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Augusta Margaret River Oct 15, 2025

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PHOTO: DEMI SLATER

Artist brings award winning series home

MARGARET River photographer Danielle Fitzgerald will open her rst solo exhibition, Venus 8: Flesh & Foam, at gallery ths this November as part of the 2025 Head On Photo Festival Open Program.

Created over four years in the backstage spaces of Perth clubs and in collaborators’ homes, Venus 8 is a documentary series made in collaboration with dancers and workers.

e portraits are co-authored, resisting stereotypes, celebrating identity, culture, and the complexity of humanity.

“Coming from a social work background, I’ve always been drawn to stories of resilience and visibility,” the artist explained.

“Photography has become my way of showing those truths with honesty and respect.

“ is work honours the collaborators’ resilience, solidarity, and the agency woven through each portrait.”

One collaborator, Valerie, re ected: “Being able to contribute to this project has put me in tears more times than I’d like to admit.

“It’s such a blessing to see myself represented as so much more than ‘content’ or a ‘product.’”

e project has already received national recognition.

e photograph Rinse was a nalist in the Galah Regional

Photographic Prize 2025 and awarded Top 30 Documentary at the Australian Photographic Prize 2025, while images Joy and Inbe-

tween were awarded at the Mono Awards 2025.

Danielle gained a semi nalist position in the ‘Exposure’ Category for Head On 2025, with an image from the series that will be shown in Bondi, NSW. is exhibition will mark the rst time the series is shown in Western Australia.

Danielle said it was particularly important for her to show the work in her hometown.

“To have Venus 8 shown in my hometown as part of an international festival is powerful.

“ ese stories were created here in WA, and it feels right that they’re rst seen in the place that

shaped them.”

She said support throughout the process had been essential.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Melinda and Shayne at gallery ths for supporting this work and providing a space in Margaret River where art can open conversations and community, and to Moshe and the team at Head On for their support in platforming artists and new voices,” she continued.

Venus 8: Flesh & Foam opens Saturday 15 November at 6.30pm at gallery ths, 4 Burton Road, Margaret River.

For more information, visit danielle tzgeraldstudio.com

Margaret River photographer Danielle Fitzgerald spent four years creating the series of images which will be unveiled at gallery ths in November.
The images offer a deeper understanding of the lives of performers, captured in backstage spaces throughout Perth clubs. Photo: Danielle Fitzgerald

20 years of art and community

One of the region’s most beloved and well-supported fundraising events is set to celebrate its 20th birthday this month.

e annual Margaret River Art Auction will land at the Margaret River HEART on Saturday October 25, and will mark two decades of supporting local artists while raising funds for the Margaret River Independent School.

“ is is an engaging work that showcases bold techniques, blending traditional portraiture with raw, expressive mark-making,” the judges said.

“ e combination of applications are delivered with con dence yet manages to leave room for visual ambiguity.”

e iconic auction night has become a favourite for locals and visitors, with enthusiastic bidding and a huge range of artworks across a variety of mediums up for grabs from some of the region’s best creatives.

Tribute tune honours local

e event is the largest in the school’s fundraising calendar and sees artists from across the region donate their works to be auctioned to the highest bidders on the night.

As part of the event, the $5,000 Margaret River Art Prize recognises the year’s nest entry.

A SPECIAL piece of music will fill the Esplanade Hotel on Sunday, July 27, when Busselton Brass debuts the "John Piper March," honouring one of its most dedicated members

is year, the prize was judged by acclaimed Australian artist and installation technician for the Janet Holmes à Court Collection, Peter Usher, alongside REDSEA Gallery owner, Charlie Churcher.

The composition celebrates John Piper's impressive 74-year contribution to the band, nearly half of its 154-year history

e winning artwork, Shine Bright by Del na Monteverde, captured the judges’ attention with its powerful technique and emotional depth.

A brass band creates something extraordinar y when dozens of instruments blend their notes

From the spirited melodies of solo cornets to the resounding and moving harmonies of the full ensemble, each player adds their part to create music that stirs the heart and lifts the soul.

It was this idea of collective musical power that first attracted a young John Piper to Busselton Brass in 1950. Now, retired and relaxing at their home in Busselton, John and Stephanie Piper shared memories from those early days

e Margaret River Art Auction kicks o from 6pm on Saturday October 25.

Tickets are $35 and include a light supper and a complimentary drink.

To book, visit mris.wa.edu.au

Peter Usher’s latest showcase is currently running at REDSEA Gallery on Bussell Highway. He will be conducting an artist talk at the gallery on Sunday 26th October at 4pm.

Contact info@redseagallery.au or call 97834033 to register your attendance.

e countdown is on.

e Margaret River Show committee has announced entries are o cially open for this year’s hotly contested Exhibition Hall.

e Exhibition Hall is a highlight of the Show, bringing together the best of the region’s creativity, cra smanship and country living.

With categories ranging from homegrown produce, baking, preserves, arts and cra s to photography, oral displays and more – there is a place for everyone to showcase their talent and passion.

local skill, pride and tradition – and we can’t wait to see what our community has been working on.”

New categories have been added this year, including a youth quilt category.

And an expanded oral art and special arrangements section will allow for creativity without the need for prize-winning roses.

A new mixed weed arrangement category opens opportunities for those who don’t even have owers.

local tradition,” Lucy said. Entries are open to all ages and skill levels and prizes will be awarded across various divisions.

A stor y that started with a young boy moving from Collie to the coastal town of Busselton in 1945. John spent his early years "on the beach, as all little boys did in those days!"

By 12, he'd found his true calling with the tenor horn.

family, and community.

“Roll up your sleeves, get creative and join the Margaret River community in making the Exhibition Hall the heart of this year’s show.”

While John ran his mobile greengrocer business for 41 years, Thursday night band practice was sacred The habit stays with him even now.

Entry forms and category details are now available online at www.margaretrivershow.com. Entry deadline: 12 November 2025.

could be good!'"

"We saw this ad that said, 'Come along to the brass band, we'll give you an instrument and teach you to play music.'

were in charge of judging this year’s

"I thought, 'Oh wow, this

"I was with a bunch of lads outside school one day, and one of them mentioned joining the band," John recalled.

The irony of John's musical beginnings still brings smiles to the couple today. His piano teacher had told his mother, "You're wasting your mone y and I'm wasting

“We’re incredibly excited to open up entries for this year’s show,” Exhibition Hall coordinator Lucy Cartell said.

my time He's never going to be a musician!"

“Every year, the Exhibition Hall is a vibrant display of

Meanwhile, the new Elizabeth Alferink Award will recognise outstanding e orts in cra , and competition will be erce for the Doris Arthur Best Scone Award.

"Well, how wrong was she!" Stephanie laughed. "He never took to the piano, but the band, now that's a different stor y!"

"The photo from 1950, all my mates from school are in it, but none of them stuck with it. Except for me... for 74 years!"

If you need a little help, email exhibit@margaretrivershow.com

Music wasn't John's only passion in those early years.

“We are calling for seasoned or rst-ever entrants to be part of a cherished

It was at Churchill Park Hall in 1956 that he met Stephanie at a local dance. Now married for 65 years, they've built a life filled with music,

"He still says ever y Thursday, 'It's band practice But I don't think I'll go...' and I say 'no, I don't think you will either, dear,'" Stephanie laughed.

The music may have drawn him in, but it was the people who kept him coming back "It was the camaraderie that I really loved. Bands are like a family, really; we're very close."

For more information and updates on the Margaret River Agricultural Show, visit the website or follow on social media at @margaretriveragshow

Stor y continued Page 10

Margaret River Agricultural Show’s Lucy Cartell, Fran Bancroft and Jude Lentjes want you to join in the fun of entering the Show’s Exhibition Hall competitions this year.
Peter Usher and Charlie Churcher
Margaret River Art Prize, awarded to local artist Delfina Monteverde.
John Piper's 74 -year
John and his bandmates in 19 50 Image Supplied

Warm hearts take cold plunge

e Margaret River Montessori School community turned out in true local spirit on Sunday morning, as 25 brave sta and families took the plunge o the Gnarabup Jetty for the ‘Big Freeze,’ raising funds and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease WA (MNDWA).

At the time of the plunge, a remarkable $2,825 had already been raised, with donations still owing in.

e event was held in honour of Sue Gaunt, a much-loved former teacher, founding parent, and long-time supporter of the school.

Sue helped establish the school in the early 1990s and has remained a guiding gure for generations of students, sta , and families.

Recently diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, Sue continues to inspire the community with her grace and positivity.

“My MND journey began

nearly 3 years ago when I was struggling to speak clearly,” she said ahead of the event.

“Since then, with the love and support of my beautiful family and friends, together with the support of MNDWA, I continue to remain positive and enjoy the simple pleasures life o ers.

“Each day is a blessing.”

For many of those who took part, the chilly dip was more than just a challenge it was a heartfelt show of love and solidarity.

“Sue has given so much to our community over the years.

“ is was our way of showing her that we’re with her every step of the way and we’re hopeful for a future without MND,” event organiser Trish Murray said.

Donations are still open - to contribute to the cause, visit MRMS Fighting MND at www.mndawa.asn.au/ my-fundraising/4433/ mrms- ghting-mnd

25 sta and families braved the cold water at Gnarabup to support a cause close to their hearts. Photos: Demi Slater

Join the mission to end homelessness

Local housing advocacy group Just Home Margaret River is calling for motivated community members to join their ght against housing insecurity.

Chairperson Ned Reilly (pictured below, far right) said as the only voice for the cause based in Margaret River, Just Home had lled a “critical gap” for locals since 2015.

“With the housing crisis only increasing in severity in the past decade, it is more important than ever for local people to have a say about this critical issue,” he said.

Now, the group is searching for new members who can bring skills and stories to the table.

“Just Home is a true grassroots organisation, with much of our activity in the hands of a group of passionate volunteers,”

Ned explained.

“Without the commitment and dedication of these volunteers, we could not achieve our goals.

“I encourage those in the community who are keen to ensure equity and fairness for local residents to consider joining our ranks.

“We look forward to welcoming new committee members to the organisation, in particu-

lar those looking to take on the roles of Treasurer or Secretary to advance our organisational governance and increase our sustainability,” Mr Reilly said.

If you are passionate about social and housing justice and have the capacity to volunteer your time with an organisation making a real di erence in the place you live, submit an EOI by 21 October at justhome.org.au

Historic hall to mark 100th birthday with community celebration

It’s almost time to celebrate one of the region’s earliest community centres, with the Rosa Brook School and Community Hall turning 100 this year.

e hall was originally opened as a school in 1925 to serve children from local Group Settlement Scheme families, and today continues to be a central hub for locals.

To mark the occasion, a community celebration will be held at the hall, featuring historical displays, kids games, stalls from the Rosa Brook

and Rosa Glen CWA groups, and more.

Kicking o from 10am on Saturday October 25, the day will include lunch provided by the by the Rosa Brook Hall and Rosa Glen CWA, visits from the Rosa Brook Volunteer Fire Brigade Fire Truck, and a Margaret River Historical Society stall, as well as facepainting and fun for the kids.

Community members are encouraged to head to the hall to share their own memories of the school, the hall and the local area.

Our surfing history to come alive at

South West Heritage Festival screening

ose keen to discover more about the storied history of the South West can take a trip down memory lane with a series of events happening as part of the 2025 Southwest Heritage Festival.

e festival begins with an exhibition opening at the Bond Store at the Old Courthouse in Busselton this Saturday.

‘Shipwreck Coastline’ dives into the history of the treacherous Western Australian edge, where many Dutch, French and British vessels have sunk. Artists such as Susie Vickery and Jill Paynter O’Meehan explore the underwater world and stories such as the ‘Batavia’ tragedy.

Other events will be held across the region during October and November, including an open day at Sandilands homestead, exploring the history and heritage of the site.

Aligning with this year’s festival theme of ‘water’, a special surf lm will be screened at the Old Settlement in Margaret River at 2pm on Sunday, October 19.

e Margaret River Historical Society will unveil the never-before-seen lm, based on Super 8 footage taken in the 1970s by Margaret River local Tom Wenman and others.

South West musicians Bec Scho eld and Dave Mann will share their songwriting skills at a series of workshops aimed at cra ing music to capture local history, culture and identity, culminating in a rousing performance during the festival.

In Augusta, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse legend Paul So las will join historian Bill Bunbury for an ‘in conversation’ event on Sunday November 16. For event information, visit the South West Heritage Festival Facebook group.

Head to Rosa Brook on Saturday October 25 from 10am to celebrate the 100th birthday of the historic community space. Photo: Supplied

Community Notices & Tenders

2025 Cape to Cape MTB temporary closures

Cape to Cape MTB, Australia’s biggest and most popular multi-day mountain bike race, begins this Thursday 16 October at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and finishes four days later at Cape Naturaliste on Sunday 19 October 2025

To help the event run smoothly and keep everyone safe, some roads, trails and dog exercise areas in Augusta and Margaret River will be temporarily closed at certain times

We are proud to support this iconic event through our Major Events Grants Program and thank you for your patience as we welcome this event to town

Wednesday 15 October 2025

Thursday 16 October 2025 (Augusta and Cape Leeuwin)

Leeuwin

Leeuwin Rd between Augusta Boat Harbour to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse 6:30am2:30pm Road Closed No vehicle access to the lighthouse

Skippy Rock Rd 6:30am2:30pm Road Closed (no access to Leeuwin Rd)

Diana Rd between Green Hill Rd to Matthews Rd 8:00am1:00pm Road Closed Local access only Hillview Rd 8:00am

Saturday 18 October 2025 (Margaret River and CBCo Brewery) A full list of ro information, c 08 6285 855

River Trail Network 8:00am to 1:30pm Closed to public Wirring Rd from Osmington Rd to Whyte Rd 7:00am2:30pm Road Closed Local access only

Bussell Hwy at Tanah Marah 8:00am and 10:00am Riders crossing roads Stop/go traffic management in place Expect delays

Bussell Hwy at the DBCA access Road (betwe th d b t and Carters 8:00am and Riders crossing roads St / t ffi t

Local Government Elections

Election Day is almost here!

This weekend, our community has the chance to help shape the future of our region, so make sure your vote counts

It’s too late to send your ballot by post, please bring it into the Shire off f ice in Augusta or Margaret River by Saturday, 18 October Each pack includes a clear, step-by-step guide on how to vote

Replacement ballot papers are available from the Margaret River and Augusta Shire Off f ices

Scan the QR code to find out more

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Monday 20 October | 10:30-11:30am

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Scan QR code to RSVP and learn more or contact the library directly: 08 9780 5600 or abrawls@amrshire wa gov au

Lost children remembered

The Friends of the Margaret River Cemetery have been working to create a special installation to remember babies lost across the Shire over the past 175 years.

Working this weekend, the volunteer group placed 269 images of teddy bears to the cemetery fence to remember the lost children under the age of two - 89 of whom were stillbirths - to mark International Stillbirth and Pregnancy Loss Day, today Wednesday October 15.

“From the 1870s through to now, we wish to remember these children,” group spokesperson Pauline Graves explained.

“Whether they were born in a tent in a forestry camp

and buried in the bush; to early settlers who spread across the South West corner who also lost babes who were buried in cemeteries or elsewhere, and to all the others who died across the decades.”

Twenty six of the children also had siblings under the age of two, who had also passed.

The bears hold a name and date of death, with some families suffering the loss of multiple babies.

“So many families walked away through hardship or circumstance and left their babies here with us.

“We thought we’d like to shine a light on them all this year.”

Bio-advice from experts

LANDHOLDERS can now access expert advice on how to protect and restore the environment on their properties, thanks to biodiversity assessments offered by Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s (NCMRR) expanded team.

The assessments are a response to demand from landholders wanting to better understand their biodiversity values and the steps they can take to support nature.

An assessment looks at vegetation and waterway condition, habitat values, and how well a property connects to other areas of remnant vegetation.

It also identifies current and future threats such as invasive weeds or feral animals, and provides a tailored plan to help landholders protect what remains or rebuild what has been lost.

Program manager Cass Jury said the expanded team was well placed to meet growing interest.

It also includes former NCMRR general manager Drew McKenzie, returning to lend his extensive expertise, alongside biodiversity officer Ben Howell.

“Biodiversity in our region is under real pressure, but the first step is understanding what you

have and how you can look after it,” Ms Jury said.

“Every patch of bush, every creekline, every stand of trees matters. When landholders act, they’re helping create healthier habitats not just on their property but across the whole landscape.”

The team has already carried out biodiversity assessments for Heytesbury Wine Group, Cape Mentelle, the National Trust and many private landowners.

“With summer on the way, it’s the ideal time to learn more about your property, what threats it faces, and how to support nature,” Ms Jury said.

“It’s exciting to see landholders taking ownership of biodiversity protection.”

For landholders needing help with weed control or revegetation, Nature Conservation also has a Bush Regeneration Team that can be contracted to carry out hands-on conservation work.

Biodiversity assessments start at a few hundred dollars for smaller properties and are priced according to land size, type of habitat and level of detail in the report. For more information or to get a quote or book an assessment, visit www.natureconservation.org.au or phone (08) 9757 2202.

Ben Howell, Drew McKenzie and Cass Jury are on the expert team available to help locals.

Call for turtle trackers to step up

ENVIRONMENT

IT’S nesting season for the snake-necked turtle and Nature Conservation Margaret River Region is calling for volunteers to sign up as turtle trackers, helping to protect this vulnerable species in the Margaret River (Wooditjup Bilya).

Through the turtle tracker program, volunteers are trained to monitor nesting turtles, record their activity and install protective nest guards to improve the survival of hatchlings.

Nature Conservation’s Lauren Scanlon said the program was a unique opportunity for the community to play a hands-on role in protecting local wildlife.

“These turtles have been living in our waterways for millions of years, yet we still know surprisingly little about them in our river systems as a lot of the research has focused on wetlands,” Ms Scanlon said.

“By becoming a turtle tracker or logging a turtle sighting, locals can make a real difference to their future in the Margaret River.”

The snake-necked turtle is one of the South-West’s most unique animals, with its long, snake-like neck, dark patterned shell and ancient lineage.

As one of only a handful of freshwater turtle species in WA, it plays an important role in river ecosystems – and is well worth protecting for future generations.

Members of the community can also contribute by recording sightings via the free Turtle Sat app, which helps researchers map the distribution and nesting activity of turtles across the South West.

All data collected feeds into Murdoch University’s Saving Our Snake-necked Turtle (SOSNT) project, supporting vital research and conservation outcomes across WA.

Snake-necked Turtles face a range of threats including:

- Predation by foxes, roaming cats and dogs

- Disturbance of nests from recreation activities

- Habitat change and invasive grasses such as Kikuyu, which can trap hatchlings

- The impacts of climate change on freshwater systems

Locals are reminded not to pick up or move turtles.

Turtles crossing the road can be helped by stopping your vehicle and allowing them to cross safely.

“Every sighting logged and

every nest protected brings us one step closer to ensuring the survival of these special turtles,” Ms Scanlon said.

The Turtle Tracker program is funded and supported by the AMR Shire.

To find out more or to volunteer, visit www.natureconservation.org.au.

It’s turtle season, and that means Nature Conservation is seeking local volunteers to sign up as ‘turtle trackers’. Photo: Supplied.

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Bulls strong ahead of season start

returning and young Ben Cook has shot up about three feet,” he said.

the A-Grade skipper while Lane Williams will lead the Hawks C-Grade side.

REIGNING Barnard Cup premiers Cowaramup are shaping up as the side to beat when the Busselton-Margaret River Cricket Association’s new A-Grade season kicks o on Saturday.

New skipper Fraser Oates is aiming to be available for the whole summer, while decisive striker bowler Nathan Coulter-Nile also plans to play at least 75 per cent of the time.

Oates and former skipper Archer Coates are both back in Australia a er excellent seasons in Yorkshire league cricket, where they both averaged over 50 with the bat.

“We are hoping to go back to back, but cricket can be an unpredictable game,” Oates said.

“Chris McLean will be here for the whole season, allrounder Tom Coulson is

“It’s great for our club that our No. 2 side has gone from C-Grade into B-Grade, it will be better for our kids coming up.”

Jeremy O’Neill and Anthony Lunt will share the B-Grade captaincy for Cowaramup.

Saturday’s opening round of A-Grade xtures will see Dunsborough at home to Yallingup-Oddbods, St Marys host Vasse at Barnard Park, and Margaret River Hawks at home to Cowaramup at Margaret River, in a replay of last year’s grand nal.

Hawks have regained Sam Berridge but opening batsman Shane Joyce has gone down to B-Grade to share the captaincy with Alistair McIlroy.

Jack Green will again be

Break-ins result in postponement

MARGARET River BMX club has made the di cult decision to postpone its 2025/26 season start, due to multiple break-ins at its onsite shed.

“Unfortunately due to the numerous break-ins to the shed supplied by the Shire in our o season, we have decided to postpone season 25/26 from October Term Four, to February Term One,” the club announced on Facebook on Monday night.

“We will be holding an AGM this Term to appoint new committee members and to organise proposals for the future of

the track and club for the community.”

Cowaramup BMX Club was quick to o er support, indicating vandalism and security issues had also plagued their group.

“We experience the same from time to time and it such a kick to our kids and families.

“We would love to support your riders until you are ready to come back onboard to keep our local kids on their bikes.”

e Margaret River club said updates would be provided via their Facebook page.

Meanwhile, Dunsborough are looking to ll gaps le by the retirement of skipper Chris Reagan and the loss of o spinning brothers Alijah and Judd Truscott to Perth cricket.

Dunsborough’s import this year is Taylor Ingham-Hill, a quality batsman from the south of England.

Cain Reynolds (A-Grade), Ben Cadd (B-Grade), Tom O’Sullivan (C-Grade White) and Mat Lepidi (C-Grade Blue) have been named as Dunsborough’s four captains.

“Player numbers have been good, and we have decided to focus our C-Grade on one stronger side, which will be Dunsborough White,” said president Cam Morris.

“Harry Sutherland will be welcomed back into the A-Grade attack and all eyes

will be on allrounder Michael Byrne, who is just back from the subcontinent a er representing Indonesia.”

“Our new social media team is working hard and the club’s new electronic scoreboard is awesome.”

Vasse Cricket Club has picked up outstanding wicketkeeper-batsman Ajith Rajapaksha from Dunsborough, but has lost House

Medallist Simon Harkness, who has returned to Victoria.

“We’ve unfortunately also lost Chris Dendle and Ryan Clark, but we have picked up two middle-order batsmen from the UK, one of whom will be available this weekend and the other will be available next week,” said Vasse president Matt Enright.

Leaver said the win made the early start and long drive worthwhile.

“It was such a sick day,” he said.

“We were up at 4.30am, piled into the car in the dark and went straight for it,” he said.

“ e Surf League means a lot to our club.

“It’s been running for so many years with so many great surfers, so to take the win feels amazing.

“We’ll probably put the prize money towards our junior program and new club gear, which will really help us out.”

Margaret River Boardriders landed the gong for best camaraderie, while Margaret River’s Jerome Forrest claimed the award for best manoeuvre thanks to a front hand snap.

Nick Muntz also took out the Powerhouse Award for the best rail turn of the competition.

“ e conditions tested everyone early but the talent across all clubs was incredible,” Sur ng WA’s Kim Cli said.

“ e nal went right down to the wire between Yallingup and Margaret River -

both teams were on re.

“ e Surf League is special because you’re not just sur ng for yourself, you’re sur ng for your mates, and that club pride really li s everyone’s performance.”

Leadership Brigade: Dunsborough Cricket Club’s captains this season have been named, from left, Tom O’Sullivan (C-Grade White), Cain Reynolds (A-Grade), Ben Cadd (B-Grade) and Mat Lepidi (C-Grade Blue). Photo supplied.
Felix Leaver set the tone for Yallingup Boardriders in the Surf League final. Photo: Surfing WA/Pedro Bonfante

Consistency & style gives

IT WAS an emphatic victory for the Yallingup Boardriders on the weekend when they delivered a powerful performance to capture the win at the 33rd Surf Boardroom Surf League presented by Rip Curl.

Held in Scarborough, the event brought together nine WA boardrider clubs to battle it out in one of the state’s longest running surf competitions.

Yallingup, Margaret River, Scarborough, Mullaloo, Trigg Point, Cottesloe, Trigg Junior, Albany and City Beach Boardriders clubs took part in the event in front of a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters,

with each club elding six surfers - four Open competitors, one Over-35 Master and one Under-18 Junior.

Each surfer’s score contributed to their team’s overall total.

A huge 60 minute nal for Yallingup saw them combining consistency and style across their lineup of Felix Leaver, Duke Nagtzaam, Nick Muntz, Josh Catlin, Flynn Eastaugh and Tommy Trigwell.

eir e orts gave the club its rst Surf League win since 2022, as they managed to hold o Margaret River, Scarborough and Mullaloo clubs.

Leaver opened strong with a 6.77 before

Margaret River’s Jerome Forrest responded with a 6.40. But it was Yallingup’s Duke Nagtzaam who stole the show, unleashing a series of explosive backhand snaps to score a 7.93, the highest of the day, earning both the Perry Hatchett Award (Best Surfer in Final) and the Creatures of Leisure Ripper Award (Highest Individual Score).

Jack Mitchell and Finn Cox made a late charge for Margaret River, but Nick Muntz sealed the deal, with the team nishing on 40.56 points to Margaret River’s 36.40. Scarborough placed third on 20.85 and Mullaloo fourth on 18.03.

Yallingup Boardriders celebrate their win after a powerful performance in Scarborough. Photo: Surfing WA/Pedro Bonfante

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