Busselton Dunsbororigh Oct 15, 2025

Volunteer with a view

FANCY spending time helping others, while enjoying the delights of one of WA’s tourism icons?

Busselton Jetty Inc is looking for people with a spare few hours on weekends to help out as Jetty Host volunteers, greeting tourists from around the world and helping them understand all that the region has to o er.

Jetty CEO Lisa Shreeve said weekends had lately become more di cult to nd volunteers who have other sporting or community commitments or were retiring from Volunteer life.

“Our Jetty Host family is a great team and anyone new to town who may like to meet people, this is a wonderful opportunity to become part of the community in a beautiful environment with lots of cuppas and chats,” she said.

Jetty Hosts can undertake as many shi s as they like, with each shi about 4 hours long.

Shi s consist mostly of helping people on and o the train, checking walk tickets and answering questions.

Hosts also volunteer at the

Underwater Observatory, especially those with an education, shing or marine background.

For further information and to register your interest, contact Volunteer Co-ordinator Fiona at admin@busseltonjetty.com.au

Find a mate to pair with and come and have a game of croquet after work.

Captivating, competitive and a fun filled social game.

Club members will teach you the basics.

A six-week competition to be won. Stay for a burger after the game.

Don’t Miss Out!

• Start Date Thursday the 6th of November 2025

• Game will start at 5:30pm – 7pm

• Players will play in pairs.

• Mallets will be provided.

• Name your team.

• Fee for the 6 consecutive Thursdays is $120 per person.

• Registration by 28th October

• Hamburger included

• BYO refreshments

ADDRESS: Cnr Brown St and Kent St

Entrance - Brown St

Contact US Busselton Croquet club – sec.bsncc@gmail.com Mob. 0476 220 744 – carbitex01@gmail.com Website www.busseltoncroquet.org

ere will be three chances to score one of the region’s most iconic car licence plates tomorrow night when the Busselton Jetty Inc will host its annual auction during the Annual General Meeting.

ree numbers will be auctioned o live at the Geographe Bay Yacht Club on ursday October 16, giving drivers the opportunity to display the beloved tourist attraction on their vehicles. a Busselton Jetty Inc CEO Lisa Shreeve said people all over WA commented on the Jetty plates.

“We receive phone calls daily to ask if there are any

number plates le , so we auction o several each year to support the Busselton Jetty Environment Foundation coastal clean ups, reef monitoring, seabird rescues, educational programs and other work,” Lisa said.

e three plates to be auctioned live are numbers 191, 555 and 909 with bidding starting at $700.

Online bids for other numbers will occur from October 16 to 31.

For further information or to register to bid at the AGM, email admin@busseltonjetty. com.au or visit busseltonjetty. com.au.

Nurturing tomorrow’s champions

EDUCATION

A FAMOUS sporting face will join one of the region’s schools to deliver an exciting new program for student-athletes.

Georgiana Molloy Anglican School (GMAS) recently announced its new PEAK Program (Performance Education enabling Athlete Development & Knowledge), which will be led by ex-West Coast Eagle and educator, Mark Nicoski.

The program aims to support the school’s oustanding athletes as they represent the school, regional associations, and state and national teams, offering personalised mentoring, education, and performance support.

Mr Nicoski has been appointed to a dual role on campus, working as PEAK program coordinator and and HPE Teacher.

He brings with him 23 years of experience in profes-

Tribute tune honours

BY KIM SEIDLER

A SPECIAL piece of music will fill the Esplanade Hotel on Sunday, July 27, when Busselton Brass debuts the "John Piper March," honouring one of its most dedicated members.

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

A brass band creates something extraordinar y when dozens of instruments blend their notes

From the spirited melodies of solo cornets to the resounding and moving harmonies of the full ensemble, each player adds their part to create music that stirs the heart and lifts the soul.

sional sport as both a player and coach with the West Coast Eagles.

It was this idea of collective musical power that first attracted a young John Piper to Busselton Brass in 1950

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Master of Teaching, is a Level 3 AFL coach, and has undertaken additional training and certification in the wellness field, including mindfulness-based

Now, retired and relaxing at their home in Busselton, John and Stephanie Piper shared memories from those early days

stress reduction.

“My passion and personal vision has always been to engage, connect and discover,” Mr Nicoski said.

at AFL level with athletes who had already been drafted.

“Now, I intend to shift my focus to GMAS secondary students and prepare tomorrow’s champions for the rigours of elite sport.

Mr Nicoski said the skills gained through the program will help students in all aspects of life.

“I am particularly excited about providing access to this type of program in a regional context, ensuring our young athletes can stay at GMAS and in the South West while pursuing their passions.

mitment to both student growth and opportunity.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mark back to GMAS in this dual role,” he said.

“His extensive experience at the elite level, combined with his passion for education and wellbeing, will provide our students with a unique opportunity.

“The PEAK Program not only supports our athletes to achieve their sporting potential but also ensures students in our regional setting can access the expertise and pathways usually only available in metropolitan areas.

those days!"

could be good!'"

“This is an exciting step forward for our school and community,” Mr Evans said.

By 12, he'd found his calling with the tenor horn.

"The photo from 1950, my mates from scho in it, but none of them with it Except for me 74 years!"

"We saw this ad that said, 'Come along to the brass band, we'll give you an instrument and teach you to play music.'

"I was with a bunch of lads outside school one day, and one of them mentioned joining the band," John recalled.

“I find deep purpose in developing people to be the best version of themselves.

“Previously, I’ve done this

"I thought, 'Oh wow, this

“I am also excited to be starting a new vocational journey in the teaching profession, and I look forward to re-joining the GMAS community after an enriching practicum placement at the school.”

The irony of John's musical beginnings still brings smiles to the couple today. His piano teacher had told his mother, "You're wasting your mone y and I'm wasting my time He's never going to be a musician!"

GMAS Principal Brad Evans, said the launch of PEAK highlighted the school’s com-

"Well, how wrong was she!" Stephanie laughed. "He never took to the piano, but the band, now that's a different stor y!"

The school is currently experiencing a high level of enrolments, however there is some capacity for Year 9 places at the school for students who meet the PEAK Program selection criteria.

Music wasn't John's passion in those early It was at Churchill Park in 1956 that he met St anie at a local dance married for 65 years, the built a life filled with mu

Groups join forces for mental health

FROM THE COVER COMMUNITY groups from around the region gathered last week for a special consortium aimed at bolstering the mental health and resilience of local residents. Held to coincide with National Mental Health Week, the event captured this year’s theme of ‘Empowering communities, thriving workforces”.

Mental Health Week has been recognised in Western Australia since 1967.

It aims to shine a light on real stories of lived experience, mental health recovery and life beyond mental illhealth.

In Busselton, more than 20 agencies came together at the foreshore to showcase just what services are available

across all age groups, to assist people to maximise their mental health and wellbeing.

Attendees enjoyed a free lunch and activities while they gathered information about staying mentally fit, and seeking support.

Entertainment was provided by the Lamp Light band and singers. The expo was coordinated by the otary Club of Busselton Geographe Bay, which also produced a calendar of events with help from the City of Busselton and Rio Tinto.

Seventeen individual events took place over Mental Health Week, including community walks, yoga, meditation, art, pub crowd karaoke, peer support sessions, and indigenous and youth activities.

Brigades urge locals to prepare

SEVERAL of the region’s volunteer bush re brigades came together last week to sharpen their skills and solidify their collaborative approach in preparation of the upcoming bush re season.

Hosted by the Metricup Volunteer Bush re Brigade, the training day saw around 45 volunteers from Metricup, Kaloorup, Willyabrup and Yallingup take part in high-pressure, realistic scenarios, addressing complex situations designed to test both strategy and teamwork, while providing a valuable opportunity to test equipment and logistics.

Brigade members, including Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin, are calling on all residents to also be prepared.

“As one of the volunteer members involved in last week’s exercise, it is a reminder that we are all responsible for being bush re ready,” he said.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated and highly skilled volunteer bush re service.

“ eir unwavering commitment to training, preparedness and community safety each season is truly commendable.

“I cannot thank them enough for the countless hours they devote to responding to incidents across our region.”

Mr Cronin said this year’s Marri Reserve re in Dunsborough was proof that undertaking simple property maintenance could make all the di erence.

“ e only damage caused in this incident was through leaf debris in gutters,” he said.

“With over 90 percent of WA classed as bush re prone, I implore the community to be prepared and create a bush re plan, which can take as little as 15 min-

utes to create and as experienced in the Dunsborough re, is the best way to keep you and your household safe.

“ e Department of Fire and Emergency Services have a Bush re Plan App ensuring you can access it at any time, even without the internet.”

Whether you live in a rural or residential area, every owner and occupier have a responsibility to reduce the risk of re.

Preparing ahead of the bush re season by reducing leaf matter, cleaning gutters, slashing or mowing grasses and weeds, and keeping ammable material at least 5m from a habitable building applies to all properties.

Depending on the size of your property and how far

a habitable building is from the road, you may also be required to establish and maintain a managed fuel zone, provide a driveway/ accessway and turnaround area that will support a re truck and in some instances, be required to install and maintain a 3m wide rebreak as close as practicable within 100m of your property boundaries.

e City of Busselton’s restricted burning period commences 15 October

2025 and will be in place until 30 November 2025, which is subject to change depending on weather conditions.

A permit to burn is required during this period and can be obtained from the Fire Control O cer of your area.

City o cers will commence inspecting properties for compliance from 15 November 2025. More information can be found on the City’s website.

Garden Guru makes rare stop

GARDENING expert Trevor Cochrane gave a rare in-person talk in Busselton recently, sharing stories and insights from his television career and travelling the world, along with key takeaways for starting a garden from scratch in the sandy soils of the South West.

A group of 58 people attended the latest GeoCatch Bay OK workshop - delivered in partnership with Embark Busselton - and looked into turning sand into healthy, living soil, helping native plants thrive, and waterwise tips for a successful and resilient garden.

Local garden centre Soils Ain’t Soils displayed products including popular stone and wood mulches, soil amendments and a beautiful selection of native plants.

Trevor explained that feeding the soil, rather than feeding the plants, is key.

“What makes plants grow really well is consistency of moisture in the soil,” he said.

“Clay is so effective at binding the sand together and combined

with organic matter creates a beautiful loamy soil base.

“If you have good loamy soil, you can grow anything.”

“It’s really incredible how well plants grow in a nice compost, along with a good, chunky mulch that helps to reduce the rate of moisture evaporation.”

West Busselton resident Anne Cosgrove has a well-established native verge garden she is always adding to.

“We’ve learnt a lot about gardening and wouldn’t be where we are with our garden if we didn’t have GeoCatch,”Anne said.

“We’ve got lots of birds coming in and we’ve even got possums!

“I’m always curious to learn more and every time I go to an event, I always do learn more.”

Lucky winners walked away with door prizes from Soils Ain’t Soils, including a variety of soil amendments and planting mediums; and a native species Geraldton Wax with ceramic pot from their large range.

British beauties set to shine next weekend

Signal Park will roar to life, as more than 100 classic British vehicles re up their engines at 9 am on Saturday, 25 October, for the annual Auto Classic car event.

From the purr of vintage motors to the gleam of lovingly maintained chrome, this year’s collection showcases the nest of British motoring.

e lineup features Rolls-Royce’s trademark luxury and grace, alongside Bentley’s grand tourers,

Critical campaign to save tiny local frog

COMMUNITY members can contribute to critical work happening right now to save a tiny and critically endangered frog, found only in the South West, from slipping into extinction.

South West NRM has launched a campaign to extend the life of its project designed to test whether rehydrating creek beds could work.

CEO Dr Manda Page said extending the project would help ensure work already completed would have the greatest impact.

“ e white-bellied frog faces mounting pressures from habitat loss and a drying climate,” Dr Page said.

“We know that time is short. Right now every drop counts and this crowdfunding approach gives everyone — individuals, businesses, schools, community groups — the opportunity to join in and help protect a species teetering on the brink.

“ is is local conservation powered by community.”

e white-bellied frog is about the size of a thumbnail and is clinging to existence in a very small area near Margaret River.

ey have highly speci c habitat requirements – including high soil moisture levels – and their tiny size means they can’t travel far in search of a new home when their existing one becomes unsuitable.

A large proportion of previously-known populations are already locally extinct.

“ e level of peril only continues to escalate for those plants and animals which are struggling to adapt to the changing climatic conditions,” Dr Page said.

“While a potential solution has been engineered for the white-bellied frog, we can’t know if it is really working without the opportunity to monitor outcomes across another hot summer.”

e campaign can be found at www.chu ed.org/project/savingthe-white-bellied-frog

including a crowd favourite - the 1931 Bentley Speed Eight.

Owned by locals Mr and Mrs Ross Stanley, this magni cent tourer, born from the Bentley Blower lineage, claimed historic victories at Le Mans in 1929 and 1930. Car lovers will appreciate Jaguar’s sleek sporting heritage on display, while Rover showcases the cra smanship that de ned a British motoring era. e event brings together pioneering Austins, classic Mor-

ris cars, innovative Jensen grand tourers, and MG sports cars. e Indian Harley Club and the Stationary Motor Enthusiast Club will also o er displays.

Organised by the Busselton Veteran Car Club and the City of Busselton, the Auto Classic supports Busselton Hospice.

Entry is by donation, with proceeds to the BHCI.

For more info, visit: veterancarclubofwesternaustralia.wildapricot. org/Busselton-Branch

Farm Business Transition and Livestock Transport Industry

Transition Grants now available

Grants are now available to assist producers and the livestock transport sector to transition away from the live sheep exports by sea trade.

Eligible sheep producers affected by the phase out can now apply for up to $75,000 in funding to support the adoption of alternative farming systems and practices.

Eligible livestock transport businesses affected by the phase out can now apply for up to $40,000 in funding to transition to other transport-related activities which may require further investment.

A range of activities are eligible for funding. All applications require matching co-contributions.

To find out more or to apply, visit www.agriculture.gov.au/2028

Applications close 1 December 2025

Locals embrace catio program

CAT OWNERS gathered recently at Peppermint Grove Beach for a successful DIY Catio Building Workshop, delivered by GeoCatch in partnership with the Shire of Capel, with funding from the State NRM Program.

With growing interest in responsible pet ownership, an increasing number of cat owners are choosing to keep their pets safely contained in catios — fully enclosed outdoor structures that connect to the home, allowing cats to enjoy the outdoors while keeping native wildlife safe.

“Everyone benefits from catios,” Nicole Lincoln, Project Officer at GeoCatch said.

“They keep cats and native wildlife safe, reduce vet bills, and help improve relationships between neighbours.”

Participants heard from Dr Heather Crawford, a cat behaviouralist from Murdoch University, who explained how good catio design sup-

ports both the physical and mental enrichment of cats, contributing to longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Local businesses Cat Runs WA and South West Cat Enclosures demonstrated the practical side of catio building, showing participants how simple and affordable a DIY catio can be when tailored to suit a home’s available space.

Workshop attendees also heard first-hand from Bar-

ry and Lenie Loveday, local cat owners who shared their experience building a catio using the publicly available Catio Rebate.

One participant said her biggest takeaway was learning “just how simple it really is to protect both wildlife and cats by installing a DIY catio”.

Ms Lincoln said cat owners who are already choosing to contain their cats are “ahead

of the curve”, referencing Premier Roger Cook’s recent announcement to strengthen WA’s cat laws and give local governments greater power to enforce containment.

“We’re extremely pleased with the turnout and engagement at these workshops.

“It’s clear that residents and surrounding communities are committed to being responsible cat owners.”

The DIY Catio Workshop is part of a broader cat contain-

ment initiative being delivered by GeoCatch in collaboration with the Shire of Capel, City of Busselton, Shire of Augusta-Margaret River, and Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup.

A $200 Catio Rebate is currently available to residents in these areas to help cover the cost of building or installing a catio.

For more info or to register for the rebate, visit geocatch. asn.au or call 0491 069 078.

A quick meeting with Mandi and I is all it takes to kickstart your property journey with confidence. Whether you’re thinking of selling or just curious abou t the market, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

We’ll answer all your questions, address any concerns, and share the latest insights into the local real estate market. You’ll also receive detailed comparative sales evidence for your area, along with a free, no-obligation market appraisal of your property.

Beyond numbers, we’ll provide expert advice on presenting your home to its absolute best and outline proven marketing strategies designed to secure the best possible price.

Let’s turn your property goals into reality, with confidence, clarity, and a strategy that works.

Jason Cooper 0407 770 426

jason_cooper@raywhite.com

Mandi Cooper 0407 775 693

mandi.cooper@raywhite.com

Hi, I’m Bella

A 2 year old beauty with no beastly behaviours. I love scratches and pats, and will be yours forever if I get under chin scratches. I used to be very shy but am now very confident and comfortable in my carers home and will even come out to meet new people if they are calm and sitting down. I have a beautiful temperament and will show affection and chat to everyone in the house. I used to live with another cat, but have been a solo pet with my carers for the last few months. I’m untested with dogs and children. I love to play with all sorts of toys, and will make a game out of just about any random object. I entertain my foster mum with my zoomie antics and acrobatics. I enjoy the comforts of being inside, but love to watch the world through windows. My window hammock is possibly my favourite spot in the house. My ideal home would be a safe space where I can play and nap, and keep someone special company. My adoption fee is $275.

Hi, I’m Archie

A 4-year-old Tabby boy with a cute ginger belly! I’m a very friendly boy who only took a few days to settle in with my foster Mum. I love affection and being stroked. I roll over and stretch out so you can give me belly rubs and I have a loud purr. I enjoy curling up on my foster Mums lap on the couch for pets and a sleep. I know the sound of my foster Mums car and will wait by the door for her to come inside. Sometimes I even chirp with excitement! I like it when my foster Mum picks me up for a cuddle and kisses and rubbing our noses and cheeks together. I enjoy spending my days watching the birds outside the windows and snoozing on my foster Mums bed, in the cat tower, in a sunny spot by a window or in a comfy bed. I love food and walk around rubbing myself on my foster Mums legs when she’s preparing my food, and I always escort her to my eating mat in case she forgets the way! I also love cat grass to munch on. I am a very clean boy and use my litter trays. I am a strictly indoor cat. I cannot be homed with a dog and am untested with other cats. I’d love a quieter home with a single person/couple or a family with older kids and no other pets where I can get all the love and attention I enjoy and deserves. My adoption fee is $275.

Hi, I’m Bean!

Hi I’m Rollo

A 1 year old girl who likes to think I’m the perfect mix of playful kitten and sweet grown-up cat. I love chasing toys, exploring new places, and when I’m all tired out, I’ll find the coziest spot to curl up for a nap. I’m a gentle soul with a sweet temperament, and I love to “chat” with my people - you’ll always know what’s on my mind because I’m talkative in the cutest way. I also love snuggles and will happily curl up with you when it’s time to relax. I might take a little time to get to know you, but once I do, I’ll be your loyal sidekick - purring, head booping, and keeping you company. I’m spayed, vaccinated, and litter-trained, so really, I’m all ready to go home! There’s just one thing - I’d really like to be the only pet in the house. That way, I get to soak up all the love (and give it right back to you!). My adoption fee is $330.

A 1 year old super playful, chatty and loving young boy. I love playing with my foster-cat friend and doing zoomies. I am super friendly and affectionate towards all humans and love a nice snuggle especially rolling onto my back for pets when I see my foster humans coming! I haven’t been exposed to dogs or young children. However I’m a very confident boy and my foster carers think I would warm up quickly to other pets or children after a gentle introduction period. I love my older cat friend at my foster home and would happily share a home with other friendly felines. I would best suit a family or home where people are home often to give me lots of pets and cuddles as I’m super social. If you think you could be my new family, I would love to meet you and show you how affectionate I can be! My adoption fee is $275.

Hi, I’m Marcy!

Hi, I’m Bella

A

A 2 year old beauty with no beastly behaviours. I love scratches and pats, and adore toys with bells. I can be very shy to start with, but given time and space. I enjoy everyone’s company. I used to live with another cat, but have been a solo pet with my carers. I am untested with dogs and children. I love to play with all sorts of toys, and entertain my foster Mum with my zoomie antics. I enjoy the comforts of being inside and love to watch the outside world through windows. My ideal home would be a safe space where I can play and nap, and keep someone special company. My adoption fee is $275.

on my

first day. I’m the perfect mix of independent and affectionate - happy to do my own thing but also eager to be by your side. I’m very clean, love watching birds through the window, chatting to my foster Mum with my sweet little voice, and following her around like a loyal shadow. I’m litter trained and an inside cat. I don’t like other cats getting close to me so would be suited as an only cat in my new home. I’m fine with small dogs and untested with kids. My adoption fee is $275.

An adoption fee of $300 applies for cats and $700 for dogs which assists to cover the costs of desexing, microchip, microchip ownership transfer, flea and worm treatment, vaccinations and vet checks. Successful applicants for dogs will be contacted for an interview and a property inspection (as it is vital we rehome our animals to a safe, secure and suitable home). If you are able to offer any of these animals the best of homes, please email busselton@safe.org.au, contact 0488 518 963 or visit www.safe.org.au

THE University of the ird Age (U3A) Naturaliste chapter will host its Annual General Meeting this a ernoon, where course leaders will delve into the latest offerings from the learning group.

e U3A concept was ‘born’ at Toulouse University in France in 1973.

e ‘third age’ is dened by a time in your life (not necessarily chronological) where you have the opportunity to undertake learning for its own sake.

In Australia U3A is open to people over 50 and has a focus on people who are no longer in full-time employment or raising a family but wish to enjoy learning together and sharing skills, interests and knowledge.

Every member’s contribution is valued whether it be as a group leader, occasional speaker or committee member.

Naturaliste U3A (Inc) was formed in 2009 and o ers Topical Talks and courses.

“ ere are currently around 170 members from across the City of Busselton area,” a group spokesperson said.

“Today at the AGM a showcase of courses which are running now and new courses to be o ered in 2026 will allow attendees to explore opportunities.”

Recently, NatU3A’s Learn and Lead Working Group conducted a survey of members to attract new leaders and discover what new courses could be developed.

“Current leaders gave feedback that ‘teaching and passing on skills is an incredibly rewarding experience that provides a unique sense of purpose and personal satisfaction. “It’s not just about sharing knowledge; it’s about seeing the impact of that knowledge on another person’s growth.”

Head to e People Place this a ernoon, Wednesday October 15 from 2pm to hear brie y from leaders of the courses available in 2026, participate in the AGM, nd out how you can join NatU3A, and enjoy a ernoon tea.

Alternatively, visit the website at u3anaturaliste. com.au or email secretary@u3anaturaliste.com.au to nd out more about membership.

GLEBE MODULAR LOUNGE SUITE

Laidback and oversized, the Glebe modular is the perfect sofa for relaxing in sumptuous comfort and the ultimate daybed. The deep seating with high density foam and goose feather filling mean this sofa is made for lounging, while the silhouette is both on trend and timeless. As a true modular, the Glebe is fully customisable to your living room space, with 4 unique pieces that can easily be configured in your preferred combination.

and transformed using traditional carpentry methods to create something new and beautiful. This charming table has already stood the test of time, displaying textures and depth that only come from age, and ensuring each piece is one of a kind and unlike any other.

meet Hannah Diblasi

Another one sold by Jason Dragstra

CLASSIFIEDS

CRAIGIE

Cyril Frederick

23.06.36

(nee Forrest)

Grace

Much loved wife of Jock (dec), mum to Craig and Julie, Yvette and Rolf, Dean and Sandy. Devoted Nan of Jess and Simon, Cam and Emma, Shayne and Blake, Tahlia and Jason, Bree and Jye and Brianna. Cherished Nanny Grace to Holly, Penny, Roland and Baby Jensen/Nunn.

She was the architect of our lives, building them with laughter and love. Will miss you forever Gracie.

St George's Anglican Church Dunsborough (cnr Gibney St & Naturaliste Tce)

Sunday 8am Morning Prayer 9.30am Holy Communion ALL WELCOME

www.dunsboroughanglican.com.au

Young South West MTB rider Payton Schult had a big win at the recent National Mountain Bike Enduro Championships in Collie, taking out the Under 11 Women’s category.

e ten year old came in rst ahead of fellow Dunsborough rider Lea Murray, while Bunbury’s Harper Watts was third.

South West riders impressed at the event, with Chloe, Adam and Jeremy Collis, Josh and Bella Moore, and Cash and Weston Smith having a great competition.

Ellie Smith and Jordan Prochyra went back-to-back in the e-enduro category on Saturday, both adding to their 2024 titles, while Kai Pyyvaara won the elite men’s Oceania jersey.

Zana Evans and Andrew Hacquoil won the elite titles on a picture-perfect nal day on Sunday.

A er ve hours of racing, just three seconds separated rst and second place in both the men’s and women’s categories.

It was a surprise victory in the elite men with upand-coming 18-year-old Hacquoil (South Australia)

taking the victory ahead of Tom Locke.

Hacquoil and Locke were locked in a tight battle all day, even clocking the exact same time on stage six. But it was Hacquoil who edged ahead a er seven stages to get his biggest win to date.

Margaret River’s Roly Kyme rounded the podium in third.

In the battle for the elite women’s title, Evans, who

won the Oceania title earlier in the week, overcame nerves early in the day to nish strong a er going to toe-to-toe with Lacey Adams and Taylah Sherri .

Croquet Club calls for new members

BUSSELTON Croquet Club is calling for locals to join in the fun at their friendly, and inclusive club.

e club has been part of Busselton’s culture for more than 100 years, and in recent years has seen player numbers grow to around 90.

“As croquet is not a seasonal sport, it is played 6 days of the week year-round,” a club spokesperson said.

Golf croquet is the main style played in Busselton, but Association and Ricochet styles of the sport are also available.

Competition is held between Dunsborough, Bunbury Central and Bunbury Moorabinda clubs, while the annual Spring Tournament attracts players from around WA.

Local membership includes state players,

quali ed coaches and referees.

“Our playing greens are maintained to a high national standard by a professional green keeper,” the spokesperson said.

New players are always welcomed and have 6 playing visits before deciding to become members.

“Croquet is a great sport that enables a wide range of ages and abilities to compete and have fun.

“It can be a very skillful game, which includes tac

tics and forward thinking.” e club o ers reasonably priced membership and playing green fees. eir inaugural Community Croquet competition starts on the 6th November and will run for 6 consecutive ursdays at 5.30pm to 7pm.

“Come and have a go, you will be pleasantly surprised how quickly you will enjoy playing.”

For more information, visit www.busseltoncroquetclub.org

Bulls strong ahead of season start

ALLAN MILLER CRICKET

REIGNING Barnard Cup premiers Cowaramup are shaping up as the side to beat when the Busselton-Margaret River Cricket Association’s new A-Grade season kicks off on Saturday.

New skipper Fraser Oates is aiming to be available for the whole summer, while decisive striker bowler Nathan Coulter-Nile also plans to play at least 75 per cent of the time.

Oates and former skipper Archer Coates are both back in Australia after excellent seasons in Yorkshire league cricket, where they both averaged over 50 with the bat.

“We are hoping to go back to back, but cricket can be an unpredictable game,” Oates said.

“Chris McLean will be here for the whole season, allrounder Tom Coulson is

returning and young Ben Cook has shot up about three feet,” he said.

“It’s great for our club that our No. 2 side has gone from C-Grade into B-Grade, it will be better for our kids coming up.”

Jeremy O’Neill and Anthony Lunt will share the B-Grade captaincy for Cowaramup.

Saturday’s opening round of A-Grade fixtures will see Dunsborough at home to Yallingup-Oddbods, St Marys host Vasse at Barnard Park, and Margaret River Hawks at home to Cowaramup at Margaret River, in a replay of last year’s grand final.

Hawks have regained Sam Berridge but opening batsman Shane Joyce has gone down to B-Grade to share the captaincy with Alistair McIlroy.

Jack Green will again be

Chance for clubs to win cash

NOMINATIONS are open for the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Good Sports Awards, giving community sporting clubs across WA the chance to shine in the national spotlight and win cash prizes.

The Foundation’s WA Manager, Greg Williams, said the annual awards celebrate strong community sporting clubs and volunteers who are passionate about their community, their members and making their club the very best it can be.

“There are amazing community sports clubs doing really important work to break the link between alcohol and sport, and to reduce and prevent alcohol and other drug harms. We want this work to be shared and celebrated,” he said.

“The Good Sports Awards are the ultimate trophy for clubs that are part of the Good Sports program. The awards shine the spotlight on success, celebrate the volunteers who are the backbone of community sport, and provide winning clubs with the recognition they deserve.”

Clubs can enter multiple categories including Club of the Year, Volunteer of the Year,

the A-Grade skipper while Lane Williams will lead the Hawks C-Grade side.

Meanwhile, Dunsborough are looking to fill gaps left by the retirement of skipper Chris Reagan and the loss of offspinning brothers Alijah and Judd Truscott to Perth cricket.

Dunsborough’s import this year is Taylor Ingham-Hill, a quality batsman from the south of England.

Cain Reynolds (A-Grade), Ben Cadd (B-Grade), Tom O’Sullivan (C-Grade White) and Mat Lepidi (C-Grade Blue) have been named as Dunsborough’s four captains.

“Player numbers have been good, and we have decided to focus our C-Grade on one stronger side, which will be Dunsborough White,” said president Cam Morris.

“Harry Sutherland will be welcomed back into the A-Grade attack and all eyes

will be on allrounder Michael Byrne, who is just back from the subcontinent after representing Indonesia.”

“Our new social media team is working hard and the club’s new electronic scoreboard is awesome.”

Vasse Cricket Club has picked up outstanding wicketkeeper-batsman Ajith Rajapaksha from Dunsborough, but has lost House

Medallist Simon Harkness, who has returned to Victoria.

“We’ve unfortunately also lost Chris Dendle and Ryan Clark, but we have picked up two middle-order batsmen from the UK, one of whom will be available this weekend and the other will be available next week,” said Vasse president Matt Enright.

Rival teams ‘down to the wire’

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Safe Transport Award, Mental Health Excellence Award, Junior Club of the Year, New Club of the Year and Community Club of the Year.

“Whether it’s your club’s champion volunteer, managing alcohol responsibly, looking after your junior members or supporting club members’ mental health, you know your club’s biggest strength. We encourage Good Sports clubs to nominate today for a chance to win,” Mr Williams said.

Good Sports clubs must nominate before the 11th of November for their chance to be crowned a winner at an awards ceremony in Canberra early next year and win a share of more than $13,000 in prize money.

Working with more than 12,000 local sports clubs across Australia, including more than 1,700 across WA, Good Sports supports clubs to set up better environments for players, volunteers, supporters, and officials – helping to tackle tricky topics such as alcohol, drugs, smoking, mental health, and safe transport.

Entering the Awards is quick and easy, just visit www. goodsports.com.au

Leaver said the win made the early start and long drive worthwhile.

“It was such a sick day,” he said.

“We were up at 4.30am, piled into the car in the dark and went straight for it,” he said.

“The Surf League means a lot to our club.

“It’s been running for so many years with so many great surfers, so to take the win feels amazing.

“We’ll probably put the prize money towards our junior program and new club gear, which will really help us out.”

Margaret River Boardriders landed the gong for best camaraderie, while Margaret River’s Jerome Forrest claimed the award for best manoeuvre thanks to a front hand snap.

Nick Muntz also took out the Powerhouse Award for the best rail turn of the competition.

“The conditions tested everyone early but the talent across all clubs was incredible,” Surfing WA’s Kim Clift said.

“The final went right down to the wire between Yallingup and Margaret River -

both teams were on fire.

“The Surf League is special because you’re not just surfing for yourself, you’re surfing for your mates, and that club pride really lifts everyone’s performance.”

Consistency & style gives Yalls the edge

IT WAS an emphatic victory for the Yallingup Boardriders on the weekend when they delivered a powerful performance to capture the win at the 33rd Surf Boardroom Surf League presented by Rip Curl.

Held in Scarborough, the event brought together nine WA boardrider clubs to battle it out in one of the state’s longest running surf competitions.

Yallingup, Margaret River, Scarborough, Mullaloo, Trigg Point, Cottesloe, Trigg Junior, Albany and City Beach Boardriders clubs took part in the event in front of a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters,

with each club elding six surfers - four Open competitors, one Over-35 Master and one Under-18 Junior.

Each surfer’s score contributed to their team’s overall total.

A huge 60 minute nal for Yallingup saw them combining consistency and style across their lineup of Felix Leaver, Duke Nagtzaam, Nick Muntz, Josh Catlin, Flynn Eastaugh and Tommy Trigwell.

eir e orts gave the club its rst Surf League win since 2022, as they managed to hold o Margaret River, Scarborough and Mullaloo clubs.

Leaver opened strong with a 6.77 before

Margaret River’s Jerome Forrest responded with a 6.40. But it was Yallingup’s Duke Nagtzaam who stole the show, unleashing a series of explosive backhand snaps to score a 7.93, the highest of the day, earning both the Perry Hatchett Award (Best Surfer in Final) and the Creatures of Leisure Ripper Award (Highest Individual Score).

Jack Mitchell and Finn Cox made a late charge for Margaret River, but Nick Muntz sealed the deal, with the team nishing on 40.56 points to Margaret River’s 36.40. Scarborough placed third on 20.85 and Mullaloo fourth on 18.03.