Found magazine 01

autumn/winter

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the bunbury geographe magazine

RICH PICKINGS Find your own harvest heaven in Donnybrook’s bountiful orchards

PRIZE-WINNING PLATES Eat like kings and queens in Bunbury’s most innovative eateries

CHAIN GANG Hit the region’s mountain biking trails with the world’s best riders

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

WEDDINGS, DIAMONDS AND ONE OF A KIND DESIGNS SM A L E S L AU NC HE S NEW COLLECTI ON

Smales Jewellers are renowned for their exclusive Hearts on Fire diamonds, luxury watches and bespoke designs. Established in Kalgoorlie in 1937 the brand has been one of the most trusted West Australian luxury jeweller for more than 80 years.

The Bunbury showroom on Prinsep Street includes loose diamonds collections, pink diamonds, an array of beautiful Hearts on Fire diamonds.

For those who love pinks.

Pink diamonds are the rarest and most precious diamonds in the world, sought after and worn by those who have an appreciation for unique beauty. ‘“The East Kimberley Argyle Diamond mine is the only consistent source of natural pink diamonds and it represents approximately 90% of all pink diamonds found in the world. We are lucky to have these diamonds sourced on our doorstep” Mr Smales said.

smales.com.au Subiaco 08 9382 3222 Bunbury 08 9791 1622 Geraldton 08 9921 7960 Kalgoorlie 08 9021 2321 Karratha 08 9185 4051

Editor’s Letter

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FOUND the bunbury geographe magazine

Published by PREMIUM PUBLISHERS 26 John Street Northbridge Perth WA 6003 (08) 9273 8933 EDITOR Gabi Mills gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au DESIGNER Cally Browning cally@barecreative.com.au

I’m so glad you FOUND us Congratulations - you’re holding the very first edition of the Bunbury Geographe region’s new magazine, FOUND. We’ve loved putting this very special publication together over the past few months, and we hope you’ll enjoy finding out all about this very special part of the world.

FOUND is the outcome of a brand journey with the Bunbury Geographe Tourism Partnership and Juice Box Creative. It’s a journey that’s allowed us to find and get lost in the offerings of a region that, frankly, we knew very little about. No more! Our journalists have travelled far and wide to unearth the gems of a fabulous region we like to call BunGeo. So whether you’re in BunGeo for a couple of days, a few hours or longer, we’re sure you’ll find something that will surprise and delight you. There’s plenty of room to explore, to go off the beaten track and to discover for yourself the treats and unique facets of the region.

Make sure you make time to enjoy some of the incredible foodie experiences on offer - from coffee, cake and the very best true blue Aussie pies to something a bit more sophisticated at one of the region’s top eateries. There are some very creative winemakers at work in the region too - drop by and try for yourself some very unusual varietals.

If you love the great outdoors, we’ve got that covered too with a special focus on mountain biking, and, if you’ve got little ones in tow, some suggestions of where to stay where farm animals are very much part of the package.

Art plays a huge role in BunGeo and at this time of year, you’ll find exhibitions showcasing local craftwork, the richest art prize in Australia in Collie and rotating shows at BRAG, Bunbury’s perfectly pink art gallery.

There are heaps of local events always on the go too - check out our helpful what’s on collection to see if you can join in the fun while you’re in our ‘hood.

Blessed with extraordinary coastlines, farmland vistas, ancient tuart forests and mighty rivers, you’ll barely scratch the surface with just the one visit to BunGeo. But hey, that’s fine. Perfect excuse for a return visit, right?

Happy reading,

Gabi 4

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FOUND | autumn • winter 2018

COVER IMAGE Model Sarah Hardcastle (Scene Model Management)

by Bianca Turri Photography

SALES MANAGER Natalie du Preez (0426 752 352) natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au PHOTOGRAPHIC ASW - Frances Adrijich, Dixon and Smith, Taj Kempe, Sheridan Lee, OK Media, Overland Media, Next Jen Creative, Johanna Resta, Bianca Turri Photography.

CONTRIBUTORS Dianne Bortoletto, Norman Burns, Cassandra Charlick, Tom de Souza, Brooke Evans-Butler, Fergal Gleeson, Anita Hurst, Jennifer Morton, Lizzy Pepper, Janine Pittaway, Lily Yeang.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au All rights reserved. No material published in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written authority. Every endeavour is made to ensure information contained is correct at time of going to print. ©2018 FOUND is published bi-annually by Premium Publishers on behalf of the Bunbury Geographe Tourism Partnership.

Visit premiumpublishers.com.au. Printed by Vanguard Press.

@visitbunburygeographe

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS visitbunburygeographe.com.au

bunburyforum.com.au

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the bunbury geographe magazine 4 8 18 22

Welcome What’s on and what’s new 48 hours in . . . Bunbury Bag a bargain in Balingup

ART & CULTURE

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24 26 28 30

In the pink Journey back in time A stitch in time Art magnet

FOOD & DRINK

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‘A’ is for apple Dark horse dining Alt-drops Bravado brews Pie-eyed Time for a pit stop

ADVENTURE & NATURE

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Mountain bike fever Animal-loving accommodation

DESTINATIONS

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Bunbury Donnybrook-Balingup Dardanup-Ferguson Valley Capel region Collie River Valley Boyup Brook region Harvey region

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DIRECTORY Bunbury Geographe map

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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events

AUTUMN | WINTER

/ MARCH / Saddle up More than 2,000 leading BMX competitors will descend on Bunbury for the 2018 National Championships in March.

The six-day event, held at the Bunbury BMX Track, will feature warm-up sessions, heats and finals. The event will also be a chance for a large local crowd to cheer on home-town hero Lauren Reynolds, who is a dual Olympian and former Oceania BMX champion. // BMX National Championships, March 19 to 25, Bunbury BMW Club, Eelup Rotary, Withers. Visit bmxaustralia.com.au

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Bring your appetite Head to BunGeo this Easter Long Weekend as the Bicentennial Square is taken over for a food and wine fiesta.

Sample delicious food, relax on the lawn with a glass of wine listening to live music, or take in a game of croquet.

// Bunbury Food & Wine Festival, Bicentennial Square, March 31. Visit events. ticketbooth.com.au/event/ bunbury-food-wine-festival

Core values Now in its 64th year, this popular festival celebrates Donnybrook’s close relationship with the apple and orchards with with produce displays, fruit stalls, log chops, face painting, pony rides, agricultural and machinery displays, wine

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

tastings, free children’s activities, live music, animal exhibits, street parade, Sideshow Alley, market stalls and a spectacular fireworks display. // Donnybrook Apple Festival, Donnybrook, March 31 to April 1. Visit donnybrookapplefestival.com

Don’t miss in March . . .

Harvey Harvest Festival, an annual event celebrating all things Harvey – food, wine, local produce, entertainment and more. // Harvey, March 18, visit harveyfest.com.au Tree Street Art Safari, a free community event through the Tree Street area of Bunbury.

This self-guided walking trail takes you through a unique area of Bunbury where artists, designers and makers live and work. // Bunbury, March 24, 10am to 5pm XXXX Gold Bunbury Cup, March 25 - A week of racing action climaxing with the south west’s premier horse racing event, the Bunbury Cup. // Visit bunburyturfclub.com.au Bunbury City Classic Triathlon, Bunbury, March 25 - this event will be the State Standard Distance Championship and is also a qualifying race for the Age Group Team for the 2018 ITU

World Championship that will be held on the Gold Coast in September. //Visit triserieswa. com.au/bunbury/

/ APRIL / The good life celebrated The theme for the 2018 Balingup Small Farm Field Day is ‘Small farms. Big ideas’, and is an event that showcases all aspects of small farming; caring for the land and animals, growing trees and food, cooking with fresh local ingredients and creating fashion and crafts

with natural products. Over 300 stalls, information booths, demonstrations and featured speakers give everyone an opportunity to learn how to live the ‘good life’ away from the city. // Balingup Small Farm Field Day, Balingup Sports Oval, April 21, 9am to 4pm. Visit balingupsmallfarmfieldday. com.au

The Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre Open 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday

tells the unique stories of how the South West’s regional centre was developed, and the colourful characters who made it the vibrant port city that it is today.

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Phone: (08) 9792 7283 1 Arthur Street, Bunbury museum@bunbury.wa.gov.au www.bunburymuseum.com.au

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events AUTUMN | WINTER

Speed demons One of the world’s biggest daredevil events will ignite Bunbury in April.

Nitro Circus features an allstar international rider line-up and Donnybrook legend Josh Sheehan. You’ll see huge tricks and unbelievable world firsts as they take action sports to new heights. // Nitro Circus, April 25.

Visit nitrocircus.com/tourinfo/2018-next-level-tour-ofaustralia Ready, set, go Australia’s elite athletes including Australia’s fastest sprinters – Trae Williams and Riley Day – will chase a $78,000 prize pool at the inaugural Bunbury Geographe Gift. Modelled on the famous Stawell Gift, there is a massive $18,000 up for grabs for both male and female winners of the elite 120m handicap event.

The Gift will feature a two-day programme of races enhanced by a series of activities to cater for every member of the family. // WesTrac Bunbury Geographe Gift, April 28 and 29. Visit bunburygeographegift.com.au

Don’t miss in April . . .

Great South West Bed Race, April 7, Bicentennial Square, Bunbury - entertaining day of fancy dress and elite athleticism rolled into 2.3kms of competitive bed-racing, all to race money for cancer and cardiac services in the south west. // Visit greatsouthwestbedrace. org.au Boyup Brook Pumpkin Festival, April 7 - celebrating harvest time with this community event.

/ MAY / Race ready One of Western Australia’s most prestigious road bike races set in the Collie River Valley. A two-day event including a criterium on one of the safest and fastest courses followed by a

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HBF Bunbury 3 Waters Running Festival, April 8 inclusive running event for all-comers. // Visit bunburyrunnersclub. org/3-waters-marathon/ Volley by the Bay and Australian Junior Beach Volleyball Championships, April 21 to 29 - Australia’s emerging beach volleyball players press their claims as this country’s future stars in U17, U19 and U23 age divisions. // Visit volleyballwa.com.au

traditional road race. // The Element Road Racing Series: Tom Lowry Memorial Road Race, May 5 and 6, visit element.asn.au/the-series/ Moovin’ to the music Groovin the Moo’s 2018 lineup is as full as your nanna’s knitting bag - and believe you and me, that’s pretty full.

Weaving its way into six

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

An Interview with . . .

Marina Prior and David Hobson

By CASSANDRA CHARLICK

H

itting Western Australia in May for a whirlwind tour, don’t miss the chance to catch Marina Prior and David Hobson up close and personal on stage at BREC like never before in their new show, The 2 Of Us. “We do our solos and our duets but we also love the fact that we strip away the mask and we become ourselves,” says Marina.

“I think that that’s what the audiences are really responsive to as well.”

From her first big break as Mabel in Pirates Of Penzance in 1983 to being recognised as the first lady of musical theatre, Marina wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I think one of the nicest things I have found, and

David would agree (as he is a hell of a lot older than me!), is becoming a so-called ‘veteran’,” she says. “One of the things I am most proud of is the longevity of our careers.”

Household names since their first professional union treading the boards in The Pirates of Penzance Hobson and Prior have gone on to give life to some of musical theatre and opera’s most loved productions and roles.

Still recognised for her iconic performance in Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of The Opera, Marina has since gone on to have an illustrious career effortlessly switching between stage and screen.

Young audiences have grown up with both of them on the annual Carols by

Marina has a folk background.

She grew up singing Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, The Seekers-type music so that’s part of the show too. We have a Celtic and folk heritage and a great love of the music so that’s almost our most favourite part of the show when we get together - it’s like we are a band.”

The two are no strangers to Western Australia’s stages.

“We have both been to Bunbury and other venues in the state before. It’s great over there, I love WA,” says Marina.

Be sure not to miss two of Australia’s most loved performers for a night filled with both fantastic talk and memorable music, accompanied by renowned pianist David Cameron in a twohour intimate performance this Autumn. // The 2 of Us, Bunbury Entertainment Centre, May 12.

Visit bunburyentertainment.com

Candlelight each year, and in 2006 she was honoured with an induction to Australia’s top 100 Entertainers of the century.

It is the chance to reveal less familiar sides of their musical backgrounds that this ultimate performer is really excited about for audiences to discover.

“They are used to seeing us in character or at least in much more formal settings. This show gives us the opportunity to chat and to laugh and we have a spontaneity, we have a lot of fun. Audiences don’t often expect the humour,” she says.

“I think the audiences don’t expect the Celtic music and the folk music, us playing guitars, and that seems to be something that they universally have embraced. That diversity.”

Diversity it is indeed, agrees David.

“I come from a rock/pop background as well as classical and music theatre, and similarly

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events AUTUMN | WINTER

from powerhouse duo Royal Blood (UK) and heaps of other artists to discover. // Groovin’ the Moo, Hay Park, (off) Parade Road, Bunbury, May 12. Visit gtm.net.au

regions around Australia over three consecutive weekends, Groovin the Moo (GTM) throws open the gates on its final spot in Bunbury for a huge day of country hospitality, incredible music and seriously fun times.

GTM is about the journey, the destination and the experience - as well as the music of course.

The 2018 line-up has something for everyone – from those you’ve only just discovered, like Alex Lahey, to artists you and your entire family love like Paul Kelly.

There’s a shedload who did very well in the triple j Hottest 100 including Vera Blue, Baker

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Boy, Ball Park Music, Winston Surfshirt and a handful who’ve been on tour with GTM in years gone by.

Join in the unique Moo fun by welcoming a stack of guests heading from faraway lands to

our island home. Lady Leshurr (UK), Aminé (USA), Duke Dumont (UK) and Claptone (Germany) will keep your feet moving. There’ll be epic singalongs with Portugal. The Man (USA), face melting rock

Hart beat Hart, a one-man verbatim theatre piece about the lived experiences of the Stolen Generation survivors and the ongoing effects experienced

by Indigenous Australians, is a must-see show. Using testimonials, Noongar man Ian Michael invites you to listen to the silenced stories of his country. Throughout Australia’s history, an unknown number of Indigenous children have been forcibly removed from their families. Parents driven mad, grandparents heartbroken, siblings torn apart, language lost, and culture stripped away.

Hailing from Bunbury, Ian is excited to share these stories with his home town. // Hart, BREC, May 3, 7.30pm.

Visit bunburyentertainment.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Immerse yourself in a world of entertainment!

bunburyentertainment.com

2018

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com Monster show Frank’s a lonely guy who wants to make his imaginary friends real. Harnessing electricity from a storm he animates his world with nothing but his imagination and a cardboard box. Battling a physical impairment, Frank creates monsters to fulfill his desire to be normal and to be accepted by others. Can he control what he creates?

And who is the real monster anyway? Frank Enstein is a retelling of the classic tale for children and adults – magical dance-theatre illuminating a path to self-acceptance.

It’s a combination of magic and dance in an emotionally

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provocative show for the child in all of us. // Frank Enstein, May 16, 7pm, BREC. Visit bunburyentertainment.com

Don’t miss in May . . .

Dardanup Arts Spectacular, May 4 to 13 - head to Dardanup for the annual art exhibition and art trail of local and outside artists. Beautiful scenery, talented artisans, amazing food and awardwinning wine and beer. // Visit dardanupartspectacular. com.au Balingup Art & Craft Affair, May 12, 10am to 4pm - for another art hit visit the art and craft fair in Balingup, with local artists and craftspeople displaying their work.

/ JUNE / Wild things Euripides’ 2,500-year-old tragedy tells the legend of the Bakkhai, a group of wild and strange women accompanying Dionysos, the god of wine, as he returns to his birthplace, bearing a grudge and heralding change. Vahri McKenzie and the creative team that produced 2015’s sellout production of Lysistrata, together with BREC and local community members, reimagine the story in the South West through powerful voice, movement and imagery. This is timeless theatre reflecting the limits of freedom and the price of control.

// Bakkhai, June 15 and 16, 7pm, BREC. Visit bunburyentertainment.com Raw talent Sydney Dance Company presents its brand new contemporary dance work, ab [intra]. This full-length work

by Rafael Bonachela is the first since his epic international masterpiece 2 One Another and the critically acclaimed Project Rameau in collaboration with the Australian Chamber Orchestra. Intra will be made by drawing on the gut reactions and human connections of the Company’s 16 dancers and feature original music by Nick Wales.

Driven by impulse and

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Balingup “Experience the Magic” Come and experience Balingup’s events:

BALINGUP SMALL FARM FIELD DAY 21st April 2018

themes of existence, this visceral new piece will showcase the raw energy and sensual agility of Australia’s best contemporary dancers. // Sydney Dance – ab [intra], June 20, 7.30pm, BREC. Visit bunburyentertainment.com

promoters. The event caters for all ages and abilities – from WA’s elite cycling fraternity through to the weekend warriors, who are keen to race their mates and test their skills on a state level course. // Visit wamba.org.au

Don’t miss in June . . .

/ JULY /

Targa Bunbury Sprint June 23 and 24 - the best car action in the south west. This free event brings the spectacle of tarmac rally cars to the centre of Bunbury and Halifax with racing action, show and shine and much more. Check out Holdens, Fords, Porsches, EVOs, WRXs, Mustangs, and Escorts in action. // Visit targabunburysprint.com.au WA XCO Mountain Bike Series, June 17 and July 8 the WA Cross Country State Series consists of seven (7) races organised by various WA mountain bike clubs and

Wheel spinners Watch dirt fly as the Kirup Stages Rally spins into action.

The event, which used to be known as the Lewana Stages as it used the Lewana tree plantation, is a popular part of the Rally WA season. One of the favourite stages in Lewana wound its way around terraces cut into the hillside. At night the lights of several cars could be seen weaving their way through the forest on their way to the valley floor.

For the best part of a decade the Kirup Rally has used roads in the Grimwade tree plantation near Balingup.

BALINGUP FARM TO TABLE TOUR + LUNCH 22nd April 2018

12th May 2018

BALINGUP ART AFFAIR 12th May 2018 TELLING TALES IN BALINGUP CHILDREN’S STORY TELLING FESTIVAL 7th and 8th July

Balingup Medieval Carnivale 25th-26th August 2018

db ad is| proudly | This autumn •sponsore winter 2018 FOUND

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Balingup Progress Association www.balingup.asn.au/

events AUTUMN | WINTER

Pan and Captain Hook.

Balingup locals love the opportunity to dress-up, get into character and join in the fun. The local community will once again be encouraged prior to this year’s event to participate fully in this way.

Dressing up and having fun is of course not only for the children and the locals; accompanying adults can naturally join in the fun too. // Balingup Telling Tales, July 7 and 8. Visit tellingtalesinbalingup.com.au

/ AUGUST / The special stages have a good mix of fast and flowing as well as tight and twisty sections.

Traditionally a winter event, the roads can be challenging when the heavy rains set in. For 2018, the rally has been moved back to late July - but nevertheless, be prepared for some adrenaline-pumping action. // Rally WA Kirup Stages Rally, July 7. Visit rallyaction.com. au/rally-wa/

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Story time Balingup Telling Tales has been introducing kids to the brilliance of books and reading for the past eight years and this year’s event promises to be as involving as ever. It’s an annual children’s literacy and storytelling event for school-aged children (from four to 14 years) in beautiful Balingup. A host of published WA authors and illustrators will present interactive workshops to audiences throughout the weekend while the parade of much-loved book characters includes the Queen of Hearts, Peter

Silver screen legends Set in the beautiful locations of Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River, CinéfestOZ Film Festival presents a sensational lineup of events featuring new Australian and French films.

CinefestOZ sees film premieres, international stars, local food, beer and wine converge in WA’s south west. Watch as the City of Bunbury comes to life during the festival, with special red carpet galas, numerous film screenings, quirky side bars, fun community events and delicious In Conversations (where film Q&As meet local cuisine). This year expect more intimate, unique and

spectacular venues across Bunbury to host these immersive screenings and festivities. // CinéfestOZ, various locations, from August 22 to 26. Visit cinefestoz.com Ye olde weekend of fun Dress up and step back in time with a weekend full of medieval colour and family fun at the Balingup Medieval Carnivale.

The event begins on Friday night with the medieval feast while the carnivale opens on Saturday with music and dance, medieval combat and horseback archery. There’s a grand parade each day and the burning of the dragon on Saturday night. With over 100 variety stalls including local food produce and regional wines, there’s plenty to see and do.

Balingup Medieval Carnivale, // August 25 and 26. Visit balingupmedievalcarnivale. com.au

Don’t miss in August . . .

The Element Road Racing Series Collie to Donnybrook and Return Cycling Classic, August 18 - The Collie to Donnybrook and Return Cycling Classic is one of Australia’s road cycling classics, rich in tradition and raced over a tough and challenging course. // Visit element.asn.au/the-series/

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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Region in style in a 1968 convertible Mustang. New in town, Pop a Cork Tours are available seven days a week for wine tours with a complimentary pick-up and drop-off services // Visit popacorktours. business.site

The Foodey Collective A gorgeous little coffee shop has opened in the beautiful Tree Street area of Bunbury.

We regularly consume their very well priced and delicious Bondi chia with almond milk.

Sweet-toothed folk will love their raspberry crackles. Get healthy and grab a salad of the day – think pesto-coated broccoli, sweet potato and free range chicken salad on a bed of greens, topped with honey roasted macadamias and a fresh slice of lemon Rushed off your feet and struggling with dinner options?

Don’t panic – they also offer a meal service. // Visit foodey.com.au Pop a Cork Tours Tour the Geographe Wine

Amity and Unity With winter coming it’s time to add a bit of glamour warmth to the wardrobe with Amity & Unity. The new Bunbury label offers sublime fur and silk jackets, vest, boleros and more.

These are investment pieces that will bless your wardrobe year in year out. Check out their Instagram page for inspiration instagram.com/amityandunity/ // Visit amityandunity.com Hello Summer Beach Kiosk A few months after the Koombana Bay redevelopment, the Hello Summer Beach Kiosk has re-opened bigger and better including fabulous wall art by Troy Bennell. Let a barista prepare you a Yahava coffee while you watch dolphins swimming by. // Visit facebook.com/pg/ beachkiosk

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Got a couple of days to spare? Lose yourself in Bunbury and discover one of the south west’s most vibrant towns.

48 hours in . . .

BUNBURY DAY ONE PERTH TO BUNBURY Say goodbye to Perth and drive south to Bunbury on Forrest Highway. Allow 1 hour, 45 minutes to 2 hours.

Where to stay Check into Mantra Bunbury.

Located on the historic Bunbury Waterfront, forming part of the prestigious wheat silos development, with views over Koombana Bay, and only a five-minute walk from Bunbury’s CBD. It features 67 studio and deluxe studio rooms, two and three-bedroom apartments, an indoor heated pool, tennis courts and the Hussh Body and Soul Day Spa. 18

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Sundowners Start your night with a cocktail at Sala Wine Lounge and Kitchen, the Best Regional Small Bar at the 2017 WA Small Bar Awards. The old maritime warehouse is now a cosy 1920s prohibition-themed bar with an impressive bespoke cocktail list and OMG tapas.

Table for two Your next stop is Market Eating House in Victoria Street, described as a ‘destination restaurant’ – it’s the sort of place you plan your weekend around. The food is sublime, the service sensational, and the atmosphere relaxed and cosy. Before returning to his hometown of Bunbury, co-owner (with his talented

wife Bec) Brenton Pyke was the head chef of George Calombaris’ Little Press & Cellar in Melbourne, and Perth small bar Andaluz. Put your faith in the kitchen and order the Feed Me or Feed Me More menu – who doesn’t like a surprise?

DAY TWO RISE AND SHINE! Be at one with nature You have three options to get up close to nature in Bunbury the City of 3 Waters: Welcome the day with an 8.30am SUP Bunbury PaddleBoard and yoga class (by Treehouse Yoga) in Koombana Bay where you will have the opportunity to explore yourself through yoga

and enjoy the healing aspects of nature. Bring sunscreen, hat and comfy clothes. Be reminded you may end up landing a pose in the water.

Or why not get up close with the dolphins of Koombana Bay on an 8am Dolphin Discovery Centre swim tour? Accompanied by an experienced guide and trained volunteers you will venture into the open waters of Koombana Bay. Depending on dolphin sightings you will be guided into the water where the dolphins may elect to initiate interaction with you and your fellow swimmers. As they are wild dolphins interaction cannot be guaranteed. You’ll be supplied a wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins.

Bring a waterproof camera. visitbunburygeographe.com.au

and Empire Rose, just to name a few) as well as talented up-and-coming designers to discover.

Seek out their collection of ByHelo jewellery. Canadianborn, now Bunbury local, Heloise Fitzpatrick makes superb architecturally influenced designer pieces.

In the pink Argyle pink diamonds are rare

and highly collectable treasures, competitively sought after by investors, jewellers, celebrities and those simply seeking a truly irreplaceable heirloom.

Almost 90% of pink diamonds have been found at the Argyle Diamond mine in the Kimberley region of Western Australia over the past three decades.

Argyle pink diamonds are so rare that of every million carats of rough diamonds produced at the mine, a mere one carat is suitable for sale. For this reason, it is perhaps the most sought-after diamond in the world, fetching up to 100 times the value of an equivalent white diamond. In the past, these diamonds were only available to a very fortunate few, however with Blush ranges now available from as little as $1,900 more people can become an owner of one of these rare stones.

With the Argyle diamond mine expected to cease operation within the next eight to 10 years, demand for pink

LONG AND LAZY DAYS Head south and throw yourself into discovering what #BG has to offer. Make Bunbury your base and you’ll find shopping, food and drink and art galore.

If you prefer not to get your feet wet, join the 10.30am Dolphin Discovery Centre’s Dolphin Eco Cruise tour in Koombana Bay. Dolphins can be seen frolicking, playing, sleeping and feeding. The informative commentary from the skipper of the boat will also keep you updated throughout the cruise.

A group of around 100 to 150 dolphins are regularly seen in the bay and surrounding waters. Approximately 20 to 40 of these are considered residents of Koombana Bay, and there is a group of five or six dolphins that regularly visit the

public interaction zone, with as many as 16 dolphins known to have visited at any one time.

Time for a pit stop Seek out a turmeric latte, coldpressed juice or Mano a Mano coffee from boutique coffee house and cafe, Townhouse Bunbury in Victoria Street. If the sun is shining, head to their banging backyard featuring wall murals by local artists.

Shop til you drop Victoria Street is full of little boutique stores that are big on style.

Start at Sabotage. You’re destined to do some damage here, with leading Australian labels everywhere - think Assembly Label, Stevie May, Neuw Denim, One Teaspoon, Stitch & Hide, Ltb Denim, Shona Joy, Rolla’s Denim Gysette, Kiss Chacey, Damselfly Candles, Fallen Broken Street, Valley Eyewear and more.

Life and Soul Boutique has some of our favourite brands (Auguste, Arnhem, Nobody Denim, Camilla & Marc, MLM, Alice McCall, Asilio, Lilya, Thurley, Once Was, Infamous Friends, Superga, Nakedvice |

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diamonds has never been higher. If you’re interested in pink diamonds either as an investment or featured in handcrafted jewellery, visit Smales Jewellers Bunbury where a collection of blush ranges and pinks are available.

Mention Found Magazine at Smales Jewellers Bunbury and receive 10% off any diamond purchase. Just call 08 9791 1622.

Old and new For uber cool vintage finds, 3ciana is the place to go.

Unearth pre-loved designer clothing, accessories, furniture and gifts.

Next door is The Green Depot, a green jungle in the

middle of the CBD. Owner Kim Rossiter has transformed an old workshop into an urban nursery.

Green Depot is a wonderland of green with dozens of leafy plants cascading from the walls and ceiling.

Behind is Maker + Co COLLECTIVE - a store with a difference. Local artists, artisans and ethical traders work together and exhibit their wares in an iconic CBD warehouse location. This store boasts an eclectic collection of art, clothing, designs, prints, creations and ethical products.

The variety in products and the range of pricing means everyone can bring something local home or give a unique and meaningful gift.

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Just off Victoria Street, Essence Bunbury is also worth a visit. Next door, men aren’t forgotten at Brooklyn for Men which stocks everything from a Jimmy Stuart blazer to NanaJudy streetwear.

Source beautiful children’s clothing, gifts and toys at Kiss Chasee for babies to eight-year-olds. Emma, a mother-of-four, has created a divine collection with a strong emphasis on organic clothing and products. From Bebe, Coco and Ginger, to Melbournebased brand Designer Kidz, you’ll be oooh-ing over the super-cute products.

Time for a late lunch Grab a quick bite to eat at Cafe

140. Their ramen with extra chilli on the side will cure any side effects from last night’s antics.

Then slip through the side door for the best organic, hand-rolled donuts in the region from the Bread and Butter Wood Fire Bakery. Make sure you also pick up one of their organic woodfired loaves with homemade creamy butter.

Culture club Pick up a copy of Bunbury’s new ReDiscover and Out of the Box Street Art Map

by Six Two Three Zero and discover the city from a different perspective. Bunbury is home to the largest collection of street and public art in regional Australia. Canvases

are everywhere you look in the BunGeo, which teems with vibrant street art. Spot everything from abstract, commissioned works, restaurant-themed façades and lots more in Bunbury. Find the whimsical characters painted by leading WA artists on 20 electrical boxes scattered through the CBD. On your journey, stop at the BRAG - Bunbury Regional Art Galleries - housed in a very distinctive pink convent. It’s the perfect backdrop for an Insta pic. BRAG is home to the largest collection of public art in regional Western Australia and also offers a program of rotating art exhibitions.

Snack attack Venture down Central Arcade to La Pause Miam, a Parisian café with Scandi style. Expect everything from Parisian croquet madame, to duck burgers, bacon and eggs, and stacked pancakes. The pastries are baked fresh and melt in your mouth. Locals vote their coffee as the best in the city.

Or, if you are on a health kick visit Plant Organic Cafe & visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Market for a green smoothie with home-made almond milk and a famous choc spirulina superfood ball.

Cheers, m’dears Start your night with a wine in Mojo’s streetside sea container.

It has one of the biggest wine lists in the region, including local Geographe wines, and museum wines from their cellar.

Two young sommeliers, Jake Atkinson and Samuel Sauvetre (affectionately known as the Wog and the Frog) oversee the selection.

Plate up Small bar-come-restaurant, Yours or Mine serves incredible South American food with an eclectic wine list, craft beer and a knock-your-socks-off espresso martini. Devour pulled pork tacos, grilled marron with chimichurri or, once again, we recommend saying ‘yes please’ to the Feed Me menu option.

End your night at the ultimate hipster hang-out, Lost Bills - a tiny bar with a banging craft beer list, eclectic spirits, and some damn good wine.

DAY THREE HOMEWARD BOUND You’ve still got a bit of time on your hands, so pick up a cute bike from Rentabike Bunbury delivered to your hotel (or hire a Geko mountain Bike from the Bunbury Visitor Centre). Jump on and take a ride around the inlet. First head over the new bridge to Koombana Bay Foreshore then cross over Koombana Drive to join the Inlet Bike Path. Stop at the Mangrove Boardwalk to discover Western Australia’s southernmost mangroves. Pure serenity to start your morning.

Continue around the Inlet, down Richmond Street and Austral Parade until you stumble across the Happy Wife. Be sure to grab a table outside to take in the Inlet views. BunGeo food favourites

include baked mushrooms with dukkah hommus, poached eggs, raw spinach and beetroot jam, handmade savoury crumpets served with herb butter, avocado and molasses or, if trying to stay healthy, the chia pudding with banana, berries, passionfruit and vanilla yogurt.

They only use fresh local produce, and everything is homebaked on the premises, right down to the croissants.

Walk across the road to Corners on King. It may be a little early, but you must order a crazy shake. With more than six varieties to choose from you’ll be sure to find your secret indulgence.

The nutella and pretzels shake is a customer favourite. Health conscious folks should not fear, Corner also has cold-pressed juices, smoothies and a range of kombucha drinks.

With fabulous coffee and the best baby chinos in the region, Corners is a popular stop for mums in activewear after they’ve walked around the inlet. Hop back on your bike and continue riding around the inlet (wearing off your crazy shake) to your hotel before heading home.

BUNBURY CUP DAY  SUNDAY  25 MARCH GATES OPEN 10.30AM LIVE RACING  LIVE MUSIC FASHIONS ON THE FIELD $30 ENTRY

Party in the South West STAY A WHILE If you’re in need of something delicious to eat, there’s plenty to satisfy your appetite.

VenueHire As unique and individual as you are …

The Bunbury Turf Club offers the perfect location for your next casual or exquisite event. With a range of spaces available please consider the Bunbury Turf Club for your next event whether it be a formal sit-down, casual cocktail party or business seminar.

BUNBURY TURF CLUB 



FOR A GREAT DAY OUT

www.bunburyturfclub.com.au Email: racing@bunburyturfclub.com.au 9721 3444 | Cnr Blair St & Brittain Rd, Bunbury

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BAG BARGAIN

A Tinderbox

How about a spot of shopping during your time in Balingup and surrounds?

Brooke EvansButler goes in search of some local gems.

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Tinderbox has a lovely ambience, and the store is popular with locals and tourists alike. You’ll find essential oils, herbal teas and skincare products. Some of their most popular products include their Day Cream, herbal sprinkle (for cooking) and their Brown Sugar Body Buff. A recent addition to the store is a selection of vegan and raw desserts, made at Tinderbox; they have an online store too..

South Western Hwy, Balingup tinderbox.com.au

Balingup Visitor Centre The Balingup Visitor Centre is a great place to start to find out about the local attractions and plan your visit. However, it is also a great place to pick up some local products. Some

of the gems you are likely to be able to purchase at the visitor centre include artworks and cards from local artists, homewares and souvenirs.

South Western Hwy, Balingup balinguptourism.com.au

Balingup Goldsmith If you thought shopping in Balingup was limited to some souvenirs, you would be very wrong. How about choosing some beautiful jewellery? You

can get something special – designed and custom made for you, or choose from their range of gold or sterling silver jewellery. They also stock sculptures and pottery if you are looking for a piece to take home for your home. The goldsmith is opened seven days a week, but closed during the month of September.

South Western Hwy, Balingup balingupgoldsmith.com.au

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Balingup Lavender Farm A walk around the beautiful gardens at Balingup Lavender Farm is a must, but while you are there, be sure to stock up on some lavender beauties. Their range of products includes eye pillows, cosmetics, essential oil and more.

Balingup/Nannup Road, Balingup lavenderbalingup.com.au

Jalbrook Alpaca Knitwear Gallery at Jalbrook Estate Be sure to pop into Jalbrook Alpaca Knitwear Gallery at Jalbrook Estate (look for the red house with alpacas on the roof).

They stock a gorgeous range of knitwear, as well as carrying a range of Sally Young Design pieces. Giftware is also available, including garden art and pottery.

Jayes Road, Balingup jalbrook.com.au/knitwear/

Newy’s Vegie Patch You can’t go to the South West of our state without bringing home some locally-grown produce. You’ll not only be able to buy some fresh fruit and veg, but you can also treat yourself to cheese, beef or locally roasted coffee beans.

South Western Highway, Kirup

Relax and explore in Bunbury Unwind by the indoor heated pool, sip a cocktail in the lounge or take a short walk to Bunbury’s shopping and café strip from Mantra Bunbury Hotel.

To book, call 13 15 17 or visit mantra.com.au/bunbury

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Art & Culture

In the pink It’s the eye-catching cultural heart of the Bunbury Geographe region Janine Pittaway gets to know BRAG (Bunbury Regional Art Gallery)

In the centre of Bunbury sits a hard-to-miss heritage building that should be on every visitor’s list.

Bunbury Regional Art Gallery, now known as BRAG Wilger Mia, sits proudly in the centre of town in all its beautiful musk stick pink glory … but it’s what’s behind the stunning heritage facade that is most surprising.

The gallery celebrated 30

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years of opening last year and BRAG Arts and culture education and communications officer Michele Grimston said there are still plenty of reasons to celebrate in 2018.

“This year is also really exciting for us. We’ve launched our fresh new branding, logo and name – adding the words Wilger Mia, which means ‘Place of Art’ in the Noongar language.

“Our biannual exhibition,

South West Art Now, opened in February and runs until May 13.

It’s one of the gallery’s largest exhibitions, showcasing new works by 60 artists who live and work in the region.

“We believe that sharing the cross-section of the many artistic voices in the region helps to create the culture which defines this particular geographic area.

“Also included in our

collection is a strong representation of Aboriginal art and annually we deliver the Noongar Country exhibition – a survey of diverse indigenous work (opens July 6).

“That’s what BRAG is really about – telling the story of a place through our artists.

It’s exciting to be able to work in the arts in a regional community because of this sense of place created.”

Michele said there was a concerted effort at BRAG to make the gallery accessible to everyone and, once through the doors, visitors were surprised at the depth of the offering.

“We want to push the boundaries of what regional audiences expect. People are always really surprised at what we have – so many galleries, an invaluable range of exhibitions, and a really high-quality program – and it’s all free to see.”

BRAG houses six galleries and 30 exhibitions each year showcasing of paintings, drawings, sculpture, jewellery, audio visual installations and photography.

The seeds of BRAG were first sown in the late 1940s when forward-thinking philanthropist Sir Claude Hotchin donated 22 works visitbunburygeographe.com.au

WHAT’S ON AT BRAG Interpretations: Australind Art Club Now to April 1 See a selection of original work from 28 artists defining personal interpretations of favourite flora, natural forms and familiar places.

Painting the Town – Bunbury Townscapes from the City of Bunbury Art Collection Now to April 22 Painting the Town explores more than 100 years of Bunbury through works from the City of Bunbury Art Collection. The artworks trace the changing landscape from the early 1900s to the present.

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A Matter of Response Now to April 8 An exhibition by six South West artists invited to collaborate in pairs in response to their choice of artworks and associated stories from the City of Bunbury Art Collection, offering fresh ways for audiences to engage with the collection.

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South West Art Now Now to May 13 New works by 60 artists who live and work in the region, showcasing a survey of the many artistic voices who are creating the culture which defines this particular geographic area.

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to the then town of Bunbury as well as significant pieces to towns across regional WA with the aim of bringing art to regional people and encouraging local artists.

Since then, the City of Bunbury has continued to purchase artworks to add to what is now an enviable collection of more than 900 works with a strong focus on WA art and artists.

In 1979 the city purchased the beautiful Convent of Mercy building which had sat vacant for a number of years, under threat of demolition to make

way for a shopping centre development.

It has been home to the collection, and to BRAG since 1987, now sitting proudly in all its pink heritage glory.

BRAG, open 10am to 4pm daily. Visit brag.org.au for information or head straight to 64 Wittenoom Street, Bunbury.

PINK PALACE Opposite, BRAG plays host to 30 exhibitions a year. Above: 1. Painting the Town 2 .Ashlee Faber, South West Art Now 3. Elisa Markes-Young, Broken Places 01, A Matter of Response 4. Annette Carmichael, Solace+Learning, The Index 5. Betty McKeough, WAnt

HUNGRY FOR MORE ART? The Collie Art Prize Exhibition, the largest regional art prize in Australia, runs until April 15.

The Index Now to April 15 2018 A study of harmony and disruption.

In development since 2014, the project is a response to the escalating fear and terror in the world. It creates an index of moments caught in performance, photographs and life that contribute to a sense of balance amid an atmosphere of precariousness.

WAnt: contemporary jewellery from WA April 28 to June 24 A diverse and exciting range of contemporary jewellery from some of the finest practitioners in Western Australia, many of whom regularly show overseas.

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Art & Culture

Join a Ngalang Wongi cultural tour and you’ll see the Bunbury Geographe region through new eyes. Words and pictures by tom de souza.

T

roy Bennell is standing on Marlston Hill. It’s early on a summer’s afternoon, and waves of heat fold over a sea of industry and suburban homes. Looking down at the City of Bunbury, Troy’s eyes twinkle with pride. This is his country.

This is an Ngalang Wongi cultural tour. Troy is taking me on a journey that goes back 60,000 years. A Noongar man of the Wardandi-Bibbulmun group, his ancestors have survived on here for over 1,000 generations.

Troy’s story offers a vastly different narrative to colonial history. Aboriginal history is passed down through the generations and recorded orall, and, today Troy is sharing a

modern version of his ancient knowledge through story, song, dance and art.

“Ngalang Wongi means ‘our story’, and I’m pretty proud to tell mine,” Troy says.

“Cultural tourism, this is healing. It’s about sharing the story of this country with everyone, so people who live here, or are visiting here have the opportunity to understand the real story of the place they are standing on.”

A natural-born storyteller, Troy is also an acclaimed Australian artist. Wandering around the Bunbury CBD, we pass old Aboriginal and pioneer burial grounds, and the 130-million-yearold basalt rocks of Wyalup – a

traditional place of mourning.

We turn down an alleyway, and a series of murals shine through the shade. Troy displays a spraypainted portrait of his old people.

Before Troy began a venture as an independent tour guide four years ago, he worked as an Aboriginal art consultant at the state-managed Stirling Streets Arts Centre. In that time

he travelled extensively, visiting international art regions and learning of their history and culture. Back in Bunbury, he realised the need to showcase his own heritage to the world.

“It’s what was missing in Bunbury,” he says.

“We’ve got the best of the best here; the Ferguson Valley, we’re on the doorstep

JOURNEY

BACK IN

TIME

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

of Margaret River, one of the best wine regions in the world.

But this is also Noongar boodja, Noongar country, and we need to show that too.”

We head away from the coastal plains of Bunbury, up the river and into hill country.

The water becomes fresh.

At a secluded spot on the Collie River, Troy performs a welcome to country ceremony, announcing himself to the spirit of his ancestors. He advises me to do the same. A sudden gust of wind rustles the river. The scene settles back into stillness.

This country provided everything Troy’s people needed. Food sources were plentiful: kangaroo, emu, goanna, fish. Bulrushes were woven into twine and rope; the bush provided natural medicine for every ailment: from pimples to broken bones. This water course, however, was of vital significance.

“This bush, this is our home,” Troy says.

“Rejuvenating with country is what I’m all about. Wadjela (people of European descent) go to the church to search for something divine, spiritual. For our old people, it was all about this water. Holy water. This river here is our holy water. This is the most important part of our country.

This is what kept us alive.”

Back in South Bunbury, there is a plaque on a small limestone rock at the Bunbury Swamp Parkland. It’s a commitment from the City council to Troy’s people, acknowledging their ownership, and promoting a greater community understanding of Bunbury’s shared history. The signature of Troy’s grandmother, Alice, is engraved on the bottom of the plaque.

This rock is the result of

MAN OF THE LAND During a Ngalang Wongi tour, Troy Bennell gives visitors unique cultural insights into the country he calls home.

a campaign by Troy’s father, Duncan Bennell. He was a prolific member of a local Aboriginal corporation and, today, Troy continues his legacy.

Having worked for 11 years in a government organisation, he’s developed the bureaucratic capability to lead his people by example, and he strives to maintain cultural significance in the City of Bunbury.

Troy also works on-country

with at-risk Indigenous youth.

He has been instrumental in developing programs to improve their self-worth and sense of identity, and often incorporates elders and young people into his tours. While Troy says this offers a unique inter-generational perspective of Bunbury’s history, it’s also a viable means of preserving Noongar culture and stories.

“It’s good to get the young

people involved, get them out on country and learning about who they are and where they come from,” he says.

“If we don’t keep telling these stories they are going to be lost. It’s important we teach them to the kids, so they can keep them alive and we can celebrate all the different stories of this place, all-together as one.” || Visit ngalangwongi.com.au |

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Art & Culture

Delight in the detail of some incredible quilts at Vineyard 28’s quilt exhibition. By BROOKE EVANS-BUTLER.

A STITCH IN TIME

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he south west of our state is renowned for its fresh produce and range of wine, but the region is also well-known for its handmade treasures.

Vineyard 28 brings together some of the best parts of the south west – delicious wine (they are well known for their Italian grape varieties), and also art from local artisans. Pippa Nielsen, owner of Vineyard 28, is a keen quilter, and the vineyard displays and sells a range of locally-made quilts at its cellar door year-round.

It also holds a quilt exhibition which started about

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10 years ago, and is popular with locals and tourists alike.

“I’m a patchwork and quilt maker and I wanted to broaden what we offered at the cellar door,” Pippa explains. “It grew from not just having quilts available at the cellar door, but showcasing artwork from the region.”

The next quilt exhibition is set for March 31 to April 2 at the cellar door, and Pippa says they have typically seen 200 to 300 people come to previous exhibitions.

The work of up to 10 quilters will be featured. “One of the quilters is Yvonne Chapman,” Pippa says. “Her quilts look

like pieces of art; they can be described as painting with thread. People are always keen to see Yvonne. They love the quality and detail of her work.”

Yvonne has won numerous awards for her quilting, including the Best of Colour in the Innovation category at The World Quilting Competition in the United States last year for her quilt Carousel. Her quilt Australia’s Bouquet, which was entered into the 2017 Australasian Quilt Challenge, will be displayed at Vineyard 28’s exhibition, Yvonne, who has been the resident artist at Vineyard 28

for more than six years, says visitors to the exhibition can expect to see something very different when they see her quilts, with many mistaking them as paintings.

“A lot of people don’t believe they are quilts,” she says. “It is a great challenge to make something that looks like a painting, but in fabric. “I hope it will open their eyes to the fact that there is more to quilting than geometric patterns – it is art with fabric.”

Pippa adds that one of the attractions of coming to see the quilts is the chance to see something a bit different. visitbunburygeographe.com.au

“I think that the fact it is something handmade is appealing,” she says. “People are appreciating the time and effort that is put into handmade goods.

They are all one-off pieces and people enjoy the opportunity to appreciate the quilts.

“There is a lot of interest from other quilters and people can also take the opportunity to taste the wines,” she adds.

Quilts include cot-sized and bed-sized quilts and demonstrate the diversity of different quilting techniques.

“Come and see something totally different,” Pippa says. “Come and see local talent. See one-off pieces that are quite beautiful. It is a feast of colour and textures.”

Vineyard 28’s Quilt Exhibition will be held from March 31 to April 2, open daily from 10am to 5pm.

For further details go to vineyard28.com.au

SEW BEAUTIFUL Below, Australia’s Bouquet, a handmade quilt by Yvonne Chapman, is just one of the many exquisite artworks on show at Vineyard 28’s Quilt Exhibition.

If you are planning a trip to the region, be sure to check out these other local events: The LiveLighter Harvey Harvest Festival Sunday March 18 Held at Snell Park in Harvey, there will be arts, wine (and, of course, food) at the 20th anniversary of this festival.

You and the family can also enjoy the entertainment, and the kids will love the petting farm. For more details go to harveyfest.com.au Myalup Art Exhibition Saturday March 31 and Sunday April 1 This art exhibition will feature works from local artists from across the Shire of Harvey. Held at Myalup Community Hall on Reading Road, Myalup.

Myalup Easter Fair Sunday April 1 (10am to 3pm) Shop at the market stalls, get something delicious from one of the food trucks and enjoy the art display at this family-friendly event. Held at Myalup Community Hall and surrounds, at Reading Road, Myalup..

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Art magnet

Art & Culture

The Dardanup Art Spectacular attracts art lovers by the thousand and makes this part of the Bunbury Geographe region a real artistic hub.

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DIANNE BORTOLETTO.

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ach autumn, hundreds of artists and thousands of art lovers flock to Dardanup in the Ferguson Valley as it hosts an impressive art spectacular and art trail.

The Dardanup Art Spectacular is an art competition with over $6,000 in prizes on offer across four categories that include an open category (except photography), themed, portrait (not including photography) and photography.

This year’s theme is ‘shorelines’ with artists to interpret it as either representational, metaphorical, symbolic, abstract or in any other way the artist chooses and in any medium with the exception of photography.

The spectacular is open to any Australian artist and artists may enter more than one category.

Held in the Dardanup Town Hall on the weekend of May 5 and 6, it’s quite the event in the town, attracting 350 works of art and a few thousand people.

Dardanup Arts committee member Fiona Moriarty said that the event is designed to encourage emerging artists.

“It’s a terrific opportunity for up-and-coming artists and emerging artists to show their work with possibility of winning a prize for it,” Fiona says.

“Some prizes are decided by a popular vote, others are judged and some are both.

“There’s a category for visitbunburygeographe.com.au

students and we encourage students from both high school and primary school to enter.

There’s been some magnificent works submitted by students in past years - it’s a wonderful event for young artists as well as more experienced artists.”

One such experienced artist is Jenni Doherty who also opens up her home and studio during the nine days of the Dardanup Art Trail. The architecture of her house, which is a four-year work in progress, is a feature in itself with unusual angles and misshapen areas.

Other artists include husband and wife Russell Sheridan and Linda Skrolys who have created a lush meandering garden on their property and filled it with incredible and interesting sculptures made by Russell. This stop on the trail has become a highlight.

There are over 20 venues on the Dardanup Art Trail that range from private artists’ residences and studios, to vineyards, cafes, breweries, gardens and more.

The Art Trail is not complete without a wander around the numerous craft, art and quirky displays at Peppermint Lane Lodge in Wellington Mills.

Think a smaller, quirkier Sculpture by the Sea where you’ll come across whimsical and up-cycled works that surprise and delight as you discover them among the trees.

Each host venue, if not already an artist’s studio, contacts their chosen artist to display his or work for the duration of the Art Trail. This year it’s held from May 5 to May 13.

The best news for art lovers is that much of the displayed art is for sale and there is a wide variety of mediums from paint on canvas to glass work, sculpture, woodwork, sketching, photography, printing, ceramics and more. There are also some workshops hosted by local artists.

Over both weekends of the

FAST FACTS

Dardanup Art Spectacular: 10am to 5pm on May 5 and May 6 in the Dardanup Exhibition in Main Hall Dardanup Art Trail: May 5 to 13 Visit dardanupartspectacular. com.au/ art trail, there’s live music at several venues – check guides for Lyndendale Gallery, the Moody Cow Brewery and the Wild Bull Brewery.

While making your way from art stop to art stop, it would be criminal not to sample the delights of the Ferguson Valley, which includes fantastic produce and award-winning wine.

In fact, this pocket of Western Australia’s south west, which is home to over 13,000 people, is surprisingly rich with inspiring art, great food and under-the-radar yet seriously good wine. It’s only 22 kilometres from Bunbury or just over 20 minutes drive.

The committee cleverly holds the Dardanup Art Trail over Mother’s Day giving sons and daughters a wonderful reason to take a drive in the stunning countryside, view some interesting art exhibitions and enjoy a bite to eat with a glass of local wine.

art DARDANUP

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– 6TH MAY 2018 Y A M H T 4 N IO IT IB H EX

ILTH MAY T TTORSUA AR NDAY 13 5TH MAY

SATURDAY

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Food & Drink

‘A’

Donnybrook’s apple harvest is underway and pickyour-own orchards are priming themselves for a busy visitor season.

Jennifer Morton takes a bite.

Images by NEXT JEN CREATIVE / DIXON AND SMITH / JENNIFER MORTON

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here’s nothing like the taste of a fresh apple, especially one you’ve picked straight off the tree. Visiting an orchard, for many, is a novelty experience and one that will be a cherished memory of any trip to the Bunbury Geographe region.

It’s fair to say that many of us only see fruit at the supermarket.

And it’s common for urbanites to not understand how and where produce is grown.

Autumn offers authentic orchard experiences and plenty of opportunity for roadside fruit shopping as there are numerous grower stalls dotted

along the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Balingup. Once you’ve tasted a freshly picked apple, you’ll never want it any other way.

How do you like them organic apples?

“A lot of our visitors are urban dwellers, and they really have no control over their own food. Somebody will ship it to someone who puts it in a shop, who sells it to them, and they choose it, but they really don’t know what they’re choosing,” says Diana Robb of Spring Valley Organic Orchard.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

on its own.

The tour includes one kilogram of fruit to take home.

Before leaving the shed, bags are weighed and overages are charged accordingly.

It’s a small price to pay for an authentic experience.

Everyone always leaves happy and Diana loves that.

“It’s the joy on the faces of people who look at an apple tree and look at me and say, ‘you know, all my life I’ve eaten apples, I’ve never seen them on the tree’. They never really understood apples, until they came here.

“A very special moment was when an 85-year-old lady said ‘Now my life is complete’.”

FAST FACTS Diana and her husband Geoffrey offer tours of their Donnybrook farm and orchard, which includes an opportunity to pick your own apples and plums.

The couple bought the 15-hectare property 12 years ago and have been welcoming visitors ever since. Diana says her pick-your-own orchard tours are popular, especially with tourists and families who want an educational, naturebased experience.

“The whole idea is to educate the next generation where the apples come from,” says Diana. “People say ‘oh, apples come from the supermarket.’ No, they don’t.”

Apples, and many varieties of stone fruit grow on the trees

of Donnybrook. The region has a long history of producing and exporting fruit overseas but over the past 15 years a decline in exportation (and an increase of importation) means there’s more fruit to be distributed nationally and locally. It also means there is more fruit left for pick-your-own orchard adventures.

Diana’s organic orchard tours start with a matter-of-fact talk about what it means to be organic.

“We go into the shed and we talk about what is organic. We talk about C-I-D-E-S: pesticides, herbicides, fungicides. I say, ‘Have you heard of homicide?’.

OK, it means somebody’s going to die. And we don’t

Spring Valley Organic Orchard tours Cost $10 per adult.

Children are free.

Visit organic-orchard.com.au Bookings are essential.

want to put that on your food, so we’re organic.

“People think organic means expensive. My feeling about organic is maybe you live longer and maybe you live better, so we do that.”

Diana’s down-to-earth and often humorous banter is all part of the charm and appeal of a Spring Valley orchard tour.

The tour continues into the garden where Diana lets visitors pick and taste vegetables and herbs before traipsing to the apple and plum orchards.

Everyone is welcome to a taste of fruit and to fill their bags.

The excursion ends back in the shed with a demonstration of the vintage apple sorter, which is quite fascinating all

The apple never falls far from the tree Another fruit grower reaping the smiles and happy vibes of visitors is Tom Sheehan of Donnywongup, a family orchard with a history that dates back to 1920. That is when Tom’s grandparents, John and Myra Rudd, established the farm and commercial orchard.

“Back then, Granny Smiths were exported to the United Kingdom,” Tom explains.

In 1960, the property was passed on to Tom’s parents, Francis and Norma, and the |

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Food & Drink produce) in all its wondrous shapes and sizes. There are heaps of stalls, entertainment for all the family as well as competitive events for the keen pumpkin and other fruit and plant grower. For instance, who will win the heaviest table pumpkin, the heaviest watermelon, tallest sunflower or longest zucchini?

This authentic Aussie agricultural mainstay of the calendar happens at Boyup Brook District High School, Boyup Brook, on April 7 from 8am.

FAST FACTS The Fruit Barn’s Donnywongup Orchard Cost $20 per 10-kilogram box to fill with fruit: plums in March, apples May-June.

Visit Facebook.com/FruitBarn

Cut and dry

Sheehan family continued working the orchard and exporting the best of the harvest.

Today, Tom and his brother John own Donnywongup and The Fruit Barn, a produce market in the heart of Donnybrook where their hand-picked apple, plum and nectarine crops are on display for sale (as well as many other fruits and vegetables from around the region).

In 2017, The Fruit Barn’s pick-your-own apple experience was born out of abundance.

Tom had all the apples he needed for commercial use and there were still lots on the trees.

Knowing that pick-yourown is a popular activity, the Sheehan brothers decided to trial it at Donnywongup. And they were blown away by the response.

“We had a huge turn-out,” Tom says. “People poured in. I couldn’t get them off the road quickly enough.”

What Tom learned is that people don’t visit an orchard 34

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just for the apples; they come for the experience.

“Some people stayed for four or five hours and had a picnic,” says Tom. “It was interesting because although there were traffic jams and up to 60 people lining up, everybody was happy.

Nothing was any trouble. And fruit that may be commercially unsellable because of the small size were the most popular.”

Visiting an orchard and picking your own fruit is a hands-on, delightful day out, but due to strict biosecurity laws, interstate and international travellers cannot take their fresh fruit home with them.

But don’t worry, there’s a Donnybrook orchard that has that problem covered.

Solarfruit is a family-owned and operated orchard doing something a bit different: sundrying. Their tree-ripened stone fruits are pureed, then left to dry under the hot WA sun.

The result is the most delicious and nutritious fruit leather in the region. There’s even chocolate-covered options, which are incredibly moreish.

The award-winning dried fruit can be purchased at the Solarfruit factory shop, The Fruit Barn and selected markets around the state.

Cost from $3.

Visit solarfruit.com.au

If you liked that, why not try this?

The annual Boyup Brook Lions Pumpkin Festival celebrates the gourd (and other autumnal

Purple reign Everybody loves picking their own fruit, and at Collie Blueberry Farm (which you’ll find ironically on Cherry Street in Collie), your labour will be rewarded with delicious freshoff-the-shrub blueberries. At their peak in the spring and summer months, now’s the time to plan ahead for the chance to fill your boots with this delicious fruit. All the farm’s blueberries are tree-ripened, pesticide, insecticide, preservative and chemical free.

Collie Blueberry Farm, 52 Cherry Street, Collie Cardiff.

Call 08 9734 4538.

Viva Italia The LiveLighter Harvey Harvest Festival brings a taste of Italy to the south west.

Set in the picturesque gardens of Snell Park, Harvey, the festival offers a feast for the senses with arts, culture, food, wine and markets. Local produce will be transformed in true paddock to plate style cooking demonstrations, with many of Harvey’s iconic brands – Harvey Cheese, Harvey Fresh, Harvey Beef and many more.

There’s also loads of music and entertainment, while kids will love the rides, street theatre, fairy workshops, the LiveLighter Grape Stomp and an animal petting farm.

Harvey Harvest Festival, Snell Park, Harvey, March 18. Visit harveyfest.com.au visitbunburygeographe.com.au

LESS THAN 2 HOURS DRIVE SOUTH OF PERTH

PERTH

GEOGRAPHE

Take to the Road

WWW.GEOGRAPHEWINE.COM.AU

EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF GEOGRAPHE WINE AS YOU JOURNEY THROUGH THE REGION

BUSSELTON

Oakway Estate Wines

Smallwater Estate

DALYELLUP

PRESTON BEACH

BUNBURY Barton Jones Wines

Barrecas Winery

St Aidan Wines AUSTRALIND

Green Door Wines WELLINGTON MILL

Willow Bridge Estate

MYALUP

Harvey River Estate

Vineyard 28

Moojelup Farm YARLOOP

Food & Drink

It may surprise you to hear that a trip to Bunbury offers some of the best dining and drinks in the state. Read on to add a list of award-winning hot spots to your itinerary when you next visit. By CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

DARK HORSE

DINING

MARKET EATING HOUSE 9 Victoria Street, Bunbury Top of the foodie ‘must visit’ list is Market Eating House.

It’s been listed repeatedly in Gourmet Traveller Magazine as one of the top 10 regional restaurants in the state. No mean feat when you think about the competition in such a big gegoraphical area. Founders Brenton and Bec Pyke met while working together nine years ago at the popular Bar Andaluz in Perth. With a stint in the kitchen for MasterChef’s George Calombarios at 36

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Melbourne’s Little Press and Cellar, head chef Brenton has returned to his home roots in Bunbury, bringing with him fresh dining concepts and a restaurant that’s focused around eating and drinking together. Delivering this convivial feast to the table is a front-of-house team run by Bec, whose service skills were finely honed at Melbourne’s Cumulus Inc and Moon Under Water.

The menu is based on sharing food, though Brenton is quick to note: “It’s NOT tapas – that is a dirty word here.” With a flavour profile that is strongly

Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, Brenton is taking Market Eating House in new directions.

“What we do is honest food that is produce-driven and served clean and simply from our wood-fired oven and grill.”

One of the first in the region to bring this approach to grilling with a bespoke oven in the kitchen, Market Eating House also initiated the first ‘Feed Me’ and ‘Feed Me More’ menus in the south west.

“It’s not a tasting menu,” he says. “It’s more an array of dishes sent out from the

kitchen based on what produce looks amazing that day. Diners don’t know what they are going to get and it’s a wonderful way to be able to use produce that is in season but limited in availability.”

Another dirty word in Brenton’s book is ‘specials’.

“It doesn’t make them any more special than other dishes. Instead we have an ‘In the Basket’ menu which changes daily and also includes interesting beverage options. We also test out new dishes here and shift popular ones over to be a more permanent fixture.” visitbunburygeographe.com.au

The interior at Market Eating House is welcoming and warm with wooden walls, rustic features and a clean functionality. There’s plenty of passion on show here; they renovated the space themselves and no design detail has been left to chance. Attentive and highly knowledgeable staff add to the approachability of the venue and it’s easy to see how diners could enjoy hours at the table, sharing plates with friends and returning time and time again.

Visit marketeatinghouse.com. au or call 08 9721 6078.

SALA WINE LOUNGE 5 Victoria Street, Bunbury In an embarassment of riches for Bunbury-based gourmets, two of the hottest tickets in town are situated side by side.

Just a 20-second stroll from Market Eating House, you’ll find Sala Wine Bar, the perfect place to kick on with awardwinning cocktails and a bite to eat from their small plate menu. It was opened in 2015 by general manager and proprietor Jason Casella, who wanted to introduce Bunbury to the small bar scene after running popular

DELICIOUS DECADENCE Market Eating House (opposite) is winning lots of new fans far and wide for its convivial approach to food. Above, Sala Wine Lounge mixes a mean cocktail to go with their chic small plate menu.

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Food & Drink

WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN LOST BILLS, YOU ARRIVE IN A VENUE WHERE THERE IS NEVER ANY JUDGEMENT YOU CAN BE WHO YOU ARE . . .

restaurant Casella’s on the waterfront for over 10 years.

“I realised there was a niche that wasn’t being addressed in Bunbury at the time. People wanted to go out for and have a drink not in a pub or club, but a real bar experience.”

Casella has clearly hit the mark with Sala picking up a host of awards since its inception.

Last year the bar took home the award for Best Regional Small Bar in the Small Bar Association of WA Small Bar Awards, and in both 2016 and 2017, won the Restaurant and Caterers’ Industry Australia State (WA) Awards for Excellence in the Best Small Bar Category.

Designed to share, the whipsmart menu ensures that all of those delicious prize-winning drinks are matched with a more than adequate amount of tasty treats from the kitchen.

“It’s not tapas in the traditional sense – more a freestyle approach to small plate dining,” says Jason.

A mixture of international influences arrives from the kitchen which is headed up by a Brazilian chef. Choose from a selection of South American favorites including quesadillas 38

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and pulled beef tacos, classic American bar fare such as sliders, hotdogs and homemade macaroni cheese or head to European shores with classic small plates like patatas bravas and paella. Those with a hankering for the Orient will have a tough time choosing between pork belly bao and squid kaarage, the latter being ‘extremely popular’.

Housed in a 115-year old iconic building, its heritage is celebrated with retro industrial interiors and a selection of classic spirits on the drinks’ list.

A 1930s prohibition building façade is followed through with a boutique selection of imported moonshines from the US to echo the era.

Visit salawinelounge.com.au or call 08 9701 9504.

LOST BILLS 41 Victoria Street, Bunbury

Small Bar of The Year. The Australian Bartender Magazine has also given the nod to Lost Bills, lauding the bar as a finalist in the Best Regional Small Bar of The Year in its awards for both 2016 and 2017.

Expect an edgy urban fitout, exposed brickwork and fairy lights giving the venue a deconstructed look and relaxed vibe from the moment you step foot into the bar.

“When you arrive into Lost Bills, you arrive into a venue where there is never any judgement – you can be who you are,” says general manager Matthew Blake. “You’re stepping into Bill’s house to be welcomed with a smile, outstanding service and a never-ending

range of alcohol with over 20 traditional and craft cocktails.”

Over 80 spirits are sourced internationally, while the wine and beer list is predominantly Australian. Ingredients such as kombucha and seasonal fruit vinegars are sourced from the fertile lands around of the Bunbury Geograhe region.

“We aren’t too big on food,” says Matthew, so maybe have a feed before heading there.

The bar snack menu has a few grazing nibbles such as locally made African Biltong and inhouse made hotdogs.

For those in need though of a more substantial bite “BYO food is encouraged at Bill’s House”..

Visit lostbills.com

Enter Lost Bills and wet your whistle in one of the state’s most unique bars. The socalled ‘Badass Tiny Bar’ is not your average bar. Since 2015 it has repeatedly been named a finalist in the Small Bar Association of WA Regional visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Lost Bills’ barman extraordinaire Matthew Blake shares two exclusive recipes for readers to recreate his craft cocktails at home

LEMON MYRTLE TEQUILA SOUR WILD OLD FASHIONED

1 x Sugar Cube

4 x Dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters

1/2 Fresh Lemon 30ml Egg White 15ml Wild Vinegar Co Lemon Myrtle Vinegar

15ml Wild Vinegar Co Mandarin Vinegar

2 x Dashes Fee Brothers Orange Bitters

45ml Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whisky

(Stirred with ice for dilution)

45ml El Jimador Reposado Tequila

(Muddled and shaken)

15ml Applewood Distillery Limoncello

Both cocktails are unique to Lost Bills using local craft vinegars from Wild Vinegar Co, craft makers of wild yeast apple cider vinegars and health tonics, with unlimited amounts of ferments to bring to the health market. They will shortly be available from select health shops, fresh food markets and cafes and will also be available online at wildvinegarco.com.au

FUN FOR EVERYONE Meet a kangaroo See the dingoes Feed the parrots Grab a bite to eat Open 10am to 5pm 7 days a week (08) 9721 8380 www.bunburywildlifepark.com.au 39 | FOUND | autumn • winter 2018 Prince Philip Drive, Bunbury

Food & Drink

Alt-drops The Geographe region is rich in many things - but perhaps their alternative varietal wines are the biggest treasures to discover. || by FERGAL GLEESON

T

he Australian wine drinker has become more adventurous.

Alternative grape varietals are en trend. They want to drink the style of wines that they’ve tried on holidays in Europe. They want exotic. They want food-friendly. They want to be surprised.

Enter stage left the Geographe wine region. It’s less than 20 years old as a recognised wine region and is well-placed to capitalise on a trend that isn’t going away. It has built a reputation for shiraz, chardonnay and semillon/ sauvignon blends. But the region is becoming increasingly recognised for the diversity of alternative varietals on offer.

I spoke to some of Geographe’s leading alternative producers to hear their story.

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Willow Bridge Willow Bridge is one of the two larger wineries in the region (along with Capel Vale). It has a 5-star Halliday rating and has grown rapidly, based on a reputation for value as well as quality. Winemaker Kim Horton is very excited about the prospects for tempranillo.

“Tempranillo offers both flavour and structure. There are no green or herbaceous visitbunburygeographe.com.au

The quality of the winemakers in the Geographe region is fantastic, but we’re not resting on our laurels . . .

characters like under ripe cabernet or merlot. On the palate there is a lingering tannin and spice. It offers a good balance between fruit flavours and tannin. Tempranillo also works well in a rosé.”

Kim came to Willow Bridge after working in Margaret River. He has been impressed with Geographe. “There are magnificent vistas and vineyards. There is a great variation in the sub regions of Geographe. We are discovering the nuances of each. People have noted the similarity of the region to the Iberian Peninsula which is why people are looking at the possibilities of trialling different varieties.”

“We are testing out mataro, malbec as well as new chardonnay and merlot clones. The cellar door is 100% committed to wine.

We are a real winery not a virtual one. The quality of the winemakers in Geographe is fantastic, but we are not resting on our laurels. There are still boundaries to push.”

Talisman Wines

BRAVE NEW WORLD The Geographe region is giving winemakers an opportunity to explore new varietals. Above, Willow Bridge barrels and left, Talisman Wines.

expectations and iconic wines like some of the more established wine regions around Australia. We have had the flexibility to explore different grape varieties and so nearly all of us have taken a chance and planted alternative grape

Talisman has only been producing wine for eight years, but has already picked up accolades such as a 5-star rating in the Halliday Wine companion and was voted Small Producer of the Year’ in the West Australian Wine Guide 2017.

“Geographe has gone from being comprised of mainly backyard winemakers to major competitive wineries, producing recognised, quality wines,” says Talisman’s Anne Robinson.

“We are not bound by |

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Food & Drink

varieties, with many of us only producing alternative wines.“ Talisman make two alternative grapes – malbec and zinfandel. These varieties were planted in the initial planting of the vineyard in 1999.

“As with all of our varieties there were planted because of a wine that Dad loved and we were able to find a suitable site on the block to plant them,” says Anne.

“One of the things I love about the Geographe is for the most part, if you go to a cellar door, you will meet the people behind the wines. The people who own the vineyard, who pick the grapes, who make the wine. We are a region of boutique wineries. You will also get to taste different wine varieties at each cellar door and encounter some spectacular scenery. “ 42

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Talisman Wines operate a tasting room at Evedon Park Bush Retreat, where lunch, dinner and accommodation are also available.

Moojelup Farm Simon Holthouse, owner and winemaker at Moojelup Farm has been making Vermentino for the past four years. Simon wanted to add another white varietal to his range and trialled it.

“It holds its acid up really well. It picks later than semillon.”

Vermentino is an Italian white variety which is showing great promise in Australia because it works better in our warmer climate than some traditional French varieties, retaining acid freshness when other whites become flabby. Simon had an accidental entry to winemaking when he inherited part of the family farm. He converted

a grazing and dairy farm to grape growing. His training in architecture and subsequent career in town planning were left behind. Along with vermentino he is now trialling barbera and Nero d’Avola.

“For those who have travelled to the region, sommeliers, wine writers, wine bars from the UK and the eastern states there is a consistent view recognising the quality of the wine. The hero regions such as Margaret River, Barossa and the Hunter develop their reputations over long periods of time. There is a great diversity within what is a large region.”

Like a lot of winemakers in Geographe, Simon is not dreaming of world domination.

“I want to make the best wine I can. I’m not looking to be a volume producer. The business has grown through word of mouth and by repeat sales.”

Vineyard 28 Pippa Nielsen, co-owner of Vineyard 28, thinks Geographe is a lot like Margaret River in the early days.

“It’s family business oriented, it’s mostly first generation. But unlike Margaret River which was primarily established on Bordeaux varietals Geographe is becoming increasingly known for pioneering Italian and Spanish varietals.”

Vineyard 28 specialises in varietals such as arneis, dolcetto and nebbiolo, which originate from the Piedmont region of north west Italy. Pippa and her husband Mark first tasted these varietals 20 years ago on a visit to Margaret River.

The arneis is lovely. It’s a crisp and clean white with subtle flavours of nut and honey.

The dolcetto is a light fruity red, designed to be served chilled for casual occasions. visitbunburygeographe.com.au

3

The nebbiolo is authentic with cherry flavours, tobacco leaves and those interesting tannins which are a characteristic of Italian reds. Barolo fans will not be disappointed. 80% of their production is now dedicated to these alternative varieties.

You’ll meet Pippa and her husband, who is the winemaker at the cellar door. Pippa is a keen quilt maker and their cellar door also features the work of other local artists and artisans from the Harvey region. By appointment you can avail of tours, walks and visits to the winery.

TO TRY WILLOW BRIDGE SOLANA TEMPRANILLO 2015 RRP $28 Tempranillo is the best known component of Rioja, Spain’s most famous wine. It is considered by many to be the alternative variety with the most potential in Australia. Solana has bright, cherry flavours and a lively acid. There is a lightness to the fruit that creates excitement on the tongue. The tannins are smooth and provide extra character and mouthfeel. One of the best Australian tempranillos I’ve tasted.

Capel Vale Capel Vale planted the first commercial vines in Geographe in 1974 and it is the region’s largest producer. It is still owned and operated by the Pratten family. Unlike other Geographe producers Capel Vale has expanded beyond the region and now owns additional vineyards in Margaret River, Pemberton and Mount Barker.

The logic of the expansion has been to be able to produce varietals in the regions to which they are best suited.

Their malbec plantings are now eight years old and were originally grown for blending with cabernet. The 2016 malbec is the third single varietal release and reflects the growing popularity of the wine. Jonathan Loxton from Capel Vale describes the wine as “rich, inky and dark in colour. It’s a more robust and gutsy style than what people might be familiar with from Argentinian malbecs. It’s a great food wine.”

“Geographe’s Mediterranean climate is well suited to growing many alternative European varieties. It has 20 hours more

MOOJELUP FARM VERMENTINO 2017 RRP $18

sunshine on average each month than Margaret River. Because it’s not as established as Margaret River we are still educating people at the cellar door and at wine shows because it’s not as well known.”

A crisp and persistent vermentino that tastes of white peaches and melon. It has a bright acid line through the middle palate. The wine was barrel fermented for texture which adds something extra to a highly drinkable, dry white wine.

SAFE HANDS Winemakers like Moojelup Farm’s Simon Holthouse (left) and Vineyard 28’s Mark Cumbers (above) are making an impact with their approach to creating wines from alternative varietals.

Passion project Geographe is developing a reputation for well-made alternative varieties that span the A to Z (from arneis to zinfandel).

It may well be these that define the Geographe wine region in the future.

The alternative is going mainstream.

VINEYARD 28 NEBBIOLO 2015 RRP $25 Nebbiolo is a notoriously tricky wine to make.

At its best in barolo it’s known as the “king of wines and the wine of kings” and is considered on a par with great Bordeaux and Burgundy.

Vineyard 28 have made a really authentic neb from the brick red colour through to the tar and roses flavours. A great opportunity to try a classic varietal of the wine world.

Other makers of alternative varieties in Geographe to look out for: Angelicus - Tempranillo, verdejo Barrecas - Barbera, malbec, nebbiolo, pinotage, sangiovese, zinfandel Capel Vale - Nebbiolo, petit verdot, sangiovese, tempranillo Mandalay Road - Durif, moscato, zinfandel Mazza - Bastardo, graciano, souzao, tempranillo, tinto cao, touriga |

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Food & Drink

The Old Coast Road Brewery creates brews with a difference, discovers Anita Hurst.

Bravado

M

brews

yalup’s Old Coast Road Brewery is not your average boozy brewery.

The previous 25-hectare former cattle property owned by former pharmacist Andrew Harris was a distant olive grove dream away until Andrew grew tired of the pharmaceutical profession and set upon creating a new kind of remedy of the cold and frothy kind.

His new venture began as a microbrewery and restaurant, before he later expanded it to include a cider production and a distillery. In the beginning, there were also four main beers but now the Old Coast Road Brewery has one of the largest range of beers of any microbrewery in Western Australia, with up to 19 beers and ciders on tap at any time.

Many are produced on a rotational basis, so be prepared to visit the brewery and give a different beer or cider a try on every visit.

This is a brewery that keeps everything local where possible: for instance, they pickle their own olives every year and sell them from the brewery. Unlike most other breweries they

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make their cider from scratch from Donnybrook fruit that they crush and press themselves.

It’s a special kind of Bunbury Geographe cross-regional love that locals and visitors alike applaud.

The first stage of planting saw over 1,000 olive trees of mixed varieties being put in place. As Andrew is half Italian and his wife, Ivanka, is Croatian it was important that there would be a strong Mediterranean influence in their olive grove. It’s fair to say they’ve succeeded in this regard; you could be stepping into a Sicilian olive grove if you squint a bit.

Another milestone for the business was the release in 2014 of their first batch of fiveyear-old single malt whiskey, Bellwether. They’ve also hitched

a ride on the current gin craze, producing their own tripledistilled gin made with nine different botanicals. Make sure you try too their limoncello – it’s made with Harvey lemon peel.

There are eight small batch spirits available served straight out of the barrels, something that’s pretty unique for WA. This includes a Peruvian-style pisco, an American-style rye whiskey, a brandy made from local wine, a citrus vodka made from local oranges and several spirits made from distilled beer – known in Germany as beer schnapps.

Fancy having a specialised brew while the kids play ball?

Or even better, fancy having a brew while your kids are in a bubble ball? Super fun zorb footy can be found on the large recreation lawn during the

summer months.

In true Italian fashion, family is front and centrel at Andrew and Ivanka’s brewery.

If you head to the Old Coast Road Brewery on a Sunday you’ll be treated to some cool and groovy beats with live music playing all day, making it practically the law to linger as long as possible.

If you’re visiting with a a loved one, why not stay at the nearby Eden Grove Harvey? If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even book a tandem skydiving experience and land in the brewery’s grounds. In any case, you’ll receive a local produce hamper from Bizee Hands on arrival - make sure you try out the brewery’s new wood-fired pizza oven too.

That’s amore.

FAST FACTS The Old Coast Brewery, Lot 1238 West Break Road & Forestry Road, Myalup.

Visit ocrb.com.au or call 1300 792 106

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Pie eyed

Addicted to that great Aussie classic, the pie?

You’ll be well served in the Bunbury Geographe region, as Cassandra Charlick finds out.

It’s one of the obligatory things about growing up in Australia. The distances are wide and the pit stops are plentiful so an Aussie meat pie and an iced coffee is an unmissable tradition when you hit the road. I’ve trekked the tarmac to find the best in the region for your next visit down south.

THE CROOKED CARROT, MYALUP The perfect pit stop on the way down south, you can’t miss The Crooked Carrot’s sign on Forrest Highway in Myalup as you head for your holidays.

Previously known as The Emu Pie Shop, the pies here are definitely worth pulling over for. Enjoy them in their funky, recently refurbished dining area, or grab a take away along with some fresh produce from their on-site market place. You’ll find uniquely Australian flavours like kangaroo and pepperberry, emu with lemon myrtle, chicken with anise myrtle, and crocodile with strawberry gum. For an ever-so-slightly more traditional approach, there’s Moroccan lamb and venison in shiraz. This is the place for a gourmet pie fest with bushtucker flavours in spades.

Stock up on homemade chutneys, preserves and baked treats to keep the blood sugar levels up for the rest of the road trip.

Cnr Rigg Rd and Forrest Highway, Myalup.

Visit facebook.com/ thecrookedcarrot15 or call 08 9720 1560.

SMALLWATER ESTATE, NEWLANDS Smallwater Estate’s owner John Small has been warned by faithful customers – don’t take the pie off the menu. It’s reputation for sensational pies is well-deserved; its decadently divine melt-in-your-mouth marron and chardonnay pies are legendary. Marron plucked fresh from the dam and chardonnay from the neighbouring vines are indeed a match made in heaven. But a warning – at $45 it’s not one for the road with a packet of tomato ketchup. Take the opportunity to waste some time, savour every bite and enjoy the views overlooking the picturesque, multi-award winning vineyard.

52 Tramline Road, Newlands.

Visit smallwaterestate.com or call 08 9731 6036.

THE MUSHROOM AT NUMBER 61, BALINGUP The Official Great Aussie Pie Competition has some serious contenders so it’s no mean feat that this little café in Balingup has been scooping up plenty of top gongs recently. They won a silver medal for their pork and mushroom in cream cider sauce while the creamy chicken, leek and bacon took out a bronze medal too. Veggie-lovers will go nuts for the luscious creamy mushroom pie (well, it is called The Mushroom after all)..

31 Bridgetown Road, Ballingup. Visit facebook. com/themushroom61 or themushroom.com.au, or call 08 9764 1505.

DARDANUP BAKERY, DARDANUP This bakery truly is a hidden gem. Well worth a detour when you’re near Bunbury, the pies and sausage rolls sell out daily from this russet-red corrugated iron magnet for pie lovers, so be sure to get in quick. The whizz in the kitchen is a chef with a long international pedigree who has chosen the quiet life in the countryside – luckily for the tastebuds of Dardanup locals.

Drawing on German influences, the breads and pastries are too good to miss as well – don’t forget to take a vanilla slice for the road.

13 Charlotte Street, Dardanup.

Visit facebook.com/ dardanupbakery or call 08 9728 0603.

DON’T MISS

Make sure you try other top pie bakeries in the region –such as Boyanup, Capel Bakehouse and Donnybrook Family Bakery.

THE PASSIONATE BAKERY, BUNBURY Master Baker John Carey has 43 years of meat pie mastery to draw on, and is behind the tasty treats at this Bunbury favourite. The Passionate Bakery is located in the heart of the City of 3 Waters, and with a long list of awards, interesting flavours that change regularly and the added bonus of scrumptious cakes, slices and tray bakes on offer, this is passionate baking indeed.

50 Spencer Street, Bunbury. Visit facebook.com/ thepassionatebakerbunbury or call 08 9792 5500. |

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Time for a

PIT STOP Need a little pick-me-up to get you through the day? Lily Yeang divulges some of the best places in Bunbury Geographe for a cup of coffee and a generous slice of cake.

CAFE 140 Move over chai latte, turmeric’s the new hot bevvie of choice.

Haven’t tried one yet? Give one a go at Cafe 140. This creamy concoction of frothy warm milk, turmeric, nutmeg and cinnamon is topped with a sprinkle of colourful petals. It’s super healthy for you, and tastes great too. If you’re the type that needs a decent caffeinated drink to get through the day, you won’t be disappointed with the cafe’s brews. Get your coffee to go or sip it while you rock on one of the cafe’s indoor rope swings – a

quirky touch that fits perfectly with its rustic interior and décor.

Feeling a bit peckish? Cafe 140’s menu presents a modern take on breakfast staples, delicious fusion meals and a fun take on family meals like the traditional fish and chips. Check out the cafe’s sweet treats cabinet before you order; you’ll find rich, flourless chocolate cake, triple choc muffins and raw bliss balls coated in desiccated coconut on display, plus much, much more.

BREAD AND BUTTER WOOD FIRED BAKERY Extravagant cakes and OTT

milkshakes might be all the rage at the moment, but if you’re looking for a reliable, long-term breakfast staple, you can’t go past a good slice of bread and some homemade butter. Some of the best,freshly baked bread comes from the in-store ovens of Cafe 140’s sister store, Bread and Butter.

The bakery’s two wood-fired ovens produce a daily supply for Bunbury residents, which quickly gets snapped up from the store’s no-fuss wire racks. Bread and Butter’s loaves pair perfectly with the best (yes, we called it) homemade butter in WA. It’s creamy, it’s a little cheesy, and it’s oh-so-good thickly smeared across roughly sliced fruit loaf. Don’t worry, there’s something for the food trend lover too. Peer behind Bread and Butter’s giant glass cabinet and you’ll find sugar-encrusted

doughnuts filled to the brim with gooey custard, sweet jam and sticky nutella. You’ll also find homemade sausage rolls, bags of biscuits and a sampling of what’s in the oven that day, spread across the store’s giant concrete benchtop.

CORNERS ON KING Gourmet tarts and cakes?

Check. Gooey chocolate brownies? Check. A huge range of raw slices and gluten-free snacks? Check. Welcome to Corners on King, a cafe that ticks all of your sweet treat list’s boxes. Found on the corner of King Road and Austral Parade in East Bunbury, this cafe boasts a New York diner-style interior, plenty of seating and a counter jam-packed with sugary goods. But this locals’ hangout isn’t just about the cake. Corners on King offers |

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Food & Drink

TASTY TREATS You’ll be spoiled for choice if you drop in for a delicious homemade pastry at Corners on King, Lady Marmalade, The Happy Wife, Le Pause Miam or Bread and Butter.

all-day breakfast and lunch, as well as an impressive crazy shake menu. If you’re ordering one of these ‘milkshakes on steroids’, be prepared for a calorie overload – think a thick milkshake topped with a mountain of whipped cream and chunks of cherry ripe, whole pancakes, peppermint crisps, tim tams and more. Quality brews keep customers coming back for more, while free almond milk and only an extra $1.50 for gluten-free options make a pleasant bonus. Beat the morning rush by calling ahead and getting your coffee to go.

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LADY MARMALADE Lady Marmalade is fast becoming one of Bunbury Geographe’s major drawcards, thanks to its divine, almost overflowing cake displays.

Sweet teeth need not step past the counter to marvel at insta-worthy cakes, icing sugar-dusted brownie pyramids and macaron-filled jars. They do, however, need to order something from the menu.

Found along the quaint main strip of the town of Kirup (a 45-minute drive from Bunbury), Lady Marmalade uses fresh ingredients sourced from Newie’s Veggie Patch, a grocery store just up the road.

The result – hearty, fingerlicking dishes that’ll have you coming back for more. Specials like strawberry cheesecake pancakes are a must-try, while staples like the cafe’s breakfast burger will be devoured instantly by any savoury fiend.

You might be full from breakfast but make sure you don’t leave empty handed. Grab a slice (or two) to go, you’ll thank us later.

LA PAUSE MIAM Venture down Bunbury’s Central Arcade and you’ll find La Pause Miam, a Parisian cafe with lots of character.

Walk past the cafe’s alfresco seating and head inside, where

white-panelled bench seating, bistro-style tables and chairs, and a mini lounge space await. A French-influenced menu offers everything crepe, sweet and savoury pancakes stacked high, and our favourite combo of pavlova and French toast. Morning and afternoon tea are best spent gorging on croissants, giant coffee chocolate eclairs, wacky chocolate brownie caramel pretzel and lime kiwi muffins, and tartlets topped with fluffy, cloud-like mounds of meringue. Gulp it all down with a cup of the best coffee in the city, as voted by Bunbury locals. visitbunburygeographe.com.au

HOTEL LORD FORREST

Gourmet tarts and cakes?

Check. Gooey chocolate brownies? Check. A huge range of raw slices and gluten-free snacks? Check.

THE HAPPY WIFE There’s a reason why this place is called The Happy Wife. It’s probably something to do with the homely feel it exudes, thanks to a Cape Cod-style cottage fit-out complete with wooden chopping board-strewn walls and banana leaf wallpaper. Or maybe it’s the comfort food served up every day – from cheesy Boston beans and Moroccan egg, to a moreish duck and sweet potato parcel and onsite-baked cakes that are sure to put a smile on your dial. Then again, it could be owner Paul Griffin’s way to keep on his wife’s good side. After all, happy wife happy life, right? Do get a spot outside under The Happy Wife’s alfresco, where you’ll be treated to views of Bunbury’s Leschnault Inlet and if you’re lucky, the occasional dolphin.

Where to tuck in La Pause Miam 5/17 Prinsep St, Bunbury | Ph 9791 7348 facebook.com/LaPauseMiam/ Cafe 140 and Bread and Butter 140 Victoria Street, Bunbury | Ph 9721 2254 oneforty.com.au instagram.com/breadandbutterwoodfired The Happy Wife 4/98 Stirling Street, East Bunbury | Ph 9721 7706 thehappywife.com.au Corners on King 2 Austral Parade, East Bunbury | Ph 9721 4030 instagram.com/cornersonking Lady Marmalade 51 South Western Highway, Kirup, Ph 9731 6791 instagram.com/ladymarmaladebakes

At Best Western Plus Hotel Lord Forrest, we invite you to experience the cosmopolitan buzz of Bunbury’s city centre, the gateway to the beautiful South West W.A. With spectacular beaches at your doorstep and pristine National parks, forests and award-winning wineries close by, this is an ideal destination for your perfect holiday.

Our accommodation is ideal for corporate, leisure and conference travellers. Best Western Plus Hotel Lord Forrest offers 115 wellappointed rooms, apartment-style spa suites, studios and guest rooms all with private balconies with panoramic ocean, harbour and city views. Enjoy our onsite Atrium restaurant + bar, UNWIND, indoor heated swimming pool, spa and gymnasium.

Whether your stay is long or short, relax + unwind at Best Western Plus Hotel Lord Forrest!

Relax & Unwind . .

BEST WESTERN PLUS HOTEL LORD FORREST 20 SYMMONS STREET BUNBURY W.A 6230 HOTEL RESERVATIONS PHONE 08 9726 5777 reservations@lordforresthotel.com.au | FOUND | autumn • winter 2018

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Adventure & Nature

BIKE MOUNTAIN

FEVER

The Bunbury Geographe region is an ideal destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering a fantastic mix of public and private trails for riders of every level. || by NORMAN BURNS. || images courtesy JAXON THOMAS, IMAGE Eerik Sandstrom

EERIK SANDSTROM, TENAE FRANCIS, WESTCYCLE

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There’s been an explosion of interest in mountain biking in the past decade, and not just from people who already rode for sport or fun.

State governments and shire councils alike have finally realised that, with careful and considered development, mountain biking can be the gift that keeps giving.

As well as providing valuable recreational activities to locals, mountain biking is becoming a big tourism attraction.

And riders bring their wallets with them, as well as their cycling gear, and it’s this flowon effect for local business that is helping fuel the trail town concept that has really taken off in other parts of Australia, Tasmania in particular.

The WA State government is also keen to cotton on to the idea, planning another 425km of mountain bike trails in the state, much of them in the south west.

And the Bunbury-Geographe region is one of the mountain biking hot spots that’s just 90 minutes from Perth.

Trails criss-cross spectacular, unspoilt bushland but there are also options close to towns, such as the new Collie CBD trail which opened in

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

IMAGE Sean Lee

Experienced downhill racers are also catered for with the Wellington Mill Downhill Trails.

“This isn’t for the fainthearted,” says Lloyd. “Downhill state trials are often held here.”

CycleTrek owner and long time surfing and mountain biking identity Barrie Thomas, who operates the Kambarang trails on a private property in Lowden in the Shire of DonnybrookBalingup says mountain biking has evolved into an all-inclusive sport.

GOOD AIR There are mountain bike trails in the Bunbury Geographe region for all abilities, including the new Collie CBD Trail which opened earlier this year.

“It used to be the case that we had to take care of the wives, partners or kids of people who came to mountain bike. But now it’s the whole family who want to be involved,” he says.

Barrie’s CycleTrek business is on site at Kambarang (a Nyoongar word meaning the

IMAGE Eerik Sandstrom

January 2018.

Designed by Common Ground Trails, the Wagyl Biddi circuit starts at Soldiers Park and crosses an old train line built to service the Cardiff Coal Mine in the 1900s.

The trail offers two courses; one rated easy which follows the river past the original town dam and loops back to Soldiers Park, and a second circuit for the more experienced or adventurous rider.

Either way, riders are treated to a stunning WA bush experience, with local red tail cockatoos and other birdlife offering plenty of commentary on their efforts.

The South West Mountain Bike Club is a great place to start if you’re looking at exploring the region’s trails.

“One of our committee members refers to the ‘golden triangle’ between the Collie, Mount Lennard/Pile Road and Donnybrook trails,” says club secretary Sri Lloyd.

“The Mount Lennard trails, known locally as Pile Road, have about 40km of trails of varying difficulties.

“It’s just 20 minutes inland from Bunbury and one of the most complete networks of sanctioned mountain bike trails in WA,” she says.

Bunbury Regional Art Galleries presents a dynamic and ever changing roster of exhibitions by local artists. Located in the central heart of Bunbury, BRAG is a must visit for all culture lovers.

Open 10am to 4pm 7 days a week (08) 9792 7323 64 Wittenoom Street, Bunbury www.brag.org.au artgallery@bunbury.wa.gov.au | FOUND | autumn • winter 2018

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IMAGE Jaxon Thomas

Adventure & Nature

season of October/November), and with more than 10km of trails through the beautiful bush property, it’s proving a big drawcard for mountain bike enthusiasts.

Riders (should contact Barrie to discuss the trails

CHALLENGING TRACKS The Linga Longa Bike Park is a mecca for mountain bike enthusiasts with a useful shuttle back up to the top of trails.

“We want to become the ultimate mountain bike destination in Western Australia.”

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there) have an option of camping on the site or staying in a rustic, eco-friendly cottage.

CycleTrek is also an enthusiastic supporter, and facilitator, of mountain biking for the disabled; Barrie recently hosted an Adaptive Mountain Bike camp at Kambarang.

“We’re celebrating 25 years of Kambarang in June,” says Barrie.

“We’ve got a great facility, with around 10km of trails, including handcycle trails for mountain bikers with disabilities.”

The Linga Longa Bike Park, which opened in 2015, is another mecca for mountain bike enthusiasts in the region - but one with a unique difference as riders can catch a shuttle, like skiers catching a tow, back up to the top of the trails.

“Day passes are $60 for adults and $50 for kids for the uplift service at the park; riders get between 10 and 15-plus runs down the hill in a day, which is great value,” says Linga Longa’s Brydon Eaton.

The privately owned park currently has eight trails – including several extreme difficulty double black diamond ones - and has more in development.

The park has also had the support, and input into trail design, visitbunburygeographe.com.au

IMAGE Jaxon Thomas

of two-time world champion downhill rider and 2017 Enduro World Series champion Sam Hill.

“Sam’s support of our park has been incredible,” says Brydon. “Simply turning up to the National Gravity Endure round we hosted in June 2015 created a real buzz.

“Our trail designer, Devin Stafford, has known Sam for many years and invited him to come and ride. Sam and Devin built Rake and Ride, a steep technical Double Black Diamond trail, in a day. They walked down the hill with a rake and then rode the trail that’s literally how the trail was formed,’’ says Brydon.

While most of Linga Longa’s trails are suited to advanced riders, Brydon says the plan is to diversify to cater for all levels.

“We want to become the ultimate mountain bike destination in Western Australia; a place to have fun, relax and enjoy nature,” he says.

Thanks to WestCycle, Common Ground Trails, Linga Longa Bike Park, CycleTrek and the South West Mountain Bike Club for their assistance with this article.

For more information check out: Crankncycles, Collie 77 Steere St, (08) 9734 1471 crankncycles.com.au CycleTrek Bike Shop and Mountain Bike Park 416 Lowden-Grimwade Rd, Lowden, 0427 214 217, cycletrek.com.au Fitzroys, Bunbury 75 Spencer St, Bunbury (08) 9721 8600 trekbikes.com LingaLonga Bike Park Cassia Rd, Southampton, 0400 407 075, lingalongabikepark.com MaD Cycles, Bunbury 60B Strickland St, (08) 9791 7878 madcycles.com.au MeloVelo, Bunbury 66 Victoria St, (08) 9721 6438 melovelo.com.au South West Mountain Bike Club facebook.com/SWMTBC, swmtbc.asn.au |

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Adventure & Nature

Farm from the

madding crowds T Relax and regenerate at a farmstay or nature reserve.

By

LIZZY PEPPER.

here’s nothing better than leaving the bright lights of the city, donning your gum boots and spending a weekend with the family at an animal farmstay. Watch a sunset, see the starry night sky and get grubby while feeding the animals. We’ve picked three family-friendly farm stays plus two nature retreats where you can enjoy each other’s company and some fantastic rural activities.

Balingup Heights Hilltop Forest Cottages This beautiful spot is billed as “your own slice of heaven – with spectacular views” and I couldn’t have said it better myself. There’s six cosy cottages and a happy array of farm animals to feed each morning.

Owner-operators Deb and Brian Vanallen won Gold at the

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WA Tourism Awards for their self-contained accommodation and warm hospitality and will soon find out how they fared in the National Tourism Awards.

It’s easy to see why – they’re naturally kind and caring, and the farm stay experience is excellent.

Balingup Heights is the highest accommodation in the south west, with six cottages dotted among a marri forest on top of a hill just a few minutes from Balingup town. The views are breath taking –deep valleys, rolling hills, far off orchards and great sunsets.

We stayed in February when the paddocks were crispy brown, but during winter there’s often a morning mist blanketing the valley. Balingup Heights sits high above those mists in the sunshine, looking down on the otherworldly, cloud-like haze and green hills.

We rolled into town on a

Friday evening, enchanted by the scenic drive from Donnybrook to Balingup, past orchards brimming with apples, pears and plums.

The driveway up to Balingup Heights is reminiscent of driving in the French alps, albeit surrounded by Australian trees – steep and adventurous, but worth it for the jaw-dropping views.

The six cottages are dispersed around the marrijarrah forest which means you can’t hear or see your neighbours. It’s a peaceful and tranquil place and we felt like we were the only people there.

Our cedar clad two-bedroom cottage was perfect for a family; it had a queen bedroom, a twin room and a fold out bed. The small kitchen has everything you need – a microwave, fridge, gas stove top, plus there’s a BBQ on the deck. We dined on the deck as the sunset, visitbunburygeographe.com.au

FAMILY TIME Kids love getting involved at feeding time at Balingup Heights; there’s a wonderful mixture of livestock to look after.

ordering a breakfast hamper or gourmet evening meal platter delivered to your cottage. Both are filled with delicious local produce, and you could take your evening platter with a bottle of wine to the lookout point to watch the moon rise.

While the stars and Milky Way appear, you might just find yourself planning your return visit to Balingup Heights!

Look out for: blue wrens, red breasted robins, black cockatoos and emus near your cottage.

65 Balingup-Nannup Road, Balingup. Visit balingupheights.com.au or call 08 9764 1283.

watching the sun go down between the trees and the hills change colour.

Refreshingly, there’s no WiFi here, but we enjoyed a great selection of family board games and DVDs. The cottages have air conditioning and log fires to keep you comfortable, plus fluffy white towels, quality linen, pillows, doonas and electric blankets.

Each morning we joined Deb and Brian in feeding the animals. Bring your gumboots and a spare set of clothes, especially for the kids, as things can get a little messy. It’s a hobby farm so the animals are friendly and gentle. There’s a quirky llama and three greedy sheep to feed first; they live in the chestnut orchard at the entrance, so you may have seen them as you

Things to do in Balingup • fruit picking in autumn – oranges, plums and apples • visit Golden Valley Tree Park – especially the World collection, • Pear tree lookout • shop at Tinderbox in Balingup town • see Balingup Lavender Farm – a lovely garden and gift shop • brunch at Lady Marmalade in the nearby town of Kirup

arrived. Three horses gobble up carrots and chaff.

Then we went inside the guinea pig enclosure for a cuddle – a highlight for our young daughters, as you sit atop tree stumps feeding a guinea pig on your lap. We fed the chickens and collected eggs for the next day’s breakfast.

We can recommend pre-

Blue Hills Farm Stay Harvey Just 90 minutes from Perth is this lovely farm stay overlooking Harvey dam with views of the Darling range. Blue |

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Adventure & Nature Hills Farm Stay was once a 150acre working farm, now it’s a charming place where families and friends can escape for a little slice of countryside bliss.

There’s three rammed earth cottages each with a generous balcony and great views overlooking the paddocks, bush and hills. Cottage 3 has a great outlook over the dam. Cottages are stylish, spacious, and selfcontained, sleeping up to six people in two bedrooms.

You might find a big bag of carrots on arrival at your cottage – these are for feeding to the animals any time you like.

George the pig will gratefully devour your food scraps, and there’s chooks, ponies, rabbits, cows, sheep and an alpaca, too.

Farmer Justin loves sharing his farm with visitors and will show you how to catch yabbies or take the kids for a pony ride.

When asked his favourite time of year on the farm, he says it’s nice all year round, but winter is particularly special when you have marshmallows and a glass of red wine by the campfire. That sounds like the perfect Saturday night to me!

410 Weir Road, Harvey. Visit bluehillsfarmstay.com.au or call 0439 313 898.

Wellington Forest Cottages Nestled in the National Park just two hours from Perth and 20 minutes from Bunbury is Wellington Forest Cottages.

Rather than a farm stay, this is a natural Australian bush experience, where you’ll pat friendly kangaroos, see quokkas, brushtail possums and chuditch.

It’s not a luxury experience, but one of the best opportunities to see some native animals that most Australians won’t ever see, with great hospitality from owner Wendy Perdon.

Eight cottages were built for forestry workers in the 1920s, and now it’s an excellent place to relax and reconnect. The accommodation is basic – it’s 56

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BYO bed linen and there’s no TV or WiFi – but it’s a great place to rest after a day of bushwalking or hitting the Lennard mountain biking trails.

Each cottage can sleep up to eight guests, in a double bed and six single beds. The cottages are self-catering, and the kitchen has a fridge, stove, oven, grill and microwave, and there’s a BBQ on the deck.

Stock up at the Bunbury Farmers Market on the way through.

The forest can get cold at night, but the cottages are cosy when you light a log fire. Huddle around the outdoor fire pit and listen to the nocturnal animals scurrying around the bush.

Kids will love being greeted by kangaroos in the morning, and you’ll likely see lorikeets from your balcony. There’s a rare colony of mainland quokkas which are not as bold as the Rottnest clan, but it’s a thrill to see this vulnerable animal in the wild.

Bonus: Wendy also runs a

restaurant in the forest serving delicious salads, burgers, makeyour-own cheese platter and a famous marron and fennel pot pie. It’s open Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm, and Friday night for dinner until 8pm.

333 Wellington Forest Road, Wellington Mill. Visit wfccc. com.au or call 08 9728 3043.

Ferguson Farm Stay Ferguson Farm Stay has become one of the most sought-after wedding venues and popular retreats in the Ferguson Valley in the 23 years since they began. There’s an

incredible 1,000 rose bushes in the garden, and a fabulous menagerie of farm animals waiting to greet you.

Perched atop the Darling Ranges in the idyllic Ferguson Valley there’s a view across farmland and vineyard all the way to the Bunbury coast. You might even spot a ship docking in the Bunbury harbour on a clear day.

There’s 11 rammed earth chalets each with a splendid view, fully equipped kitchen and a generous veranda with a BBQ. You’ll wake up to see cows grazing in the paddocks visitbunburygeographe.com.au

and kangaroos having a lazy stretch. Join in the morning farm activities that include feeding animals; goats, ponies, pigs, chickens, ducks, emus, a kangaroo and rabbits. Children can have a pony ride and everyone can jump aboard the tractor to ride to the back of the property to feed the bigger cows.

Kids will also love the trampoline and playground, and everyone can enjoy a game of tennis or basketball – racquets and balls are supplied.

930 Henty Rd, Henty. Visit fergusonfarmstay.com.au or call 08 9728 1392.

Further afield meet the numbats Venture a little further south to Perup Nature’s Guest House – one of the best places in the south west to see native wildlife including numbats, ringtail and brushtail possums, quenda, woylies and chuditch.

Perup is a nature-based experience east of Manjimup, popular with school camps and family gatherings. It was built by CALM (Conservation and Land Management – now Department of Parks and Wildlife) many years ago to house scientists and school groups, and it is adjacent to the Perup Sanctuary, a jarrah, marri and wandoo forest, razor

fenced to protect the native animals.

Like on Rottnest Island, the native animals are relatively tame and wander around close to humans. Numbats are active during the day. It’s not guaranteed, but you may be lucky and see them. There’s a family of ring-tailed possums that live on-site. Tamar wallabies, chuditch and quendas are regularly seen too.

The birdlife is spectacular too; white tailed black cockatoos nest outside the cottages, as do blue wrens and red breasted robins.

Perup is a wildflower hotspot during spring when a multitude of orchids appear. The best way to enjoy the flora and fauna is to join one of the self-guided walk trails, where you might be lucky enough to see these animals in their habitat.

There are three cottages which can sleep up to seven or nine people, suitable for a family with plenty of room.

There’s an adjacent bunkhouse with space for 28 people which is popular with scientists and school groups. The cottages are fully self-contained with a huge kitchen, lounge and outdoor area with a fire pit.

3360 Boyup Brook-Cranbrook Road, Tonebridge.Visit perupnaturesguesthouse.com. au or call 08 9765 1555.

Art that Flows

An art space for art glass created exclusively by West Australian artists LAVA is dynamically located at the beautiful Marlston Waterfront of Koombana Bay in Bunbury Western Australia.

Modern art glass, chic and edgy.

PERFECT SECLUSION Below, Perup Nature’s Guest House gives visitors the opportunity to see native wildlife in their own natural habitat.

Opposite, Wellington Forest Cottages offers a natural bush experience.

ARTIST Peter Reynolds IMAGE BY Kevin Gordon

Experience art that flows.

LAVA is an intimate gallery with an urban vibe.

High end collectables to functional art, giftware and jewellery.

LAVA has a working studio teaching art glass techniques and accepts commissions for wall art and leadlights.

Unit 3/ 15 Bonnefoi Blvd Marlston Waterfront, Bunbury 6230

08 9721 7213

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www.lavaartglass.com.au

Destination

Bunbury Bunbury loves to celebrate; from beach festivals, high adrenaline racing action and cultural performances, to food and drink-related events Busselton

BUNBURY, THE CITY of 3 Waters, is a vibrant seaside port city undergoing an energetic renaissance.

Surrounded by beautiful waterways, the city’s rhythm is laid-back and low key yet at the same time it’s edgy with a banging arts scene and an ever-growing collection of independent boutiques, small bars, and cafes with an obsession with providence and seasonal produce.

Must-dos 1 Art-astic - Track down inspirational urban art and whimsical characters painted by leading WA artists on 20 electrical boxes scattered through the CBD. The city is also home to a pretty awesome entertainment centre (BREC), BRAG (WA’s largest regional art gallery) and Australia’s biggest music festival, Groovin the Moo. 2 Fin fun - Join the team at the Dolphin Discovery Centre at Koombana Bay for an intimate swim with some of the 150 or so wild dolphins who make this

Australind

BUNBURY

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

spot their home. If you’d rather stay dry, take the Dolphin Eco Cruise within the bay.

Work up an appetite - Visit Victoria Street for a feed and a shopping spree.

One of Bunbury’s mostloved streets, it’s known for cute, independent shops, restaurants, small bars and great street-side peoplewatching. Market Eating House is a perennial, local favourite and an award-winner too.

Foodies should head to the Marlston Hill Waterfront or Austral Parade dining precinct near the iconic Parade Hotel.

3

Boyanup

Donnybrook

4 Time travel - soak up Bunbury’s past on a Heritage Building Trail. The streets of Bunbury’s CBD are filled with history and mystery with plenty of stories to discover. Make sure you stop at the Bunbury Museum & Heritage Centre and King Cottage too. Finish up at the Marlston Waterfront Precinct – see the bust of French explorer Nicolas Baudin and read about the city’s rich maritime history.

5 On two wheels Bunburians love the outdoors so the city has a plethora of bike and walk trails. You can

FIND A LOCAL BUNBURY VISITOR CENTRE Freecall 1800BUNBURY A Old Railway Station, Haley Street, Bunbury, WA 6230 T 08 9792 7205 E welcome@bunbury.wa.gov.au

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

The streets of Bunbury’s CBD are filled with history and mystery with plenty of stories to discover.

IMAGE Taj Kempe

hire a bike from Spinway WA & Gecko Bike hire at the Visitor Centre or pick up a supercute retro bike from Rentabike Bunbury. For an epic ride, take a Fat Bike Beach Tour with Melo Velo. If you’re feeling lazy, jump on a Bunbury Dolphin City Tram Tour. The beautifully restored tram spends an hour and a half touring the City, so sit back and relax as you hear stories about Bunbury’s colourful past, maritime history and plans for the future.

6 Short and sharp - Head up the steep path to the Marlston Hill Lookout. It gives you a 360 degree view of the City of 3 Waters. Connected to Victoria Street by a timber stairway, it sits on the site of Bunbury’s first lighthouse. For a rigorous climb, Boulters Heights between Wittenoom Street and Haig Crescent also offers fabulous city views.

7 Beach life -find your perfect beach in the City of 3 Waters.

Serene Koombana Bay is one of only A few north-facing Australian beaches and with its new foreshore redevelopment,

its popularity is skyrocketing, particularly among families.

On the other side of the CBD, Bunbury’s Back Beach is the place to go for body boarding fun, or for those who like clothing optional head south to Mindalong.

memorable undersea experience, diving on Lena Ship Wreck with Octopus Garden Dive Charters.

Try the fastest growing water sport that’s also loads of fun with SUP Bunbury, or see the water from the sky on a scenic flight with Bunbury Aero Club.

8 Selfie snaps - take a pic in front of our much-loved chequered lighthouse on top of volcanic lava formed millions of years ago at Wyalup-Rocky Point (it’s awesome at sunset) or within the mysterious paperbarks at the Big Swamp Wetlands. Bunbury’s Mangrove Walk is a truly spectacular way to stretch your legs and get a cool pic. The mangroves are a freak occurrence and the southernmost mangroves in Western Australia.

10 Pantry fillers - Stock up on fresh produce at Bunbury Farmers Markets. This place is legendary; so much so, many Perth ‘golden-triangle’ residents

travel the two-hour drive to shop. The produce here – much of it sourced from surrounding farms – is mostly organic and explodes with flavour. Grab gourmet pies, the most amazing local and French cheeses, handpressed juices to go, and so much more. Alternatively, whet your appetite at a wonderful fortnightly celebration of all things fresh and artisanal at The Bunbury Markets at Queens Gardens.

9 Water world - Set sail for a day on Ocean West Charters – anchor for lunch, take a swim, or relax on the deck and soak up the sun. Alternatively, join a crew at Koombana Bay Sailing Club for their Wednesday night twilight sail. If a slower pace is more your style, cruise with Elandra by Three Water Cruises. Have a truly

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Destination

You’ll find the Donnybrook-Balingup region among the picturesque Preston and Blackwood River valleys is bursting with historic, producedriven towns and hamlets.

Donnybrook Balingup region

Australind BUNBURY

Gelorup Stratham

Boyanup Lowden

Capel DONNYBROOK

Busselton

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Must-dos 1 Core values - Munch an apple or two. In autumn, pick your own at Spring Valley Orchard or the Fruit Barn’s local orchard.

2 Play time - Take the kids to Australia’s biggest free-entry playground, the Apple FunPark in the heart of Donnybrook. Toddler and preschooler areas include many low ride-on animals, kiddie swings, climbing and slide areas. Older kids will love the four-level towers with slides, rope bridges and flying foxes, low rock climbing walls, swings and a spacenet, and two 9.5m towers.

4 Grape expectations - Home to some of the Geographe’s best up-andcoming wineries, here are a few to get you started. Barrecas was first established in 1994

by Fil Barreca after he worked on a Sicilian vineyard. Their reds steal the show and Barbera (aka ‘the monster’) consistently sells out. Barton Jones, a 4 Star James Halliday

BALINGUP

winery, has an ultra-cool solar powered, straw bale cellar door. Continue to Oakway Estate. Their 2017 vermentino is a BunGeo favourite and their 2017 sauvignon blanc is also a medal winner.

5 Rug up - During winter stay in the hills of Balingup and Lowden. Close your eyes and inhale the crisp, fresh scent

IMAGE Frances Andrijich

COLLOQUIALLY KNOWN AS the apple capital of Western Australia, Italian and Irish settlers brought their love of great food to Donnybrook in the 1900s. Today, you can eat your way through the region with quaint roadside stalls selling seasonal local produce.

Modern-day fossicking - this was originally a gold town - is also encouraged in the many local shops, antique stores and more.

A little further down the South West Highway is Balingup. It would have to be one of the prettiest towns in Western Australia, surrounded by rolling hills, forests and orchards and renowned for amazing autumn colours and misty winter mornings.

Laid-back, a little bohemian and creative, Balingup’s super-cute shops fill the main street, and there is always a quirky event on offer, with the Balingup Medieval Carnivale, the Small Farm Field Day and Telling Tales in Balingup festivals among the perennial favourites. The Donnybrook Balingup region also includes the quaint historic towns and hamlets of Brookhampton, Kirup, and Mullalyup, plus Yabberup, Mumballup and Lowden in the Preston Valley.

Kirup

River walks - The Preston River Loop Walk Trail traverses a lush wetlands river ecosystem encompassing a suspension bridge and weir crossing, incorporating the Preston River Indigenous Walk Trail and the Waugyl Sculpture Park. Venture further into Donnybrook to find beautiful Donnybrook Stone on fences, pathways, and as the foundation of many of its historic attractions such as the Soldiers Memorial Hall (1919) and All Saints Church (1906).

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

FIND A LOCAL DONNYBROOK VISITOR CENTRE A Old Railway Station, South Western Hwy, Donnybrook, WA 6239 T 08 9731 1720 E donnybrookwa@westnet. com.au BALINGUP VISITOR CENTRE A South Western Hwy, Balingup, WA 6251 T 08 9764 1818 E balinguptourism@westnet. com.au

of the morning. If you are high in the hills, the view will be a blanket of white until the mist dissipates. At night, clear skies give stargazers an awe-inspiring view of the constellations. Sitting by the fire with a cuppa and sweet treat makes you feel hugged from the inside, and it’s superromantic too.

6 Shop til you drop - Stock up on handmade herbal products at the Tinderbox, find pottery and timber products at the largest art and craft centre in WA - the Old Cheese Factory Craft Centre - or ogle at Donnybook’s superb new and secondhand book collection. Invest in alpaca knitwear from Jalbrook or stunning handcrafted jewellery at Balingup Goldsmith, Ginger Gold’s Vintage for antiques and lavender products from the Balingup Lavender Farm.

way, take a quick detour to Balingup’s beautiful Avenue of Honour, with its majestic oaks that honour the 154 local men and women of the region who enlisted for service during the First World War.

Tree huggers welcome - Wander through the Golden Valley Tree Park, Western Australia’s largest arboretum.

There are 60ha of exotic and native trees and it’s recently been named one of the top five locations in Australia to see autumn colours. On the

Go for a drive - The Balingup–Nannup Road is one of the region’s most scenic, but beware – kangaroo and emu sightings are guaranteed. As you leave, stop at the Balingup Heights Scenic Lookout for stunning views of the town and orchards. Lunch at a local

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pub? Try the Mumby Pub in Mumballup or the Balingup Rib and Steakhouse.

of fresh fruit, veg and local produce in regional WA. 10 On the right track - Walkers can tackle a section of the Bibbulmun Track that passes through the region near Balingup.

Mumballup is another great rest point surrounded by Preston Virgin Forest. Mountain biking enthusiasts can hit the world-class Munda Biddi Trail near Donnybrook. Alternatively, stay at MTB meccas CycleTrek in Lowden or Linga Longa near Balingup. Most accommodation properties offer a pick-up and dropoff service to each track.

Filling station - Try the scrumptious cakes from Lady Marmalade, a marron and chardonnay pie from Smallwater Estate, or a Great Aussie Pie from The Mushroom at No 61.

Indulge in authentic Asian fare at Village Harvest and top it off with a tipple from the Birdwood Park Fruit Winery. If picking your own seems too much like hard work, Newy’s Fruit and Veg in Kirup has the best selection 9

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Destination

Australind BUNBURY

The Ferguson Valley produces some of Australia’s best alternative wine varieties intermingled with stunning vistas over the lower coastal plains to the Indian Ocean.

Eaton

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Burekup

FERGUSON VALLEY Dardanup Boyanup

Donnybrook

Ferguson Valley region Busselton

AN INFLUX OF tree-changers has helped transform this region from agricultural villages into a go-to for wine producers, artists, musicians and small creative businesses.

Dairy farming is still prominent, but lifestylers have moved in for the bucolic simplicity of country life and, as you move up the mountain to the Ferguson Valley, the land is peppered with vines, wineries, and the odd brewery too.

Eating and drinking isn’t all that there is to do here – a large section of the region is covered in dense, ruggedly beautiful jarrah forest and includes part of the very popular Wellington National Park.

The area also packs a mighty punch in the festival and event stakes, with the likes of the Dardanup Art Spectacular and Trail, Dardanup Bull & Barrel, St Aidan’s Shakespeare Among the Vines, and Ferguson Valley Open Gardens, pulling in crowds of thousands annually.

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Must-dos 1 Plenty of choice- Wine tasting is a must in the Fergie Valley with more than 20 vineyards and wineries producing awesome smallbatch wines. Perhaps the most impressive winery in the region is Willow Bridge Estate - a 5 red star James Halliday awardwinning operation. However, don’t discount the small guys.

Boutique producer Talisman is taking the award-scene by storm, and many others are hot on their heels. On your wine journey, don’t expect to drink and dash; our winemakers are passionate souls who love sharing their time with you. For beer lovers, two breweries in the region will tantalise your palates.

2 Name a gnome - You must pay a visit to the very quirky Gnomesville, a community driven-gnome village with over 7,000 little inhabitants. Bring along a gnome and add it to the collection. Before you go,

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pick up a copy of the recently released, super-cute children’s illustrated book, Gnomesville – the real story by Lesley Geers.

On your bike - Get the cogs turning at the Mount Lennard Mountain Bike Network, near Pile Road in the Wellington National Park.

Mount Lennard or Pile Road as it’s known to the majority of mountain bikers is a fun area of trails that are for the most part built on a very gentle slope.

The single track Grizzly Trail is one of the more popular and technical trails of the collection; it weaves through the jarrah forest providing more than enough obstacles, jumps and berms to keep even the most experienced riders on their toes.

outside the metropolitan area.

Stop for lunch along the way at the historic Dardanup (aka The Dardy) Tavern built in 1905; it has bags of character.

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4 Tall timbers - Be awed by nature with a visit to the King Jarrah Tree – it is the most accessible, largest tree in the BunGeo. This majestic jarrah tree is estimated to be between 300 and 500 years old.

Standing about 36 metres tall, it has survived bushfires, storms, lighting and insect attack.

7 Let’s eat! - Here are a few foodie options to get you started: for a fab fivecourse degustation head to Hackersley Estate. Low key and a little arty, Hackersley sits in a cute cottage overlooking a lake with cows grazing in the background. Down the road is St Aidan’s Winery - their European trained chef has a resume that will blow your mind. Small’s Bar Eaton has a talented team who have scoured the region for the best of the best local produce. If you’re after something simple, visit Ferguson Falls Wine Cafe, home to WA’s Best Pizza Gold Plate Award. Or, if you’re a pielover, Dardanup Bakery is one of the best.

Get lost - Eaton Foreshore Walk meanders for 5km along the picture-perfect Collie River.

You’ll quickly forget you are 8

FIND A LOCAL FERGUSON VALLEY (DARDANUP) VISITOR CENTRE

so close to urban influences.

Between Dardanup and Boyanup are the ever-popular Crooked Brook Trails. The Forest Path is a hidden jewel for those with limited mobility, providing easy access to an area of natural bushland with interpretive signage about the flora and fauna .

A 5 Ferguson Road, Dardanup WA 6236 T 08 9728 1551 E marketing@fergusonvalley.net.au

Creative country - Go in search of artists hiding in the hills. Visit one of the local galleries for unique artwork, ceramics, glassware, and jewellery. The best time to find them is during the Dardanup Art Spectacular and Trail when acclaimed artists such as Russell Sheridan and Linda Skrolys open their galleries and studios to the world.

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6 History lives - The Dardanup Heritage Park houses one of Australia’s finest collections of historic agricultural and industrial items with more than 20 sheds full of beautifully restored gems.

Make time to wander through the 15 heritage sites on the 2.5km Dardanup Heritage Trail, including the first Catholic Church in Western Australia

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Destination

Get ready to find the world’s last remaining tuart forest, quiet seaside hamlets, and bucolic country towns in the Capel region.

Australind

BUNBURY

Dalyellup

Gelorup

Stratham Peppermint Grove Beach

CAPEL

Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Capel region NESTLED ON THE Capel River, you’ll find Capel, a town with a quirky sense of humour.

Where else in Australia would they send you to hunt for the troll under a historic bridge?

The creative journey continues down the main street with walls of murals reflecting the stories of the town. Nearby, Boyanup is a quintessential dairy and cattle town with lots of tree-changers thrown in for good measure. Its farmers market, held every fourth Sunday of the month, is one of the best in the region. Many locals are history buffs with a fetish for trains, and the driving force behind the South West Rail & Heritage Centre.

Alternatively, pay a visit to the ultra-modest contender for the title of WA’s most alluring coastal town, Peppermint Grove Beach.

Peppy Beach (as the locals call it) is home to white sandy beaches and fabulous holiday houses; 64

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it’s your ultimate hammock and chill destination. A little further north, Dalyellup is a new, outer coastal suburb adjoining Bunbury with awesome beaches, 50ha of parks and gardens, 25km of cycleways and walking trails and its own piece of preserved tuart forest..

Must-dos 1 Tree change - Uncover the world’s only remaining tall Tuart Forest in the Tuart Forest National Park. It’s also home to the rare western ringtail possum.

Go bushwalking, have a picnic or check out the Tuart Discovery Trail.

2 Wine time - Visit the beautiful Capel Vale Winery.

James Halliday agrees with the Australian Wine Companion nominating Capel Vale as among the top 100 wineries in Australia.

Enjoy a late lunch at Match Restaurant where it’s all about ‘matching’ food perfectly with wine. The view is pretty special too. Finish with a cheese platter and a glass of their delicious Geographe merlot. If you have a sweet tooth, we suggest you book a high tea. It’s a delicious and decadent tradition that never disappoints.

3 Sunset feels - Watch a sunset at Peppermint Grove Beach. Get here early and spend time at one of the Geographe’s best beaches swimming, fishing, surfing and canoeing. Stay locally at the Peppermint Grove Beach Holiday Park or holiday homes and on the weekends, join the locals for coffee mornings at the community centre and you’ll be made to feel right at home.

4 Push yourself - Take fun to the highest level at Forest

Adventures South West, an aerial flying fox adventure park set in the beautiful Tuart Forest.

Have some super-awesome paintball fun at Paintball Pursuit near Stratham, where groups and individuals can fight it out.

Entertain the kids and those young at heart at Gravity in Dalyellup. Bounce, tumble, balance, flip, party and fly your way around 1,800sqm of indoor high-energy trampoline excitement. Boyanup also connects to the world-leading Munda Biddi Mountain Bike Trail. Play a challenging round of golf at the Capel Golf Course under the gaze of the grazing kangaroos. If you didn’t pack your clubs, no worries - they host outdoor movies in summer.

5 Sweetie pies - Indulge your sweet tooth with the most scrumptious cheesecakes (gluten free) from The Fat Birdie,

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served with Margaret River Yahava coffee, while Capelberry do a great breakfast bruschetta designed to fill up the hungriest of travellers. They also have a massive selection of herbal teas, Rubra coffee as well as chutneys

by Peppy Beach producer, The Fat Hippo. The best value in the region has to be the Capel Bakery. Stock up on homemade pies, sourdough bread, and old favourites like Wagon Wheels and butterfly cakes. In season, you can also pick up some great farmgate produce - this is where you may find free-range organic eggs, seasonal veggies and fruits from Mostly Organics, jams and preserves, olive oil produced by local producer Goccio D’oro, as well as a select range of handmade and natural olive oil soaps and skincare balms.

winter the stream, having followed a course through one of the region’s many fine jarrah forests, crosses under the road and gently rambles over a series of rapids. The falls drop over a ledge of nine metres.

In spring, the surrounding countryside bursts into colour with a stunning display of wildflowers.

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Fairy tale finds - Go in search of the Gingerbread

House. Your kids can decorate gingerbread men while you sit back and relax.

All aboard - The South West Rail & Heritage Centre in Boyanup opens its doors with a special theme every fourth Sunday of the month. View the historic trains, carriages, and the blacksmiths working.

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Where else in Australia would they send you to hunt for the troll under a historic bridge?

6 Let’s pack a picnic - Dine al fresco at Ironstone Gully Falls and discover the wildflowers (from August to October). In

FIND A LOCAL CAPEL REGION VISITOR INFORMATION A c/o BUNBURY VISITOR CENTRE T 08 9792 7205 • E welcome@bunbury.wa.gov.au OR Capel Library T 08 9727 0290 • W library.capel.wa.gov.au

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Destination

Climb the mountain to the top of the Darling Scarp and discover the beautiful BUNBURY Collie River Valley, which is quickly becoming Western Australia’s MTB capital.

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY Allanson Collie

Australind

Gelorup Stratham

Boyanup

Capel

Donnybrook

Busselton

Collie River Valley region ONCE THE LURE of the mountain has brought you here, there are endless outdoor experiences waiting for you. Tracks and trails are in abundance, so whether it is a kayaking trip down the Collie River, a hike on the Bibbulmun Track, casting your line in rivers and lakes or an afternoon bike ride through beautiful jarrah forests, you are sure to leave with a new-found appreciation for the beauty of this region.

Pack decent activewear, hiking boots and some layers in winter.

The region was originally considered ideal for timber production and as pasturelands.

However, the discovery of coal along the Collie River in 1883 changed the region’s fortunes.

Nowadays, Collie has a rich emerging diversity, including arts and culture including a fabulous little gallery that punches way above its weight.

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Must-dos 1 Off-road adventures Get on a MTB track and crisscross through the beautiful Collie River Valley. With more than 20 trails for beginner and pro, there’s plenty of opportunities to get your cogs turning. New trails are popping up too including the recently opened Collie Wagyl Biddi trail named after the mythical rainbow serpent; a fun and easy flow trail on the edge of the town centre. For the ultimate challenge, attempt to Beat the Biddi – the world-class Munda Biddi Trail diverts through Collie. Don’t have gear? Hire a bike from the Kiosk in the Dam in the Wellington National Park and tackle the nearby Mount Lennard Tracks or pick up a bike at Collie’s Crank’n Cycles where the guys know everything there is to know about MTB. Walkers aren’t

forgotten either with the famous Bibbulum Track traversing the region.

Refuel on the road Cyclists and other caffeine addicts should pay a visit to Wagon 537 - a pop-up cafe, located in a heritage train wagon. Another local coffee haunt is the historic Colliefields Hotel – it’s purple exterior makes it hard to miss. If you fancy some good honest pub grub then you’re spoilt for choice, the Feddy (Federal Hotel) and The Vic are among our favourites. For a sweet hit, seek out Happy Donuts.

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Stay a while - Head to the Harris River Estate Winery and eat to your heart’s content from the tapas menu. You can stay here too, overlooking the vines, a beautiful dam and jarrah forest. This amazing, family-run property includes a 24-hectare vineyard and winery, 3

cider-making operation, microbrewery, equestrian agistment centre, restaurant and selfcontained chalets.

4 Best in show - The Collie Art Gallery opened in 2015 and was the first fit-for-purpose A-class gallery to be built in Western Australia since the Art Gallery of WA was opened in 1979. It showcases a diverse and impressive exhibition program – think Arthur Boyd, Howard Taylor and Guy GreySmith. Oh, and by the way, it has one of the biggest art prizes in regional Australia – the $50,000 Collie Art Prize (CAP).

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5 Top gear - Get your adrenaline fix by zooming around a top class motorplex track. The recently expanded Collie Motorplex circuit hosts weekend events; see burning rubber at the Gazzanats in March or try it yourself, with regular Champion’s Ride Days and V8 Supercar hot laps.

6 Water, water, water - You may be inland, but there’s no shortage of aquatic adventure playgrounds in the Collie River Valley. Start at picturesque

Minninup Pool, where the Collie River is at its widest, ideal for swimming (note it can be a tad chilli in winter), canoeing or picnicking. Follow the Collie River in Wellington National Park to uncover an array of natural swimming pools and if the water’s high, an ideal place to kayak. Or try water skiing on the intense blue waters of Stockton Lake.

Secret sanctuary - The beautiful, serene Honeymoon Pool in Wellington National Park 7

is an Instagram hot spot for good reason. It’s a wide natural pool surrounded by graceful peppermints, and jarrah and marri forest along the Collie River. Find your inner child and try out the swinging rope.

Be prepared to be invigorated - the water is always cool and refreshing. Not far away is another Instagrammable favourite - Black Diamond Lake - with vibrant, blue waters just begging for a selfie.

8 Black gold - Step back in time and gain an insight into the lives of Collie’s rugged underground miners. The Replica Coal Mine at the Collie Visitor Centre was constructed in 1983 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of coal discovery. Immerse yourself in a tour with a past miner (by appointment) and check out the restored locomotives while you are there. Pop across the road and pay a visit to the Coalfields Museum – it’s a real local history treasure trove.

FIND A LOCAL COLLIE VISITOR CENTRE A 156 Throssell Street, Collie WA 6225 T 08 9734 2051 E info@collierivervalley.org.au

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Destination

Australind BUNBURY

Collie

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Balingup

It may be the country capital of WA but you’ll also find rolling hills, rivers and farm land in this beautiful part of the world.

BOYUP BROOK

Boyup Brook region WHERE AN ICONIC RIVER, undulating valleys, and rare flora and fauna meets broad-acre farming plains, Boyup Brook on the tranquil Blackwood River is the heart of Western Australia’s country music scene. Each year, thousands upon thousands of fans descend on this small community to attend the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival.

But it’s not all cowboy boots and guitar twangs; Boyup Brook is also rural community brimming with talent. From creative artists to some of WA’s best food and wine producers, this town will win you over with its warm hospitality and spirit.

Highlighting the fact is Boyup Brook’s obsession (in a good way) with collecting.

From a world-famous rare jewel beetle and butterfly collection, an amazing doll collection, a record and music memorabilia that will blow yourcmind, to one of Australia’s largest collection of teapots; the people and things of Boyup Brook will intrigue and delight.

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Must-dos 1 Grab your boots and hat - This is country music country and home to WA’s iconic Country Music Festival (February). Throughout the year, you can visit the Hot Country Music Shop and stock up on all things country. Make sure you don’t miss the Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre. This entertainment shed is decorated wall-towall and floor-to-rafter with memorabilia spanning 100 years. See life-sized sand sculptures of Elvis and Johnny Cash and the ‘record room’ contains hundreds of records including an extensive Elvis Presley exhibit.

The butterfly effect Visit the beautiful Carnaby Beetle and Butterfly Collection, regarded as the best outside the British Museum of Natural History at the Boyup Brook Visitor Centre. Keith Carnaby was a leading light in the field of entomology. The Visitor Centre 2

also showcases the impressive Krandal Doll Collection, the Little Art Gallery, and locally-made produce with Boyup Brook olive oil a must-buy.

3 Paddles up - Hire a canoe from the Flax Mill Recreation Complex and paddle down the majestic Blackwood River, the largest river in the South West.

Peaceful stretches meander through farming country. To experience magnificent flora and birdlife, take a picnic and stop off along the way. For the more adventurous, the river and surrounds are suitable for longer treks that incorporate camping at various spots along the banks. Prefer to be on land?

Take the Bicentennial Trail for an ultra- pleasant walk beside the Blackwood River.

4 Artfully done - Explore the streets of Boyup and be amazed by the holograms and sculptures, plus murals and a giant gnomon by acclaimed local artist Sandy Chambers.

Boyup Brook’s public art also

encompasses impressive, metal large-scale works by Len Zuks and Harvey Dickson.

5 Historic stories - One of Boyup’s first settlers was Sir James Lee Steere, a prominent politician and a member of the WA’s powerful Six Hungry Families. At the Pioneers’ Museum, see displays of historic agricultural, commercial and domestic equipment such as the first clover-seed harvester, developed by Boyup Brook local, the late PD Forrest, in 1910.

Afterwards, take the Heritage Walk following 23 plaques around the town centre. If you’re lucky, you may also be able to visit one of the district’s first farms and the heritage-listed Norlup Homestead, build for Commander Scott with convict labour.

6 Award-winning wines Boyup Brook is probably not where you’d expect to find a James Halliday 5 star rated winery, with medals at the Hong Kong, China and London

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FIND A LOCAL BOYUP BROOK VISITOR CENTRE A Cnr Abel and Bridge Sts, Boyup Brook 6244 T 08 9765 1444 E bbvisitor@wn.com.au

international wine competitions.

Located in the Blackwood Valley, Dickinson Estate (by appointment only) first planted vines over 40 years ago and have been producing quality fruit and wine ever since. A must try - their 2015 Dickinson Estate Shiraz (95 points) and 2015 Dickinson Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (95 points) are fabulous.

7 Wild things - Surrounded by the 56,000 hectare TonePerup Nature Reserve, Perup Nature’s Guesthouse is one of the best places in the South West to see native wildlife, including rare numbats, ringtail

and brushtail possums, quenda, woylies and chuditch.

From a family weekend away to large scale-group event, a stay at Perup is an awesome nature-immersion experience.

8 Saddle up - Take a bushride through jarrah forests. Beryl’s Riding School offers rides through 80 acres of picturesque land between Collie and Boyup Brook.

There’s nothing better than experiencing the landscape from horseback - a completely new point of view. Trail rides start from $50 per person or they also run School Holiday Camps from $130 per day.

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Destination

Yarloop

HARVEY

Myalup Binningup

Brunswick Junction

Australind

BUNBURY

IMAGE Overland Media

The largest and most diverse area in the BunGeo, the Harvey region benefits from multiple visits to see all that it offers.

Roelands

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Harvey region

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Must-dos Fruitful travels - As you drive through Harvey, keep an eye out for roadside stalls selling oranges, mandarins and other local produce. Stretch your legs with a climb up the famous 10m high Big Orange, nestled in the grounds of the Harvey River Estate winery on the banks of the Harvey River.

Owned by the Sorgiovanni family (of Harvey Fresh fame), the estate was established in 1999 and features a great cellar door for wine tastings by Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophywinning winemaker Stuart Pierce.

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waters. A little further around the estuary is the Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park - just minutes from Australind yet feels like you are miles from civilisation. The park is located on a thin peninsula, bounded on one side by the Indian Ocean and the Leschenault Estuary on the other. Stay the night at the Belvidere camping area.

3 Lest we forget - Get a fuller understanding of WWII Internment history at Harvey’s Internment Camp Memorial Shrine. It’s the only roadside shrine of its type in the world and was built by prisoners of war in the 1940s. Afterwards, continue on the Harvey Heritage Trail Walk.

IMAGE OK Media

FERTILE COASTAL IRRIGATED plains and gently rolling meadows are adorned with the occasional charmingly dilapidated barn, a white fenced equestrian stud, or an impressive heritage property that would be equally at home in an Australian Country Style magazine. Many of the big guys in food are based here – from Harvey Beef to Harvey Fresh; the list is impressive.

As you head east, the region changes from farming land to ruggedly beautiful jarrah forest and natural waterways for the outdoor fanatics to explore. Toedippers, seaside lovers, anglers and skippers find themselves in water heaven in Australind and the seaside hamlets of Myalup and Binningup.

2 Water world - Take a walk along the Leschenault Waterways Discovery Centre & Jetty Walk to view the 14km long waterway or grab a kayak to glide on the estuary’s serene

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4 Sky high fun - Boost the octane levels by taking a tandem skydive with West Oz Skydiving and finish up in a beer garden. After witnessing the breathtaking views from Bunbury to Mandurah and beyond, land at Old Coast Road Brewery & Geographe Distillery and receive a free pint.

Mosaic marvel - Be amazed at the Harvey region’s huge mosaic and mural collection created by local artist, Anthea Ward. You will find these unique mosaics at the entrances to Harvey, Binningup, Clifton Park, Cookernup, Myalup and Yarloop.

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Vine times - Along the coastal plains, Geographe wine producers are excelling with full-bodied table wines, from the traditional French varietals such as chardonnay (5th Estate produces the Geographe’s best) and shiraz, to Mediterranean styles with Italian and Spanish varietals – arneis, vermentino and tempranillo to name a few.

Stock up on cheese and great larder provisions from HaVe Cheese.

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Starry, starry nights - Sleep under the stars surrounded by jarrah forest and next to a freshwater dam at Logue Brook/Lake Brockman.

The lake, with crystal-clear water, is a water-activity haven – think water skiing, swimming, fishing, canoeing, windsurfing and sailing. Or take a picnic BBQ and spend the day in their beautiful landscaped surroundings and nearby Harvey Dam’s Amphitheatre.

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Road trip - The Beela Valley Scenic Drive will take you through steep hills with beautiful flora and lush farming country and open paddocks.

Start from Beela Road opposite the tavern. If you have a 4WD venture a little further to find Australia’s largest jarrah tree 10

Gumnut babies - The Harvey Tourist Precinct is home to the replica Stirling Cottage, owned by Governor Stirling and the childhood home of May Gibbs, the creator of Australia’s most iconic characters Snuggle Pot and Cuddle Pie. Next door is the Harvey Visitor Centre with a May Gibbs Gumnut Baby display.

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hidden deep (it’s the region’s best kept secret) in the Mornington State Forest. The Jarrah Hadfield is more than 10 metres in circumference and more than 260 years old.

Closer to the coast, Cathedral Avenue, just north of Australind, is a beautiful drive through paperbarks along Leschenault Estuary.

private property nestled on 160 acres surrounded by forest, is the perfect place to go wedding glamping with Soul Camping regularly setting up their tents for guests. For a small, intimate gathering of up to 60, try the super talented team at Happy Days Country Retreat. One of the owners is a chef, so the food is top notch. Alternatively, for a wedding among the vines, marry at Vineyard 28.

11 Say I do - For out-of-thisworld views, overlooking an incredible lake and undulating hills beyond choose Edith Valley for your big day. The oldest farm in the district, Alverstoke (circa 1841) offers the ultimate barn wedding experience surrounded by lush green pasture, orchard and a heritage rose garden.

Mornington Springs, a very

FIND A LOCAL HARVEY VISITOR CENTRE A Cnr James Stirling Place and South Western Hwy Harvey 6220 T +61 8 9729 1122 E info@harveytourism.com

8 Turn back time - The small coastal communities of Binningup and Myalup Beach are the ultimate destinations for chilled-out hammock lovers or those keen to provide their children with a holiday like they had as a child. Expect endless kilometres of pristine beach (which you can 4WD on too), great beach fishing, snorkelling and old fashioned hospitality.

IMAGE Overland Media

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Advertising Directory BACKBEACH CAFE & RESTAURANT

Bunbury Wildlife Park

A unique and hands-on Australian experience awaits you at the Bunbury Wildlife Park. With over 60 varieties of native animals in an open parkland setting, there is so much to see and do. Feed the birds in our walk through aviaries, pat the kangaroos and stroll through the native gardens. Enjoy a light lunch in our cafe or bring your own and have a picnic in the park!

Phone: (08) 9721 8380 Prince Philip Drive, Bunbury wildlifepark@bunbury.wa.gov.au WILDLIFE www.bunburywildlifepark.com.au

BUNBURY

PARK

Perched on Bunbury’s Back Beach with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, perfect anytime of the day.

Open 7 days a week from 7am Breakfast, Lunch and Coffee & Cake Dinner: Wed ~ Sun ✆ 9791 6575 bookings@backbeachcafe.com.au

www.backbeachcafe.com.au

Explore the Ferguson Valley and Geographe Wine Region cruising with “Pop A Cork Tours” in a ‘68 Convertible Mustang. Also available for Weddings and other special occasions.

PH: 0400525511 / 0417920749 Email: popacork@outlook.com

Family owned, Capel Vale has established mature vineyards, and produces wines that reflect the distinct climate and soils of the region.

Let our friendly staff guide you through our award winning wines from estate planted and grown vineyards in Margaret River, Geographe, Pemberton and Mount Barker.

Match Restaurant will take you on a journey with each Match plate specifically matched to our award winning wines. Each specially selected item will highlight a different character in the wine.

Match restaurant is open for lunchtime service Thursday to Monday.

Capel Vale Winery & Match Restaurant Phone: (08) 9727 1986 118 Mallokup Road, Capel W.A. cellardoor@capelvale.com www.capelvale.com

MELVA MITCHELL’S METAPHYSICAL EXPERIENCES

Share Melva Mitchell’s metaphysical experiences which have shaped her life. She entertains with anecdotes in her search for the meaning of her life with moments of reflection, interpretations of dreams and revelations about relationships which are honest and raw. A fascinating read!

Get your copy today – email melvamit@iprimus.com.au or call 08 9729 3464

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Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre

PEPPERMINT LANE LODGE

...relax in the heart of the Ferguson Valley

The Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre tells the unique stories of how the South West’s regional centre was developed, and the colourful characters who made it the vibrant port city that it is today. Shipwrecks, the struggles of early settlers, convicts, the Bunbury port, and the people of the town have all contributed to this city’s rich history.

Phone: (08) 9792 7283 1 Arthur Street, Bunbury museum@bunbury.wa.gov.au www.bunburymuseum.com.au

peppermint lane lodge M 0447266885 P 08 9728 3138 ...relax in the heart of the Ferguson Valley E info@peppermintlanelodge.com.au Peppermintlanelodge.com.au PPL_BusinessCard.indd 1

Bunbury Regional Art Gallery

Bunbury Regional Art Galleries presents a dynamic and ever changing roster of exhibitions by local artists. With six different gallery spaces, BRAG is able to present a wide range of exhibitions, ensuring there is always something for everyone to get excited about.

Located in the central heart of Bunbury, BRAG is a must visit for all culture lovers.

Phone: (08) 9792 7323 64 Wittenoom Street, Bunbury artgallery@bunbury.wa.gov.au www.brag.org.au

29/09/2016 8:16 AM

AUSTRALIND TIMELESS WARES ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES

Australind Timeless Wares Antiques & Collectables offer a large range of Vintage & Upcycled Wares, Arts , Crafts, Gifts & Tourist Information at heritage listed Henton Cottage Open daily from 10am ~ 4pm, 7 days a week ✆ 08 9796 0122 Corner of Old Coast Road and Paris Road Australind Shopping Centre, Australind WA 6233

KING COTTAGE MUSEUM

ROYAL GALA TOURS

Bunbury Historical Society Inc.

Take a step back in time and experience what life was like in Bunbury for the King family during the 1880s. Located close to the town centre, King Cottage Museum is a living piece of our heritage.

Come and discover what it was like to be a pioneer over 100 years ago. Research facilities available.

The South West offers many unique experiences found absolutely nowhere else in the world.

Join us at Royal Gala Tours to explore Busselton, Margaret River, Harvey, Collie, Boyup Brook, Balingup, Greenbushes and Bridgetown.

Bunbury Day Tours to outlying regions Day Tours – Extended Tours – Private Charters

New members welcome. Open 2 to 4pm daily.

✆ 1300 233 556 royalgalatours@bigpond.com www.royalgalatours.com.au

✆ 08 9721 7546 | Mobile 0419 791 672 77 Forrest Avenue, South Bunbury Email bunburyhistoricalsociety@gmail.com www.bunburyhistoricalsociety.com.au

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Yarloop

Lake Preston

Cookernup

Louge Brook Dam

Perth

Yalgorup National Park

Perth via Pinjarra

Myalup State Forest

Harris River Forest

Harvey

Forestr y Rd

Harvey Dam

Myalup

Munda Biddi Trail

Wokalup Stirling Dam

Fo r rest Hwy

Binningup

Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park

Harris Dam

Clifton Rd

GEOGRAPHE BAY

Brunswick Harris River State Forest

Australind

Eaton

Picton Rd Preston Bridge

y Rd Railwa

Peppermint Grove Beach

n Rd

Black Diamond Lake

Collie River Valley

Muja

Collie

Wellington Dam

Stockton Lake

Pile Rd

Ferguson Valley

Wellington Discovery Forest

Rd Gnomesville

Crooked Brook Forest

Co ll

Boyanup

Boyanup Rd West

Fergu so

Wellington National Park

ie P res ton

Moo

sse

Bu

Tuart Forest National Park

Potters Gorge

Bo yan up

Stirling Beach

Allanson Honeymoon Pool

Dardanup i

y Hw rn este th W

Gelorup

Stratham

Hwy stern th We Sou Picton

d ty R H en

Sou

Dalyellup

lds Hw y

Burekup

wy st H

re Rd

e Forr

ll H wy

Bunbury

C oalfie

Roelands

Leschenault Estuary Koombana Bay

Bibbulmun Track

Mornington

Benger

Glen Mervyn Dam

Boyanup State Forest

Preston Valley

Capel

Yabberup Donnybrook Boyup Brook Rd Lowden

Donnybrook

Mumballup McAlinden Noggerup

Go o

Brookhampton dw oo d

Rd

Busselton

Grimwade

Ironstone Gully Falls

Kirup

Wilga State Forest

Mullalyup Jarrahwood State Forest

To Nannup scenic drive Golden Valley Tree Park

Balingup i Bridgetown

i Boyup Brook

Southampton Bridgetown

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