Augusta Margaret River Sept 24, 2025

Recently renovated –Same fresh produce, brand new look

The Garden Basket has been operating for more than 17 years, initially opening to service the local hospitality industry, with a focus on sourcing low food mile, premium fresh produce.

Over the years, the business has grown to become the chef’s choice for South West produce supply and with the relocation to their current Station Road premises, the retail arm of their business was expanded to offer the public the same quality of produce and service as their wholesale customers.

Joel and Megan Browning took over the business in March of 2022. Both originally from farming families, Joel had a previous wholesaling business in Perth and Megan is an early childhood teacher.

The pair were keen to get back to the country after living in Perth, especially since starting their family.

“We are very grateful to have local and experienced people throughout both the retail and wholesale areas of our business,” said Joel and Megan.

“Our valued team performs a wide range of roles, including department

management, retail, wholesale warehousing, pick packing, logistics and procurement and deliveries.”

The Garden Basket has a team of up to 20 staff, all of which are based in the region.

“We’re a local family-owned independent operation with an immediate service-based model.

Our local procurement strategy focuses on fresh, seasonal produce, with a vast list available 7 days a week for wholesale customers and 6 days a week through our retail store,” Megan said.

To their wholesale customer base they supply a premium, direct line of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well kitchen staples such as dairy, eggs, cooking oils, frozen fruits and native food.

“All aspects of our business are managed in-house, from direct buying to packing and delivery. Because

our retail store is supported by our wholesale operation, we’re able to offer an extensive variety.”

The recent renovation and upgrade to the retail store has allowed the business to stock a more expanded range of items, from micro herbs, gourmet mushrooms, native fruits and succulents to excite the region’s home chefs. “If items are not displayed on shelf, we encourage retail customers to ask our friendly staff for advice, order requests or a quick trip down to the wholesale cool rooms”.

Retail Manager, David is well known to customers and is always ready to offer tastings or answer questions about seasonality, supply, or flavour.

As well as providing fresh fruit and vegetables, including local Margaret River organic and spray- free options, they also sell a large range of organic pantry staples. The store is proudly stocked with local favourites, including

Margaret River artisan bread, Sonja’s goat’s milk and cheese, fresh juices, Tiny Turtle Baby Food, local pastured and organic eggs and a variety of gluten-free, GMO-free, and healthy snack options.

Located alongside Blue Ginger Café – Gourmet Deli and 34 Degree Blue Seafood, The Garden Basket is part of the thriving Margaret River Food Hub.

“We contribute generously to local initiatives, sporting clubs, and schools – whether that’s through donations to charitable organizations or assisting our wholesale customers with their own charitable initiatives through providing fruit and vegetables for events,” said the couple.

“And what we enjoy most about working within our community, is the immediate connection with local consumers and growers, building long lasting and sustainable relationships while being competitive in market.”

7/31 Station Rd, Margaret River, WA

Shop 08 9758 8195

hello@thegardenbasket.com.au

TheGardenBasketMR

Bank hours extended

NAB’s Margaret River branch is making it easier for locals to do their banking, by extending its opening hours as part of a broader investment in the region.

e Bussell Highway branch will now be open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm (5pm on Fridays), with a dedicated branch team of three, including a home lender, business banker and small business expert onsite to help customers when they need it.

“We’ve been listening to our customers and know that exibility matters,” Branch Manager

Trish Fletcher said.

“By extending our hours, we’re making it easier for people to get the banking support they need at a time that suits them, whether that’s a quick transaction or a longer conversation about their nancial goals.”

e increase in hours follows recent upgrades to the branch.

“Margaret River is a thriving community, which we are proud to have been part of for many years, ” Ms Fletcher said.

“Our new space and longer hours are about making banking easier, more personal and a great experience for our customers.”

Local student Italy-bound

A young local resident is heading to Italy in January, thanks to the Rotary Club of Margaret River’s Youth Exchange program.

Lucy Bawden will venture overseas early next year to represent her community abroad, a er the club re-started the program following a number of years of hibernation. “As we prepare to send Lucy o on her exciting journey, we are also looking for host families here in Margaret River to wel-

come inbound exchange students from around the world,” explained Rotary’s Miriam Bailey.

“Hosting a student is a rewarding way to share our culture, build lifelong connections, and support global understanding.”

Hosting periods typically range around 3 months and families of all types are encouraged to apply, including singles, families, and older families without kids.

“If you have a spare

room and are happy to share your home, we want you!”

Full support is provided by Rotary including mentoring, and school costs for the student.

“Help us make this experience unforgettable for Lucy and for an international student who will call Margaret River home!”

Interested in hosting or learning more?

Email miriamrbailey@ gmail.com

Locals expanding holiday horizons

A NEW South West-based business is on a mission to make travel and accommodation more inclusive for people with accessibility needs and their families.

In the June 2023 quarter, Australian domestic travel by people with accessibility needs –including their travelling companions – generated an estimated $6.8 billion, accounting for 21 percent of total domestic tourism spending.

Despite this, many travellers continue to face barriers when booking accommodation due to limited or unclear accessibility information.

Accessible Holiday Homes aims to bridge that gap by providing professional, in-home accessibility assessments for holiday properties.

e assessments are carried out by a quali ed team of allied health professionals – including a physiotherapist and an occupational therapist – who bring almost 30 years of combined experience.

Property owners complete an online questionnaire, followed by an in-home assessment.

ey receive a report and rating that provides con dence to both accommodation providers and guests.

“Every person deserves the right to enjoy a safe, relaxing and inclusive holiday,” said founders Sarah and Rich, the allied health professionals behind the business.

“For property owners, o ering

clear accessibility information not only builds trust but also opens doors to a wider audience, encourages repeat bookings, and strengthens their reputation.”

By working with Accessible Holiday Homes, providers can display an accessibility rating, valid for 12 months, and be showcased through a liate networks and organisations supporting accessible travel.

For more information, visit accessibleholidayhomes.com.au

Youth program explores identity

A FREE ve week series starting next month will explore what it means to grow up queer in regional WA — using art, music, and storytelling to express truths and look to the future.

Dubbed ‘YOUnity’, the program is o ered by the Concrete Club and Arts Margaret River, with sessions held on Wednesdays from 3.30 to 5.30pm starting October 15. e program o ers space for young locals to be seen, heard and celebrated.

“No matter your experience with art, if you’re passionate about being part of something meaningful and community driven, we want you here,” a spokesperson for the program said.

“YOUnity is a safe space for LGBTIQA+ young people aged 13 to 24.

“It’s free to take part, with all materials and light refreshments provided.”

YOUnity will culminate in a major showcase during PRIDE Fest in Perth in 2026 — bringing the voices, stories, and creative expressions of regional LGBTIQA+ youth to the forefront.

“YOUnity is not just about being creative — it’s about using your voice to help spark real change for queer youth in country WA.

“If you choose, your contribution will be shared with Youth Pride Network to shape conversations, in uence policy, and drive visibility.”

For more information on the program and to register, visit www.artsmargaretriver.com

Bush Flowers and Foods Exhibition

Yallingup Aboriginal Art proudly presents Bush Flowers & Foods, celebrating the wildflower season of Djilba and Kambarang View a ver y special collection of Indigenous artworks accompanied by a beautiful wildflower display

Discover wildflower & bush food artworks inspired by Culture, alongside a special display of native plants curated by our ver y own flower artisan, Jannica A vibrant celebration of growth, abundance and connection to Countr y.

Exhibition runs 7 days a week during school holidays from Saturday Sept 27 - 11 Oct 10AM-4PM th th 3057 Caves Road, Yallingup (at the entrance to Yallingup Maze)

We look for ward to seeing you!

Wind farms are not automatically‘green’

I write in response to Rod Dilkes’ recent letter (Letters, September 17) regarding the proposed Scott River Wind Farm.

First and foremost, let me be clear: the suggestion that our community campaign is sponsored or cheered on by fossil fuel companies is simply false.

It is a lazy and dismissive slur against farmers, residents, and landholders who are deeply invested in this region’s future.

We are a grassroots movement — ordinary people who live, work, and raise families here — not a lobby group with hidden backers.

e irony is that the Scott River Wind Farm itself is backed by the fossil fuel industry.

Synergy’s “renewable” project will be 80 percent owned by Inpex — Japan’s largest oil and gas producer — and Enel, a multinational energy conglomerate.

If Rod wants to talk about fossil fuel in uence, he should start with the proponents themselves.

Our concerns are not ideological.

ey are grounded in facts, lived experience, and the reality of farming and life in the Scott River district.

We face daily risks of re, fragile soils, endangered ecological communities, and limited evacuation routes.

Placing 250-metre turbines and a vast substation with a cabling network on a oodplain raises serious questions of safety, sustainability, and long-term land use.

Yes, climate change is real — it changes daily… we do not deny it.

But industrial wind farms are not automatically “green” when sited in the wrong location. Impacts on threatened

species, groundwater disruption, re hazards, noise and infrasound, and the fragmentation of agricultural land are all genuine issues that deserve open scrutiny.

To dismiss those concerns as “nonsense” is to shut down community debate.

Our campaign stands for transparency, accountability, and evidence-based planning. at is not “anti-renewables.”

It is pro-community, pro-safety, and pro-responsible land use.

So, who will own the Scott River wind factory? Not local farmers, not the community — but Inpex of Japan and Enel of Italy, two global oil and gas companies, Rod. Scott Baxter On behalf of concerned residents and farmers of the Scott River and Augusta district.

Inspiring Young Artists at MRIS

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Art

Nations cultures, symbolism, and storytelling also enrich the program. MRIS also places importance on direct instruction in art elements and techniques. By learning skills such as shading, perspective, and brush handling, students gain the confidence and tools to express themselves with intention.

“In a community like Margaret River, where creativity and individuality are celebrated, a high quality, well informed visual arts program, like that offered at MRIS, fosters the next generation of artists, thinkers, and well-rounded people,” Murray said. Ultimately, MRIS’s Visual Arts Program nurtures children as creative thinkers for life, preparing them to carry imagination and originality well beyond the art room.

Small batch wine takes top trophy

MARGARET River’s reputation as a global wine powerhouse has been conrmed thanks to a huge result at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC).

Of this year’s 40 wine trophies, Margaret River wineries claimd nine gongs - more than any other region in the world.

Australia emerged as the most successful country, collecting 25 percent of the trophies, followed by France, Portugal and Spain.

In a eld which included internationally renowned producers, Amato Vino’s ‘Space Girls’ Savagnin 2024 was singled out for its individuality, energy, complexity and textural expression.

“We do what we do because we love it! And a trophy like this shows that plenty of others enjoy what we do too,” said Brad Wehr, Owner and Winemaker at Amato Vino.

“‘Space Girls’ is one of our favourites and, like all our wines, is a labour of love and a commitment to the authenticity of lowinemaking.

“To be recognised alongside some of the best Chardonnay and Cabernet producers in the region proves that small-batch, artisan winemaking can proudly stand on the world stage.”

Margaret River Wine Association CEO, Amanda Whiteland, said the recognition was a fantastic result

for the region.

“ ese results not only re ect the outstanding quality of the recent vintages, but also highlights the region’s long-term trajectory of excellence.

“Margaret River wines have never been more exciting!”

IWSC CEO, Christelle Guibert, said,” e exceptional medal results demonstrate how Western Australia continues to deliver world-class wines that resonate with global audiences.”

Community Notices & Tenders

Tingle Ave Art Workshop - Wednesday, 1 October at 10am - 60 Tingle Avenue, Margaret River

Join Fi Wilkie to creatively collage a local inspired artwork on Tingle Avenue

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

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

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

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

Margaret River Region Business Awards - Thursday, 16 October at 6pm - Margaret River HEART - Nala Bardip

Mia

The Shire is proud to support the Access and Inclusion Award and the Business of the Year Award

Meet your candidates – upcoming forums announced

Ordinary Council Meeting

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

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

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

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

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

Election Day is Saturday 18 October and voting will be conducted via postal vote Ballot packages were mailed out by the WA Electoral Commission last week.

School kids embrace French cafe culture

A VIBRANT French Café came to life at Margaret River Independent School last week, encouraging the students to practise their French in a fun- lled, real-life context.

e children enjoyed a taste of French cuisine dining on baguettes, Frenchstyle jellies, Ei el Tower biscuit tuiles and French jam lled tartlettes.

French culture was on show with buskers, street artists and mime performers, giving students a taste of what a stroll through Paris might feel like.

MRIS French language specialist, Alicia McIntosh praised the Year 6 class for their creativity and e ort in running the Café.

“ ey organised the café and presented all aspects of Parisian life to the other classes,” Ms McIntosh said.

“ anks also to all the parents who worked to make the day such a success.”

Notice of Annual General Meeting

Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 6pm

Nala Bardip Mia – Margaret River HEART 47 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River WA 6285

“2025 has been another outstanding year for Arts Margaret River. 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.” – David Shelton, President.

Arts Margaret River welcomes all community members interested in our activities to attend our Annual General Meeting. Please note that only paid members are allowed to vote.

Please RSVP to hello@artsmargaretriver.com

Deadly Funny is Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s national comedy competition unearthing the freshest and funniest First Nations talent from across the country.

Saturday, October 11, 7pm

Tickets from $25

DRIVE SAFE OR DESIGNATE

KIDS & WILDLIFE ARE ON OUR ROADS

Driving under the influence

Speeding

Mobile phone use

Unbelted Passengers

Running red lights

Driving unlicensed

Driving in a manner to evade detection of a speed camera

AND BE AWARE OF THE WILDLIFE ON THE ROAD OUT

The following businesses would like to remind everyone to DRIVE SAFE THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

CLASSIFIEDS

Finals showcase future sports stars

THE Margaret River Netball Association’s Under 14 nals delivered all the drama, skill and passion of top-level netball last Wednesday, with both Division 1 and Division 2 games showcasing future stars of the sport.

e Division 2 nal tipped o at 4:30pm between the Magpies and the Lightning. From the opening whistle, the Magpies took control, moving the ball swi ly and seamlessly down the court. eir teamwork and precision passing proved too much for Lightning, who were further challenged a er losing key shooter Bonnie Wise Tritt to injury. Despite their best e orts, Lightning struggled to recover and the Magpies powered home with a commanding 35–18 victory.

Special mentions went to Eva Cassidy, Calypso Chen and Grace Bambridge for the Magpies, while Frankie May Batrick-Nolan and Alex Dimalanta battled hard for the Lightning. Holly Dixon of the Magpies was a standout, deservedly named MVP for the

nal. A big thank you also goes to association umpires Scarlett Wenman and Eloise Ride, whose superb o ciating ensured the game was played in great spirit.

e Division 1 nal at 6:00pm between Fever and Diamonds was nothing short of a thriller. Fever, the minor premiers, came in as favourites, but the Diamonds had other ideas. In a contest that turned into a gripping arm wrestle, every possession mattered and the atmosphere courtside was electric.

Pippa Jakovich and Minami Arnold combined brilliantly in the Diamonds’ goal circle, with strong supply from Abbie Lizee. At the other end, Sophia Burges and Keseva Herrmann worked tirelessly in defence to keep Fever’s shooters under pressure. For Fever, Sadhbh Kennedy led the charge in attack, while Millie Butcher was a wall in defence, pulling o intercepts and rebounds that kept her side in the contest. Supported by the e orts of Sasha Flack and Nikola Collins, Fever refused to back down.

With seconds le on the clock, the Diamonds nailed a crucial goal to edge ahead by one. Fever surged down the court and managed to score, but heartbreak followed as the nal shot was disallowed due to a footwork call.

e Diamonds claimed a nail-biting 37–36 win, sparking celebrations among players and supporters. Diamonds’ star Pippa Jakovich was awarded MVP for the nal.

On ursday night, the Association capped o the season with its Presentation Night, honouring the year’s best and fairest. In Division 2, Eva Cassidy (Magpies) was crowned MVP of the season, with Bonnie Wise Tritt (Lightning) and Sol Kim (Firebirds) sharing runner-up honours. In Division 1, the Fairest and Best went to Fever’s defensive powerhouse Millie Butcher, while Abbey Jack (Mavericks) was named runner-up. Congratulations to all players, coaches and o cials on a fantastic season. Registrations for the 2026 season will open in March next year.

Boys secure premiership

THE Augusta Margaret River Hawks Year 10 Boys (6.10 - 46) claimed the SouthWest Junior Football League Division B grand final with an impressive 35 point win against Busselton Black (1.5 – 11) in Bunbury last week.

Building momentum in the closing stages of the season, the Hawks delivered consecutive victories that impacted teams on the ladder and saw them win all finals games.

In wet conditions, the Hawks competed strongly for possession and created numerous opportunities to hit the scoreboard and extend the margin at each break.

“It was a super team effort and a fitting way to finish the season,” coach Glenn Ahola said.

“Well done to Xavier Notte for being awarded Best on Ground in the grand final.”

Mr Ahola said the Year 10 Hawks boys had been highly competitive throughout the season.

“It has been a privilege to coach such a committed and capable group who are ready to step up into Year 11/12 and beyond next year.

“Congratulations to the players, and thank you to everyone involved with the Hawks Year 10 Boys on a memorable season and a well-deserved grand final win!”

Single point decides grand final

JASON CROWE

SOUTH Bunbury (10.14.74) won the 2025 South West Football League Grand Final over Busselton (10.13.73) in the most dramatic of circumstances on Saturday, with Tom Gorter scoring a behind that hit the post, with seconds remaining, to secure one of the all time great grand finals.

The match had five lead changes, and despite being close throughout, scores were only level once – at the 24 minute mark of the final term, with another two minutes of dramatic play to unfold before the behind that would ultimately give South Bunbury back to back premierships, and their 17th flag.

In a tight first term, it was Blaine Johnson who would score first, just two minutes into the match.

Kade Wallrodt, who played a fantastic game and would go on to win the Pike Medal, kicked the Tigers second after receiving a 50m penalty. Trailing by eleven points the Magpies needed to respond, and after getting on terms with the Tigers, Busselton responded with Bailey Sanford kicking accurately from a set shot.

With the Tigers looking likely to lead at quarter time, Liam Creighton

took a great mark and put the Magpies in front, after the quarter time siren.

Wallrodt converted in the opening minute of the second to give South Bunbury back the lead, before the intensity went up a few more notches with some tough uncompromising football.

Jace Cormack was on the back of a chain of handballs to put the Tigers further in front, and when Captain Kevin Chitty snapped a good goal from 30m, the Tigers lead had swelled to sixteen points.

Dylan Patterson put an end to the three consecutive goals from the Tigers, when his snap bounced away from two Tigers defenders.

Wallrodt goaled again, before Blaine Johnson kicked another, and things were starting to look grim for Busselton.

Like the first quarter, Busselton would have a shot after the siren, with Ryan Ekert giving Busselton some momentum going into half time.

That momentum followed through into the third term, with Creighton running into an open goal in the second minute, and when Ekert kicked a goal on the goal line, Busselton were

right back in the match, trailing by just four points.

Immediately, Wallrodt popped up again to give the Tigers a slender lead, but Ben Ganzer reduced it back to five points when he snapped a good goal from close range.

Mitchell Cameron received a relay free-kick, which put Busselton back in front, with the Magpies dominating the quarter, having eleven scoring shots for the term.

Leading by fifteen points at three

quarter time, the Tigers reduced the margin back to four points at the nine minute mark of the last quarter.

After this time, Busselton scored a behind to lead by five points, before the Tigers dominated the final half of the quarter, but couldn’t find the major opening.

The Busselton defence twice saved a score on the goal line to keep scores locked at 73 apiece, but a sixth straight behind would be the score that won the Tigers the premiership.

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