Busselton Dunsbororigh Sept 10, 2025

Countdown on for Jetty Swim

THE countdown to the 2026 Busselton Jetty Swim has begun, with entries set to open on 1 October, 2025.

Best known for its signature 3.6km swim around the iconic Busselton Jetty, the much-loved open water event will return on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 February 2026, giving more than 5,000 swimmers of all ages and abilities the chance to take part across a variety of distances.

Event Coordinator, Clare Anderson, said that a er celebrating the Jetty Swim’s 30th anniversary earlier this year, the 2026 theme, “Your Swim, Your Story,” aims to shine a spotlight on the real heroes of the event: the swimmers themselves.

“Turning 30 was a huge milestone, yet it’s the stories of our everyday participants that make the Busselton Jetty Swim what it is,” Clare said.

“Some swim because it’s on their bucket list, to honour a loved one, or because it’s an annual family tradition. Others want to challenge themselves to their rst open water swim, then progress from one of our shorter distances to the full 3.6km Solo Swim around the Jetty.”

“Your Swim, Your Story honours and celebrates the diversity of people who participate.”

Clare con rmed the 2026 event will follow the same

format as 2025, with an online ballot system in place to manage entries for the most popular categories.

e online ballot will be open from 1 to 8 October 2025 for the 3.6km Solo Swim and the One Mile Swim to Shore, both of which take place on Sunday 8 February.

e remaining categories

- Simon’s 500m Shortcut Swim, 2 or 4 person Team Swim, and the Kids Swim - will be held on Saturday 7 February with swimmers registering on a rst come, rst served basis.

“Busselton Jetty Swim is all about participation,” said

Clare. “Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking to challenge yourself, there is a distance to you. Plus, you won’t nd a more supportive, inclusive, or friendly event – it’s what keeps people coming back year a er year.”

“Whatever your distance, reason, or story – it’s your Jetty Swim.”

e Ballot for the 3.6km Solo & One Mile opens from 1 to 8 October.

General Entries for all other events will open 15 October.

For more info or to enter the ballot, visit busseltonjettyswim.org.au.

Candidates announced for October elections

A TOTAL of 19 candidates have thrown their hats into the ring to contest the upcoming City of Busselton Local Elections, with a varied list of community members nominating ahead of the September 4 cut-o .

Five seats will be available to successful candidates, with four 4 year terms and one 2 year term up for grabs in what is expected to be a hotly contested race.

Nominating this year:

Peter Adams

Natasha Blefari omas Chadwick

Nicole Davies

Andrew Dickie

Herman Dysktra

Farrah Greville

Val Kaigg

Jodie Lee

Mikayla Love

Max Mueller

Clare Paine

Anne Ryan

Michelle Shackleton

Stephen Spelman

Ti any Van Halen

Nicholas Vines

Jill Walsh

Stephen Wells

Acting Electoral

Commissioner Dennis O’Reilly encouraged all eligible Western Australians to engage in the electoral process.

“Participating in the election whether as a

candidate or a voter is a meaningful way to contribute to your community,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“I encourage all voters to take the time to learn about their local candidates and make their vote count.”

Postal vote packages will arrive in the mail over the coming weeks, with residents urged to check their enrolment status to ensure they can cast their votes.

Your are eligible to vote in this election if you are a resident of the City of Busselton and are enrolled to vote in State elections; or if you are enrolled to vote in State or Federal elections, own or occupy rateable property in the City, and have made a successful eligibility claim.

Ballots can be lodged in person at the City Administration Building until close of voting at 6pm on Saturday 18 October 2025 or at the Dunsborough Library until 12noon Friday 17 October 2025.

Read the candidate pro les at www.busselton.wa.gov.au/council and check your enrolment status at www. elections.wa.gov.au

Swimmer to speak on Monday

THE City of Busselton will welcome a highly decorated Paralympic swimmer to town on Monday, to speak at a forum with Sport4All and APM Communities, focused on the importance of inclusion and accessibility in all areas of sport in the region. Australian swim star Ellie Cole will speak alongside presenters from APM Communities and the Dept of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport to share experiences and o er best practice examples. A strong advocate for the Sport4All program, Ellie claimed her 17th Paralympic medal in Tokyo to become Australia’s most decorated female Paralympian.

“We want to connect service providers, schools, clubs, and sporting associations to foster stronger networks and partnerships,” Sport Inclusion Coach, Gemma Harrison said.

“We hope to strengthen col-

laboration across sectors - sport, education, community, and service providers - and increase awareness of practical inclusion tools and pathways available through Sport4All.”

Harrison said she hoped to establish a “clear pipeline of emerging leaders and community champions”.

“I hope that people attending the forum will feel inspired from current advocates such as Ellie who will share their personal experiences and insights.

“ is Forum will serve to create meaningful dialogue, inspire practical action and support lasting partnerships.”

e forum will take place on Monday 15 September 2025 from 5.30pm-7.30pm at the Youth and Community Activities Building (YCAB) on the foreshore. To register, visit events.humanitix.com/ sports-inclusion-forum

Celebration of Costume, Culture, and Community

ORGANISERS of the upcoming ‘BussTopia Ball’ say the event will o er guests the chance to step into a world of glamour, music and coastal enchantment.

Held at the Hilton Garden Inn, the rst-ever BussTopia Ball was rst conceived as a theatrical celebration of self-expression and local artistry.

“It’s a love letter to Busselton, where twilight meets transformation, and every guest becomes part of the story,” explained organisers, Julia and Anthony Corrigan.

Guests will enjoy live performances, DJ soundscapes, gourmet cocktail fare, and décor inspired by Busselton’s iconic sunsets.

Costumes are encouraged - celestial, whimsical, or bold - with prizes up for grabs on

the night.

Julia and Anthony are also advocates for the Saltwater entertainment precinct.

“Our support for the Cultural and Arts Precinct re ects a perfect alignment of values,” Julia said.

“We’re committed to upli ing local artists and cultivating a vibrant cultural landscape.

“While we understand that projects of this scale may spark local debate, history reminds us that visionary spaces - like the Sydney Opera House - o en become treasured community icons.

“We believe Saltwater will do the same for Busselton.”

A ra e will support the Friends of Busselton Cultural Precinct Piano Campaign, while the Ball will feature art installations by local creatives.

“ e decision to support the piano campaign was a natural extension of shared values.

“ e Cultural and Arts Precinct’s mission to foster creative expression resonates deeply with the Ball’s purpose: celebrating local artists and promoting wellness through art, music, and communal joy.

“BussTopia Ball is committed to upli ing local causes in future years.”We warmly invite community organisations to reach out for future collaboration.”

e BussTopia Ball will be held from 6pm on Saturday October 25.

Tickets include a welcome drink and cocktail-style dining, and are available now at busstopiaball.com.

Save it, make it, love it with sustainable sewing classes

A NEW opportunity for locals to learn practical sewing skills while reducing waste is coming to Dunsborough.

anks to the generosity of the Plico Community Fund,

A Single Leaf South West is delivering a Sustainable Sewing Series – a ve-session workshop designed to help participants repair, repurpose, and give new life to textiles in a supportive, community-focused environment.

e classes are supported and hosted by the Share and Care Program at St George’s Anglican Church, who also demonstrate their commitment to sustainability through many other initiatives including their free community recycling station, community dinners,

and hosting the Community Repair CoOp.

All three organisations – A

Single Leaf South West, St George’s Share and Care Program, and Plico – are deeply committed to sustainability in Dunsborough, bringing community, creativity and

practical action together.

A Single Leaf South West’s Jo Kennedy urged locals with an interest in sustainable handcra s to sign up.

“Like much of our sustainability education, this series is about empowering the community to rethink waste

EXPERIENCE BOUTIQUE

and gain the practical skills to make a positive environmental impact in a fun, hands-on way,” she said.

Participants will learn to make items such as reusable shopping bags from old t-shirts and yoga bolsters

lled with cotton waste that would otherwise end up in land ll.

e workshops will work closely with St George’s Op Shop to source materials, ensuring everything has a second life.

“We are blessed to live in a beautiful part of the world,”

Reverend Justine, Parish Priest at St George’s Anglican Church said.

“Yet we mustn’t forget that in Australia we are consuming more than four times the resources that the Earth can

regenerate in a year.

“We are thrilled to be hosting these workshops to help people learn new skills, live more sustainably and have fun along the way.”

e workshops will run as ve monthly sessions, starting in September, held on the last Saturday of each month (a er the Community Repair CoOp).

Requirements: Adults (or children 14 and over accompanied by an adult) we welcome, with their own sewing machine.

e workshops cost $50 and will be held at the St George’s Family Centre, 48 Gibney Street, Dunsborough.

To book, and for more information, visit asingleleafsouthwest.com.au

Students stop in at Council chambers

COMMUNITY NEWS

STUDENT leaders from Vasse Primary School headed to the City of Busselton last week, for a special tour and visit of the administration and Council building.

Stopping by to learn about the inner workings

of local government, the student leadership team took part in a discussion about sourcing news and information, ahead of the upcoming social media ban for young Australians. e kids even had a chance to step into the shoes of Councillors,

running a mock Council Meeting with the Mayor, to share their ideas and concerns.

A City spokesperson thanked the school for making the excursion, and its own Youth Services Team for helping out on the day.

Vintage car event returns this month

REV up for a Sunday lled with gleaming chrome and roaring engines when the annual Joe Steddy Rally hits Busselton’s roads on September 21.

ese automotive treasures will wind their way from the Busselton Veteran and Classic Car Club to the Ludlow Tuart Forest Precinct, creating a spectacular showcase of motoring history.

e rally honours local motoring enthusiast Joe Steddy, whose passion for vintage vehicles inspired Busselton’s classic car community.

A er returning from WWI, Steddy established a successful 2,200-acre wheat and sheep farm near Darkan.

Upon retiring in 1960, he dedicated himself to the Veteran Car Club, lovingly restoring his prized 1909 Fuller Buggy.

Despite attractive o ers from UK buyers, Steddy kept his beloved buggy in WA, donating both the Fuller and his 1925 Flint tow vehicle to the Veteran Car Club.

In 1966, he drove these classics to Busselton for early rallies, establishing a trophy with a $50 donation that became the foundation of this annual event. e inaugural 1969 rally saw Alf Roberts take home victory in his 1924 Davis. Now in its 56th year, this

local tradition continues to bring classic cars and their admirers together in beautiful Busselton year a er year.

Grab a spot along the route and watch these machines from another era cruise from the Car Club at 10 am (84 Causeway Road) to the Ludlow Tuart Forest Precinct on Sept 21. Whether you’re a car bu or just love seeing classics in action, this is one Sunday drive you won’t want to miss!

‘Raw, rocking and real’ - Aussie legends bring iconic album south

REAL, raw Australian rock and roll hits the South West this September when You Am I bring their Hi Fi Way 30th anniversary album tour to Dunsborough Tavern on Saturday, September 20 and The River, Margaret River, on Friday, September 26.

Fresh from their ARIA Hall of Fame induction, the band will play their landmark 1994 album in full, delivering fans a performance of Aussie rock ‘n’ roll at its finest.

For drummer Russell Hopkinson, playing in WA means coming home.

Growing up in East Fremantle during Perth’s hectic and eclectic 70s and 80s music scene, he was surrounded by some yet-to-find-fame legends.

“Dom Mariani from The Stems lived down the road, and Roddy Radalj, who founded Hoodoo Gurus, was my brother’s best friend,” he recalled.

“There were a lot of interesting and influential people around Fremantle then; it was great!”

The early ‘80s WA punk scene was a wild place for the 15-year-old Hopkinson.

“It was a pretty rough back then, and there weren’t many gigs playing the kind of music I liked.

That hunger for more opportunities took him to Sydney, where one day, You Am I came knocking (via the phone).

“Tim called me at work and asked if I wanted to play in their band. I thought it would be an audition, but they said, ‘No, it’s just you!’ And that was that!”

Thirty years on, You Am I’s endurance comes down to solid friendship, a love of music, and their feet firmly planted on the ground.

“We’re all still mates, there’s no weirdness,” Hopkinson said.

“We’ve always had realistic aimssimply to have a career as a rock ‘n’ roll band.

“You’ve got to take the rough with the smooth. If you’re in it just for fame, those down times can take a

toll on you.

“But if you’re in it to play music because you love it, you’ll see a way around it.”

Now touring in celebration of their defining second album Hi Fi Waythe first of three consecutive albums to debut at #1 on the ARIA charts, something no Australian band had achieved before, You Am I is bringing that signature dynamic energy to every Australian show on this tour, with critics full of praise.

“You Am I are living proof that Australian music was, and always has been, raw, rocking and real,” (Scenestr), while Australian Musician praised the “high energy, wild and crazy ride” of their performances.

The recent Hall of Fame recognition is the icing on the cake for these longtime muso mates.

“It’s amazing!” Hopkinson said.

“It’s very exciting to be honoured in this way and nice that it’s happening while we’re still a playing, functioning, living and breathing rock ‘n’ roll band.

“There are incredible musicians in that Hall of Fame, and many of them we have a very deep admiration for.

“It’s hard to put into words exactly, but it’s really special to be recognised

Good luck in the

finals Busselton

City F ootball Club!

Team Mat Moulton is proud to be involved in helping sponsor the Busselton City FC junior sides and it was great to see them in their new jerseys while on the pitch for 2025 season. I hope all teams have had a fantastic season this year and I wish the junior sides all the best for the LNJSA Cup final taking place on the 20th September. I’m very passionate about our local community so it is always a highlight helping this amazing local club and helping kids be involved in the sport.

in this way.”

Returning to play the South West reminds Hopkinson of the long, lazy summers of his youth.

“As a kid, I spent my summer holidays in Dunsborough, so these drives south always bring back great memories,” he said.

“We love playing down here!

“It’s always such a great vibe. Like any surf beach community, people down south just want to have a good time and a few drinks, and we’re more than happy to oblige with some great rock ‘n’ roll.”

But what you’ll always find at one of their gigs is four musicians who play their heart out and remain authentically You Am I.

“We’re playing better than ever,” Hopkinson said.

“We’ve had people tell us they’ll help ‘contemporise’ our sound, but it never worked.

“We’re a live show band rather than a radio band - that’s what we love and what our audience loves.”

Catch You Am I at Dunsborough Tavern on Saturday, September 20 and The River, Margaret River on Friday, September 26.

Tickets available through youami.com.au.

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

Top honours for region’s wineries

HOME OF SPORT

Hi I’m Rollo

Hi, I’m Bella

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.

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.

I’m

Shanti

Hi, I’m Bella

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.

TWO of the region’s wineries have been recognised at the 2025 Perth Royal Wine Awards, with standout producers from across Western Australia and the country awarded for their exceptional cra smanship.

A sweet-natured medium size dog (18 kgs) who has gained in confidence since coming into SAFE’s care. Shanti still shows some signs of what may have gone on in her former life by being submissive when faced with simple things like clipping on her lead, but is slowly learning that she isn’t in any trouble over actions like that. After overcoming some trust issues, Shanti now enjoys being around people and gets on well with other dogs. While she hasn’t been around children much, given her gentle nature, we believe she would fit in well with a household with children. She is good in the car and on her lead, enjoys her walks and going to the beach, but is just as happy hanging around with her humans. She is untested with cats. Shanti means peace in Hindi and her calm and gentle nature reflects this. She will make a loyal and loving family pet, that will fit into a variety of households. Her adoption fee is $650

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

Over four days of judging at Claremont Showground, a panel of 26 independent judges assessed more than 1,000 white, red, sparkling and forti ed wines, from 150 exhibitors representing the best regions of Australia.

A er careful assessment of colour, clarity, bouquet and palate, the judges awarded only the wines of the highest calibre with coveted trophies and medals.

Juniper Estate collected Best Wine of the Show and Best White Wine for their 2024 Cornerstone Karridale

Vineyard Chardonnay.

e Chardonnay also landed Juniper the e John Jens Perpetual Trophy for Best Western Australian Wine - this year renamed from the Trophy for Best WA Wine to honour one of WA’s most passionate wine advocates.

For more than 40 years, John Jens has led Australia’s largest and most comprehensive for-

mal tasting program and has been a wine writer, broadcaster and industry speaker for decades. Dunsborough’s Deep Woods Estate also had a win, taking home the Trophy for Wines of Provenance Best Red or White Varietal for their Reserve Chardonnay, 2014, 2018, 2024. Overall, 21 trophies were awarded to 16 wineries from four states.

Join us in the beautiful garden and Studio. Get in touch with nature and the passion for flowers and fauna. Definitely A love affair with Nature

Framed and Unframed Original Watercolours

Framed Original Graphite Drawings

Giclee’ Prints Sat 13th to 21st September 2025 10.00 am to 3.00pm. 46 Lindsay Drive, Willow Grove Yalyalup Busselton Mobile : 0429 958 014

Framed and Unframed Original Colour pencils

Volunteering ‘the perfect way’ to give back to locals

VOLUNTEERS have long been at the heart of Capecare, playing a vital role in enhancing the lives of its residents by o ering companionship, support, and joy in meaningful ways.

e organisation is currently seeking new volunteers for its Dunsborough aged care facility who are willing to contribute their time and energy to create positive experiences for older members of the community.

For Capecare Dunsborough volunteer Sharon, volunteering at Capecare Dunsborough has been the perfect way to give back to the community following retirement.

“I get so much joy and satisfaction by just being there and helping Capecare residents, and listening to them,” she said. “I feel like I am making a positive di erence to their lives. It is very rewarding to

help and give back to our aged community.”

Sharon recommends volunteering at Capecare

Art Sale

Dunsborough for the team environment, welcoming sta and residents who appreciate a chat and a helping hand.

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

“I feel valued by sta and very much a respected member of the team.

“Volunteering not only helps

TRISH WATERS

My practice is playful and reflects the directions of my students as they explore various ways to communicate – I build my skills in response to their needs.

the sta and residents at the facility but leaves you with a feeling of self-satisfaction by giving back to the community.”

Volunteering is not just about giving your time, it o ers a ful lling experience that provides the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills and experience the joy in brightening someone else’s day.

Capecare welcomes volunteers who have a caring nature, friendly smile and some spare time.

No prior experience is required, training and support will be provided to ensure volunteers feel con dent in their role.

If you are interested in learning more about the volunteer roles available or wish to apply please email volunteers@capecare.com. au.

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

•Painting • Ceramics • Drawing

• Art Prints • Shibori

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

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

Ian Dowling

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

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

41 Devon Drive, Margaret River

Emily Eldridge

Australian Landscape Artist

Silvia Busetto Shion Art

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

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

6 Hovea Lane, Margaret River www.shionart.it

Open 10am - 5pm

Closed Thursdays & Tuesday 23 September

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

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

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

12 Illawarra Avenue, Margaret River T: 0473 895 913

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

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

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

Caroline Juniper Screen Prints

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

The world is full of colour and beauty and kindness.

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

LESLEY MEANEY

Lauren Rudd

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

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

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

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

Christine Elston Glass Artist

Now living in Broadwater Busselton

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

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

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

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

s wel l a s in corpo ra te and pri va te h o m e s ac ros s Au s t ra l ia and th e g l o b e

Five Individual Artists

Libby-Jean Muhling

Jewellery, Mixed Media, Painting and Upcycling

'Take a walk with me through some of Western Australia's identity. From unique Flora and Fauna, to our Coastal and Outback landscapes. A vibrant, bold and captivating display of colour and texture, you will instantly recognise.'

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

KAREN SEAMAN FINE ART

Karen Seaman creates contemplative works rooted in nature and seasonal change. Drawing on four decades of practice, her paintings and sculptures invite quiet attention - evoking beauty, presence, and connection to place. Open until 6pm on weekends

DIRECTIONS: From Busselton - Follow Queen Elizabeth Drive to Payne Road, turn left onto Boallia Road and follow the signs. From Margaret River - Follow Jindong Treeton Road north, turn right onto Gale Road and follow the signs.

A Window to Dreamtime

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

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

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

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

Prize-winning film shines light on the power of music

A

FILM about a group of incarcerated women who sign up to learn an instrument and write their own songs inside Adelaide Women’s Prison has claimed the richest film prize in the country for an Australian production, taking out the $100,000 award in Busselton on Saturday night.

Songs Inside - written and directed by Shalom Almond and starring Nancy Bates - centres on the prison-based music program and the stories of the women involved, ahead of a prison performance alongside the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.

“I would like to congratulate all our incredible finalists and our 2025 winner Songs Inside,”

CinefestOZ Chair Margaret Buswell said.

“In our 18th year we are fortunate again to have a sensational cross section of filmmakers on

the Jury who together assessed each of the four finalists from a perspective of excellence in filmmaking.”

Jury Chair Frances O’Connor spoke about the decision.

“Choosing a winner from these four exceptional films was genuinely a challenging decision

as each film brought something unique and powerful, and we deeply appreciate the filmmaking, and know how hard won any film is.

“In our discussions we kept returning to stories that can make a difference in this moment and Songs Inside, which

celebrates music’s transformative power to heal and strengthen, is an emotionally powerful experience that showcases Shalom’s skillful filmmaking, beautifully weaving together the narratives of these remarkable women, and celebrating their humanity with such grace and compassion.

“We’re excited to see what this team creates next and hope this prize supports that journey.”

O’Connor also thanked the festival organisers for the invitation to take part in the annual South West event.

“It’s been a fantastic experience for us all and long may the festival and this blossoming WA film industry continue to grow!”

Songs Inside writer and director, Shalom Almond said the team was “shocked” to learn the film had won.

“It’s an honour and privilege

to be selected alongside such outstanding Australian films,” Almond said.

“Creating music and song inside prison fences brought light and meaning into such a dark place.

“For the incarcerated women involved in this project, music stripped away the identity of being a “prisoner” or a number, it allowed them to feel like a mother, a daughter, a lover, a survivor or a leader again.”

She said many of the women involved had since been released from prison.

“These women have served their time and have much to offer to our communities – if we as a society can support them to do so.

“To be awarded the CinefestOZ Film Prize feels like a testament that these women’s stories and lives matter.”

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JASON CROWE

BUNBURY (2.3.15) are through to the Women’s Grand Final a er a low scoring thriller against Busselton (1.1.7) on Saturday.

In a tight rst quarter, neither team troubled the scorers. e second quarter was heading the same way but the rst score eventually came at the 12 minute mark.

A minute later Ebony Bilcich kicked a long goal to give the Bulldogs a seven point lead at half time.

Heartbreak at home as Tigers snatch win Bulldogs take out semi final

Rain started to fall during the third term with Busselton applying plenty of pressure. Ellie Merrett marked 35m out and converted with the breeze at her back.

Bunbury went all out attack in the nal few minutes of the term, kicking a behind. e nal term had the ball parked on the members wing for nearly six minutes.

Eventually a clearance occurred, landing in the arms of Daisy Rigby who kicked the winning goal.

JASON CROWE

South Bunbury (6.12.48) won an epic second semi nal at Bovell Park on Saturday, and are the rst team into the 2025 SWFL League Grand Final.

Busselton (6.9.45) won the toss and kicked with a handy breeze, but the wind didn’t prove an advantage.

e rst goal was kicked by Ethan Nordahl, who took a mark on the goal line.

Busselton took the lead when Jozef Parkinson snapped truly, with Ryan Ekert kicking a goal a er the quarter time siren to see the home side in front by eight points.

e second quarter was a tale of two halves, with the Tigers dominating rst, Jace Cormack snapping a good goal to put the Tigers within a point.

Wallrodt took a good mark and converted to put South

Bunbury in front, and when Cormack goaled a er a relayed free kick, Tigers were two goals in front.

Eventually the Magpies pressure resulted in a good goal to Kiedis Solberg, before a free kick resulted without the ball going to the middle, as tempers started to turn. ose tempers boiled over on the stroke of half time, with the Tigers holding an eight point advantage.

e third quarter was highlighted by missed targets and turnovers, as the pressure was ramped up by both sides.

e only goal was from Creighton who goaled from 55m out, Tigers defenders claiming the ball was touched and hit the post.

e fourth term was everything you want in a nal, with strong tackles, smothers, lead changes, and an epic nish.

Cormack found space and marked, converting to put the Tigers seven points in front. is was answered by Mitchell Cameron who marked 20m out, reducing the margin to one point. Both sides had opportunities, but heroic acts from defenders saw the margin remain at one point until Tony Notte goaled, putting the Magpies in front for the rst time since the three-minute mark of the second quarter. e home side was in raptures, as the heavens opened, but a minute later there would be deafening silence as Tyson Lane ran onto a loose ball and put the Tigers back in front. ere would be no further score as the Tigers won through to the Grand Final with a three-point win.

Busselton will now face Bunbury in the preliminary nal at Hands Oval on Sunday.

Sporting sisters making headlines

AT just 15 years old, Georgiana Molloy Anglican School student Holly Kerr is galloping her way to national success in the world of equestrian sports.

Over the past three years, Holly has emerged as a standout competitor at local, state, and national levels.

Representing her school, the South West, the Margaret River Region, and Western Australia, she has built a reputation as one of the most promising young rid-

ers in the state.

Holly is a two-time member of the WA State Interschool Team and a State Champion in multiple disciplines, including Dressage, Hacking, and Showjumping.

In 2024, she represented the South West Zone at the Pony Club State Dressage Championships, where she took home wins across several classes.

Her impressive track record at the WA Interschool Championships spans multiple schools — Georgiana Molloy

Anglican School, Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, and Australian Christian College — from 2023 to 2025.

Among her many titles, she has been named Overall Champion Rural Rider (2024, 2025), Reserve Champion Overall Secondary Rider (2025), Highest Placed Individual (Years 7–9) (2023), and Overall Primary and Secondary Show Horse Champion (2025).

In 2024, Holly helped her team

achieve outstanding results in show horse, dressage, and combined training.

She secured high placements at the prestigious Marcus Oldham National Interschool Championships.

It’s not just Holly making headlines in the family.

Older sister, Hannah (17), was recently appointed Vice Captain of the 2025 WA Interschool Team.

e Kerr sisters will ride side-by-side as they represent Western Australia at the

National Championships this September, to be held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre.

O the eld, Holly is just as committed.

She volunteers with the Manna and Mercy Community Kitchen and supports various local fundraising events.

Her contributions were recognised with the Overall Junior Citizenship Award at the Margaret River Pony Club in 2023, followed by the Overall Sportsmanship Award in 2024.

NOMINATE NOW!

e Busselton Freight Rising Sports Star Award celebrates the achievements of local sports talent aged 13 to 18 within the City of Busselton. Each month, a deserving young athlete will receive $400 — and go in the running to win up to $4,000 in the annual awards.

Nominate someone who’s making a difference in their sport today - Email bfs. rss1@gmail.com

GetCareers, formerly known as The Apprentice and Traineeship Company, has evolved over four decades into one of the South West’s leading providers of training, education, and employment solutions With a strong community focus, GetCareers partners with local businesses, schools, and job seekers to create sustainable career pathways and develop skilled workforces across Western Australia

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

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