Augusta Margaret River Sept 10, 2025

Centre to host conversation on childcare challenges

MARGARET River Community Centre will host an open conversation with Child Australia, focussing on the challenges facing the childcare sector and the benefits of not-for-profit centres.

Child Australia’s Childcare Specialist, Fiona Rudkin will present on Wednesday 17 September as part of the Community Centre’s annual general meeting and public talk event.

Parents and carers, educators, childcare operators and the general community are invited.

The childcare sector faces challenges ranging from child safety, employment awards and educator shortages, to technology in the early years and government subsidy changes.

The Department of Edu-

cation’s Child Care Subsidy Data Report released in March, shows across the nation 50 percent of children aged 0 to 5 years use an approved childcare service, with over 850,000 children attending centre-based day cares.

“While childcare practices today are generally more inclusive, child-focused and mindful of children’s emotional, mental and physical needs, early childhood education is a rapidly evolving industry with challenges related to both the growth and the substance of the service,”

Community Centre chairperson, Jessica Worrall said.

“The Community Centre for Children operated by Margaret River Community Centre Inc, opened in 2004, evolving from the Occasional

Child Care service and playgroup we ran in the 1990s. In response to demand we opened the Joyce Bennett Building in 2016, doubling our capacity.

“We are excited to host Fiona Rudkin at our AGM evening, to put a spotlight on the trends of the early childhood education industry for our local audience.”

Some of the trends Fiona will discuss include learning through play, learning through technology, workforce pressures and the difference between for-profit and not-for-profit centres.

All are welcome to attend the AGM at 6pm, followed by the presentation at 6:30pm.

This is a free event and people may wish to have a meal beforehand, with the Margaret River Soup Kitch

en open from 5pm, serving curries, dahl and salad for $7.

Please RSVP to the Margaret River Community Centre

via email bookings@mrcc. com.au or telephone 9757 3200, between 9am and 1pm Monday – Friday.

Four decades of community support

THIS week, Mindful Margaret River chats with the team from South West Counselling, to nd out what’s involved with supporting mental health in our community...

Can you share some of the story behind South West Counselling and its services?

South West Counselling Inc. began in 1982 as a mobile counselling service, founded by local advocates who recognised the urgent need for accessible, compassionate mental health support in the South West.

Over the years, the service has grown into a well-respected, not-forpro t, charitable organisation providing counselling and advocacy across the region.

Our core mission is to support emotional wellbeing at every stage of life—from children and teens to adults, couples, and families—through professional, a ordable counselling services.

What sets us apart is our whole-of-family approach.

Whether a family is facing separation, parenting stress, or individual mental health challenges, we can provide coordinated support through child therapy, couple therapy, and family therapy—ensuring each person is heard and supported within the broader family system.

Counselling is available Monday to Friday from our Margaret River o ce, with minimal wait times and a welcoming, client-centred approach.

How does the service make a di erence in someone’s life?

A family navigating relationship breakdown, trauma, or signi cant loss may come to us in distress, unsure where to begin.

e parents might engage in couples counselling to rebuild communication and emotional connection, while their child or children access play therapy to safely process changes at home. Together, the family may participate in family counselling to develop shared understanding and healthier ways of relating.

Over time, this integrated support o en leads to greater emotional stability, deeper empathy, and stronger relationships within the family system.

ese are the transformations we witness every day—and they represent the heart of what we do: creating space for healing, connection, and lasting change.

What are the most pressing mental health needs in the region right now?

e most pressing issues we’re seeing in the South West include depression, anxiety, nancial stress, family separation, health-related challenges, relationship issues, trauma, parenting stress, and family and domestic violence. Many people are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or stretched beyond capacity. Demand for accessible mental health support continues to grow, especially support that understands the complexity of family systems.

How do you collaborate with other services or community groups?

As a place-based service who has been consistently working out of the Margaret River Community Centre for many years we have developed relationships with many other services in the Margaret River region. We receive referrals from a wide range of other services including other local community services and government departments, health professionals, schools, GPs, private practitioners, and allied health providers.

ese strong partnerships help us respond holistically to clients’ needs and reduce service gaps.

We value being part of a collaborative care network in the Margaret River region and beyond.

How easy is it for people to get support?

Our service is open to everyone—self-referrals are welcome, and we accept referrals from professionals, schools, and community organisations.

We o er low-cost counselling sessions Monday to Friday from our Margaret River o ce, delivered by a team of seven skilled counsellors with a range of specialist expertise.

For clients who face barriers attending in Margaret River, we can arrange sessions in surrounding areas such as Augusta or Cowaramup, depending on individual circumstances.

We also provide Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselling for a number of local organisations—a valued in-person alternative to the telehealth services o ered by many large providers.

NDIS-funded sessions are also available.

Getting in touch is simple—via phone, email, or our website—and every person who contacts us is welcomed with warmth, con dentiality, and genuine care.

What are some recent milestones, and what does the future hold?

We are grateful to have received funding through the AMR Shire’s Community Support Services Grants, which has enabled us to expand to ve days per week in our Margaret River o ce.

With seven counsellors now available in our Margaret River o ce —each bringing a diverse range of specialist skills—we can provide tailored support to children, teens, adults, couples, and families.

As part of this growth,

we are also expanding our outreach capacity to better support clients in surrounding areas, including Cowaramup and Augusta.

Looking forward, we’re excited to deepen our community engagement through local events, fundraising e orts, and new collaborative partnerships across the region.

What message do you have for those who might be struggling but haven’t sought help?

If you’re nding things di cult right now, please know—you are not alone.

Reaching out for support can feel daunting, but it’s a powerful and courageous step toward healing and change.

Whether you’re facing a relationship challenge, parenting stress, emotional overwhelm, or simply feeling stuck, we’re here to listen, support, and walk alongside you—without judgement and at your pace.

You don’t have to carry it all on your own.

Help is here when you’re ready.

Southwest Counselling is located at 33 Tunbridge St.

For more info contact 9754 2052, email admin@ swcounselling.org.au, or visit swcounselling.org.au

You can also follow on Facebook: www.facebook. com/swcounselling

Mindful Margaret River is a community based NFP focused on health promotion, education, collaboration and local advocacy. Find out more at mindfulmargarteriver.org.au

Early educators celebrated

EDUCATORS and sta at the Margaret River Community Centre for Children were celebrated last week, at a special event to mark Early Childhood Educator Day.

e centre has provided essential childcare to local families since it was established in 2004 in the renovated Margaret Cecil building at the Community Centre, initially o ering 28 places for kids aged 0 to 5 years.

In 2015, a new building and the expansion of outdoor playspaces allowed the centre to o er care to children 3 to 5, and to increase their places to 56, supporting an average of 100+ families each week.

Sta and educators were presented with vouchers from local businesses Margaret River Bakery, Margaret River Beauty, Eden Aesthetics, Lazarus Horticulture, Sons of Naples. Margaret River Bookshop, HomeGround, Arts Margaret River, Beach Life and Vasse Virgin.

“It was an opportunity to recognise and thank the

amazing educators and sta who provide consistent, high quality, care and support to our children and our community,” a spokesperson said.

“ ese amazing people implement our independent

not-for-pro t organisation’s goal to provide experiences and services that nurture, connect and foster belonging in the community.

“We aim to be leaders and the childcare centre of choice

CHILDCARE QUALITY

A conversation with Child Australia

Child Australia s Fiona Rudkin will lead a conversation for parents, carers, educators and interested community members on the current challenges and trends facing the childcare industry and the role of not-for-profit providers

Wednesday 17 September

5:30pm AGM

6:15pm Community Conversation

Old Church

Margaret River Community Centre

33 Tunbridge Street

Enjoy dinner at the Soup Kitchen

$7/serve (curries, rice, salad)

Open 5pm - 7pm

quired by Education and Care Regulatory Unit.”

e centre employs 25 educators, and supports community members keen to embark on a career in Early Childhood Education.

“Educators support each other in the ever-changing standards and regulations, acknowledging the challenges, but ensuring that connection with the children and their families are paramount.

“Our educators invest extra time into up-skilling to ensure they are providing the best possible quality care.

“Our educators are what makes the Community Centre for Children what it is, striving to maintain a centre that connects, embraces and delivers what families are looking for.

in our district for provision of quality, a ordable early education services.

“Our Early Childhood Educators enable us to meet these goals while they also meet the service and safety standards re-

“We are lucky to have many long-standing educators within the centre who share the same values. So, we say a grateful thank you to coordinator Amber Fairbrass and her team of Community Centre for Children Early Childhood Educators. You are amazing!”

Three new play spaces opened

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has opened three new play spaces across the region in recent weeks, featuring designs inspired by the surrounding communities.

At Firestone Park in West Bay Creek, Augusta, local input led to a whimsical blue whale feature, as well as swings, timber play elements and a picnic shelter.

Further north on Redgate Road in Witchcliffe, fairy houses, wooden construction and openended play options await young residents and visitors.

And at the Cowaramup Hall, a colour theme inspired by the town’s Cowara bird envelops the playground, which also features sensory and musical elements, nature play features, and traditional slides and swings.

All thankstoyour reverse cycle air conditioning installation by the Stinson team!

Shire President Julia Jean-Rice said the new playgrounds were developed with feedback from local families, and were a welcome addition to the Shire’s public spaces.

President Jean-Rice said.

“These revitalised spaces reflect the Shire’s commitment to enhancing public areas in line with our Leisure Plan and Public Open Space Strategy,”

“We’re proud to deliver playgrounds that support active, connected lifestyles, and we look forward to seeing families enjoy them for many years to come.”

Having our livestock right here at the farm is not only the key to

premium end product… We know what they are being fed, where they roam and have a very clear insight into the supply chain, but it’s also good for the cows and even the land. Get your mates together and come check in for an epic feed & a

Call for comment on energy policy

THE Shire of Augusta Margaret River has launched a consultation process to gauge the community’s views about renewable energy in the region.

e Shire is considering developing a Renewable Energy Local Planning Policy that would guide Council decision-making about future renewable energy proposals across the Shire.

An Issues and Options Paper, which outlines key considerations and example options for a policy, is now published for public comment on the Shire’s ‘Your Say’ platform.

Community members are being asked to review the Paper and share their thoughts on what should be included in a future Policy.

Shire President Julia Jean-Rice said hearing di erent perspectives

from the community will help ensure the proposed Policy is well-rounded and re ects the issues that matter most to residents.

“We want to hear what our community would like to see included in such a Policy,” she said.

If introduced, a Renewable Energy Local Planning Policy would provide a framework for decision-making that is based on community input and guidance, en-

abling community views to be considered during the planning and assessment process.

Community members are encouraged to read the Issues and Options Paper and complete a short survey on ‘Your Say’ by Friday, 19 September 2025.

To learn more and provide your feedback, visit www.yoursay. amrshire.wa.gov.au/ renewable-energy-local-planning-policy

Community Notices & Tenders

Gracetown Firewise Garden workshop

We’ve partnered with The Forever Project to host a firewise garden demonstration workshop in Gracetown on Saturday 13 September, 11am - 12pm

This area opposite Gracie’s General Store gave us the perfect opportunity to not only create a new firewise garden, but also bring our community together and lear n how to implement firewise principles into your own home

The workshop will cover firewise landscaping principles, creating defensible spaces and the use of fire-retardant plants and materials

South Point toilet block upgrades

Upgrades to the plumbing at the South Point toilet block in Gracetown have commenced Carpark access be limited on some days, but the footpath to the surf break and walk trail will remain open Portable toilets will be available Works are expected to be completed by mid-September

For enquiries, please contact: Dave Gunn dgunn@amrshire wa gov au - 08 9780 5243

You may have noticed speed limit changes on some local roads where the limit has dropped to 70 km/h

Roads like Cowaramup Bay Road and Redgate Road have been rated just one star out of five for safety They’re narrow, have large trees on the verge and lack key safety features

Lowering speed limits is one of the most effective ways to reduce serious crashes and save lives The rollout is now complete, with all new signs installed

Share your thoughts: yoursay amrshire wa gov au/safer-speeds-trial-2

More info: saferspeedstrial com au

Tell Us Whether You Support a Local Renewable Energy Policy

We’d like to hear if the community supports the development of a Renewable Energy Local Planning Policy

We’ve developed an Issues and Options Paper to help shape a potential Renewable Energy Local Planning Policy This is your chance to review the Paper and share your thoughts on what should be included in a future Policy

Let us know what you think! Complete the short survey on Your Say by Friday 19 September

Find out more: yoursay amrshire wa gov au/renewable-energy-local-planning-policy

Sundowner captures ecoconversation from all sides

An evening of fungi, culture and resilience captivated a packed audience at the latest Environmental Sundowner hosted by Nature Conservation Margaret River Region at Margaret River HEART.

The event began with a screening of the acclaimed IMAX documentary Fungi: Web of Life, narrated by Björk, before guest speakers brought science, culture and lived experience together in a thought-provoking panel.

Nature Conservation CEO Aaron Jaggar opened with a moving welcome in Māori from his native New Zealand and said it was a privilege to step into the role of protecting the unique nature of the region.

He shared his story of living through the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, which killed 185 people, injured thousands more and left entire suburbs permanently uninhabitable.

“Unless you’d been there before, you couldn’t comprehend the scale of the destruction,” he said.

“The land sat there. There was

a darkness over the area. But at the same time, there seemed to be a massive opportunity – to really change things.

“Not many cities get that chance.

Once they’re built, they’re built.”

Mr Jaggar described how devastated “red zones” were gradually transformed into new wetlands, forests, cultural spaces and even a fungi garden.

“There was an opportunity to turn a red zone into a green zone,” he said.

“And people flocked to be part of it, because while we were healing the land, we were also healing ourselves.

“The city is healing, the land is healing and the people are healing.”

He said those lessons of

Exhibition and Art Sale

Friday 12.00pm - 4.00pm Saturday & Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm Monday 10.00am - 2.00pm

resilience, regeneration and community spirit are ones he hopes to nurture in his work at Nature Conservation MRR.

Wadandi custodian Zac Webb built on the theme of resilience, emphasising how fungi form an invisible but vital part of interconnected Country.

He explained that fungi sustain and spread through relationships with wildlife such as quendas and woylies, which eat them and carry their spores across the landscape.

Even dingoes, he noted, once played a role in dispersing fungi through their scats, paws and coats.

Dr Tom May, one of Australia’s foremost mycologists, joined via Zoom to round out the panel.

He shared insights into fungi’s role in ecology and conservation, highlighting their essential function in almost every ecosystem on Earth.

He said fungi connect trees and plants through vast underground networks, they recycle nutrients, and they underpin the health of animals and soils.

Beyond ecology, they show us

TRISH WATERS

I am a Dunsborough artist with a passion for the south west. I work in painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture and weaving. I’m inspired by the natural environment and desire to find meditative solitude in order to recharge after busy days working as an art teacher. My practice is playful and reflects the directions of my students as they explore various ways to communicate – I build my skills in response to their needs.

how to be resilient, flexible and creative in how we live.

Guests enjoyed a complimentary drink, light supper and the chance to put questions directly to the speakers in a lively audience Q&A that stretched the conversation late into the evening.

Mr Jaggar said the event perfectly demonstrated the purpose of the Sundowner series.

“Fungi are the hidden connectors in nature’s web, but they’re also metaphors for how communities adapt, regenerate and endure change.

“Last night showed that when we bring people together to listen, share stories and learn, the connections we build are just as powerful as the science.”

Launched in 2022 with support from the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River, Nature Conservation’s Environmental Sundowner series has now hosted 12 events.

Each one blends expert speakers with a welcoming, social atmosphere to spark conversations on the big issues facing nature, people and place.

My artworks are a reflection of my environment and a meditation. I want to share the peace that I find in nature as well as in the act of creating, using saturated colour and organic shapes to create patterns and visual rhythm. The ocean is my solace and imbedded in my soul. I spend much of my free time walking by the sea, swimming and watching the play of light on water. During these tumultuous times, I find catharsis within the creation of my art which reflects the emotions I have experienced as I work.

•Painting • Ceramics • Drawing •Basketry

I am very excited to be entering Margaret River Open Studios again

My porcelain practice explores memory, letting emotion flow with the clay and a quiet search for belonging through fragile forms impressed with natural textures. Using slip-casting, carving, and layered surfaces, I shape unspoken emotions. Learning alongside Ian Dowling—through porcelain, wild clay, and fire—has grounded my practice between fragility and rootedness.

Ian Dowling

I continue working with form and surface on many new forms. Sculptural, decorative and functional pieces are made using my local clay and woodfiring. I particularly like to make the first stage on the potters wheel then reshape and add rhythmic surface patterns.

Sharing the studio with another dedicated and imaginative artist has helped my work develop in new directions. There’s such a wide variety of interesting ceramics to show to the public.

41 Devon Drive, Margaret River

Emily Eldridge

Australian Landscape Artist

Silvia Busetto Shion Art

From the foothills of the Italian Alps to Margaret River’s coastal charm, Silvia Busetto paints life’s wonder in vibrant watercolours. Her delicate, yet expressive technique transforms everyday scenes - rooted in European culture or glimpsed along Western Australia’s shores - into poetic visual stories.

A contemporary Impressionist, Silvia finds joy in watercolour’s unpredictability, embracing its fluid beauty to reflect the essence of her subjects. Her art is a celebration of culture, connection, and the magic in the ordinary. Working from a sunlit home studio, Silvia welcomes visitors with warm conversation and classic Italian hospitality.

6 Hovea Lane, Margaret River www.shionart.it

Open 10am - 5pm

Closed Thursdays & Tuesday 23 September

Emily Eldridge’s textural landscapes of the southwest have been showcased in galleries around Australia over the past 6 years. Her ethereal forests are painted in the heart of the Wooditjup Forest in Margaret River and are influenced by a childhood on the land. “It’s a dance between magical moments with land, my energy and the canvas ” While trees are her specialty, moody oceans and abstract waterfalls attract collectors from far and wide.

Emily will be welcoming guests to visit and enjoy the paintings in her forest studio during Margaret River Open Studios. Her paintings are also available for viewing all year round at The MarriTree Gallery, Witchcliffe, Artigo Studio, Subiaco and Tyger Gallery- Yass. @emilyeldridgeart

Carroll grew up in the South West. She draws inspiration from patterns in nature and age old techniques, creating sculptural jewellery. Her latest collection features Australian opals and gems as wearable works of art.

12 Illawarra Avenue, Margaret River T: 0473 895 913 jeanniecarrolljewellery.com.au

Cath is a goat farmer, soap maker, spinner and weaver and creates unique handwoven textiles deeply inspired by nature and the tartans from her ‘Old Country’ Scotland and shaped by her experiences and the colours of her new home Australia.

Felicity (Flick) is working on her unique designs in her ‘Down South’ Collection bringing together colours and memories of special places like ‘Bunkers Ocean Blues’ Canal Rocks and ‘Meelup Teals’. Flick also has an exquisite Sparkly range for the special occasions in life.

Watch Cath and Flick at work at Origins Market Busselton Thursday-Sunday 10-4 September 11-14,

Caroline Juniper Screen Prints

“We’re

I have been travelling the world and have come home to produce a series of screen prints energized by the colours and textures of other cultures. Images from Spain, Central America and South-East Asia feature predominantly in this series. The prints will be displayed together with previous works of mine featuring familiar local scenes.

The world is full of colour and beauty and kindness.

This year I am offering to print onto tee shirts, this beautiful message I found on a sugar sachet in Spain.

LESLEY MEANEY

Lauren Rudd

29 Ironbark Avenue, Margaret River T: 0497 163 419 @lauren_k_rudd_art

The Figure’s surface is built up & then refined. Reference points & lines placed where needed. Tools softly tapping and carving, weaving courage & hope in with the clay slip. Profiles no more, the rounded form is emerging.

My current images on canvas, books and recycled wood were ignited by a recent decluttering of my Perth Studio – offering a perfect opportunity to reflect. In 1969, after arriving in WA, I painted from inside historic, often humble, uninhabited buildings - creating images from the safety of a shelter, in a tentative, but curious, peepingtom sort of way.

My evolving practice has led me outside for a closer look – into landscapes where I can feel the thrum of life, where I can pause, and wonder at will – where I am a participant. At 80 I am aware my past works are merely prologue –that I am still learning my craft – still in apprenticeship, particularly with the Australian landscape, our most inspirational and influential master. I have also learnt that our landscape is a constant reminder of the minute importance of ourselves, and that the true significance of our brief existence lies in the meaning we give our lives.

Christine Elston Glass Artist

Now living in Broadwater Busselton

My journey into fused glass began 19 yrs ago and I have immersed myself into the intricate art of glasswork, embracing the challenges and the excitement that come with mastering a new medium after a successful career in pottery for many years. This has been a very different journey of exploration and discovery as I've learned to create beautiful art forms that peak my imagination.

I love creating art by cutting & fusing beautiful glass and shaping elegant pieces that capture light and colour, each one telling a story. My pieces are constantly changing and evolving, I'm always excited to open my kiln and be surprised and elated to see my new creations. As I now live in the Southwest & very close to beautiful beaches and forests, this has become the inspiration for much of my work. This is my second year exhibiting in Margaret River Region Open Studios and I'm looking forward to welcoming everyone to my outdoor studio display.

Cherring Cot, 85 Sheoak Drive, Yallingup lesleymeaney.com.au

Open: Sat & Sun 10am-4pm. Fri 12-6pm Closed: Tuesday & Thursday Appointment Only: Monday & Wednesday

Libby-Jean Muhling

'Take a walk with me through some

Libby would love to welcome you into her home studio for her 5th year exhibiting with Margaret River Open Studios.

KAREN SEAMAN FINE ART

Karen Seaman creates contemplative works rooted

DIRECTIONS:

A Window to Dreamtime

Visit the Margaret River Region’s largest dedicated contemporary Aboriginal art gallery

Visit our diverse collection of original paintings for sale by celebrated national and local Indigenous artists We look forward to welcoming all art enthusiasts to explore our diverse curation of ethical artworks, books, prints and gift items for sale.

3057 Caves Road, Yallingup (at entrance to Yallingup Maze)

Open Mon-Sat 10AM-4PM, Sun by appointment (Open Sun 28 Sept, Sun 5 Oct 10-4PM) th th yallingupaboriginalart com au Ph: 0497054020

CLASSIFIEDS

Diana

SHEEP MANURE

at

Ray

Passed away peacefully 2 Sep 2025, age 66. Loved husband of Rose, dad of Josh, Sienna & Isaac, father-in-law of Casey, Jason & Princy, granddad of Louis & Arley. Another star in the sky. Memorial to be held at Alexandra Bridge Hall, Wed 17 Sep, 2pm.

Launders fourth at national titles

WA surfers delivered standout results across multiple divisions at the 2025 Australian Shortboard Titles at Sandon Point NSW last week.

eir combined performances saw WA nish an impressive third overall in the state standings, behind only New South Wales and Queensland.

More than 250 surfers from around the country battled for national honours, with Margaret River’s Kaleisha Launders winning her opening and semi- nal heats before nishing fourth in the Open Women’s nal.

“It was really special to make the nal and surf against such talented surfers, especially with a few of my friends out there

too,” Launders said.

“I think this result will help me build con dence in my sur ng, and it means a lot to represent WA because I love where I live and I love our team.

“Looking ahead, I’d like to take on a few bigger comps and look to do some QS events next year as I take a gap year.”

WA’s masters surfers also enjoyed strong showings, with Busselton’s Belinda Adams reaching the semi- nals of the Over 30 Women’s before placing fourth in the Over 40 Women’s nal.

Brad Cowan (Margaret River), Brent Moss (Esperance), and Michael Whiteley (Mandurah) all secured top-ten nishes across the senior divisions.

Last minute pitchswitch for juniors

ROUND 16 arrived with a stressful start to the day for the Football Margaret River junior teams, with both Pitch 1 and 2 deemed unplayable due to wet conditions. Luckily, other grounds in the region drained so those games weren’t a ected, but all FMR FIFA games were postponed, with the exception of the Youth League game, which made a quick location change to Busselton.

e U7 Falcons battled the Cornerstone Rockets, with Archer, Owen and Archie named Players of the Day.

e U8 Messi Kids were nally able to eld a full team, with plenty of energy resulting in a thrilling and entertaining game. POD was awarded to Quinn.

U8 Magic hit the road for their second last game of the season against the Stars in Dunsborough, in an exciting match with awesome teamwork from both sides. POD went to Charlie for brilliant saves and strong running.

It was another exciting game for the U9 Legends XI, despite challenging conditions there was lots of demonstrations of solid skills and teamwork. PODs were Harper Rowney and

Nelson (Moose) Watts.

e U9 Raptors played the Rovers and both teams put in a solid e ort for the whole game. Players of the Day were Torin and Jed who both displayed persistence and determination. It was a wet and windy day for U9 Mavericks as they met the FMR Mavericks in a tight match with goals for both teams. Players of the Day for the Mavericks were Angus Collins, Flynn Hardy and Eddie McGrath.

e U10 Wasps took on the Dragons in a thrilling encounter that had spectators on the edge of their seats. Despite blustery conditions that would’ve sent most players scrambling, both teams delivered a showcase of grit, skill, and sportsmanship. Leo earned POD for his tackles and a defensive presence which anchored his team.

e U10 Serpents showed incredible teamwork throughout their match, working together beautifully on both ends of the pitch. Special congratulations to Sasha and Abigail who were awarded POD for their awesome defensive skills.

Great work by the U11 Storm, working together as a team under di cult conditions. PODs were Laura James, Lachlan Wills, Kynan

Taylor and Elki Wishart. e DTFC Fury shot a goal early against the U12 Breakers, only to have it nulli ed by an o side call. Isaac threaded the ball through the opposition to earn POD along with Felix who miraculously returned to play a solid game in wing and centre positions.

A tough game for the U12 Stars against the BCFC Blades. Unfortunately, the scales tipped in the Blades’ favour with some great passing and soccer skills on show. e Stars kept their chins up and managed to strike back and get two goals thanks to Oscar and then Alex Mitchell, who was awarded Player of the Day. e YL Blaze team made a quick dash to Busselton a er their pitch was too wet to play. ey had wind. ey had rain. But at least the pitch was dry! ere was some great passing on display from both teams, with the ball going back and forth as everyone tried for the next goal.

Blaze may not have got the score they wanted, but they played with intensity and didn’t give up against a bigger and mostly older team. POD went to Digbysomeone who always gives 100 percent.

Hawks girls are flying high

IT’S an exciting time for girls’ football at the AMR Junior Football Club, with all three of the girls’ teams making it to their 2025 Grand Finals.

With such depth and development throughout the age groups, Margaret River seems to be rich ground for the development of sporting talent.

A er winning their rst semi nal, both the under 20’s and the Year 7/8 girls booked their ticket to the Grand Final. is rst round nals win meant they got the bye over the weekend and the opportunity to freshen up the legs and cheer on the Yr 9/10 girls in their Preliminary Final.

A er losing an intense physical contest against the undefeated South Bunbury in their rst round nal game, the Year 9/10 girls had to take the long road to earn their Grand Final spot.

In blustery conditions at Hands Oval on Saturday the Hawks girls dominated Busselton to secure the win and make it 3 from 3 of the Youth Girls teams into this coming Saturday’s Grand Final.

A WORD FROM THE COACHES

Damo Drake Brockman (U20)

e Under-20s side has really matured this season into a tight-knit group who love their footy, this shows both on and o the eld each week, at training and on game day. Despite o en struggling for numbers, the girls always dig deep and nd a way to get the choccy’s.

Tim Byrne and I are incred ibly proud of the team’s enthu siasm and determination. Our rst nal against South Bunbury was a tough encoun-

ter, but the girls rose to the challenge and secured their spot in the grand nal, with a week’s break before the big game.

No matter how the season ends, Tim and I couldn’t be prouder of what the girls have achieved this year.

Looking ahead, there’s even more to celebrate for girls’ footy in the region, with the introduction of a league women’s side in 2026.

Steve Utting (YR 9-10)

Season 2025, changes to the age groups meant that we would be able to play another

season together which in itself was a win.

is year was all about building as a team and cohesiveness as a group. We set goals we wanted to achieve for the season and as a team we are working to get the outcome we want and are working for.

e top four teams are the challenge and as nals approach it is who turns up on the day. South Bunbury have been the benchmark for the past 2 seasons, but we are looking forward to the challenge.

Iliya Hastings (YR 7-8) e girls have continued to grow as players and a team. eir desire to work hard, get

better and have fun together have been the key. ey are t and peaking at the right time and it’ll be great to take on other good teams like Carey Park. ey are genuinely a privilege to coach as they have an internal drive and connection that makes our jobs as coaches pretty easy.

e Senior Club is introducing a Women’s team into the SWFL in 2026.

If you’d like to be a part of this in any way please get in touch with Damien at damien@dbbelectrical. com.au

Operating f rom off ices in Busselton, Bunbury, Mandurah, and Perth, the organisation offers end-to-end workforce solutionsincluding apprenticeships, traineeships, labour hire, and training services From recruitment and onboarding to payroll, mentoring, and compliance, GetCareers manages the full employment process, allowing businesses to focus on growth

Recent expansion into health support services training reflects GetCareers’ commitment to meeting

community sectors

needs in

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