Augusta Margaret River Oct 8, 2025

Locals urged to cast ballots

NICKY LEFEBVRE

LOCAL residents are being encouraged to cast their votes in the upcoming Local Government Elections, with polls closing on Saturday October 18.

“The decisions we make in local government directly impact the everyday lives of our residents, from roads and waste services to libraries, parks and community programs and events,” said Shire President, Julia Jean-Rice.

“Voting is your chance to choose leaders who represent your values and priorities, and because we use preferential voting, you can vote for one, some or all candidates by numbering them in your order preference.

Cr Jean-Rice said voter fatigue should not hold locals back from having their say.

“I know our community has already been to the

polls for both the Federal and State elections this year, but I’d like to encourage everyone to take the time to cast their vote once more,” she said.

“Voting in local elections isn’t just ticking a box. It’s about making sure our Council reflects the fabric of our community. The people, the places, and the values that make this region special.”

Voting is being conducted via postal vote and papers were posted by the WA Electoral Commission to all enrolled voters in mid-September.

For those who have not yet received their voting packs, replacement ballots are available at the Augusta and Margaret River Shire offices.

Completed ballot papers can either be returned by post, or dropped to the Augusta or Margaret River Shire offices.

Delays push centre opening to 2026

NICKY LEFEBVRE

WORK is continuing to establish Augusta’s new childcare facility, with the organisations behind the project expecting the centre will open in early 2026.

Regional Early Education and Development Inc (REED) and the Augusta & Districts Community Child Care Inc Committee are overseeing the purpose-built facility.

“The process to complete the leasing and licensing of the new facility has taken longer than anticipated,” explained REED CEO Kylie Helgesen.

“Both REED and the Committee would like to acknowledge the delay and assure the Augusta and surrounding community that work is continuing behind the scenes to open the service as soon as possible.”

Ms Helgesen said local staff had been engaged ahead of the expected opening, and thanked them for their patience.

“In the meantime, thanks to the Committee’s efforts, the new building is looking fantastic.

“We look forward to welcoming children and families into the new service as soon as the

licencing requirements allow. “Opening days, hours and fee information will be announced over the coming months.”

She thanked community members who completed their survey and encouraged locals to contact REED with any queries via 6832 3825 or project. management@reedwa.org.au.

Fruitful day of reflection at school

Cowaramup Primary School (CPS) students, teachers and staff came together last month for the school’s annual ‘Buddy Day’ event.

The day, held to commemorate the lives lost on the beach at Gracetown 29 years ago, celebrates the community’s families and strong support network.

“We started off the day with a heartfelt performance celebrating ‘families’ by the Year 1 children,” explained CPS Teacher, Leesa Mathers.

Fellow teacher, Will Crawford, spent time sharing his life story with the kids, telling of his childhood in Cowaramup and the significance of the apple that appears on the school’s logo.

Tribute tune honours local

Students and staff snacked on fresh apples thanks to Margaret River Fresh Produce, before participating in a series of activities like outdoor games, pop stick art, the CPS family tree, walk-and-chalk, STEM building, food fest, boules, yoga, Indigenous games, and a gratitude wall.

BY KIM SEIDLER

After lunch, it was time to boogie, with a bush dance giving everyone the chance to show off their skills.

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

As a finale, Year 5 and 6 students performed an under the sea routine featuring circus skills directed and taught by Dawn Pascoe.

“It was so beautiful to see staff and students celebrate our school and wider community,” Ms Mathers said.

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

“Buddy Day at CPS is such a special one.”

y

A brass band creates something

WHAT’S ON

New identity, same focus on community wellbeing

MIND-ED - formerly known as Mindful Margaret River - has unveiled a new brand identity designed to bring greater clarity to its role in the community, making it easier for people to understand what the organisation does and how to access its services.

e rebrand re ects Mind-Ed’s commitment to preventative health promotion and its mission to connect individuals and families with trusted support in the Augusta Margaret River region.

At the heart of the new identity is a simple idea:

‘’Mind-Ed is the community’s trusted connector for mental health and wellbeing—bridging the gap between local people and the support they need through advocacy, education, and collaboration.’’

Mind-Ed partners with local services, schools, government, and community groups to strengthen mental health outcomes through education, early intervention and prevention programs, advocacy, and community connection.

e rebrand also supports a stronger platform for the organisation’s expanding role in health promotion, ensuring local residents can access clear information and pathways to support.

“We’ve rebranded as Mind-Ed to make it even clearer who we are and what we do,” Mind-Ed Chair, Marilyn Hopkins, said.

“Our new name re ects our commitment to connecting people with support, education, and hope—right here in our community.”

Chief Executive O cer Erin Statz said the new identity was a fresh start, with a clear focus.

“Our mission remains the same: to bring people together, reduce stigma, and make mental health support accessible for all,” Ms Statz said.

“ e new brand provides clarity about who we are, what we do and, most importantly, how we can connect people with the support they need.

“We believe in the power of community. Mind-Ed is built on local voices, local action, and a shared commitment to wellbeing.

“Together, we’re creating a future where everyone feels supported.”

e new look will be rolled out across Mind-Ed’s website, publications, and community programs in the coming weeks.

One month left for free help with completing tax returns

TAX Help continues to be available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until the end of October at Margaret River Community Centre (MRCC).

“ ere has been a great uptake of the free service so far this season, keeping our two volunteers, Sunni Haynes and Alison Rotelli busy,” said Leanne Sutton from MRCC.

e community-based program is coordinated by the Australian Tax O ce and aims to help people who earn less than $70,000 per year to complete straight-forward tax returns and help people with using My Gov.

“We’ve assisted a range of people and it is very

satisfying to see the relief people feel on getting this part of their nances under control,” said Sunni.

“A number of older residents have come in with tax questions due to recent changes in aged pension rules.

“Navigating it all online and additional nancial pressure has not been easy

for them, so to be able to guide them through the process and the implications is very helpful.”

To book an appointment for Tax Help call 9757 3200, between 9am and 1pm Monday – Friday or email bookings@mrcc. com.au.

For more info visit www. ato.gov.au/taxhelp

Supplier gong for brewery

e Margaret River Beer Co, landed the honour of Local Supplier of the Year last month at the Supplier of the Year Awards, hosted by Endeavour Group.

Judges applauded the business for its consistent development and expansion.

“From humble beginnings with a single hero product, Margaret River Beer Co. has grown strategically, with every new release hitting the mark.

“ eir In the Pines IPA has grown triple digits, and is actively shaping the category by bringing younger customers into cra . “ ey showcase the power of a collaborative, commercial partnership.”

e awards celebrate the Endeavour Group’s supplier community, spotlighting partners who helped steer the drinks and hospitality sector throughout the year.

Arts group to host AGM

ARTS Margaret River will host its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday October 22 from 6pm to 7:30pm.

President David Shelton said all those interested in the group’s activities were welcome to attend.

“2025 has been another outstanding year... a year of vibrant growth and deepened community engagement with

our small but dedicated team and invaluable volunteers delivering results that surpass even those of last year.

“Our capacity is further increased by the added support of a growing number of donors and sponsors.”

Please note that only paid members are allowed to vote.

RSVP to hello@artsmargaretriver.com

EVENT AND ROAD CLOSURE

Childcare conversation highlights challenges

e complexities of the early childhood education sector were in the spotlight late last month at the Margaret River Community Centre’s annual Community Conversation as part of its AGM.

Guest speaker, Fiona Rudkin from Child Australia lead the conversation, highlighting the challenges the sector faces and the importance of meeting these challenges to provide what is now considered an essential service in our society.

Fiona discussed the necessary response to recent child safety and protection incidents and provided an overview of the issues surrounding CCTV use and the strategies required to ensure privacy and also to ensure adequate supervision is maintained.

NOTIFICATION

For further information please visit: capetocapemtb.com/travel/road-closures or contact hello@capetocapemtb.com or (08) 6285 8551

New regulations are being introduced about the use of photos and videos of children for their protection.

e sector is faced with sta ng challenges, which may best be addressed by pathways from work placement experiences through to on-the-job training. Attracting and retaining quali ed sta remains an ongoing factor a ecting the sector Australia wide.

MRCC operates the Margaret River Community Centre for Children, a not-for-pro t service catering for 56 children, from babies to 5 year olds.

“We opened the service in 2004, as an evolution of the community-run outside hours care program that had been running since the 1980s,” said Amber Fairbrass,

MRCCC Coordinator.

“In 2016 we doubled in size with the opening of the Joyce Bennett building.

“ is year we undertook renovations to increase our capacity for another 5 children, again in response to community need and wait lists.”

Educators from the childcare facility also enjoyed a morning of mentorship with Fiona Rudkin on ursday.

“I was so pleased to have another chance to spend time with Amber’s team,” Fiona said.

“In my talks, I o en use the Margaret River Community Centre for Children as an example of the way to do things – the quality of care and passion of the educators is evident.”

Our free drop-in centre offers a place for connection, conversation, company, a cuppa and cake. Find the information you need regarding access to aged care support packages, enjoy guest speakers and activities.

Drop in on Tuesdays 10am to 12pm and Thursdays 1pm to 3pm

Old Hospital Heritage Precinct 33 Tunbridge Street Margaret Riverthe Soupie cottage 9757 3200 seniors@mrcc.com.au

Community Notices & Tenders

Community grants Local Government Elections

Community Development and Events Grants open!

Applications are now open for the second round of the Shire’s Community Development and Events Grants Program

Funding is available for eligible local projects and events starting aft f er Thursday, 15 January 2026

Applications close Wednesday, 12 November 2025

Scan the QR code for guidelines and forms

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

With local government elections just around the corner, we are encouraging residents to have their say and help shape the future of our region

Voting will be conducted via postal vote, with polls closing on Saturday, 18 October

Ballot papers for the election, which is independently administered by the WA W Electoral Commission, were posted to all enrolled voters mid-September

Completed ballot papers can be returned by post or dropped at the Shire off f ices in Margaret River or Augusta 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 for more information

Monday 20 October | 10:30-11:30am Learn how AI can save time and boost productivity AI Zero to Hero

Tuesday 21 October | 1:30-2:30pm Quick intro to free, easy AI tools No experience needed!

Instagram for Beginners

Wednesday 22 October | 10:30-11:30am

Set up your profile, learn posting basics and explore features

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

All hands on deck for lily control

MARK and Judy Fisher from Wyadup Brook Cottages in Yallingup are among a tsunami of local landholders taking part in Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s Arum Lily Blitzand having great success.

e 100-hectare property the Fishers manage – a mix of remnant bush, cleared pasture, beef cattle and holiday accommodation – was once heavily infested with arum lilies.

But several years of hard work means the numbers of the invasive weed are on the decline.

And this winter, the Fisher’s teamed up with Nature Conservation’s Arum Lily Blitz program to ramp up control e orts along with work they are doing themselves over two properties.

Judy said persistence has been the key.

“We’ve been doing arum lily control for 15 years now and we try to do it every year. It’s fabulous, it’s worked, and you can really see the results,” she said.

Mark, who has lived on the

property for 36 years, said the weed problem has been daunting – but now major progress is being made.

ey are among a small army of landholders – including accommodation providers –helping to control weeds and bring back biodiversity.

“ e arum lilies were out of control. Wyadup Brook runs through the property and we have areas of natural bush, so it was important to act.

“We still have a problem with

another weed, cape tulip, which we’re controlling alongside arum lily.

“Where we’ve done control, it does look good,” he said.

Mark’s message for other landholders is clear: “If nobody does anything, then the place is ruined.

“We must do something.

“If you own a property, you just have to do arum lily control, or the problem will just get worse.”

Arum Lily Blitz o cer Ben

Howell said the Fishers’ longterm commitment shows what is possible when landholders and local businesses step up.

“Local landholders are critical to the success of the Arum Lily Blitz.

“When people like Mark and Judy act on their own properties, it encourages their neighbours to do the same. Nature conservation can then support these properties by engaging with other stakeholders to protect whole areas.

“ e Fishers’ persistence and collaboration are a great example of what can be achieved.”

Nature Conservation Mar-

garet River Region’s Arum Lily Blitz coordinates the e ort to control arum lilies, with free resources, workshops, herbicide and in some cases cost-sharing for 2200-plus landholders who are signed up, protecting an area spanning 26,000 hectares.

Now in its 7th year, the Blitz also partners with local and state government and agencies, plus community and volunteer groups to tackle arum lilies.

It’s the rst coordinated, landscape-scale weed control program of this type in WA, with an ambitious, long term 20-plus year vision to reduce and contain the weed.

You are not alone. It’s not uncommon to be unsure about how helplines work or understand what the people on the other end of the phone are able to assist you with.

Helpline workers are caring people who understand what you’re going through. They are trained to support you.

Busy time for green thumbs

tastes entirely di erent to a storebought tomato.

Turning over your soil, as we all used to do, is a no-no.

If you want to grow and eat your own home-grown tomatoes this season, there’s nothing stopping you!

Tomatoes can be grown in pots or garden beds and aren’t particularly fussy.

Don’t overwater, try to keep leaves from touching the soil removing lower leaves if necessary, and boost growth with an organic fertiliser.

If you need to encourage owering, apply a fertiliser high in phosphorous.

Determinate grow to a speci c size and then stop, and tend to produce all their fruit at one time. For this reason, they are o en the varieties used for preserving. Romas fall into this category.

Indeterminate continue to grow throughout the entire season, and in doing so, produce fruit for a much longer time. Beefsteak is one such variety. Many of our cherry tomatoes also fall into this category.

To pinch or not to pinch. I’ll leave that decision to you. In my opinion, a home-grown tomato

Yes, you could say that about all home-grown fruit and veg, but I think the tomato probably displays the largest taste di erence, of any veg, between store and home grown. If you haven’t already planted, get them in the ground!

October is also the time to be thinking about all summer veg.

Pumpkins, zucchini, cucumbers, corn, beans, melons, sweet potato slips, and the lovely sun ower, can all be planted now.

Remember to plant corn in a grid, ve by ve for example. is helps with pollination. And don’t plant two varieties in the same garden as they’ll possibly cross pollinate and you may not get the best feature of either variety. Once your corn are up and about ten centimetres high, why not try planting a bean in front of each. e beans will use the corn stalk as a trellis. It works a treat.

Don’t overwork your beds when prepping them for planting. Try to feed your soil by adding a green manure crop, seaweed, compost, or worm castings. A light scratching into the top layer of soil is all you need to do.

We really don’t want to interrupt the billions of microorganisms that are busily doing their job, actively keeping our soil healthy and diverse.

Ensure your soil is moist, add a layer of ‘so ’ mulch over the top like silage or weed free straw, about ve centimetres thick, and then plant.

I have no trouble with slaters eating my seedlings and I think it may be because I add silage as my mulch, and eating this seems to keep them occupied!

It’s also the time to select any entries you’re keen to put in the MR Ag Show, held on Saturday November 15.

Entries are open right now. e fruit and veg are always hotly contested, but with 33 categories, including prizes for oddest, most colourful, and heaviest, you may just nd yourself up there with the best. If, like me, you always thought about entering but have never quite got there, make 2025 your year. Get online and get to it.

It’s a busy month!

Get cracking green thumbs.

• Machines Loader, Dozer, Posi Track and Excavators

• Dam Construction

• Gravel Driveways Roads

• Soak Wells

• Demolition

• House Shed Pads

• Sand Gravel Supplies

• Fire Compliance Contractor

• Rock Breaking

• Crushing and Screening

• Gravel and Asphalt Driveways

Pioneer Water Tanks Margeret River is a family run business with Luke McCallum having more than 20 years experience building quality steel water tanks. We are the Exclusive Pioneer Water Tanks dealers to service the Cape to Cape area in the South West. Luke and Kristina’s local expertise is second to none and they are proud to provide the highest level of product and customer service. They leave no stone unturned and are passionate about providing exceptional value taking care to design the best and most reliable water harvesting systems possible.

During the entire process they will ensure every aspect of your water tank purchase and installation is carried out professionally.

We service location throughout the Cape to Cape area in the South West.

We offer the following services:

• Retrofit world class food grade approved Aqualiner inside existing tanks

• Supply and fit dome type tank roofs and trusses

• Supply and fit level indicators, filter baskets, tank roof access hatches and rain savers

• Carry out insurance work

• Carry out water tanks repairs

ALL OF OUR TANKS HAVE A 20-YEAR CONDITIONAL WARRANTY

From rubbish to results on the coast

BEACHGOERS are being called to roll up their sleeves and take part in the annual WA Beach Clean-Up, from 17–20 October.

Now in its 21st year, the event is coordinated by the Tangaroa Blue Foundation and supported locally by Nature Conservation Margaret River Region.

Participants can register their own clean-up event, with Tangaroa Blue providing free kits with bags, gloves, sharps containers and safety information.

Volunteers head out to their favourite stretch of coast to collect and record rubbish, contributing to the Australian Marine Debris Initiative (AMDI) Database.

Nature Conservation’s Chloe Deakin said the event was a great way for the local community to get involved in practical action for ocean health.

“Marine debris is one of the biggest threats to our beaches, oceans and marine life,” she said.

She urged surfers, hikers, shers and anyone who enjoys the coast to help collect rubbish and keep our coast pristine.

“Our beaches are a playground for families, surfers and beach-lovers.

“We’re urging everyone to register your favourite beach or special location and give just a couple of hours of your time to help keep it clean.

“Get in quick so you can secure your preferred spot, beach or coastal location.”

Volunteers are also invited to the Sip ‘N’ Sort event at Margaret River Brewhouse on Sunday 19 October, 2.30pm–4pm.

Crews from across the region will gather on the lawn to sort rubbish and log it in the database. Af-

terwards, participants can relax with a drink and a bite while celebrating over two decades of WA’s agship clean-up. Personal protective equipment will be provided, and registration is essential. Register your clean-up at tangaroablue.org/ get-involved/wabcu/

CLASSIFIEDS

Cricket clubs set to embrace bold new look

ALLAN MILLER

Since time immemorial cricket has been a sport played in white clothing with a red ball.

Now, after centuries of tradition, the white flannels and the red cherry are being ditched.

The grand old game will take on a fresh new look when cricket fixtures for the new season get under way around the Busselton-Margaret River region on Saturday, October 18.

Coloured clothing and a white ball are coming in for the first time in the home-and-away games.

According to Busselton-Margaret River Cricket Association president James Gannaway, the change was precipitated by the experiment at last season’s Country Week in Perth.

“The feedback from all the players who went to Country Week was that they enjoyed playing the tournament in coloured clothing for the first time,” Gannaway said.

“It was discussed at the BMRCA committee meetings and the majority of the clubs were in favour of changing the long-standing tradition of playing in whites –so we are doing what they are asking.”

“It’s a reflection of what players see on TV and keeping up with the times. We are trying to retain as many young players in cricket as possible.”

“We are also looking forward to seeing the umpires in sky blue shirts for the first time.”

Interestingly enough, the call to bring in coloured clothing and a white ball was made time and time again, more than 10 years ago, by a veteran cricketer who has now retired from the game: Danny Hatton from St Marys Cricket Club.

Hatton’s repeated plea to introduce coloured clothing fell upon deaf ears of the BMRCA committee, but it now looks like he was ahead of his time.

The local competition is also

in a great condition as the new season kicks off.

For the first time there will be six A-Grade sides, six B-Grade sides and eight C-Grade sides competing in the BMRCA’s home-and-away league.

Cowaramup’s No. 2 side has been elevated from C-Grade to B-Grade, making the competition stronger than it has ever been before.

At last month’s AGM Gannaway was re-elected as BMRCA president, while Elle Weston (secretary) and Al Wilkie (treasurer) were also re-elected to their positions.

Elle and Danny Weston have been busy in the past month creating the fixtures.

Other BMRCA committee members this season are Darcy Carroll (vice-president), Neil Langenhoven, Matt Snaddon, Jacob Beamish, Curtis Bacich, Ben Shepherd and Nathan Whitfield.

Busselton-Margaret River is also getting ready to host the Australian Country Cricket Championships this summer.

The championships run from Saturday, January 3 to Saturday, January 10.

Games between the State sides will be held at all five turf grounds in our region: Barnard Park and Bovell Park in Busselton, Dunsborough, Cowaramup and Margaret River.

“It’s a great honour for us to host this prestigious Australia-wide event,” Gannaway said.

“We are not sure at this stage if we will be able to fit in a T20 competition for our local teams, this is yet to be determined by our committee.”

Senior Country Week in Perth will run this season from Sunday, January 18 to Saturday, January 24.

“We are planning on sending three and possibly four sides to Country Week for the first time,” Gannaway said.

Women and girls called to join summer season

ALLAN MILLER

WOMEN aged 13 and older are being encouraged to play cricket in Busselton-Margaret River this season.

“Join us in a friendly and safe environment –no prior experience is necessary,” said coordinator Pieter Bresser.

“Our association prioritises a fun and supportive cricket experience where everyone can enjoy the game.

“Don’t worry if you have not played before, all skill levels are encouraged to participate.

“Whether you’re a seasoned player or a novice, we welcome you to be part of our vibrant community.

Bresser said there were also a few initiatives to “get things moving on a positive note”

for women’s cricket.

“We have eight very good women ready to play for the BMRCA in the Bunbury league and for the BMRCA in Country Week.

“We have the real possibility of making this happen.”

For inquiries and information about women’s cricket, contact petebress@gmail.com

Crowds flock to Yallingup for longboard competition

SURFING WA

The South West Log Fest returned over the weekend with a celebration of traditional longboarding that drew competitors from across Australia and around the globe to Yallingup.

The invitational event, now in its third year, showcased world-class longboarding with heats run at Injidup Carparks on Saturday before shifting to Bunker Bay for finals day.

More than 350 spectators lined the beaches over the weekend, creating an electric atmosphere.

“Saturday at Carparks was classic WA longboarding. It was solid, bumpy and so much fun, with around 200 people on the beach,” said event organiser Evan Ledger. “On Sunday we moved to Bunker Bay and had another 150-plus spectators right on the shoreline, only 20 metres from the end section.

“The atmosphere was unreal.”

Dunsborough local and current State Champion Jack Medland was the standout, capturing his maiden South West Log Fest crown after back-to-back runner-up fin-

ishes over the last two years.

Medland, who co-owns Moonshine Surfboards with Ledger, triumphed over interstate and international talent including surfers from New Zealand, California, Indonesia, Greece and across Australia.

“The standard this year was incredibly high, even in round one the heats were stacked,” said Ledger.

“To see Jack win in front of a home crowd after coming so close the past two years was really special.

“The support on the beach was deafening.”

Also impressing was reigning Whalebone Classic champion Georgia Young (Perth), who finished fourth in the women’s draw.

Other highlights included ‘Wave of the Comp’ honours, which went to young Kiwi standout Jack Tyro who posted a perfect 10-point ride in the men’s semi-finals, and Fremantle’s Tahlia Oliver, who lit up the teams event with a 9.20 ride.

Oliver then went on to win the crowd-favourite teams event alongside Shaun Mannion, Danni Kalemusic, and Nicolas Muto.

Top twelve prepare for annual awards

NICKY LEFEBVRE

Next week will mark an exciting moment for one young local athlete, when the winner of the 2025 Busselton Freight Rising Sports Star program is announced.

The ceremony will take place at a gala awards evening on Monday October 20, where the twelve finalists from across the year will be joined by family and friends to celebrate the achievements of our brightest young sporting talents from a wide range of disciplines.

One of those finalists will be crowned the year’s ultimate winner, taking home a $4000 cash prize.

The runner up athlete will receive $2000 and an encouragement award will see one finalist take home an $800 prize.

“Each monthly winner has demonstrated exceptional skill, commitment, and sportsmanship, earning them a spot in the

prestigious Rising Sports Star program,” Busselton Freight Services’ Ingrid Moss said.

The Rising Sports Star program has been sponsored by Busselton Freight since 2008.

It recognises the region’s talented young athletes and encourages them to pursue excellence in their chosen sports.

Past winners have gone on to represent Western Australia and Australia, compete in elite national competitions, and earn scholarships from organisations such as the Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) and the South West Academy of Sport.

The awards night promises to be a celebration of dedication, talent, and achievement, with the community eagerly anticipating who will take home this year’s coveted Rising Sports Star award.

2024/25 FINALISTS

Cruz Uros

Surfing

Lucas Ransley

Outrigging

Rosie Gillett

Surfing

Jeremy Collis

MTB Enduro & Downhill

Asher Bourke

Cross Country

Levi Amiss

Para Athletics

Chloe Collis

Mountain Biking

Bella Moore

Mountain Biking

Poppy Stevens

Rugby Union

Brooklyn Rayne

Swimming

Grace Ferguson

Swimming

Kalen Bennett

Running

Margaret River Masters is an inclusive AFL club open to everyone 35ish and over, with both men’s and women’s teams. The men’s team play regular games in the Southwest Masters League and the women play regular games in the Women’s Masters Perth League, focusing on fun, fitness, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to have a kick, we’re here for those who love their footy but prefer a more relaxed commitment.

Our club thrives on the spirit of Masters footy, where full AFL rules apply with a few commonsense adjustments to ensure you can still turn up for work on Monday. The games are played in a great spirit, emphasising enjoyment and camaraderie above all.

We’re proud supporters of mental health and well-being. We believe in the power of physical exercise and community as key tools in promoting mental health.

We train every Friday at 5pm at Gloucester Park during the footy season, extending into September, with a light-hearted approach where you can train as hard or as easy as you like. Afterwards, we gather in the club rooms for a meal, reinforcing our connection with the Hawks Football and Netball Club, a familyfriendly environment that welcomes all.

And remember, there’s no obligation to play – you’re welcome to come down for a kick, help as a coach, or join our committee.

We invite everyone to come along and experience what Masters footy is all about –it’s more than just a game; it’s about being part of a supportive and fun community.

To learn more, reach out to us through our Facebook page @Margaretrivermasters.

Margaret River Masters Football Club would like to thank all or our sponsors for the 2025 season. We encourage you all to shop local and support these legends who make the running of our club possible.

Retravision - Major Sponsor

Witchy Liquor – Major Sponsor

Jarvis Estate (Men's Jumper Sponsor)

Streamline Beer Systems (Men's Jumper Sponsor)

Biologic Environmental Survey (Women's Indigenous Jumper Sponsor)

AMR Dental

Belle Property

Berry Farm

BHE Welding and Fabrication

Cape Mentelle

City Discount Tyres

C'Lect-A-Blind

DB&B Electrical

Haywood Wine Company

Home Ground

Howard Park

Leeuwin Tyres

Lifestorm

MR Electrical

Small Engine Worx

Sportspower Margaret River

Stella Bella

Vasse Felix