Busselton Dunsbororigh Sept 24, 2025

South West locals expanding horizons for holidaymakers

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, inhome 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 expe-

rience.

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

ey receive a report and rating that provides condence 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.”

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

Busselton biz scores two finalist spots

REVOLUTION E-Bikes has been announced as a State Finalist in the prestigious 2025 Telstra Best of Business Awards, recognised in the categories of ‘Championing Health’ and ‘Promoting Sustainability’.

e Busselton-based business was selected from a eld of more than 20,000 nominations across Australia.

e business o ers bike design, imports, sales and service of its own branded electric bikes, as well as delivering inclusive employment opportunities and free maintenance workshops.

Founder Glenn Meyer said he was proud to be acknowledged for the outlet’s commitment to improving community health and for driving environmental

outcomes.

He said the recognition was particularly meaningful because the business was nominated by its customers.

“We are humbled and proud to receive this recognition,” Meyer said.

“Being nominated by our customers makes this achievement even more special, and it is a re ection

of the passion and hard work of our entire team.

“Our mission has always been to create healthier communities and a more sustainable future, and this recognition validates that journey.”

Winners of the State Awards will be announced on October 3.

60km challenge to find alternatives to dialysis

IMAGINE spending 60 hours every month bound to a machine - that’s three sessions a week, each lasting 4-5 hours, just to stay alive.

is is daily life for 14,000 Australians on dialysis, including Dunsborough local Sarah Smith.

While 2.7 million Australians have kidney disease, most don’t realise it until it’s too late - when 90 percent of kidney function has already been lost.

is October, Sarah is walking 60km for the Red Socks Run, matching each kilometre to an hour spent on dialysis, to raise awareness and funds for research into alternatives to this life-sustaining yet life-limiting treatment.

Living with kidney disease has been Sarah’s reality since birth.

She inherited Focal Segmental Glomeruloscle-

rosis (FSGS), a condition where scarring in the kidneys’ ltering units gradually impairs their ability to function.

“My mum, sister, and nieces all have it,’ Sarah said.

“But thankfully, even though it’s hard, I’m the only one currently on dialysis.”

e silent nature of kidney disease meant Sarah had few symptoms until last August. “Many

people don’t even know they have it.

“Some might get uid retention or tiredness, but I had no symptoms until about a week before starting dialysis,” she explained.

Last August, Sarah began peritoneal dialysis at home, but complications led to a devastating battle with peritonitis and sepsis.

Annual festival connects cultures

e ancient traditions of Japan were shared across the South West this week as the annual South West Japan Festival landed in the region.

Boasting an extended program with events happening in Margaret River, Dunsborough, Busselton and at festival HQ in Bunbury, it was a showcase of music, dance, food and art for all ages.

At Yarri Restaurant and Bar, guests enjoyed a four course meal paired with sake, as well as a stirring performance from Japanese taiko drummers.

At the iconic Busselton Jetty, it was all aboard the sushi train for a one of a kind meal with a view, dancing and entertainment.

e festival celebrates the longstanding relationships between the Cities of Bunbury and Busselton, and their respective Japanese sister cities,

EXPERIENCE BOUTIQUE REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Shelter brew lands gold at Sydney Show

THE Shelter Brewing Co. team are celebrating after collecting Champion Experimental/Speciality Beer for their Caribbean Stout at the 2025 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show, and bringing home a swag of gold and silver medals from their range.

Head Brewer and Founder Jason Credaro said he was elated with the results.

“To achieve this recognition from the Sydney Royal Beer & Cider awards is really special,” he said.

“The team here at Shelter works tirelessly to produce great beer, it’s good to know we’re not the only ones that think it’s delicious!

“We have expanded our Brewers’ Series, our range of limited release beers, so it feels like reward for effort and ambition for the Caribbean Stout to win this award.”

The tropical-style stout is modelled on beers brewed in centuries past to survive long journeys by sea.

“You go to a hot, tropical region like the Caribbean, and a stout with a high ABV and strong flavour profile wouldn’t necessarily be the first choice of beer that comes to mind,” Mr Credaro said.

“It stems from when these beers had to travel long distances by sea, in hot and restless conditions.

“Brewers would bump up the alcohol level and volume of natural preservatives like hops to increase the longevity and hardiness of the beer, which resulted in new and

interesting flavour profiles.

“They became extremely popular in their local markets over time, despite the seemingly unsuitable weather conditions.

“It’s fitting that our Caribbean Stout won an award in Sydney, where it had to travel all the way from Busselton.

“Not quite a four-month voyage by sea, but still a long way!”

The Caribbean Stout is sold out at Shelter and may be available at select bottle shops in WA.

DOWN SALE

Tour operators, businesses on shortlist for awards

A LONG list of South West businesses and organisations have been named as nalists in this year’s Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards for Business Excellence.

Presented by the Tourism Council WA and now in its 53rd year, the awards celebrate innovation, customer service and experiences o ered by tourism operators across Western Australia.

“ e nalists named this year should be exceptionally proud of their contribution to the development of WA’s tourism industry and economy,” Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall said.

e region’s shortlist includes the Broadwater Resort, Busselton

Jetty, Cape to Cape Explorer Tours, Cape2Camp, the City of Busselton, Clairault Streicker Wines, Harvest Tours, Hilton Garden Inn Busselton, Mandalay Holiday Resort, the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Margaret River Discovery Co, Margaret River Region Open Studios, McLeod Tours, the Old Courthouse Complex Busselton, Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, SurfPoint Resort, and e Timothée Resort.

Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin said the City was in great company alongside other organisations on the list.

“ e City is continuing to invest in infrastructure and events to enhance experiences,

encourage repeat visitation and ensure we continue to be an attractive destination for interstate and international visitors,” he said. “ e City has successfully worked to attract and support events during the shoulder and o -peak season to smooth out seasonality of the tourism industry, stimulate the economy during the cooler months and elevate the cultural landscape.

“We are proud to be the Events Capital of WA.”

Winners will be announced on November 8 at Crown Perth, before going on to represent WA at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Fremantle in March 2026.

Venture into ancient caves, ascend historic lighthouses, soar through forest treetops, and meet majestic raptors - experience the Margaret River Region with the Capes Foundation.

Candidates must be scrutinised

THE City is heading into a pivotal local government election, with 19 candidates vying for a seat on council.

Community engagement is encouraging, but it also raises concerns about whether voters truly understand the role of a councillor—and whether every candidate is standing for the right reasons.

I speak as someone with lived experience.

I served as a Busselton councillor for four years and was re-elected for a second term. Yet three months in, I resigned.

The decision was not made lightly, but I could not, in good conscience, remain in an environment where I felt integrity, respect, and good governance were being compromised.

Integrity has always guided me. My background includes 15 years in the WA Police Force and 17 years in family and parenting support.

I have worked to address family and domestic violence and helped deliver the White Ribbon Australia initiative locally.

My commitment has always been to serve the community.

Too often, voters are misled about what a councillor can actually do.

Housing, for example, is a State government responsibility. Councils can advocate, but they cannot directly fund or deliver housing.

Yet we regularly hear campaign promises around issues that fall outside local government’s remit, creating false expectations.

Councillors also have no role in day-to-day administration. Their responsibility is to listen, represent the whole community, and make strategic decisions in the city’s best interests.

When councillors arrive with single-issue agendas, or motions are raised that are trivial, time-wasting, or beyond their authority, community trust is eroded.

We have seen too much of this in recent years, and some of the current campaign rhetoric suggests more of the same may lie ahead.

Even more troubling is when individuals or socalled community groups

resort to personal attacks, divisive rhetoric, or discriminatory commentary.

Such behaviour is entirely at odds with the compassion, inclusivity, and professionalism the role demands. It risks creating a toxic culture that alienates staff and residents alike. Our region deserves better.

We cannot afford to slip into the dysfunction that has seen other WA councils disbanded due to poor governance.

Voters must do their due diligence and background checks.

Ask candidates: Do they understand the role? Will they represent the whole community, not just a cause? Do they have the temperament to work respectfully and constructively?

The decisions of this next council will shape our city’s future. Let us elect representatives who are not only passionate, but also informed, respectful, and committed to serving with integrity.

Sue Riccelli

Former City of Busselton councillor

We’re looking for a personable, tech-savvy team member to join our friendly pharmacy.

Hours: Wednesday, Thursday & Friday. 5 hour shifts (15hrs a week)

Additional hours may be required to cover holidays.

Great fit for a semi-retired person, or anyone seeking part-time hours.

Manual drivers licence necessary.

Pharmacy 777 Busselton E: jarra.miller@pharmacy777.com.au

Leaders need a wake up call

Cansomeone give me a clear and pragmatic answer to as why we can spend $22.9 million dollars on a climate change report from the federal government and we have families in the Southwest of Western Australia living in tents in caravan parks because there is no housing available?

If you had to decide between the safety and security of your own family and net-zero, what would you do?

Foodbanks down here are imploding with demand from families who can’t pay their bills and have nowhere to live.

When someone can explain why there are no casualties in Australia net-zero ideology then I will start listening. is is why Australians are upset being lectured to by government about their obligations to future generations, when many of the current generation families are living week to week. ose in the Canberra bubble need a wakeup call. It is coming faster than they realise.

Brian Linaker, great letter (Letters, September 17)

ank you for highlighting a trend that seems to have taken root in part of our community. e last federal election saw a level of viciousness and lying that we’d not previously witnessed.

ere appears to be a coterie of obstructive and negative people currently in Council who’s objective is to stop Council from getting on with running the City. Please let’s not bring Trumpian politics to our ‘fair go’ land.”

As a reasonably long term Busselton resident of over 33 years, I have watched the town grow from cruisy to quite busy. Bussell Highway tends to have constant tra c where once there were many quiet times. While we have lights to help cross the highway, I shudder watching people try to cross with dogs or elderly in gophers. e lights at the Busselton High School feed four schools and the hospital access nearby. Could we have a pedestrian

bridge overpass somewhere here and one closer into town as well to take the load o the highway and make it safer for all foot tra c?

To quote Wikipedia, “The paradox of tolerance is a philosophical concept suggesting that if a society extends tolerance to those who are intolerant, it risks enabling the eventual dominance of intolerance;therebyundermining the very principle of tolerance.” We live in an era where the line between free speech and hate speech is beginning to blur, and this can only have dangerous implications. Democracy, we can all agree, is under a constant state of erosion, and the divide between le and right leaning ideology is only becoming greater. Where time is money, and money is time, engagement is the greatest commodity of all, and social media platforms know this better than anyone. Due to this, hate on both sides of the spectrum can easily nd a platform, and this e ect is starting to bleed from the online

world, and into the real world, with dire consequences. We are now starting to see this in our own community, and more speci cally, in the current council elections.

Hate, racism, sexism, queerphobia, bigotry, etc, should never be given a platform as it can only erode democracy, not strengthen it. It appears paradoxical in nature, but we must not tolerate the intolerant. But, if hate does nd a voice, we can not bury our heads in the sand, we must call it out for what it is. Unacceptable and archaic. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile.

I applaud those candidates who have refused to attend an election forum that includes a Neo-NAZI sympathiser.

I am disgusted that a “ratepayer group” is excusing his attendance by asserting that to deny his participation based on “opinions” would be wrong.

Holocaust denial is not just an opinion.

Contributing anti-Semitic and racist commentary to a Neo-NAZI website is not simply “opinion.” is is hate speech. It’s harmful.

e candidate in question has said all of the above and more on public record.

It is inexcusable for any ratepayer group to o er him a platform and then claim that people who oppose him should attend its forum to rebut him. Nazism is bad. It is not up for discussion. When you argue that fascists should be defeated through debate, what you are actually saying is that vulnerable minorities should have to argue endlessly for their right to exist and that at no point should the debate be considered over and won.

Making sarcastic remarks about building gas chambers in Busselton is not an opinion. Claiming that all women in politics are whores is not just an opinion.

(Mr Greig is a former senator. He introduced the rst Bill into Federal parliament to outlaw genocide, allowing for the investigation of war criminals living in Australia).

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!

Gallery hosts springtime showcase of region’s native foods & flowers

YALLINGUP Aboriginal Art Gallery will host a new exhibition to celebrate the springtime seasons of the Noongar calendar - Djilba and Kambarang.

Known as the seasons of conception and birth, the South West comes alive during these two periods, with wild owers, particularly a er the region experienced a wet Makuru season this year.

Known as the time when Wadandi families move from inland winter shelters towards the coast and enjoying an abundance of bush tucker, Djilba is represented by the colour pink, symbolising the growth of wild owers and plants. Kambarang is represented by the colour yellow, beginning with the yellow owering plants like acacias

and ending with the striking displays of the Moodjar, or Australian Christmas Tree.

With warmer weather, longer days and larger tides, the seasons mark a time of transformation, something the new exhibition aims to capture, celebrating deep cultural connections between Aboriginal art, Country, plants and foods.

Featuring works by acclaimed Utopia artists including Joycie Morton Pwerle, and talented locals Kim Kiosses, Josh Whiteland and Yvonne Bell, the showcase highlights the beauty of bush owers, bush medicine and native foods.

“Bush owers and bush foods are more than just resources,” Sara Greay, Gallery Director said.

“ ey are central to Ab-

original identity, storytelling, ceremony and survival.

“ is exhibition is an opportunity to experience the powerful ways First Nations artists express that relationship through colour, form, and symbolism.

“Our gallery is incredibly honoured to continue to provide this platform for artists to showcase their dreamtime stories.”

As well as the exhibition pieces, visitors will be able to enjoy a special display of native plants curated by the Gallery’s very own ower artisan, Jannica.

“Being our rst year it’s a small display of a variety of di erent species of banksias, wattles, everlastings, boronia, grevillea, eucalyptus & boab nuts to name a few,” Jannica said.

“Having worked with wildower displays previously, we’re very excited to see this event become an annual one, with more and more species on display.”

e exhibition opens on Saturday Sept 27 and will run until Saturday Oct 11, open 7 days a week from

10AM to 4PM.

Entry is free, and all works are available for purchase.

Yallingup Aboriginal Art is located at 3057 Caves Road Yallingup at the entrance to Yallingup Maze.

For more, visit yallingupaboriginalart.com.au

Nestled in the heart of Dunsborough, Western Australia, Toby’s Inlet Estate is redefining traditional ideas around retirement living—peaceful yet vibrant, community-driven, and effortlessly elegant. With the successful launch of Stage 1, this premier retirement village has already become the benchmark for coastal retirement in the South West. Now, the muchanticipated Stage 2 is officially open for reservations, offering more opportunities for retirees to secure their place in this sought-after estate.  Toby’s Inlet Estate is more than just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. Surrounded by pristine beaches, tranquil bushland, and vibrant local attractions, residents enjoy a relaxed yet connected retirement. Whether it’s a stroll along Meelup Beach, a round of golf at the nearby championship course, or a coffee in Dunsborough town centre, life here is both serene and engaging.  What truly sets Toby’s Inlet Estate apart is its strong sense of community. With landscaped gardens, the region’s first indoor heated swimming pool, and a residents’ clubhouse at the heart of the village, social connection, along with mental and physical wellbeing are encouraged at every turn. It’s no surprise that Stage 1 homes were quickly snapped up, with many residents praising the friendly atmosphere and seamless transition into retirement living.

Stage 2 of Toby’s Inlet Estate introduces a limited release of twelve beautifully designed homes, to be completed in September 2026 and crafted to the highest standard of comfort, functionality, and style. These low-maintenance, energy-efficient residences are tailored to suit the modern retiree, with open-plan living, quality finishes, and easy access to community facilities. Every home is designed with aging-in-place in mind, ensuring residents can enjoy independence and security for years to come. Of these first twelve homes, only 5 remain available for presale, requiring only a refundable $10,000 deposit, with no more to pay until completion date. Now is the perfect time to plan your move. This is your chance to secure a future in one of Western Australia’s finest retirement destinations— whether you’re planning to downsize, relocate, or simply enhance your quality of life.

To learn more or reserve your place in Stage 2, contact the Toby’s Inlet Estate team on 9750 5700 today and arrange a village tour to experience firsthand the charm and sophistication of this exceptional community. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something truly special in the heart of Dunsborough.

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

From Page 3“I spent 11 weeks in Royal Perth ghting for my life with only a 20 percent chance of surviving,” Sarah recalled.

Now recovered, she visits St John of God’s renal ward in Busselton three times a week for haemodialysis treatments.

e impact of dialysis on daily life is signi cant.

As a hairdresser in Dunsborough for 20 years, Sarah’s working hours are now restricted.

“It’s nancially draining because you can’t work normal hours, and dialysis isn’t classed as a disability - so there’s no government support available.”

Each session leaves Sarah exhausted.

“A er dialysis, it’s like I’ve run a marathonheadaches, body aches, the works!

“ e uid restrictions are tough, too. I’m only allowed one litre of uid daily, including high-water-content fruits and vegetables.

“Ice cubes are my best friend.”

Her only hope at this stage lies in the possibility of a kidney transplant.

“I’m hoping to get back on the transplant list now that I’ve recovered from complications.

“If this happens and the kidney takes, I won’t have to do dialysis anymore, which would be wonderful - I can’t even imagine.”

Despite these challenges, Sarah nds inspiration in her fellow patients.

“Every time I turn up, the same six people are there, all with big smiles.

ey’re warriors to me, all ghters.

“A er nearly losing my life, I want to do everything I can to help them.”

Walking alongside her husband and 18-year-old son, Sarah is channelling that ghting spirit into the challenge.

“We have until the end of October to complete the 60km. I may be only able to walk, but every step counts.”

Sarah’s motivation comes from thinking about future generations.

“ is might not bene t me, but my nieces are in their early twenties.

If we can prevent them and their children from needing dialysis, it will all be worth it.”

Her message is clear: Get tested early.

“When you visit your doctor, ask for a kidney health check.

“It’s easy and non-invasive. You can slow down the progression of kidney disease with medications and lifestyle changes, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity. is simple test could save your life.”

With 1,800 Australians currently waiting for kidney transplants and only 36 percent of Australians registered as organ donors - of which only 53 percent of families honour these wishesSarah hopes her story will inspire more people to consider organ donation.

“One donor can save up to seven lives. It’s a gi beyond measure.”

Support Team Smithy in the Red Socks Run at fundraise.kidney.org. au/event/red-socksrun-2025/home

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

REFRESH YOUR WINDOW FURNISHINGS

Revitalise your space with new curtains, blinds, shutters or sheers to create a home that feels bright, calm and ready for the season.

HOBSONS CARPET COURT

124 Strelly St, Busselton P 9752 2555

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

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

AND BE AWARE OF THE WILDLIFE ON THE ROAD OUT

Bringing premium outcomes to your neighbourhood.

Another one sold by Jason Dragstra

What

DOWDEN

David James

Younger son of Margaret and Bill (dec). Brother of Michael. Father of Angus and Archie. Partner of Phyu. Uncle of Sam, Remy and Mia. Good friend to many. Passed away suddenly on 17.09.2025 - aged 54 years.

David's Funeral Service was held yesterday, 23.09.2025 at William Barrett and Sons in Busselton.

The family would like to thank all medical staff and all his friends for their support at this very sad time. RIP David

DRAPER

Sarah Petula

20.9.1979 - 6.9.2025

Beloved daughter of Petula and Keith. Adored partner of Mandy, Cherished sister of Claire.

Aunty Soz to Carrie (dec), Bree, Paris, Willow and Kelsey.

In accordance with her wishes a private funeral has been held.

ROBINSON

Peter "Wheels"

Passed away 16.09.2025 at Busselton Hospice. You are free to surf and ride again.

The Funeral will be held on 03.10.2025 at Gepgraphe Bay Yacht Club at 2pm.

Thank You

Care Team who gave such wonderful care to Mark. Dearly loved and forever in

MANURE

CLASSIFIEDS

(Inc) will be held at the Geographe Bay Yacht Club THURSDAY 16 OCTOBER 2025COMMENCING AT 5.30PM Agenda: 5pm Welcome and sign in 5.30pm AGM Minutes, Reports, Board member elections and special announcements 6.30pm

Single point decides grand final

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 nals.

e match had ve lead changes, and despite being close throughout, scores were only level once – at the 24 minute mark of the nal 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 ag.

In a tight rst term, it was Blaine Johnson who would score rst, 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 a er 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, a er 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 rst quarter, Busselton would have a shot a er the siren, with Ryan Ekert giving Busselton some momentum going into half time. at 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 ve 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 een points at three quarter time, the Tigers reduced the margin back to four points at the nine minute mark of the last quarter.

A er this time, Busselton scored a behind to lead by ve points, before the Tigers dominated the nal half of the quarter, but couldn’t nd the major opening.

e 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.

Hi, I’m Bella

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 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.

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.

City calls for nominations for annual sports awards

THE City of Busselton has opened nominations for its 2025 Sports Awards, which will be held on Monday October 27.

The awards bring together the community to celebrate the achievements of the region’s athletes, clubs and sporting associations, recognising recognise individuals and organisations who have made significant contributions to sport within the City, demonstrating outstanding performance, leadership and commitment to community sport.

“Sport plays a vital role in strengthening community connections, promoting health and wellbeing, and in-

spiring the next generation,”

Mayor Phill Cronin said.

“The City’s annual Sports Awards provide an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and success of our local athletes, coaches, volunteers and clubs who make such an important contribution to our community.

“We encourage everyone in the community to consider nominating anyone they think is worthy of recognition.”

Nominations are open until 13 October 2025 with categories recognising a wide range of achievements across all levels of sport.

For more information visit www.busselton.wa.gov. au/community

Mates tackle track on tandem bicycle

MARGARET River resident Johno Dane is joining his mate Kenny for a special bike ride aimed at raising funds and awareness to help protect the forests of the South West.

The pair will take on the 1067km Munda Biddi trail on a tandem bicycle - making their way from Mundaring to Albany over a 3-week period.

Their goal is to raise funds to support the Western Australian Forest Alliance’s campaigns to protect forests from threats across the South West.

“The more time we spend exploring Western Australia, the deeper our connection grows to this special part of the world, and the more we become aware of the challenges it faces: loss of biodiversity, climate change, forest mining, out of date prescribed burning practices, and more,” Kenny Ruellot said.

The pair say they plan to have conversations along the way with fellow riders and on social media about the value of protecting WA’s forests for people and nature.

“We want to see these special places protected,” Johno said.

“WA’s nature has given so much to the two of us, and we feel a deep responsibility to protect it in return. We’re doing our part to protect them in tandem.”

Johno was born and raised on the Sunshine Coast/Gubbi Gubbi Country, but now calls Margaret River/Wadandi Country home.

The adrenaline seeker enjoys hiking, skiing, climbing and paragliding, and became friends with Frenchborn Kenny through a shared love of adventure, and the outdoors.

From the heights of the Stirling Ranges Ridge Walk

to the depths of Kalbarri Gorges along the Murchison River, their friendship grew, along with their love for WA’s natural beauty.

Every year in September, the duo continue their tradition of discovering different parts of WA together, with the journey continuing along the Munda Biddi Trail.

“As part of our ride, we will be cycling through the Northern Jarrah Forests, part of the Southwest biodiversity hotspot, an area under threat from almost every angle.

“These forests are irreplaceable, and once mined, cannot be rehabilitated.

“Further stress from a hotter, drier climate and depleting groundwater only make it harder for this forest to survive.

To follow the tandem-bike ride and donate to their cause, visit two-mates-onebike.raiselysite.com