Augusta Margaret River Sept 17, 2025

Horses help women find their spark

NICKNAMED the “ ursday Murder Club,” a new equine-assisted program acknowledges women’s frustration at some of life’s challenges, and helps them nd emotional balance, con dence, and laughter.

ere’s no crime to solve, but women coming together on ursdays with the horses at Stable Leadership in Margaret River may nd themselves nicknaming their circle the ursday Murder Club. It’s a tongue-in-cheek way of naming life’s mid-chapter frustrations — from hot ushes to sleepless nights, tricky teens to demanding partners — while choosing to meet change with humour, connection, and a little horse wisdom.

e program o ers women a chance to pause, breathe, and reconnect with themselves through tailored equine facilitated programs.

ere’s no riding involved; participants interact with horses on the ground, discov-

ering how the animals mirror human energy and emotion.

e result is instant, non-judgmental feedback that helps women explore emotional balance, boundaries, and con dence in a safe, supportive environment.

e sessions are guided by Eve and Beau – two gentle, kind-hearted horses. Beau, a striking Clydesdale–Gypsy Cob cross, and Eve, a pure Gypsy Cob, bring their calm, safe presence and quiet beauty to every interaction.

Baby Zena may also watch from the sidelines as she learns the ropes.

“Our busy lives can make us feel like we’re fading into the background,” says Karen Tearney, accredited Equine erapy Practitioner and facilitator of the ‘Club’.

“ e horses remind women that we’re still powerful, present, and very much seen. Whether you’re facing communication breakdowns, navigating change or simply want

to build cohesion in a fresh and meaningful way, these sessions give women the space to connect – with themselves, each other and the lessons of the herd.”

e program is light-hearted but deeply empowering, giving women tools they can take back into everyday life, from creating calm in stressful moments to rediscovering joy in who they are today.

e ursday Murder Club runs on ursdays at Karen’s property in Margaret River. Sessions are $60 for 2 hours, and spaces are limited to small groups (6 maximum).

Sessions start on ursday 23 October: 9am-11am.

If you’re keen but you and your girlfriends can’t do the daytime session, contact Karen to arrange a time that ts better with your schedule – 5pm7pm sessions are available too.

To book, contact Karen Tearney on 0410 743 151 or email hello@stableleadership. com.au.

Fencing, farms & future-proofing the Hardy Inlet

LOWER Blackwood Land Conservation District Committee is rolling out the next phase of work to help protect the health of the Hardy Inlet –and local farmers are right at the heart of it.

anks to $1.324 million in State Government funding, it has partnered with the Dept of Water and Environmental Regulation to continue to deliver practical help and funding for fencing and revegetation projects.

e Hardy Inlet is one of the largest estuaries in the South West.

It’s a hotspot for birdlife, a magnet for tourists, and a favourite spot for locals who love to sh, paddle, or just enjoy the view.

But in recent years, water quality in parts of the Blackwood, especially around Molloy Island, has taken a hit due to increasing nutrient loads, primarily from grazing farms in the catchment.

Over the next four years, the LCDC will aim to:

• Work with 72 local farmers to improve fertiliser use and reduce runo

• Fence 28km of creek lines to keep stock out of waterways

• Plant 8ha of native vegetation along fenced waterways.

• Deliver two workshops Fencing and revegetation might not sound glamorous, but they’re a game changer for river health.

Fencing keeps livestock out

of sensitive waterway ecosystems, reducing erosion and preventing direct contamination from their dung and urine.

Native plants stabilise banks, lter runo , and bring back the birds and bugs that help keep the system healthy.

e project recognises that time is precious for busy farmers.

“We’re here to help make these projects really work,” explained Bec Archer, Acting Executive O cer.

“ e LCDC works closely with each participant to plan and deliver the project.

“We can order and pay for plants, provide funding for fencing, and coordinate the project.

“We know how busy farmers are, so we’re here to help any way we can.”

To join the project landowners must contribute at least 50 percent of the cost (either through cash or in-kind, such as labour).

Properties can be small or large but must be grazing stock and have a waterway (creeks, streams, rivers) or drain that ows into the Hardy Inlet.

If you’re keen to fence o a waterway and plant in 2026, contact Bec before 30 September.

For more information and to sign up for the program, contact rebecca.archer@ lowerblackwood.com.au or 9758 4021.

Young legends leading the way in bushland

A GROUP of passionate young environmentalists from the Margaret River Future Council rolled up their sleeves on Saturday 30 August to help restore a local bushland reserve in Brook eld.

e ‘planting and pizza’ event was a collaboration between the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the youth-led Margaret River Future Council, a group inspired by the lm Future Council and already making a real impact through clean-ups and working bees.

Earlier this year, the group approached the Shire with ideas for local environmental projects. Together, they decided on tree planting in the bush-

land reserve at the corner of Bottlebrush Drive and Leschenaultia Drive, a well-loved space featuring tall marri and jarrah trees, a mountain bike skills park and a dog exercise area.

Building on previous work, including hundreds of seedlings planted by Rapids Landing PS students in 2024, the volunteers planted around 200 native seedlings supplied by the Margaret River Community Nursery. e plants were chosen to suit the area and will help provide shade and create homes for local wildlife like black cockatoos and western ringtail possums.

Shire President Julia Jean-Rice said the Shire

was proud to support the Margaret River Future Council’s bushland restoration e orts.

“I’m so impressed by the Margaret River Future Council,” she said.

“Not only are these young people demonstrating great leadership, they’re rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands dirty to restore this bushland. e Shire is happy to support these little legends.”

A er the hard work, volunteers celebrated with a well-earned pizza feast.

e Margaret River Future Council has been entered into the Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards under the Young Legends category.

Post office at the heart of community

IN A world of digital checkouts and contactless transactions, the Margaret River Post O ce o ers something increasingly rare - genuine human connection. Here, letters still carry love, parcels hold promises, and friendly faces greet you by name, as the local post o ce team creates something special beyond just sorting your mail.

“When you step into the post o ce, it feels like travelling back in time,” local entrepreneur Maria Henderson said.

“Human contact is so much less now, with everything digital and online, but at the Margs Post O ce, it’s beautifully oldschool, focused on real customer service. ey keep our town connected.”

is means visits to the Post O ce and even waiting in line become opportunities to catch up and say hello while running errands.

“It’s the heart of small businesses like mine and so many others in Margaret River,” Maria said.

“We all go there, see each other, and have a chat about life and our businesses. You always seem to bump into people you haven’t seen for ages - it’s the unexpected meeting place!”

Postal Manager Aaron Brock, celebrating 20 years with Australia Post and 14 years in Margaret River, appreciates how a simple postal visit can become a meaningful part of life’s story. “You get to know customers more closely as they come in daily or weekly.

“We watch parents bringing in their kids, then a few years later, see those same kids all grown up, doing their own passport applications.

“It’s pretty special.” ese long-term relationships also extend to the business community, o ering essential support and encouragement to online business owners.

“My business wouldn’t exist without the Post O ce team,” Maria explained.

“ ey help me get the rates

right, ensure proper packaging - their support allows me to trade nationally and internationally from a small regional town with ease and con dence.

“Which is amazing!” is type of business guidance has been a constant throughout Maria’s entrepreneurial journey.

Before launching her current sleepwear company, e Vow, she operated a candle business that faced many challenges.

“I was having lots of breakage issues, and Aaron and the team were always suggesting solutions to help x this and minimise any damage.

“ ey also made me feel less alone, as being a sole trader can be an isolating experience.

“ ey’d get excited whenever I came in with orders and were always very encouraging.

“Walking in there feels like being among family - they celebrate every success with me!” is attention to helping local businesses ourish comes naturally to Aaron and his team of 19.

“It’s rewarding to share

knowledge gained from years with Australia Post, o ering options to our customers.

“Witnessing businesses grow makes you feel like you’ve helped in some way,” Aaron said.

“When we nominated e Vow Sleepwear as our Local Business Hero, she won for WA.

“Learning about Maria’s journey, from a personal tragedy to creating a thriving online business, makes our work meaningful.”

eir 2,460 PO boxes and increasing parcel volumes led to the need for a second facility, but despite all this growth, the personal touch remains the same.

“It’s all about community, reliability and service. ey’re a pillar of the town,” Maria said.

“When I do markets, they come say hi. Aaron brings his daughters and wife - it’s not just business, it’s very personal. ey know my whole family. is is the beauty of a small town.”

Support for wind farm

If Sydney Harbour were to be lled with oil, 500 million milk bottles worth, the world would use up that oil in one month. Burnt into the air.

at is just the oil, not gas, not coal.

Check the attached graph, it’s the average temperature at Augusta Light House since records began in 1897.

ere is a provable connection between that temperature increase and burning fossil fuels. e news media in this town gives pretty regular coverage of the anti-Scott River Wind Farm group who spread nonsense chock full of misinformation.

It’s e ectively a politically driven ideological hit job, which at its root is sponsored and cheered on by the fossil fuel

lobby.

e Earth’s climate does not care about your politics.

FACT: Scott River is windy.

FACT: Scott River has a 100MW (big) underused power line going to a defunct mine.

FACT: ere is an excellent big road going to the area to install wind turbines.

FACT: No additional clearing is required to site the wind turbines on farm land.

FACT: Wind turbines are a cost e ective measure to address climate change, now. Yes, you can see them from your balcony in Augusta.

If you don’t like the look then that is your opinion, but that is all you have got. e rest of the anti propaganda

is cooked up. Climate change is real and increasingly will negatively impact nature and humanity unless we take practical action to mitigate it.

e proposed Scott River Wind Farm is that.

By the way, Synergy is o ering $100k per year of local community grants for the life of the wind farm. Just one example of how distributed renewables bene t regional communities.

Share your thoughts on these and any other issues a ecting the region.

Email nicky.lefebvre@margaretrivermail.com.au to join the conversation.

Phone Andrew 0434 778 068

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

TA5944171

Not-for-profit supporting our community since 1985

AgSociety announces new awards to celebrate lifelong contributions

e Margaret River Agricultural Show is set to honour two of its most cherished stalwarts, Doris Arthur and Elizabeth Alferink, with the creation of special awards in their names - recognising decades of dedication, cra smanship and community spirit.

For many longtime showgoers, the names Doris Arthur and Elizabeth Alferink are synonymous with the heart and soul of the event.

Both women have been lifelong contributors to the show, with Doris renowned for her unbeatable scones and Elizabeth revered for her devotion to traditional cra s.

Elizabeth’s most enduring legacy lies in her e orts to make the cra section more inclusiveparticularly encouraging men to enter their work.

Elizabeth has backed that

belief by personally donating generous cash prizes for many years to ensure that all feel welcome and valued.

is year the show will be held on November 15, and in a heartfelt tribute to both women, the Margaret River Agricultural Society has announced the creation of two new honours.

e Doris Arthur Scone Award, complete with a commemorative sash, will be presented annually to the baker who best captures the spirit of Doris’s iconic scones - simple, authentic, and made with love.

e Elizabeth Alferink Cra Award will recognise outstanding skill, creativity, and dedication in the cra section, continuing Elizabeths legacy of cra smanship and community involvement.

e winners’ ribbons will be provided thanks to a generous donation from

the Lions Club of Margaret River.

“We wanted to do something that lastssomething that re ects the respect and a ection we all hold for these two incredible women,” exhibition hall coordinator Fran Bancro said.

As preparations for the 2025 show continue, the community is encouraged to prepare their entries for the Exhibition Hall and mark the 15th of November on the calendar.

With a packed program of entertainment and the spectacular rework display sponsored by Retravision Margaret River, organisers say this year’s event is set to be the best ever.

For more information, including trade space enquiries, exhibition hall details and more, visit www.margaretrivershow. com

Community Notices & Tenders

Introducing our 2025 Local Government Election candidates

Want to know who’s standing for Council? Scan the QR code to meet your candidates:

Ballot papers will be posted mid September 2025 You can return them by mail or drop them off at the Shire off f ices in Margaret River or Augusta during opening hours

Meet your candidates

We are hosting two candidate forums ahead of the 2025 Local Government Elections

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

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

Election day is Saturday 18 October

For more election information, search: ‘Augusta Margaret River Elections’

Road reconstruction and sealing works will begin on Warner Glen Road from Tuesday 23 September, impacting the section of road starting near the Rowcliffe Rd intersection and finishing 1 3km east

Traffic management will be in place and some delays are expected Where possible, please consider alternative routes Visual message boards will be installed to provide updates

The project is jointly funded by Main Roads WA and the Shire Works should be completed by Christmas, weather permitting

For more information, please contact the Shire’s Coordinator

These works are carried out in accordance with

Wednesday 24 September, 5:30pm in Augusta Council Chambers, 66 Allnut Terrace, Augusta

Firebreak Notice

BUSH FIRES ACT 1954

The following Notice is hereby given to all owners and/or occupiers of land within the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

PURSUANT to the powers contained in Section 33 of the Bush Fires Act 1954, you are hereby required and therefore ordered by the local government to carry out fire prevention work in accordance with the requirements of this Notice, on or before and maintain the requirements up to and including except for APZs which must be maintained all year round

Inspections, appointments, education, and compliance

1 November 2025

Owners and occupiers who would like an early inspection by appointment, for reasons including biosecurity, locked gates, and dangerous animals, or for an explanation on the requirements of this Notice, should contact Rangers as soon as possible and by no later than Where inspections by appointment are not requested, Rangers are appointed as Bush Fire Control Officers with the power to enter land under the Bush Fires Act 1954 and will be inspecting properties for compliance without further notice from

1 December 2025

People who do not comply with this Notice or a Variation to this Notice may be issued with an infringement Notice ($250) or prosecuted with a penalty up to $5,000 The Shire of Augusta Margaret River may carry out the required work on the land at the cost of the owner/occupier.

Requirements of landowners and occupiers:

1 All landowners/occupiers must comply with the requirements in of this Notice

2 Owners/occupiers of Residential lots 4000m2 and under must comply with the requirements of and

3 Owners/occupiers of Residential and Rural/Residential lots 4001m2 and over must comply with the requirements of and

4 Owners/occupiers of Rural lots (excluding Plantations, Vineyards, Orchards, and Groves) must comply with the requirements of and

5 Owners/occupiers of Plantations, Vineyards, Orchards, and Groves must comply with the requirements of and , depending upon the land use

Definitions of terms referred to in Parts A, B, C, D, E and F of this Notice

Asset Protection Zone (APZ)

Habitable Building Flammable Material

- means an area of low fuel load within 20 metres from the external walls of any habitable building

- means any building people reside in and any other building within 6m of that building, but excludes a water tank

- means accumulated fuel such as dry grass, leaf litter, twigs, branches, trash, dead trees, firewood, stored fuels, that can be easily ignited or is likely to catch fire and burn It includes any other thing deemed by an authorised officer to be likely to catch fire but excludes living trees, growing bushes, and plants in gardens and/or lawns under cultivation

Bushfire Management Plan (BMP)

- means a plan prepared specifically for a property in satisfaction of a development approval or subdivision condition

Driveway/Access Way

- means the access route from a road reserve to ahabitable building

- means an area of land that has been cleared of all trees, bushes, grasses, and any other object or thing which may be flammable, leaving a bare surface to a width specified under the requirements in Parts A, B, C or D with a 4 metre high vertical clearance

- means a firm, stable surface capable of allowing a 4WD fire appliance to enter, exit and turn any corner (10 metre radius) without reversing

Variation

- means an individual property-specific Firebreak Notice served by the Shire on an owner under s33(2) of the Bush Fires Act 1954

Clearing permits and exemptions

Property owners that clear vegetation in compliance with this Notice will be exempt from the requirement to seek approvals or permits

Owners should attempt to minimise environmental impacts as much as possibleand should contactthe Shire if they believe that clearing beyond the requirements in this Notice are necessary to reduce fire risks or if they are aware of any protected flora or fauna. who clear beyond the requirements in this Notice without approval may be subject to prosecution.

2025-2026 irebreak 2025-2026

Firebreak Notice

Variations to the requirements of this Notice

Where compliance with the Noticeis not practical due to environmental considerations or site-specific constraints such as topography, water course or steep gradients, owners may apply to the Shire of Augusta Margaret River for a Variation to the Notice Variations must provide an alternative means of meeting the objectives of the Notice, including bushfire risk mitigation and property access, considering site-specific constraints and advantages and not all properties will be able to accommodate Variations Applications must be completed on the approved form, available upon request or downloaded via theShire’s website Applications for a Variation must be submitted

before 1

November 2025 or after 1 May 2026

Part A - Requirements applying to all properties in the district of Augusta Margaret River:

1 Asset Protection Zone (APZ) - The fuel loading (flammable material) in the APZ is to be reduced and maintained to less than 2 tonnes per hectare Trees must not be closer than 2 metres to a building, and trees must not overhang a building within 4 metres of the external roof APZ requirements apply to all properties (excluding Vacant lots), regardless of size, and must be maintained all year round (Note: Numerous online resources assist in identifying excessive fuel loading and ideal APZ standards Rangers can also visit outside of inspection periods to provide property-specific advice )

2 Bushfire Management Plan (BMP) - properties subject to an approved BMP must comply with the requirements of their BMP in addition to the requirements of this Notice (Note: At the discretion of the Shire, Variations may be issued that exempt some owners from compliance with requirements in this Notice where they are meeting alternate methods and requirements for compliance in an approved Bushfire Management Plan )

3 Driveway/Access Way - any property with a habitable building must have a driveway/access way that is a minimum of 4 metres wide up to a maximum of 6 metres wide with a minimum 4 metre vertical clearance and a turnaround area to allow emergency vehicles to access buildings on a property and exit There must be no encroachment into the driveway by any vegetation (living or dead) or any other object, this includes gates, which if installed, must open the entire trafficable width of the driveway

4 Firebreak - 2 metre wide firebreaks are required around all piles of garden refuse and/or wood stacks, fuel and fodder

5 Gutters and Rooftops - All gutters and roofs must be free of excessive twigs, leaves, and plant material

Part B - Additional requirements applying to Vacant lots 4000m and under: 2

1 Vacant cleared land - grasses maintained by means of slashing/mowing/grazing to less than 10cm in height Slashed/mowed grasses are to be removed from the lot

Part C - Additional requirements applying to Residential/Rural Residential lots 4001m and over: 2

1 Firebreak - 3 metre wide trafficable firebreaks must be maintained within 10 metres of all boundaries

2 Vacant cleared land - grasses maintained by means of slashing/mowing/grazing to less than 10cm in height

Part D - Additional requirements applying to Rural lots (excluding Plantations, Vineyards, Orchards, and Groves):

1 Firebreak - 3 metrewide trafficable firebreak must be maintained within 100 metres of a boundary that abuts a road reserve Where land is actively grazed or maintained to less than 10cm, the firebreak within 100 metres of a boundary that abuts a road reserve may be reduced to 2 metres

2 Grasses to be maintained – slashed/mowed/grazed to lessthan 10cm in height

Part E - Additional requirements applying to Plantations:

1 Firebreak - 10 metre wide mineral earth firebreak around each cell or block. 3 metres must be trafficable

2 Grasses to be maintained - slashed/mowed/grazed to less than 10cm in height

Part F - Additional requirements applying to Vineyards, Orchards, and Groves:

1 Firebreak - 5 metre wide mineral earth firebreak around each cell or block. 3 metres must be trafficable

2 Grasses to be maintained - slashed/mowed/grazed to less than 10cm in height

Students shine at enviro-showcase

THE incredible and inspiring actions of local students to protect our environment were on show at the annual Our Patch project celebration at the HEART last week.

Run by Nature Conservation Margaret River Region, Our Patch is one of the Capes’ flagship youth education programs.

This year, more than 200 Year 6 students from six schools wowed shire councillors, parents, teachers and the community with innovative projects to protect local catchments and wildlife.

Over the year, nine participating classes learned about their local catchments from scientists, landholders and cultural custodians before zeroing in on a unique environmental issue and devising creative solutions.

The learning culminated with student presentations, which also doubled as a science fair for kids.

Shire President Julia JeanRice praised the program as

“outstanding” and said the day marked the culmination of 3560 student hours of environmental education.

“Hands-on environmental education at its best. To our students, we are so proud of you – you’ve shown incredible curiosity and care towards our local environment,” she said.

Parents were equally impressed. Margaret River mum Amy Oud said: “I was blown away, and so impressed. Wonderful to see the kids getting involved and learning in such an important way. It’s just fabulous.”

Our Patch coordinator Ellie Ward said the program’s strength came from the huge community effort behind it.

“Our Patch is truly a community-wide environmental education program,” she said.

“Our future is in great hands.

“You have all delivered the most amazing projects, and you should really feel proud.”

Nature Conservation chair

Ann Ward said Our Patch was unique because young people used science to learn about threats to our environment but then came up with and imple

Busselton Caravan & Camping Show returns

Following overwhelming support from the South West community last year, the Busselton Caravan & Camping Show will return to Churchill Park on Saturday and Sunday, September 20-21 from 9am-4pm each day.

Created and delivered by Caravan & Camping Western Australia, the peak industry body for caravanning and camping, the show will display the best caravans, campers, trailers, equipment and accessories plus information on where to go for your next adventure. On site experts will also make

sure your gear is safe, functional and suitable for your needs.

“Following the tremendous response to our inaugural year, I am excited to announce that tickets are now on sale.

The South West is home to one of WA’s most passionate caravan and camping communities and we’re delighted to bring this event back to Busselton - right in the heart of the region. The show is bigger and better than ever with more brands, new products and fantastic show deals,” said Caravan & Camping WA Chief Executive Officer,

“I encourage everyone to join us for a great day out – there is something to suit every member of the family. I look forward to welcoming you.”

City of Busselton Mayor, Phill Cronin said: “Following the extraordinary success of last year’s event, we are thrilled to welcome the show back to Busselton for its second year. The show offers something for everyone — from expert advice and exciting exhibitors to family-friendly activities and inspiration for your next adventure.

mented real-life solutions.

“These are our stewards of the future,” she said.

Student Willa Bradley, from Margaret River Montessori School, impressed the audience with facts about native bees.

“It was great fun as well as a really good way to learn about the environment,” she said.

The program is generously funded by the Paskeville Foundation, Shire of Augusta Margaret River, Lions Club of Cowaramup, Margaret River Rotary and participating schools.

Paskeville’s Foundation’s Jocelyn Evans said she found

the showcase “so inspiring” and said helping to fund the Our Patch program was worth every penny.

“Kids have that energy, that passion, you can’t ignore them,” she said.

“They have the courage to see a problem and call it out, and this program really fosters that.”

Ellie Ward thanked the teachers, parents, students, local businesses, scientists and volunteers who all contributed. “Days like today prove what’s possible when a whole community comes together around nature and education.”

We look forward to welcoming visitors, exhibitors and industry professionals to our region once again.”

Whether you are new to the outdoor adventure lifestyle or a seasoned road tripper, there is something for everyone at the Busselton Caravan & Camping Show.

Highlights include: Caravans, Camper Trailers and Motorhomes

The best in caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, campers, camping equipment and accessories, with displays from leading manufacturers and dealers. Visitors can explore a wide range of products in one place and receive expert advice before they buy.

Family Fun Zone

The show is not just for the big kids! The Family Fun Zone will delight every member of the family with farm animals, face painting, and giant lawn games – included free with entry.

Live Entertainment

Sit back, relax and enjoy live and local entertainment daily.

Demonstrations

Upskill in the Demonstration Zone with live demonstrations daily, including how to reverse your caravan with a spotter and learn about understanding caravan weight management.

Interactive Displays

Learn about the care undertaken by first responders as you explore the St John WA ambulance.

Food and Beverage

Relax and enjoy a great selection of food and beverage options including craft beers from Busselton local brewery, Shelter Brewing Co. Plus, pop in to Shelter Brewing Co in the lead up to the show to buy your show branded beer cans!

Passport to Freedom Competition

This offers show visitors the chance to win incredible prizes and is free to enter; visitors can simply scan and enter at any of the entry points across the show to be in the draw to win.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for concession card holders and children under 16 are free.

WHAT’S ON

Artist returns to iconic chapel hall

LONELY PLANET

Painter Sue Briggs is setting up her studio in a space lled with special memories this September, as the St John the eologian Chapel Hall welcomes one of its earliest artists for Margaret River Region Open Studios.

e iconic Greek chapel in Prevelly, where Sue rst painted in the mid-1980s while preparing for her debut Fremantle Arts Centre exhibition, becomes her temporary creative abode once more.

“ e emotional response of being here again feels both wonderful and strange at the same time,” Sue said.

“ ere’s a lot of feelings attached to e Chapel. Returning feels like a beautiful full circle.”

e rustic charm and character of

those early days in the newly built hall remain vivid in her memory.

“Back then, it was all limestone rubble outside. It’s quite fancy now compared to what it used to be.

”I remember the eaves being open to the strong Prevelly winds that roared up the embankment into the building.

“It was sparse and cold, but with a little oil heater and all that space, I was in heaven!

“At the time, there were no houses directly in front of the chapel, so my view out over the land and sea was unobstructed.”

en-wife of eo Mathews, one of Margaret River’s few Greek residents and the liaison with the Greek diocese in Perth, Sue spent countless hours

painting the courtyard and chapel views, surrounded by sea breezes and ocean panoramas.

Her intimate connection to the chapel made her the obvious choice to be commissioned for the cover artwork of Geo Edwards’ book ‘ e Road to Prevelly’, strengthening her artistic link to this special place.

Her return to the chapel hall happened by chance in one of those beautiful, meant-to-be moments.

“I wasn’t going to participate this year a er selling my house with its built-in studio,” Sue explained. “ en someone suggested the chapel hall. With just two days le to register, I took a chance - and it all fell into place very quickly!”

Built for the road, born from experience

WA ingenuity meets outback gritGypsy King Caravans is the vision of seasoned adventurers Jason Lamb and Scott Earley, owners of the award winning RV Solutions dealership in Rockingham.

After decades of towing almost every configuration imaginable - from $260,000 luxury rigs to bare bones camper trailers - they kept coming back to the same frustration: there wasn’t a single caravan that truly

combined serious offroad capability, full offgrid independence, lightweight practicality, and a real-world price tag.

So, they set out to build it themselves.

For three years, Jason and Scott poured their know-how into designing a van that wouldn’t just survive the harshest tracks but would thrive there.

They scoured Australia for ideas, travelled to Europe’s largest caravan show in Düsseldorf, and trialled

countless prototypes.

By 2024, the dream became reality: Gypsy King Caravans, launched with innovative layouts for couples and familiesall engineered for rugged terrain, yet refined enough to make months on the road feel effortless.

100% Australian owned and built, Gypsy King reflects the lifestyle of its founders. You’ll often find Jason and Scott touring with their families, testing new builds, and uncovering Australia’s best kept secrets, one dirt track at a time.

Roughing it Like Royalty

Every Gypsy King OG model leaves the factory with premium offroad features as standard - no hidden upgrades required:

• Dual shock independent suspension

• Riveted aluminium GK Tough Frame

• 420ah lithium battery bank

• 840W solar system

• 3,000W inverter

• Dust reduction system

• 330L fresh water storage Grey water tanks with bypass

• D035 offroad coupling

…and a starting price from $89,990 with a six year warranty, positioning Gypsy King as a genuine alternative to far more expensive rigs.

Many caravans offering similar inclusions, tip the scales with tare

weights nearing 3,000KG, forcing owners into costly GVM upgrades or the need for heavy-duty “yank tanks.” Gypsy King flipped the equationengineering vans with the lowest practical tare to unlock payloads of around 1,000KG (often more) within a 3,500KG ATM.

The result: a full-spec, offgrid caravan that remains towable by Australia’s most common vehicles - making the big lap lifestyle more attainable than ever.

This robust offgrid package turns remote landscapes into fully functional campsites. From corrugated desert tracks to windswept coastal bluffs, Gypsy King Caravans empower travellers to go further, stay longer, and travel lighter.

Catch the Gypsy King range in person at the Busselton Caravan & Camping Show, September 2021, and talk to the team who built a caravan they genuinely roam in themselves.

Park inspires students

DEVELOPED in collaboration with the Pre-Primary students, Stage 1 of the Margaret River Independent School (MRIS) Early Childhood Nature Park re ects the children’s observations and experiences of the Noongar seasons.

A Yarning Circle has been created to represent the season of Djeran (April–May), a time of cooler weather and gathering together.

is space encourages children to connect, share, and belong. e circle also incorporates di erent heights and spacing to promote balance, coordination, and risk-taking.

A Rock Creek, designed to re ect the season of Djilba (August–September), has quickly become a favourite.

Children engage in water

Around Margs, Aaron is known as “the Post O ce guy” - a title he wears proudly, re ecting the vital role postal workers play in keeping our community connected.

But it’s also about team spirit.

“Everyone looks out for each

play, fostering creativity, prob lem-solving, collaboration, and the understanding of sustainability.

Pre-Primary teacher

Shaunna Kilcullen said the Park is already inspiring rich play and learning opportunities.

“More features will con

other.

“We’re a big ‘postal family’ as some sta say,” Aaron explained about his close-knit team.

“We focus on the best outcomes for our customers, whether it’s van collections, deliveries, or counter service.

tinue to be added as the park grows and evolves with the children’s ideas and engagement.”

e project was made possible through an AISWA Early Childhood grant, and was designed and created with the support of MRIS parents, Martina and Jazz.

“I feel supported by my sta to achieve a great customer experience.

“And we take pride in doing so.”

Anyone interested in learning more about MyPost Business o erings can reach out to Aaron or his team at the Post O ce.

Sue’s artistic career spans 45 years, beginning formally with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1978.

A er years of working various jobs and raising children, she returned to complete her Master of Creative Arts at age 50.

“Everyone else was in their 20s. It was daunting, but the best thing I ever did.”

Having been an artist for many years, her style has evolved alongside her life journey—each piece re ecting her artistic story on canvas.

“When I nished art school, I was all about abstract work,” Sue recalled.

“I remember telling my friend and fellow painter Eveline Kotai, ‘I don’t do landscape,’ when she convinced me to paint outdoors.

“ ose representational works sold well, but I felt like I was painting the same thing repeatedly — it didn’t feel authentic to who I was or wanted to be as an artist.

“My master’s helped me return to my abstract roots, but now, combined with the depth of my landscape experience.”

Today, Sue’s work captures the essence rather than exact replicas of places.

“I like people to look at a painting and have it remind them of somewhere, to make their own story and feel a connection.

“If I can engage viewers to nd their own meaning, I’ve achieved something more than just an image.”

What keeps her coming back to Open Studios is the connection with art lovers.

“I really love the feedback and the chance to talk to people who are genuinely interested in art. I have lovely regulars who return each year to see how my work has evolved. I feel extremely grateful that people care and want to come and see my work.”

e chance to be part of Prevelly’s artistic community is what truly adds that extra special warming hue of joy for her.

“We’re so lucky to have such a fantastic group of artists nearby - Ellen and Jo Broadhurst, Helen Priest, and Marcelle Egberts, to name a few!”

Find Sue’s studio in the hall beside the chapel on Mitchell Drive, Prevelly, during Margaret River Region Open Studios, September 13-28. e studio is open 10 am-4 pm most days, with some days by appointment.

CLASSIFIEDS

CAMPBELL

Diana

15.4.1950 - 1.9.2025

Passed away peacefully at home in Margaret River.

We, her many friends and family, feel a deep sense of loss but are left with many memories of a strong, wise and kind woman. Now at rest.

GILCHRIST

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.

GILCHRIST

Ray

In loving memory of our former Captain /SCO and volunteer firefighter of 27 years. On behalf of the Alexandra Bridge Volunteer Fire Brigade, sincere condolences to Rose, Josh, Sienna and Isaac. You will be sadly missed by our community.

Funeral Notices

CURTIN

David

11.01.1965 - 02.09.2025

With broken hearts, we share the passing of David Curtin, who left us far too soon. David was our everything. His presence made the world a better place for all who knew him. His kindness, strength and warmth touched everyone he met. We invite all who knew David to come together in honour of his life and celebrate the incredible person he was, with a funeral service and wake to be held on: Thursday, 25th September at 2:00 PM The River Hotel, Margaret River In tribute to David, please wear something blue and/or yellow. Please also think of a memory or message to write in a guest book, which will be a lasting keepsake for our family. With endless love, His wife Joanne, and children Thomas, Jarrod, and Hayley

SHEEP MANURE

BILLS FIREWOOD

Supplying quality Jarrah Hardwood Mix throughout the Capes for over 40 years. GET IN NOW - LOADS AT 2023 PRICES

Choose from economical split pieces or the ease of our chopped down firewood. All seasoned and ready to BURN 0428 933 755

Margaret River Sundays 10am 34 Station St Busselton Sundays 5.30pm 132 Caves Road www.surfsidechurch.org.au

MARGARET RIVER UNITING CHURCH

60 Tingle Avenue

We are an inclusive and affirming church with a contemplative sprituality and a passion for social justice. Worship Sundays at 9:30 Meditation Thursdays 13:00 Intergen Playgroup Thursdays 9:30 www.margaretriverunitingchurch.org.au

MARGARET RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH

28 Tunbridge Street, Margaret River

Seeking to follow Jesus Christ, share the Good News and care for God's world. Weekly Sunday worship at 10am

All are welcome to connect with our vibrant family minded community. www.margaretriverbaptist.org.au www.facebook.com/margsbaps 9757 3881

2025/26 Race Schedule

October 19th 2025

Practice, Noise Testing & Training Day

October 26th 2025

Kevin Bell Memorial for Super Sedans & Pro Modifieds.

Production Sedans, Street Stocks and Junior Sedans.

Manjimup Club Points Night

November 15th 2025

Heidi Robinson Memorial for Street Stocks, Super Modifieds V8 Dirt Modifieds, Production Sedans & Junior Sedans. December 6th 2025

Limited Sprintcars & Ray Finlan Memorial for Production Sedans.

Street Stocks & Junior Sedans. February 21st 2026

USA v WA Pro Modified Series, AASA Speedcars & V8 Dirt Modifieds. Production Sedans & Junior Sedans. March 13th 2026

SSWA Super Sedan Practice (4pm - 6pm) & Calcutta. March 14th 2026

SSWA Super Sedan State Title & KJB Junior Sedan Challenge.

Production Sedans & Street Stocks.

(Rain Out Day Sunday the 15th) April 4th & 5th 2026 V8 Dirt Modified State Title, AASA Speedcars, Legend Cars (Saturday) & Legend Cars Queen of the River (Sunday). Production Sedans, Street Stocks & Junior Sedans. (Rain Out Day Monday the 6th) April 25th 2026

Modified Sedans, V8 Dirt Modifieds. Production Sedans, Street Stocks & Junior Sedans. (Manjimup Club Points Night) May 3rd 2026 Sponsors Day

Busselton triumphs in torrential rain

BUSSELTON (4.12.36) defeated Bunbury (3.2.20) at Hands Oval on Sunday - in some of the worst conditions seen at the venue. Gusts of up to 56kmph at times had the goal posts bending almost in half.

e match was witnessed by a smaller preliminary nal crowd, 1383 people braving the elements.

Trae Field kicked a great goal on the run, allowing the wind to do the rest as the Bulldogs took the early lead.

at would be the only goal, as the ball lived almost exclusively on the outer side, Busselton doing a great job of defending.

Would one goal be enough with the breeze?

e answer appeared to be ‘yes’, with Busselton also managing just one goal in the second.

at would come a er Kane Mitchell managed to slot through a goal at the

southern end, which brie y gave the Bulldogs a twelve point lead.

Busselton’s goal would come from Liam Creighton who converted from 30m out to narrow the margin to one point at half time.

e Magpies didn’t score in the third term, Cameron Lamonaca giving Bunbury their only goal.

Ryan Ekert converted a set shot early in the nal quarter, and when Brodie

goaled at the nine minute

were in front for the rst time in the match.

Busselton were constantly on the attack but couldn’t nd the major opening, managing six consecutive behinds, before Ky Meers goaled in the nal minute of the match, sending the Magpie faithful into raptures and the team into a grand nal against South Bunbury.

Operating f rom off ices in Busselton, Bunbury, Mandurah, and

Action packed semi finals for netball teams

THE Margaret River Netball Association’s Under 14 nals series delivered plenty of action last week, with both Division 1 and Division 2 semi- nals producing hard-fought contests.

In Division 2, the Giants and the Lightning went head-to-head last Wednesday a ernoon in a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

e Giants held the lead for much of the game and looked in control heading into the nal quarter.

But the Lightning stormed home in the last term, outscoring the Giants 15 goals to 5 to claim a 33–26 victory.

For the Giants, Neave McCann and Ava Beech impressed with their determined e orts, while the Lightning were steadied in the shooting circle by Bonnie Wise Tritt and Ada White.

At the defensive end, Charlotte Owen was dominant, cutting o scoring opportunities and turning momentum her team’s way.

e Lightning’s win secures them a place in the Division 2 Final against the Magpies, scheduled for today (Wednesday) at 4:30pm.

In Division 1, the Swi s overcame the Vixens in a postponed Monday xture to progress to the semi- nal, only to face a quick turnaround against the Diamonds.

e Diamonds proved too strong, taking control with consistent play across the court to record a 61–43 win.

Abbie Lizee was tireless in the mid-court for the Diamonds, while the shooting duo of Minami Arnold and Pippa Jakovich proved unstoppable.

In defence, Sophia Burges was solid throughout, cutting o crucial Swi s attacks.

e Swi s fought hard, with Sienna Bateman and Macy Breslin applying pressure in the goal circle, but they couldn’t match the Diamonds’ intensity.

e Diamonds now advance to meet the Fever in the Division 1 Final, tipping o at 6:00pm. With both nals set for this evening, anticipation is high for two thrilling matchups.

e Association wishes all teams the very best of luck as the season comes to an exciting close.

Hawks girls shine in historic grand finals

THE Hawks Augusta Margaret River Junior Football Club (AMRJFC) has made history, with its U20s girls side claiming the club’s rst-ever girls South West Junior Football League (SWJFL) premiership in Bunbury on the weekend.

It comes just ve years after the Hawks elded their inaugural all-girls team, a program that has since expanded to three sides — all of which quali ed for their respective Grand Finals this season.

e U20s entered the decider at Hands Oval as minor premiers and wasted no time stamping their authority on the contest.

Facing South Bunbury on their home ground, the Hawks struck early, piling on scoreboard pressure and controlling play for much of the rst half.

South Bunbury li ed in the second half, pressing hard to ght back into the match, but Augusta Margaret River’s defence proved impenetrable.

e Hawks held their nerve to run out 30–9 winners, sparking celebrations among players, coaches and

supporters.

Hannah John was a standout for Augusta Margaret River, named Best on Ground for the Grand Final performance.

Her e orts across the season were also recognised, nishing as runner-up in the league’s Most Valuable Player award.

e club’s younger teams also impressed on the big stage.

e Year 7/8 girls faced Carey Park in a nail-biting contest, falling agonisingly short by just one point, with the nal score 33 – 32.

Meanwhile, the Year 9/10 girls started strongly against minor premiers South Bunbury, but despite a determined e ort, were eventually overrun 35 – 19.

Augusta Margaret River’s Lily Smith was recognised for her standout season, nishing as runner-up in the league’s Most Valuable Player award for the Year 9/10 girls competition.

e premiership caps o a landmark year for the club’s girls program, highlighting the rapid growth of female football in the region and the promising

future of the Hawks’ next generation.

Junior Club President Ryan Walsh said he was thrilled with the outcome, and praised the e orts of the volunteer coaches throughout the season.

“ e skills the girls have built in such a short time frame is nothing short of amazing,” he said.

“While the wins and grand nal nishes are the cake, the icing is the level of inclusiveness these girls show within their teams.

“It’s a testament to the healthy connected community we have down here at the Hawks.”

Walsh said the wheels were already in motion to further expand girls and women’s football at the club.

“Now as we head into the o season we’re working together closely with the Ssnior club to help transition and eld the inaugural senior women’s league team in 2026,” he said.

“ is will be an amazing step in the Augusta Margaret River’s Women’s Football journey.”

SPORT

Down to the wire: Big win for boardriders club

SURFING

MARGARET River Boardriders Club have claimed a long-awaited victory at Trigg Beach, taking out the opening event of Series 13 of the Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB) in a nail-biting final that went right down to the wire.

Competing in tricky 1–2ft onshore waves under mostly sunny skies, the South West powerhouse secured their first ABB win since 2021 to book their place at the 2026 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final in QLD.

Each club fielded a team consisting of two open men, one open woman, one over-35 master, and one under-18 junior surfer, with every ride counting towards the team’s total.

Led by Jerome Forrest, Ben Spence, Okie Fraser, Kaleisha Launders, and Brodie Mulik, Margaret River edged out Trigg Point in the dying moments thanks to a clutch 6.57 from

Spence with just 10 seconds left on the clock.

Their combined total of 33.11 was enough to secure the win, with Trigg Point finishing less than a point behind on 32.16, and Scarborough rounding out the podium on 27.38.

Forrest said the team’s consistency in the final made all the difference.

“Everyone surfed really well and today paid off,” he said.

“It’s such a tricky event where it often comes down to the last surfer, but we all managed to post above-average scores and that was enough to get us across the line.

Forrest said the final was “nerve-wracking”.

“When the clock is at 30 seconds and you’re wondering if a wave will even come, then to come out on top was epic,” he continued.

“The suspense is why we do this sport.

“We’ve got a really solid team this

year, and we’ll carry this momentum to Burleigh. We’re all really excited.”

Trigg Point earned their ticket to Burleigh with a gritty second-place finish on home soil, and Scarborough Boardriders Club grabbed the last grand final berth, finally breaking into the top three after years of near misses.

The Yallingup Boardriders’ squad of Zac Ogram, Maverick Wilson, Kade Martin, Emma Catlin, and Cruz Uros impressed with fearless surfing to finish fourth in the pack, (23.81), while Mullaloo (19.24) and Trigg Juniors (16.96) showed the future of WA surfing is in strong hands.