ludlow Tuart Forest. With 77 activities spread over six courses of varying

heights and difficulty, Forest Adventures can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities. This amazing adventure park spans eight acres of unspoiled natural bushland providing over two hours of fun. Once you’ve had your fill of high-rise adventure, plant your feet firmly back on the ground and wander through the last remaining tuart forest in the world. The magnificent Ludlow Tuart Forest is home to 300 to 400-year-old trees standing on average 33 metres high. Meander through the wide-open vistas and spot an understory of peppermint trees, wildflowers, and large mobs of kangaroos.

9. busselton heritage trail

Uncover the history of Busselton by exploring the newly upgraded Heritage Trail, developed and operated by the Rotary Club of Busselton Geographe Bay. Take a leisurely self-guided tour using your phone or mobile device to access innovative technology that brings the city’s history to life. Log on to the website and sign up to enhance your journey with video, historic photographs and heritage audio recordings at sites throughout the tour.

10. satisfy your sweet tooth

When it’s time for dessert, hit up new kid on the block Little Otto’s Big Choc Shop for decadent delights inspired by local Busselton surrounds and created by their inhouse chocolatiers. Bistro Breton is a French restaurant specialising in sweet and savoury crepes, lovingly created in a modern and warm atmosphere, and The Mermaid’s Cave & Cafe serves up local ice cream, ice-cold bubble teas, and loaded pancakes.

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QUEDJINUP

Dunsborough’s town centre is a coastal community located within walking distance from Geographe Bay. The town is bursting with bakeries, bars, and boutiques, while the foreshore is perfect for a bike ride and calm splash in the turquoise waters.

Dunsborough’s nearby town-sibling –Yallingup – is only ten minutes away and offers a dramatic coastline, famous for its surf breaks and sunset spots.

things to do IN AND AROUND DUNSBOROUGH

1. But first, coffee

Dunsborough’s café scene has something for everyone. Sora Café’s beachfront location is the perfect spot for a post-beach walk breakfast. Up the road, Merchant & Maker serves as a community hub, offering specialty coffee, artisan food and local, homemade produce and giftware. For brunch amongst beautiful native bushland, Goanna Bush Café and Commonage Coffee Co. are ten minutes from Dunsborough. If you still have room for more, stop by Elski Danish Ice Creamery for artisan ice cream and sorbet.

2. cape naturaliste lighthouse

The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and the Lightkeepers’ Museum reveal the fascinating

Explore Australia’s South West coastal marine parks on an informative and fun guided tour. When you see the fascinating geology and stunning views, you’ll understand why this is one of the most popular attractions in the Margaret River region.

Book online now! dunsboroughjetskitours.com.au Ph: 0448 086 886

Quindalup Boat Ramp 371 Geographe Bay Rd, Quindalup

maritime history of the Cape region. Hear tales of ships wrecked off the formidable coastline, the hardships of life as a lighthouse keeper and gain insight into the functions of this working lighthouse. The Whale Lookout Loop, an easy 2.4 kilometres trail starting near the lighthouse, provides an excellent vantage point for whale spotting.

3. ngilgi cave and ancient lands experience

Set above ground at Ngilgi Cave, The Ancient Lands Experience takes visitors on a journey to discover the formation of the region in ancient times. An accessible scenic pathway through the native bushland connects a series of interactive installations, each

One and two hour tours depart daily. No experience or licence required.

bringing to life the creation of the land, cave formations, the 60,000-year custodianship of the Wadandi People and the native flora and fauna found in the area. Also located at Ngilgi Cave is Koomal Dreaming, an opportunity to experience Wadandi Boodja through the eyes of Wadandi custodian Josh ‘Koomal’ Whiteland.

4. Eagle Bay

Explore the abundant marine life, relax on the shore or swim in tranquil calm, clear waters with a day at Eagle Bay. Almost at the tip of Cape Naturaliste, Eagle Bay is a luxurious escape, boasting some of the best swimming beaches. It is great for kayaking, snorkelling, and photography, and is the perfect spot for a picnic near Point Piquet. The north part of Eagle Bay Beach is dog-friendly with a shower block and playground.

5. drinks with a view

Whilst in Eagle Bay, take in the sweeping rural and ocean views over a pint at Eagle Bay Brewing Co’s garden bar, then head to Wise Wine’s cellar door for a wine or gin tasting with a breathtaking lookout over Cape Naturaliste. Continue down to Bunker Bay for lunch at Pullman Bunker Bay Resort or ilma Beach House. The latter is a luxurious seaside retreat in a sun-kissed setting, with front row seats to the bay.

6. take home something special

Dunsborough is dotted with locally owned and operated boutiques, with many making their own products in house. You can buy and try everything from jewellery and diamonds at Nina’s Jewellery, custom surf gear at Yahoo Surfboards, or essential oils, soaps and skincare at Corrynne’s. For a more artistic keepsake, pick up your new favourite art piece from Yungarra Gallery or Trish Waters Art Studio

7. Meelup Regional Park

Meelup Regional Park covers an impressive 11.5 kilometres of coastline from Dunsborough to Bunker Bay, encompassing whale-watching lookouts and some of the best beaches. The Wadandi People named the area Meelup ‘Place of the Moon Rising’ as the full moon appears to rise out of the sea on a few days of the year, a phenomenon worth carving into the calendar. Meelup Beach’s beautiful white sand, clear turquoise water and shady grassed areas are the perfect spot for a family beach day. Plus, the nearby Meelup Farmhouse is a must for excellent breakfast, lunch, drinks and farm animals.

8. decadent dining

Enjoy unique dining experiences right in the heart of Dunsborough. For local seafood and rich Asian flavours, Blue Manna Bistro’s fish is line-caught and freshly filleted by their experienced chefs. Next door, Yarri is the winemaker and chef collaboration celebrating local produce with a seasonal menu of specialist growers and farmers. Wayfinder Cellar Door & Restaurant’s curated wine list is designed to complement their share dishes, while Lady Lola’s casual yet refined offering is always rotating. You can also ‘Lola at Home’ with a range of takeaway options for those nights you just don’t feel like cooking.

9. yallingup

Perched on a ridge and surrounded by the stunning Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, Yallingup offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and a great playground for the kids. The serene, crystal-clear lagoon at Yallingup Beach is ideal for snorkeling and swimming, while the beach break to the left attracts keen surfers. In the Yallingup area, Barnyard 1978’s restaurant and barn store provide a great place to satisfy your appetite, Wild Hop Brewing Co offer plenty of thirst quenchers, or stop by Swings & Roundabouts for a perfect lazy afternoon on the lawn.

10. castle rock bay

Located on the east side of Cape Naturaliste, Castle Rock Bay is a calm, turquoise bay protected from the westerly winds and ocean swell. Perfect for swimming, fishing and picnicking with gas BBQs, tables and wheelchair access. You can spot Castle Rock at the end of Castle Bay, accessed by a meander along the beach or via the spectacularly scenic Meelup Trail. If opting for the trail walk, The Old Dunsborough Boatramp is a great starting off point.

WOODITJBILYUP

The Margaret River, and the abundance that surrounds it, has been a vital life source here for the Wadandi People for tens of thousands of years. Its essence flows through the earth into the vines and trees, trickles down to the caves and washes out to meet with the salt water at the crest of foamy waves. Margaret River’s bustling town centre sits roughly eight kilometres from the coast and offers an indelible mix of artisan stores and galleries, public art, and diverse bar options. Its surroundings are deeply loved for the verdant bush that it brings, thriving wildlife, walk and cycle trails, picnic spots and an abundance of wineries, breweries, and local producers.

CARTERSRD

things to do

IN AND AROUND MARGARET RIVER

1. MAmmoth cave

Home to ancient fossil remains of long-extinct megafauna, visitors to Mammoth Cave will come face-to-face with a 44,000-year-old ‘zygomaturus’ jawbone embedded in the cave wall, an ancient beast that is comparable to a giant wombat. A natural time capsule, this cave system is well known for its many stalactites and stalagmites that hang from the ceiling and stand tall from the floor. A visit to Mammoth Cave is complete with a winding walk through a beautiful marri forest with wildflowers dotting the paths during spring.

2. capes raptor centre

Capes Raptor Centre is one of Australia’s largest birds of prey sanctuaries dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of injured, orphaned, or displaced raptors. Established as Eagles Heritage Centre in the 1980s, a visit here provides a unique opportunity to meet and interact with birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls through upclose encounters and lush native forest trails. Stop by for one of the twice-daily Birds of Prey Encounters at 11am and 1.30pm, for an awe-inspiring experience that takes you one step closer to West Australian birds of prey.

3. Explore Witchcliffe

A quirky little town, full of old-world charm, Witchcliffe is just south of Margaret River. Like many of the other southern towns of the region, it has a significant timber history and was a siding for the Busselton train line. Now a destination in itself, a trip to Witchcliffe reveals unique gift stores and buildings that date back to early settlement times. It is home to Amato Vino’s cellar door and McHenry Hohnen’s new Vintners Wine Bar, Dear Darnell’s eclectic salon-style bar, Marmalade Witchy’s general store, vintage retailers, cafés and more.

4. Surfers Point

Home to the Western Australia Margaret River Pro, famed surf breaks, and professional surfers, Prevelley and the coastline near Margaret River is renowned for its waves.

Surfers Point is arguably one of the best local spots for watching the sun go down over the ocean too. Tiers of lawn form natural theatre seating, and public BBQs and picnic tables make it easy to cook up a dinner or share a takeaway meal from The Sea Garden Café or The Common with the family. From June to December, Surfers Point is a great spot to watch whales and their calves cruise past. If you prefer sunrise over sunset, a class at Gnarabup Yoga Studio around the corner is the perfect way to start your day.

5. Gourmet Dining

Margaret River’s diverse dining scene makes the age-old decision of where to go for dinner that much more difficult. At the top of town, enjoy refined dining at de’sendent, exceptional tapas and cocktails at Morries, authentic Japanese

prepared right before your eyes at Miki’s Open Kitchen, or South American inspired eats at El Toro. For hearty pub-style meals, Settlers Tavern, The River Hotel, and Margaret River Brewhouse have you covered, or sit back and watch all the action of the main street with Swings & Roundabouts, Riversmith Cafe, and Normal Van

6. margaret river art trails

Discover a world of creativity on an art trail adventure through Margaret River, Cowaramup, and Prevelly. Find sculptures, mosaics, murals and more tucked down laneways, adorning sheds, parks, and coastal paths. Featuring art from over 40 local and national artists, the walkable trails are an opportunity to learn more about the pieces, meet the artists and discover behind-the-scenes footage. See 11 of the artworks in a whole new way through augmented reality. Scan the QR codes to see Cara Sanders’ ‘Wanda the Whale’ swim Anita Revel’s Wings soar, and Brenton See’s Moon Haven come to life.

7. nearby cellar doors

You don’t need to venture far from town for an authentic cellar door experience - you’ll find some of the region’s most beloved wineries within a few kilometres. Head up toward Boodjidup Road for urban winery Dormilona, and regional staples Stella Bella, Xanadu, Voyager Estate, Leeuwin Estate and Redgate Wines. Drop into Cape Mentelle on Wallcliffe before turning right onto Caves Road for Walsh & Sons.

8. southern backroads trail

The Southern Backroads offer what many locals might label as hidden gems. Traversing farmland, karri forests, and family-run wineries, the backroads offer an intensely diverse and uncrowded landscape. Checkout Si Vintners’ minimal intervention range of vino or Firetail Wine’s 30-year-old vines. Through Rosa Brook, find the well-preserved time capsule that is Darnell’s General Store, established in 1932, and the similarly nostalgic Jester’s Flat Equestrian and Brown Hill Estate. The interior vintage décor of the weatherboard cottages, open fire, and wrap around veranda feels like you have stepped onto a film set.

9. cowaramup foodie scene

The quality producers lining the main street of Cowaramup have repositioned the town as a foodie paradise. The Gourmet Food Merchant is a feast for the senses with their array of locally made gourmet products and unique selection of Western Australian brands. TemperTemper is a haven for chocolate enthusiasts, and Millers Little Icecream Shop are now scooping their small batch creations on the main street. Strange Brew Wine Bar brings a lineup of both local and international wines, while Victory Point Wines are pouring their family-made range round the corner. At the other end of the street, The Servo Taphouse has you covered with one of the most extensive beer ranges in the region, and next door, you’ll find authentic, Italian woodfired pizza at +81, the newest venture from Sons of Naples

10. mountain bike trails

For those who are looking to embrace nature and the great outdoors, there are plenty of leisure cycling trails, mountain bike trails, and tours to try out. In total there is more than 100 kilometres of sanctioned and mapped single track, meaning there is something for most abilities and styles. In Margaret River, explore the Wooditjup Trails, the Creek Trails, and the Return of the Jedi trail, all of which are free to access. The Hairy Marron and Life Cycle Bikes provide bike rentals and local insights, while Burnside Bikes, Margaret River Mountain Bike Tours, On Track Mountain Biking and Surf N’Dirt Adventure Tours offer fantastic, guided mountain biking experiences.

Information

TALLINUP

The southern-most town in the Margaret River Region, Augusta, is loved for its wild nature and laid-back charm. Take a stroll down the town centre and you’ll find eclectic shops, cafes and a pub with arguably the best view in the state. The Augusta folk are a chatty bunch too, and it’s the local pearls of wisdom offered along the way that’ll make you instantly smitten with the place.

Accommodation Supermarket

Pedestrian/cycle

Dining/shopping

Green

things to do

IN AND AROUND AUGUSTA

1. explore the blackwood river

The Blackwood is the longest river in Australia’s South West, stretching nearly 400 kilometres long. This river is a haven for kayaking, canoeing, boating, swimming, and fishing enthusiasts. Explore the Blackwood River, onboard a guided tour with Augusta River Tours, or rent your very own houseboat from Blackwood River Houseboats. Go for a fish on the Ellis Street Jetty, say G’day to the Augusta Skiff Community as they glide past in their row boats, or level up your experience and book a guided fishing tour with Augusta Wild Fish Tours. There’s plenty to enjoy above the water as well. Take a stroll along the riverbank path and keep an eye out for migratory waders such as Australasian darters, Caspian terns and pelicans.

2. boranup karri forest

Towering karri trees, some over 60 metres in height, undulate across the valley. With sunlight streaming onto their trunks, this is arguably one of

the best sights in the Margaret River Region. A walk through this forest is a feast for the senses with the forest floor tumbling with wildflowers, together with the sounds of native birds and the fresh smell of eucalypt. The Karri Lookout offers an ideal vantage point for enjoying and photographing this magnificent place. Boranup Drive, a scenic route accessible for two-wheel drive vehicles, winds through the stunning forest and loops back to Caves Road, making it a fantastic tourist experience.

3. hamelin bay

A visit to Hamelin Bay is a must-do on any holiday schedule in the region, and Hamelin Bay Holiday Park makes this easy with accommodation options just a stone’s throw from the beach. Enjoy a vast expanse of bright white sand, turquoise waters filled with marine

life, and spectacular coastal cliff walks. The sheltered bay is great for swimming, snorkelling and fishing, and divers can explore the nearby shipwreck. You may also spot a stingray or two as they sometimes swim close to the shoreline. Please keep in mind that these are wild creatures – never feed them and always maintain your distance to respect their space.

4. walking trails

The secluded charm of Augusta means its walking trails are less crowded, enhancing the sense of adventure. The Augusta River Walk offers a five-kilometre stretch of wheelchairaccessible pathways from the Town Jetty to the Augusta Boat Harbour – ideal for a family stroll. In spring, the Augusta Flora Walk is a scenic one-kilometre trek along a bush track that flourishes with wildflowers. For seasoned hikers,

the Lighthouse Scenic Loop presents a ninekilometre journey through varied terrains starting at the Augusta Boat Harbour. Alternatively, you can tackle a section of the Cape to Cape Track, beginning at the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, for a more challenging but rewarding hike.

5. rare food guided tours

Pioneers in both wild-enhanced fisheries and ocean cellaring, Rare Foods Australia is renowned as the world’s sole wild-enhanced fishery using certified sustainable practices to produce ocean greenlip abalone. Their latest innovation, Subsea Estate, is making significant waves too, as the world’s first open-ocean winery. Their tours offer a distinctive look into their groundbreaking abalone ranch and their ocean cellaring wine program. Tours start at Ocean Pantry, where visitors learn about sustainable sourcing. The journey continues with a behind-the-scenes look at live tanks, the divers’ office, and processing facilities, culminating in tastings of both abalone and wine.

. 6. cape leeuwin lighthouse

Mainland Australia’s tallest lighthouse, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, sits high at the most south-westerly point of Australia. Where the Southern and Indian oceans meet, the historic yet still working lighthouse offers a trip through Augusta’s deep maritime history. Meet Paul Sofilas, the longest-serving lighthouse guide and caretaker in Australia, and learn how this landmark was crucial in guiding vessels through the treacherous cape. Head to the original lighthouse keepers’ cottages, which have been

repurposed into Leeuwin Bean Cafe and the Interpretive Centre, offering an interactive experience that celebrates the history and lives of the families who were once keepers of this perilous coastline.

7. get back to nature

Disconnect and unwind at Boogaloo Camp with eco-friendly, off-grid glamping domes. Molloy Hideaway Holiday Park also offers the perfect bushland refuge in the form of family friendly cottages, cabins, chalets and camping grounds surrounded by native wildlife.

if you’re after a relaxing vacay with a few more amenities, book a weekend at Karridale Cottages Hop Farm and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings with their outdoor bath experience, set among towering jarrah and marri trees. Nestled on a working hop farm, these sustainable, self-contained cottages provide a rejuvenating escape from modern life. Plus, their specially designed Scavenger Hunt, in collaboration with Nature Play WA, invites the whole family to engage with the surrounding bush during your stay.

8. cosy corner

The beach at Cosy Corner is a popular spot for swimming and beach fishing due to its generally sheltered conditions. To the south of the car park, a limestone platform features numerous blowholes that can spurt water up to six metres high on rough days. For experienced divers, the nearby islands in Ngari Capes Marine Park offer an exceptional experience. Surrounded by vibrant reefs and dramatic drop-offs, these waters are

home to a diverse array of colourful marine life, including the impressive giant blue groper.

9. explore augusta’s european history

Discover Augusta’s rich heritage at the Augusta Historical Museum, which houses a captivating collection of artifacts, photographs, and books that chronicle the history of the Augusta Margaret River Region. Established in 1979, the museum was created to preserve and share the town’s local history. Explore local stories dating back to 1830, view shipwreck artifacts, and learn about the dramatic 1986 whale rescue that garnered international attention.

10. dining & shopping in augusta

There is no shortage of fantastic dining options in and around Augusta. Glenarty Road offers an exceptional paddock-to-plate dining experience, while Karridale Tavern serves up traditional pub food in a quiet, country setting nestled in the forest. Once in town, grab a coffee from The Colourpatch Cafe & Bar, then head up to the main street to discover the locals’ favourite shops. Flinders Collective have a fantastic collection of leather goods, homewares, clothing and jewellery. Finish your day with a cold beer at the Augusta Hotel, where you can sit on the lawn and watch the Blackwood River flowing into the Indian Ocean or pick up a bottle of artisanal gin at Wild Lot Distillery

Hilton Garden Inn Busselton is located in the bustling foreshore precinct, overlooking the iconic Busselton Jetty. Guests are walking distance from the main shopping district, with local activities ranging from winery tours to mountain biking. Famous for its exquisite dining experiences, magnificent landscapes and artistic and sporting pursuits, the whole region is alive with activity year-round. Why wait? Scan the QR code and book your stay today.

GETTING AROUND

BY COACH

Transwa

Transwa travels from Perth to Margaret River daily with optional drop-offs along the way and returns to Perth the same day, or keep hold of your ticket and return to Perth at a later date. transwa.wa.gov.au

South West Coach Lines

Catch the express coach service connecting Perth, Perth Domestic and Perth International Airport terminals with Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River. southwestcoachlines.com.au

BY CAR

Avis Southwest Car Hire

Explore the beautiful Margaret River Region at your own pace with a rental from Avis Southwest Car Hire in Busselton. One-way rentals are available back to Perth. avis.com.au

Hertz Busselton

Hertz has a great range of cars, people movers, buses and 4WD vehicles to suit all requirements while holidaying in the Margaret River Region. hertz.com.au

Margaret River Rent A Car

Margaret River’s only car hire business available Monday to Saturday. margaretriverrentacar.com.au

Northside Rentals

Located in Busselton and offering a wide selection of vehicles at a good rate. northsiderentals.com.au

IN STYLE

Without a doubt, the best way to fully relax and experience the Margaret River Region’s scenery and attractions is letting someone else to the driving and planning. Let the region’s local experts and guides show you

locations at Bunbury, Busselton and Busselton-Margaret River Airport.

around their own backyards; pick from fully inclusive tours and charters with ultimate curated itineraries, to private chauffeurs with your own hand-picked destinations and pick-ups. margaretriver.com/plan-your-trip

WA ELECTRIC VEHICLE NETWORK

Western Australia’s Electric Vehicle Network is a network of publicly accessible electric vehicle fast-charging DC and AC stations. There are stations all over the region. Find a charger online or via the Plugshare app. plugshare.com

Contact our tourism team at any time for free advice as you explore the region. Available seven days a week via the Visitor Centres, phone and WhatsApp. margaretriver.com/plan-your-trip/contact

Our Back Story

Tens of millions of years ago, long before humans walked the earth, something happened in this remote corner of the planet.

The continents of Australia, India and Antarctica were joined at one point in the super continent of Pangea. As Pangea divided, a piece of Australia began to pull away from the mainland as the continents of India and Antarctica divided. A geological island-with-an-island was formed, surrounded by three seas; connected to the rest of Australia by a land bridge.

This island was spared the ravages of ice during the ice ages and desertification during drier periods. This land became a sanctuary for an exceptional abundance of plants and animals to survive, thrive and evolve.

Life here flourished.

For over 60,000 years, this land has supported one of the world’s longest, unbroken human occupations, resulting in an immensely deep cultural knowledge and connection to the land. It is the traditional land of the Wadandi People; the Saltwater People.

The Wadandi People have lived here through the last ice age. They have adapted and survived through tens of thousands of years through an intrinsic knowledge of how to care for, and benefit from the abundance of this refugium.

This land has changed in many ways during this long history. Yet, today, it remains a place of immense significance and rich biodiversity.

People come to share in the culture and environment of this place and to gain an appreciation and understanding of nature and life at its best.

This place is known today as the Margaret River Region on Wadandi Boodja.