Augusta Margaret River Oct 1, 2025

Art program preserves traditions

FIVE years ago, local nurse Kellie Gherardi’s a ernoon walks in the West Daly Region’s remote homeland communities opened her eyes and heart to a beautiful tradition.

Watching the women gather to collect bush dyes, weave stories, and create art together inspired her program e Colour Story –an artistic initiative supporting indigenous women to spend more time on Country, sharing knowledge and creativity in Nganambala and Wudicuplyderr.

Growing up among a large Noongar community in Mt Barker and training as a nurse in Kalgoorlie, Kellie was always drawn to indigenous health placements.

In 2017, a three-week placement in the remote Aboriginal lands of Peppimenarti captured her heart.

“I came home completely smitten,” Kellie said.

Her nursing visits became regular, returning three to four times a year. It was during one of these visits that Kellie felt the need to do more.

“I wanted to raise some money for the health clinic because it was a non-government-owned practice and needed support, and that’s how I started with the Aboriginal arts.

“We did a Peppimenarti youth

school art workshop where everybody got involved. e community exhibition raised $15,000 for health equipment for the clinic.

“It became this really feel-good thing because people were buying art that not only supported the artists but went back to a really vital health initiative.”

ose early art workshops uncovered a deeper need.

“I realised there’s a lack of art materials and programs in schools in these communities. But the need went so much further than this.

“During my a ernoon walks a er the clinic, I’d see the women weaving and making bush dyes. We became close friends, and I

spent time learning from them - it was phenomenal!”

Ideas began forming about supporting and preserving these artistic traditions.

“ e women needed vehicle access and fuel (which weren’t always easy to get) to collect bush colours and dyes. So, I thought, well, if I’ve got wheels - we can get out on Country!

“ en it became let’s camp together. Let’s spend time together, and that’s where this real wellness concept and the connection began to grow.”

When COVID closed Territory borders, Kellie and her family moved to Kalumburu for three months, where she developed

school art programs that brought elders and children together.

“We’ve started doing art as a part of the school nursing visits, so it became kind of ‘wellness art’. And this idea in my head kept growing about how to connect wellbeing, art, and these remote communities.

“ e following year, we held an exhibition for Wadeye Men’s Shed.

“It was through organising this exhibition that the traditional elders of the homeland invited me to come back and create more art with the kids.

“At the same time, e Colour Story emerged.

Kellie says when out connecting with Country, artwork becomes “secondary”

“It’s about generations coming together, learning from each other,

sharing a laugh, and enjoying good food. at’s the real essence of e Colour Story - slowing down, getting back to your roots, nature, and creativity.”

“ ese visits really nourish my soul. I’m one of the few visitors who aren’t service providers - I come with my swag and am welcomed with open arms.

“It’s a true privilege to be able to enter these closed Indigenous lands.”

Now, instead of nursing visits, Kellie visits the communities for e Colour Story.

Recently, she brought three local artists along for the ride: photographer Freedom Garvey, textile artist Jodie ompson, and portrait artist Tanya Cole.

Ideas abound as creatives land in town

IN A whirlwind of ideas, music, and interdisciplinary energy, Emergence Creative Collision 2025 wrapped up its two-day run across the Margaret River region.

e event attracted more than 200 participants from across Australia to celebrate innovation, collaboration and community in a unique event designed to foster the next generation of local creative professionals.

Event Chair Mat Lewis said the summit had promoted Margaret River as a hub for the creative industries, while also incubating the next generation of talent.

“Emergence Creative over the years has always pursued the importance and value of creativity in how we convey the past and adapt and evolve to the present and future,” Lewis said.

“For young and maturing creative minds, Emergence Creative Collision sought to be a powerful two days to connect threads across a diverse and inclusive community.

“Seeing the comments and feedback

lls the bucket in terms of the calibre of creators that descended on the region, and our local talent pool that embraced it.”

In the spirit of the ‘Collision’ theme, organisers encouraged creative crossovers with writers, artists and animators unveiling their musical talents during live improv performances, while Kav Temperley from Eskimo Joe unveiled his artistic endeavours through ArtsiX.

“In terms of highlights, it’s usually the surprises such as presenters and stories.

But for me it’s the music across creative disciplines, where people who haven’t met jump up and start a conversation that lls the room with that energy,” Lewis said.

“Within hours, relationships are forged and guards let down, egos are le on the road and hearts and minds are opened to the creative playground.

“ is continues to resonate a er the event has nished, along with the colour, music and power of new creative partnerships.”

Margaret River group to join nationwide Palestine protest march

Residents will be asked to stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine as part of a nationwide protest march this month.

e event, coordinated in partnership with the Pales-

tine Action Group Sydney, marks two years since the intensi ed military assault on Gaza and the West Bank, during which time documented human rights violations and civilian

casualties have continued to mount.

A local rally on August 24 saw almost 300 people gather in town to call for peace and justice. Event organisers say they are calling for immediate economic and political sanctions against Israel, an end to all military and intelligence cooperation and unrestricted access to humanitarian aid.

“ e staggering loss of life in Gaza demands urgent action, not just condolences,” said spokesperson Hannes Nitzsche.

“We urge our community to join us in demanding our

government stop supporting genocide and start supporting justice.”

e Nationwide March for Palestine is on Sunday, October 12 at Reuther Park from 12pm.

Locals buzzing thanks to book launch & electrification expo

INTERNATIONALLY recognised engineer, inventor, and climate advocate Saul Gri th hosted a special event alongside Electrify AMR and the Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival to launch his latest book.

He discussed how Australians can rapidly electrify and decarbonise communities, highlighting how switching to cleaner, electric energy can also deliver household and business cost savings.

e crowd listened

on as local Pam Townshend chatted with the author, drawing out his humanity, humour and hope for the future in a conversation that was far ranging - from a love of old cars, to the current geopolitical situation, to tradies being the heroes of this current transition - all of which was thought provoking and inspiring.

Attendees also checked out a mini electri cation expo, featuring stands from Electrify AMR, Par-

ents for Climate, Low Carbon Solutions, Life Cycle Bikes, Margaret River Bookshop, and Retravision, as well as scones from CWA Rosa Glen / Witchcli e members (cooked in a mini-electric oven) and sausages grilled on a barbecue powered by an electric vehicle. Passionate locals also donated their time and showcased electric vehicles, giving the community a real-life view of practical clean energy solutions available to fellow residents.

Outdoor art exploration

Creativity came alive at St omas More Catholic Primary School last month, as students from Years 4 to 6 embraced a vibrant outdoor art experience.

Led by local land artist Elaine Clocherty and Art Teacher Renee Pates, students created a striking Hairy Marron artwork using natural materials, celebrating both artistic expression and the beauty of the local environment.

e Hairy Marron — an iconic but critically endangered freshwater species — is found only in a few locations along a small stretch of the Margaret River. With only a limited number of mature individuals le in the wild, the project o ered a powerful opportunity to raise awareness about its fragile existence.

Elaine generously shared her creative journey, inspiring students with her passion for nature and the artistic process.

Her guidance sparked imaginations and deepened students’ understanding of the interconnectedness between art, ecology and conservation.

ey were supported by parents and families who collected and donated natural materials — contributions essential to bringing the artwork to life. Kindy students also joined in, engaging through curious questions and re ections. Later, students from Pre-Primary to Year 3 expanded the

installation by exploring the Hairy Marron’s ecosystem. Additions included native plants, owing water and vibrant sh life, transforming the piece into a dynamic scene rich in texture, colour and storytelling - a tribute to the biodiversity of the region and the urgent need to protect it.

New tech, new options

Iwould like to express my support for Rod Dilkes, with his excellent letter in favour of the Scott River Wind Farm (Letters, September 17).

For thousands of years, mankind has used the power of the wind. To sail ships, to grind grains, to pump water.

e Dutch people perfected windmills to pump seawater up and out and away.

New technology has found a new use for wind power. It can generate electricity. Day and night. But a small bunch of renewaphobes, driven by their denialist ideology, are noisily opposing wind turbines.

ey look awful! Really?And they reduce emissions compared with fossil fuels. Ah, ah! We mustn’t do that - climate change is not happening they shriek.

Does the dark shadow of Donald even loom over this corner of the globe?

e Scott River Wind Farm is well placed and should go ahead to the bene t of all, including those who oppose it.

Iread

Scott Baxter’s reply to Rod Dilkes regarding the wind farm (Letters, September 24).

What I’m not seeing in this debate from the anti-wind farm group is an alternative suggestion to wind farms or continued use of nonrenewables.

An alternative that will not continue adding emissions, an

alternative that won’t further inappropriately impact the environment that they’ve stated they also care for.

I feel that this is an argument the broader community needs to hear because, currently, all we’re hearing is ‘no’.

e choice at the moment then is “wind farm/no wind farm” not “wind farm/alternative to wind farm”. It would be great to see the alternatives in the open forum - I look forward to seeing the next instalment of this discussion.

In doing this, everyone will then truly appreciate and understand your group’s position.

One

of WA’s iconic destinations is soon to be trashed forever by the proposal to site at least 20 massive wind turbines. ey will be higher than the tallest building in Perth and double the height of those at Esperance.

ere is no excuse to destroy the beautiful visual landscape in the name of renewable energy and climate change just because of convenience, when there are other potential sites.

Augusta is di erent from other coastal towns in that it is on a peninsula and has extensive views over its coastline.

Why not rstly improve the subsidies so that every home can a ord solar panels?

It’s strange that some residents appear to be happy for Augusta to have to su er these monsters. Would they accept them at

Gnarabup or Gracetown?

Once they are established in Augusta, they will be the next locations.

e developers claim that it will sound like ‘rustling leaves’. Who needs that sound when we are used to deadly silence?

ere is no reason why these ugly structures can’t be moved to the Lake Jasper region, which is serviced by an existing powerline and Stewart/Sues Roads. It’s amazing that Synergy is persisting with this development. ere are a multitude of environmental and other issues involved, but the worst e ect is on Augusta’s occupants and Molloy Island residents. ey will have their beautiful views spoiled, have to su er the constant low-level noise and see the value of their properties plummet.

Very few buyers will be prepared to stare at ugly distracting wind turbines as opposed to a calm beautiful unspoilt coastline. By siting this development near such an iconic town, Synergy risks a class action against it for loss of value of properties and noise pollution on an industrial scale. is proposal has to be one of the worst ever planning decisions, on par with the destruction of the million-yearold Burrup Peninsula and the Mauds Landing at Coral Bay. Wake up Sandgropers, before you lose one of your iconic tourist locations!

Community Notices & Tenders

Lego club - Thursday, 2 October at 1:30pm - Margaret River Library

Join our one-hour long Lego Club session to take on new challenges This free activity has all Lego provided

Snake safety and reptile myth busting - Thursday, 9

October at 10:30am - Margaret River Library

Learn how to stay safe around snakes along with interesting facts about these fascinating creatures

Cape Kids - Wednesday, 15 October from 2pmNippers Oval, Margaret River

Mountain bike-loving kids can now be part of the iconic Cape to Cape MTB

Cape to Cape MTB - Thursday, 16 October to Sunday, 19 October - Margaret River

Australia’s biggest and most popular mountain bike raceand it’s right here in Augusta Margaret River!

Polyphagous shot-hole borer

Help us protect our forests and horticulture from polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB)

A tiny beetle known as the polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) has been causing big problems in urban forests throughout the Perth metro area

The best way to stop it from spreading is to not bring wood or live plants from Perth

If you’re welcoming family, friends or accommodation guests, please remind them to not bring any firewood The beetles disperse when infested wood is burnt, increasing the risk of spread

Scan the QR code for more info

Meet your candidates – upcoming forums announced

Eleven passionate locals have nominated for Council in this year’s election To help voters make informed decisions, the Shire is hosting two candidate forums:

• Augusta: Monday 6 October, 5:30pm at Augusta Council Chambers

• Margaret River: Wednesday 8 October, 5:30pm at Margaret River Council Chambers (livestream available)

Community members are invited to attend and ask questions You can also submit questions in advance to candidates@amrshire wa gov au by Wednesday 1 October, 5pm or text 0472 720 149

Election Day is Saturday 18 October and voting will be conducted via postal vote

Ballot packages have been mailed by the WA Electoral Commission If you haven't received your ballot, replacement ballot papers are available from the Margaret River and Augusta Shire Offices during opening hours

WHAT’S ON

“Sharing photography with these communities lls my heart,” Freedom said.

“It gives people a chance to tell their own stories, through their own eyes.

“It isn’t just creativity, it is wellness, it is storytelling, it is another chance to be a part of something more.”

“It also allows those not weaving or painting to be involved di erently,” Freedom continued.

“Whether we’re out collecting colour in the troopy, on an adventure, or sitting yarning on the mats, the cameras capture life as it happens.

“ e smiles, the joy in creating together - these moments strengthen bonds.

“Photography becomes a time capsule of memories.

“And as I so o en

say, everyone deserves to have their story told. And these aren’t my stories to tell, and that is the most important part to remember.”

e Colour Story has gained recognition as an approved arts council program through the Australian Cultural Fund, with support from the amarrurr Development Corporation and community donations helping to sustain the workshops.

e program’s success re ects Kellie’s ongoing commitment to these communities and their incredible indigenous residents.

“I want people to understand the strong culture that exists in these closed communities, to see what daily life in homeland communities looks like,” she said.

“ is is a long-term commitment - we’ll do three to four trips next

year, and we’re just going to keep going from strength to strength.” rough ve years of sharing art and culture, e Colour Story has grown naturally from friendship, trust and dedication.

“Kellie dedicates so much to this project, a labour of love, that I hope to see continue to grow with the support it needs,” Freedom added.

“From the young children through to the elders, everyone nds their way to express themselves.

“At its heart, e Colour Story is about preserving precious stories through art and wellness.”

To nd out more about Kellie and the projects supporting art in remote indigenous communities, visit www.dillybagcollective.com and mrbarval.com

Excellence Recognised: Ray White Stocker Preston Takes Top Honours at Awards Night

Ray White Stocker Preston has once again cemented its position as a leader in Western Australia’s real estate industry, celebrating a series of significant victories at the recent annual Ray White Western Australia awards night.

The glittering event, which brought together the network's topperforming offices and individuals from across the state, served as a powerful testament to the Stocker Preston team’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and client service. A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Ross Whiteman Award, an accolade honouring the individual who made the most significant impact on the group. This prestigious award was deservedly presented to Ray White Stocker Preston’s Managing Director/CEO, Mike Tucker, in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and long-standing dedication. According to Mark Whiteman, CEO - Ray White Western Australia, "Mike has demonstrated and embodied

everything we hold dear as a family group. Leadership, courage, discipline and care, not only for the people in his business but for this group.” Mr. Whiteman also noted Mike’s significant impact on the group's presence in the South West, highlighting his impressive career progression from Chairman’s Elite performer to a distinguished multioffice business owner. The team’s hard work was also recognised with other notable accolades.

The Operations/Administration Team was honoured for their groundbreaking ‘Nurture Team’ concept, a unique hybrid support model pioneered by Ray White Stocker Preston. Currently consisting of 14 dedicated professionals, this team provides an unparalleled level of support to sales representatives and clients across all six office locations. This award celebrates the team's ability to innovate and lead the industry in creating a seamless and cohesive support structure. This dedication to client satisfaction was further underscored by the Clients’ Choice award, which is determined by consistent perfect performance feedback and 10 out of 10 ratings.

The accolades continued for the group’s specialised departments.

The Ray White Stocker Preston Busselton office was recognised as one of the Top 5 Property Management Offices in WA for Growth, an award that speaks to the team’s dedication to training and excellent service, resulting in impressive overall growth. The evening also celebrated the achievements of our highly skilled sales departments and individual sales staff, who received numerous other awards throughout the night. The pinnacle of the evening came with the announcement of the Number 1 Group in Western Australia, an elite award that Ray White Stocker Preston has now won for the second consecutive year, an exceptional achievement

considering the high standard across the network. Maintaining such a high level of excellence is incredibly difficult, a challenge the team has met with consistent drive and an unyielding focus on improvement. “I am immensely proud of the entire Ray White Stocker Preston team," said Managing Director/CEO Mike Tucker. "This recognition is a direct result of their hard work and dedication to the people of the South West. Our commitment to our clients and our community is a value that never wavers, and we look forward to continuing to serve them with the highest level of care and professionalism.”

are now being taken for delivery in February 2026.

Healthy homes, beautifully built

In the South West, not all homes are created equal. With the heavy rains this season, many houses — even new ones — have struggled with mould. It’s a problem that impacts indoor air quality and family health, and one that will only become more pressing as homes are built more energy efficient and airtight.

Two Hammers Construction, a local family-run company, specialises in High-Performance, Healthy Homes and Passivhaus design.

Stefan leads on-site with a skilled team of trades, while Ashua brings design, sustainability and project coordination.

Together, they deliver homes that look beautiful and perform exceptionally.

As Ashua explains, “Our new builds and extensions go well beyond the minimum standard of the building code. That’s what makes them high performance.”

While High-Performance Homes are becoming well known in the eastern states, WA is still catching up.

Two Hammers is proud to be at the forefront in the South West, helping

homeowners create enduring forever homes that are energy efficient, healthier to live in, and future-ready.

Stefan explains, “A high-performance home starts with smart detailing — the right insulation, thermal-broken windows and airtightness. But the essentials that really make the difference are ventilated wall and roof systems, under-slab insulation, ProClima building wraps and HRV ventilation.”

A ventilated wall and roof cavity is the quiet hero: creating a breathable gap behind cladding and roofing so moisture can drain, air pressure can equalise, and indoor temperatures remain stable. Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) is another must-have, delivering fresh air to bedrooms and living areas while removing pollutants and humidity. It not only improves air quality but also boosts energy efficiency by maintaining consistent comfort.

Planning a forever home or major renovation? From Busselton to Augusta, Two Hammers builds homes that are healthy, comfortable and enduring by design.

AXEL FULL MODULAR LOUNGE

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South West sport legend honoured

ALLAN MILLER

THE Busselton community lost one of its sporting stars of the 20th century with the death last week of Mike Adams, aged 89.

A life member of multiple sporting organisations and a champion full-back and club record holder with Busselton Football Club in the 1950s and 60s, Adams was also well known around town for his involvement in social events and his work as a successful real estate salesman.

Adams played cricket for five clubs locally and is believed to be the only cricketer to have taken more than 1000 club wickets in the 113-year history of the Busselton-Margaret River Cricket Association.

After moving to Busselton from Manjimup in 1954, Adams played cricket for St Marys, Newtown and Yallingup, before forming the Oddbods Club with others in 1961, and then amalgamating with Yallingup in 1973 to form the Yallingup-Oddbods club.

As a left-arm spin bowler Adams was especially prolific in his later years, taking in excess of 34 wickets in each of his final 11 years on the cricket field for YOBS before retiring at the age of 55 in 1992.

An excellent batsman in his early years, Adams and teammate Bill Helyar set an Association record in 1959 (which still stands) when they

put on 237 runs for the first wicket off just 34 overs in a Country Week game against Beverley in Perth.

Adams’ share was an innings of 139 not out.

“Mike was also a terrific organiser and administrator,” remembered fellow BMRCA life member Barry House this week.

“He contributed as chief recruiter and president for his club and put in long years as president, secretary and treasurer of the BMRCA.

“He also ran clinics for young cricketers and mentored many – as we have seen in heartfelt tributes on social media this week.

“Mike’s spirit and enthusiasm for cricket was infectious. In addition to his fantastic playing and administration record he was always fully involved.

“He cleverly used guile and cunning strategy to outthink his opponents.”

Off the cricket field Adams was also involved in the Busselton Apex Club and in his later years with the Busselton Superrules Football Club.

His life story, From Palgarup to the Present, was published in 2017 and was one of the most well-read autobiographies written by a Busselton identity.

Adams is survived by three children, Peter, Grant and Felicity, and their families.

His funeral will be held this Friday.

Club prepares for historic milestone

ALLAN MILLER

A UNIQUE event is looming on the horizon of local cricket – and a famous Test cricketer will be in Busselton to help celebrate it.

On November 8, 2025, St Marys Cricket Club will turn exactly 100 years old. WA and Australian opener Justin Langer will speak on the night to mark the occasion.

This is a historic moment as it is the first time any cricket club has ever reached the century mark in the 113-year history of the Busselton-Margaret River Cricket Association.

It will also be a long time before the opportunity comes around again, with the next oldest club in the BMRCA, the Yallingup-Oddbods club, a mere youngster at only 52 years old.

By a remarkable coincidence St Marys will

play a fixture on Saturday, November 8, and the club’s centenary celebrations will be held precisely 100 years to the day since their first game took place, against Newtown at Newtown Oval on Sunday, November 8, 1925.

“It’s a great honour for us to be the first local club to knock over 100 years,” said St Marys president Ben Mattock.

“As well as being a centenary celebration, our event on November 8 will be a reunion of old players who don’t get to see each other all that often.”

A three-course dinner will be held on the night at the City of Busselton’s main function room, with all current and former St Marys players invited to attend.

“We have been talking to Justin Langer’s manager for the past year to secure him, and we can confirm that Justin will

be a guest speaker on the night. He will talk to us about his cricket journey.”

“We are expecting 150 to attend the night, the tickets are selling well so far.”

St Marys will also take the opportunity on the night to unveil their Team of the Century, selected from nearly 1000 players who have represented the club at some time or another over the past 100 years.

A 72-page book detailing the club’s history and statistics has been prepared to mark the occasion and will be handed out to those who attend the night.

For tickets to the centenary celebrations, contact St Mary’s club president Ben Mattock on 0402 338 471 or visit www.trybooking.com and enter the name of the club and the date of the occasion.

If someone is controlling and does something bad over and over, it can make you feel scared, shame and no good

and it’s not part of our culture ...it’s called

Look up on the internet wa.gov.au/familyviolence