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the bunbury geographe magazine

WATER WORLDS Find your own lakeside paradise and cool off in the heat of the day

PACK A DIY PICNIC Pick up some delicious treats for a countryside picnic for two

BEHIND THE SCENES Discover what it’s like to work on a world-class movie, filmed in BunGeo

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 SALES DIRECTOR Natalie du Preez (0426 752 352) natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au

It’s time to find yourself Springtime and summer in the BunGeo region are special; you'll spend lazy days on the water - either on the ocean or in one of the many beautiful lakes and dams. Plan a long weekend exploring the region with a DIY picnic in the back of the car. There are so many fantastic local artisan producers who will be more than happy to fill your picnic basket with fresh bread, delicious cheese and charcuterie and fruit, and local wine and beer, of course, too. We sent Tom and his girlfriend on just such a foodie adventure and it's safe to say they didn't want to head home. Fresh olives, picked from one of BunGeo's many groves, or bread, hot out of the oven, make for the perfect companions; just make sure you buy some extra to take home.

If you've got a spare weekend, why not head to the Ferguson Valley? Our 48hour guide includes lots of insider tips about making the most of your time in this beautiful part of the region. No doubt, you'll be tempted to try some of the awardwinning, locally made wine while you're exploring, and we think a drop or two of rosé at this time of year is just the thing. Fergal has done the hard yards and tasted plenty of glasses of pink wine to his heart’s content, just for you. If you prefer beer or cider, we’ve got that covered too.

If you're travelling with the kids, Lizzy has had some fun and games with her own little ones. Make sure you include a visit to the soon-to-be-reopened Dolphin Discovery Centre. It's going to be a real crowd-pleaser when it throws open its doors towards the end of 2018.

Art is an important part of life in BunGeo; there are plenty of ways to meet local artists, view and purchase their work. Head to the Preston River Valley and you'll find some unique textile art on show in November.

So what are you waiting for? BunGeo is ready to welcome you, whatever the weather.

COVER PHOTOGRAPH Sarah Hardcastle at Black Diamond Lake,

by Bianca Turri Photography.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY Frances Andrijich, Tom de Souza, Tessa Eckersley Photos, Johanna Resta Photography, Bianca Turri Photography.

CONTRIBUTORS Norman Burns, Cassandra Charlick, Tom de Souza, Fergal Gleeson, Anita Hurst, Lizzy Pepper.

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 @visitbunburygeographe

Happy reading,

Gabi

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COVER IMAGE Model Sarah Hardcastle (Scene Model Management)

by Bianca Turri Photography

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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SHOPPING CENTRE OF THE SOUTH WEST Discover food, fashion and lifestyle KOO M KOO M DR

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Welcome What’s on and what’s new 48 hours in . . . the Ferguson Valley Shop. Eat. Repeat.

ART & CULTURE

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Get reel Naked ambition Nature’s rich canvas Hidden gem

FOOD & DRINK

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On the rustic trail Black (and green) gold A rosé by any other name Core values Tie the knot - wedding special

ADVENTURE & NATURE

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Dolphin central Child’s play Making a splash Water worlds

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

City of Bunbury public artwork by SimCampbell-Pope, Brendan Smith and Lori Pensini

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events

SPRING | SUMMER

/ SEPTEMBER / Go wild Celebrate the start of wildflower season with the Blooming Wild Festival which includes Gardening Australia’s Angus Steward on a walk-and-talk around Boyup Brook, a guided walk of the Balingup Rapids, open gardens on display to the public and an antiques and collectibles fair. Don't miss Art on Abel. too – a yearly display of local artists with demonstrations, exhibitions, and Art in the Park. // Blooming Wild Festival, September to November, Boyup Brook & Balingup.

Visit bloomingwild.com.au

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Creative in action From fired minerals sourced from the earth to entwined and woven textiles and coloured pigments on paintings, discover a wide variety of artworks from over 100 artists at the Fire, Fibre & Fine Arts exhibition. Join them for light refreshments on opening night with a silent auction for your chance to bid and purchase local artworks.

Heading down for the weekend? You’ll find a pop-up café in the outdoor space and amazing artworks on display.

Don't miss the chance to pop along for the closing fashion parade where wearable art collections will be displayed on the red carpet. // Act-Belong-Commit Fire, Fibre & Fine Arts Exhibition, Stirling Street Arts Centre, September 14 to 16. Visit stirlingstreetarts.com.au

Dark and light Left After Dark is a showcase of emerging and established artists from the south west.

Since 2012, Jackie and Deanna have been collaborating with artists and musicians to promote and support local creatives.

In those six years they have established a solid reputation for delivering quality and diversity in an exhibition. You never know what you’re going to see at a LAD show. This year will be no different. // Left After Dark VI @ BRAG, Bunbury Regional Art Gallery, until September 30.

Visit brag.org.au China calling The Jiaxing China Art Collection offers visitors an extraordinary chance to view gifts presented to the City of Bunbury by the Chinese city over the course of their 18-year partnership. Since 2000, the two

cities have developed a strong friendship through exchanges in culture, business, education and sport. The exhibition celebrates the friendship between Bunbury and Jiaxing and offers a glimpse into the community of Jiaxing. // Jiaxing China Art Collection, BRAG, until September 16. Visit brag.org.au A taste of the region Over the past 15 years, the Geographe Wine Show has become a prestigious annual opportunity for wine producers in the region to exhibit and have wines benchmarked against industry standards.

The show culminates in a celebratory gala dinner each year – and you're invited to join in the celebration with winemakers and vignerons as the winners of the Geographe Wine Show are announced.

Try some of the wines before you settle in for a night of fine visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Australia over the next 12 months from coast to coast, sharing with his audiences his biggest hits and latest musical contributions. His new tour comes off the back of his forthcoming new album by the same name which was released in August. The new album and tour continues to see John celebrate and pen the stories into song that he feels passionately about: the country, the people and the fight for what is right.

Having created some of Australia’s most recognised unofficial anthems, he is firmly cemented in the nation’s

duo's classical repertoire, as the brothers take the guitar into genres such as jazz, folk and contemporary music.

The European soirée will be a not-to-be-missed chance to hear Slava and Leonard Grigoryan play. // The Grigoryan Brothers, Balingup, September 26. Call 08 9764 1520 to book tickets.

/ OCTOBER / An Australian icon returns John Williamson is back on the road with The Butcherbird Tour, which he will take across

food and celebration. Enjoy masterclasses throughout the event and try some fabulous local drops. // Geographe and WA Alternative Varieties Wine Show, BREC, September 20 and 21. Visit geographewine. com.au On your bike The 2018 Junior RoadNats is set to attract 300 of the country’s most promising young cyclists, and the Bunbury event is the final race in the inaugural Cycling Australia National Junior Road Series. With racers tearing along the coast of the Indian Ocean, the event will showcase exceptional scenery, with the course designed to capture the stunning coastline for all three events – the

individual time trial, criterium and road races. // Cycling Australia Junior Road National Championships, Bunbury, September 21 and 23.

Visit junior.roadnationals.org.au String masters What a treat for fans of virtuoso guitar music. The Grigoryan Brothers, regarded as Australia’s finest guitar duo, will be performing at Brookvale House in Balingup. Catch the

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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John Williamson

musical culture. His tributes to legends and unsung heroes and tender ballads have captured the spirit of the nation in song unlike any other and there's no denying that after more than 40 years in the music industry, John Williamson is truly an Australian icon. // John Williamson – The Butcherbird Tour, BREC, October 4. Visit bunburyentertainment.com Cross roads It has been a long seven years but the Australian ATV MX Nationals will be returning to the West for an epic showdown of Australia’s fastest ATV Motocross racers. It will be a battle of the newcomers but also we will see some legends return to the track. The 2018 ATV MX Nationals will be held over three days with competitors and spectators from all over Australia heading to Collie. It has been 49 years since the last Australian Titles were held in the BunGeo

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town. The Quad Riders Club has confirmed that the best of the best will be racing so head trackside for some great ATV action. Motocross is a family activity and one of the most exciting features is an opportunity to camp out at the track with family and friends. Alternatively, the township of Collie has many accommodation options close to the track. // 2018 ATV MX Nationals, Collie, October 5 to 7.

Visit qrwa.com.au Hauntingly beautiful The South West Opera Company and BREC will bring Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical masterpiece Phantom of the Opera to the BREC stage. Based on the novel by Gaston Leroux, this Gothic extravaganza tells the emotionally charged story of young singer Christine, torn between the intense and seductive allure of her mysterious musical mentor, the Phantom, and her childhood

sweetheart Raoul. // Phantom of the Opera, BREC, October 12 to 20. Visit bunburyentertainment.com Adventure time Buckle up for an epic adventure race through the Collie River Valley. The Collie Adventure Race event starts and finishes around the picturesque Minninup Pool on the Collie River on the edge of the township. It’s a multi-staged relay race consisting of a canoe

leg, mountain bike ride, swim, road bike ride and a run. The race can be completed as a team or by individuals. // Collie Adventure Race, Collie, October 13 and 14. Visit collieadventurerace.com Fun and games This year's Dardanup Bull and Barrel festival's theme is the Great Irish Escape, celebrating 150 years since infamous Irishman John Boyle O’Reilly escaped, with the assistance

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of some Dardanup locals, from the shores of WA and headed for America. The event will showcase a multi-media performance about JB O'Reilly, Irish dancing and music by Perth's Irish Rock band The Healys. You can hear non-stop music on two stages, view the mini trains, stationary engines and remote control trucks, visit over 150 market stalls, take a free horse and cart ride and sample foods from around the world. Children will have fun in the kid’s monster craft marquee, cuddle an animal in Old McDonald’s Farm, enjoy the dog agility performance and, in the evening, watch the spectacular

finale – the burning of the fire sculpture. There will be lots of hands-on activities and entry is free - this year’s LiveLighter Dardanup Bull and Barrel Festival shouldn't be missed. // Dardanup Bull & Barrel Festival, Dardanup, October 6, 10am to 9pm.

Visit bullandbarrel.net.au Finding inspiration Bunbury’s Open Studios will give visitors the chance to see local artists and artisans as they work in a variety of mediums.

Explore the heritage

PROUDLY SUPPORTING

IRISH THE GREAT

FREE ENTRY

150 YEARS SINCE J.B. O’REILLY ESCAPED FROM WA

Festival from 10am to 5pm and evening entertainment until 9pm

SATURDAY 6TH OCTOBER ● Over 150 market and food stalls ● Monster Kids Craft Marquee ● Irish Rock band The Healys & Irish dancing ● 2 stages ● Wespine Fire Sculpture ● Die cast toys and mini trains ● Trash and Treasure Stalls ● Tastes of Ferguson Valley

MAJOR SPONSOR

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#bullandbarrel2018 www.bullandbarrel.net.au @dardanupbullandbarrelfestival |

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studios where you’ll find dozens of artisans working in painting, weaving, pottery, varieties of sewing, knitting and crocheting.

Traditional arts and crafts have been around for centuries, and if you haven’t tried them out members will let you to spin, paint, weave or pot.

Outside of the arts and crafts realm, you’ll find Bunbury Summer School tutors with an array of market stall items, demonstrations in their skills and a pop-up café to boot. Summer School takes place in January when workshops often book out so bag your place now. // Open Studios + Bunbury Summer School launch, Stirling Street Arts Centre, Bunbury, October 20, 9am to 1pm. Visit stirlingstreetarts.com.au

Festival brings exciting new Japanese film content to the region. // Japanese Film Festival Regional, BREC, October 26 to 27. Visit bunburyentertainment.com

Silver screen legends From crowd-pleasing anime favourites to poignant human drama, the Japanese Film

Tuck in Oakway Estate’s Cellar Door Long Table Lunches for 2018 are Chef’s Choice. Come along

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All the fun of the fair Every year thousands of people flock to one of Australia’s biggest one-day shows, the Brunswick Show. Expect market stalls, wine tasting, sideshow alley, horse ring events, log chopping, live cattle auction, light horse show and fireworks. // Brunswick Show, Brunswick, October 27. Visit brunswickshow.com.au

/ NOVEMBER /

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Advertising Feature

let’s talk dance OCHRE CONTEMPORARY OCHRE CONTEMPORARY DANCE DANCE COMPANY DRAMATURG PHIL DRAMATURG PHIL THOMSON AND DIRECTOR DIRECTOR MARK MARK HOWETTE TALK US US THROUGH THROUGH THEIR THEIR NEW WORK. NEW WORK. PHOTO MARK HOWETTE

So where did it all begin Mark? Kwongkan(Sand) is a new work that began its journey in Bunbury two years ago. This innovative collaboration between Australian Indigenous and Indian classical dancers began its life as Kaya [Hello] which was developed during our professional residency at BREC and after the premiere in Bunbury, we continued to develop the work via epic trips to the desert, the goldfields, the city and to India.

Phil can you explain to us what the work Kaya was all about?

Kaya examined the thrills and spills of cross-cultural relationships, and how to say hello to strangers. Kwongkan evokes the future from an ancient’s perspective… how do traditional people see the oncoming threats to their planet and culture. In desperation four individuals (two Australian, two Indian) evoke their gods to find answers to the intractable problems of our times… climate change, mass migration, globalisation, disrespect of women, fear of others.

And what can audiences look forward to with the new work?

Kwongkan displays many dance cultures Nyoongar and Northern, Indian classical and traditional, mixed with amazing aerial work, stunts, film and original live music to tell a contemporary story. It uses god-transformation techniques studied in India. The work promises to be spiritual, alarming, beautiful, unearthly and very real.

The company consists of two Indigenous dancers, including local man Ian Wilkes, who has been working with Djitty Djitty school students in Bunbury when not touring and the brilliant Indian performers Isha Sharvani, Ratheesh Rajendram and Tao Issaro.

Mark as a local man are you excited about returning to the South West? We are reversing the journey this time, and really excited to invite the South West community back to BREC to see the final fruits of this extraordinary, remote and regional development journey before our major presentations at the Perth Festival and Australia Fest in India in the new year.

So whilst you’re based in Bunbury what will Ochre be up to?

We’ll be artist’s in residence at BREC in Bunbury and we’ll enjoy getting out into the community to provide a variety of workshops, covering various dance techniques, music, yoga, acting and production skills to the local community.

Where can we see your performances? Ochre Contemporary Dance Company will perform Kwongkan(Sand) at BREC Thursday 18th and Friday 19th October. Tickets are available online bunburyentertainment.com or by calling BREC Box Office 1300 661 272 and anyone interested in joining one of our workshops can contact BREC’s Community Engagement Team on 08 9792 3111.

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for a taste sensation with seasonally inspired menus using local produce, premium awardwinning wines and our very own Ned’s Brew Club craft boutique beers on tap.

Guest chefs Rebecca Hackett and Daryn Rowland will be back to create a springtime feast so tuck in and enjoy. // Oakway Estate Chef’s Choice Cellar Door Long Table Lunch, Donnybrook, November 4, $79 per person, food only. Visit oakwayestate. com.au

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Celebrate the grape BunGeo is one of Western Australia’s most captivating and diverse wine regions and, to celebrate, Market Eating House in association with Jo O’Dea Events will be showcasing the region’s iconic wines with A Spring Feast in Guppy Park.

Guests will enjoy six courses matched to the award-winning wines from the Geographe Wine Show in the picturesque, inner city, Guppy Park. This is an opportunity to highlight the exceptional efforts of the Geographe wine producers

while visitors feast on the delicious cuisine of Market Eating House. // Geographe Wine Spring Feast, Guppy Park, Bunbury, November 4. Visit marketeatinghouse.com.au Country celebration Showcasing the best of Boyup Brook, the annual Upper Blackwood Agricultural Society's Dinninup Show is celebrating its centenary this year. Come along and enjoy a true blue country show, with displays, animals and side

Don’t miss . . .

Across The Road Music is taking over laneways, parks and carparks this summer to showcase some of the best music that WA has to offer.

Each festival will feature a massive line- up of WA bands, as well as pop-up bars and food vans. Urban spaces will be transformed into an outdoor music venue, bringing something entirely new to the city. // Across The Road Music Events, various locations in Bunbury, November 24, January 1 and February 9. Visit acrosstheroadmusic.com

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shows a-plenty. // Upper Blackwood Agricultural Society Show 1918-2018, November 6, Dinninup Show Grounds. Visit dinninupshow.com.

Saddle sore A bike race like no other, the 42km first stage of the Tour of Margaret River will depart from the picturesque township of Balingup and wind its way along the river and through the

serene Blackwood Valley to eventually deliver riders to the Event Village in Nannup. Catch this incredible race and cheer on the participants as they wend their way through some spectacular scenery. //Tour of Margaret River, November 9. Visit tourofmargaretriver.com Man up Fancy a knees-up? Then head out to BREC to see celebrity

impersonation like you’ve never seen before. After a sold-out season in 2017, the Divas All Male Revue stars are back with an all-new line-up. Experience a world of superstar divas including Cher, Tina Turner, Adele, Liza Minnelli, Amy Winehouse, Madonna and many more. // Divas All Male Revue, BREC, November 10. Visit bunburyentertainment.com

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 | spring • summer 2018

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Kasey Chambers

Honouring the ANZAC spirit this November with a river of knitted poppies at the Ferguson Valley Open Gardens event.

Blooming beautiful It’s springtime so why not discover seven beautiful and diverse gardens of the Ferguson Valley? There are many to enjoy, in full bloom and open to all. // Ferguson Valley Open Garden Trail, November 10 and 11, 10am to 4pm, $5 per person. Visit fergusonvalleyopengardens. com.au Fireside feels Join Kasey Chambers by the campfire for a musical journey through the stories of places,

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people, cultures and sounds that have inspired one of Australia’s most revered singer song-writers. An authentic treat not to be missed for country music fans. // Kasey Chambers Campfire Tour, BREC, November 17, 7.30pm. Visit bunburyentertainment.com Feast for all Donnybrook Food and Wine Festival is a celebration of the region’s vibrant food and wine culture. Sip and savour your way through award-winning wines and gourmet food, while enjoying live entertainment and cooking demos throughout the day, all set on the banks of the Preston River in the Geographe Wine Region. Plus, with lots of fun activities for the kids and local products from specialty stalls, it’s a fun day out for the whole family, and entry is free. // Donnybrook Food and Wine Festival, Donnybrook Ampitheatre, November 24. Visit donnybrookfoodandwinefest. com.au

/ DECEMBER /

Festive fun Join the Stirling Street Arts Centre’s biggest event of the year when over 80 stallholders bring out the best handmade and homemade goods and produce to entice you throughout the day. Bring the family down for something everyone can enjoy. Christmas giving is best when gifts are handmade by a local maker. // Act-Belong-Commit Christmas Craft Fair, Stirling Street Arts Centre, Bunbury, November 25, 9am to 2pm.

Visit stirlingstreetarts.com.au

Starter for 10 Julia, Brian, Dugald (pictured opposite) and the superbly talented RocKwiz Orkestra are heading back to BREC with a brand new show, RocKwiz Revue. // RocKwiz Revue, BREC, December 2, 7.30pm.

Visit bunburyentertainment. com.au Christmas treats The annual Christmas in the City celebration combines a street parade, festival and carols concert. Held on the second Sunday in December each year, Christmas in the City invites the BunGeo

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community to celebrate the festive season. It features free activities and entertainment for the whole family. Watch the parade of colourful floats pass by, then make your way to Graham Bricknell Music Shell to sing along to Christmas carols. // Christmas in the City, Bicentennial Square, Bunbury, December 9. Visit bunbury. wa.gov.au Hot to trot Celebrate the new year in style at the Bunbury Trotting Club’s New Year’s Eve party with fireworks to send 2018 off in style. Last year around 4,000

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people made their way out to Donaldson Park to enjoy the fireworks and an entertaining eight-race program. // Bunbury Trotting Club, December 31. Visit facebook. com/bunburytrotting.

/ JANUARY / Dive in Round seven of the Western Australian Open Water Swim Series will be held at Harvey Dam. It’s the only fresh water round in the series and the picturesque backdrop provides the ideal location to bring the

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events SPRING | SUMMER

Music Festival is a celebration of country music on the banks of the beautiful Blackwood River. A stellar line-up of leading Australian and international acts will be on offer. Activities include the famous Street Carnival, Boyup Brook Ute and Truck Muster and, a highlight of the festival, the West Australian Country Music Awards. // Boyup Brook Country Music Festival, Boyup Brook, February 15 to 17. Visit countrymusic.wa.com.au

family and make a day of the event. Proudly sponsored by Alcoa, this swim offers distances from 500m to 5km for swimmers of all skills and abilities. // Harvey Dam Open Water Swim, January 5. Visit openwaterswimming.com.au Dream time Essential Theatre bring their clever take on one of Shakespeare’s finest masterpieces, with a performance of Midsummer Night’s Dream on the lawn at St Aidan Wines at dusk. // Essential Theatre presents Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream, St Aidan Wines, Ferguson Valley, January 5. Visit staidan.com. au Film fest The BREC International Film Festival returns this summer for five consecutive weekends boasting a sizzling line-up of independent films from around the globe. With a program sure

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to appeal to film buffs, visit the website to plan your viewing.

BREC International Film Festival, from January 12 to February 10, BREC. Visit bunburyentertainment.com Celebrate Aussie Join in with the City of Bunbury’s Skyfest Australia Day Celebrations. It's an amazing day of activities culminating in the biggest fireworks show in regional WA. The free event is centred around Bicentennial Square, where everyone is invited to join in this celebration of all things Australian. // SkyFest Australia Day Celebrations, Bunbury, January 26. Visit bunbury. wa.gov.au

and opens your mind to the quirky side of the city.

Spread over six days, audiences will experience everything Fringe, including comedy, burlesque, new works by regional artists, drag, street parties, jazz and more. // Bunbury Fringe Festival, Bunbury, February 1 to 9, various locations. Visit bunburyfringe.com Country road Grab your boots and hat, WA’s iconic Boyup Brook Country

Let's do a long lunch The south west’s premier charity food and wine event, the Chefs Long Table Lunch, now entering its 16th year, is Bunbury’s annual food and wine extravaganza. The event, run by community volunteers, has raised and distributed just on $1 million to the south west community. Over 500 people will enjoy a stunning afternoon on the Pat Usher Foreshore of exquisite food, delicious local wine, fabulous entertainment, an exciting auction and a great day out with friends. One of the highlights is the outstanding menu, which includes a large range of delicious fresh south west produce and local wine. // Chefs Long Table Lunch, Bunbury, February 24. Visit chefslongtable.com

/ FEBRUARY / Fringe benefits A cultural event of the year, the Bunbury Fringe Festival showcases local talent, entertains you with visiting acts

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48 hours in . . .

FERGUSON VALLEY

It only takes a couple of days to lose yourself in the pictureperfect scenery of Ferguson Valley… and once you’re lost, you won’t want to be found.

DAY ONE Perth to Ferguson Valley Pack your bags and drive south along Forrest Highway heading to Ferguson Valley. Allow one hour, 50 minutes to two hours.

Produce providence On your way down to the Ferguson Valley, enjoy an afternoon stroll along the Eaton Foreshore Walk. This 5km trail follows the path of the Collie River and is a great spot for a touch of crabbing or fishing if you are that way inclined.

Feeling peckish? Chefs Nigel Harvey (previously of Voyager Estate), Luke Wakefield (The Farmer’s Place), and former Little Creatures bar manager Michael Bovell have roamed the region sourcing the best of local produce to showcase in their new venture, Smalls Bar. Supporting local suppliers, their menu informs you exactly how far the produce has travelled.

Think shared food, craft beer, amazing wine, and cocktails.

Where to stay Peppermint Lane Lodge is a private, adults-only retreat located in Wellington Mills, 18

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TIME OUT // Above, chill out and watch the world go by at Peppermint Lane Lodge.

Opposite bottom, tuck into local fare on a delicious board of tasty treats courtesy of Wellington Forest Cottages. Right, explore the grounds at Ferguson Farmstay.

making it the perfect getaway from the kids. Stay with the one you love or grab the girls for a weekend escape. Peppermint Lane has four self-contained suites overlooking the Ferguson River, a great space for meditation and a sparkling swimming pool that is both private and tucked away.

Fancy a farm experience?

Ferguson Farmstay offers gorgeous rammed earth accommodation on 45 hectares with uninterrupted views to the Indian Ocean and a plethora of farm activities to keep the kids enthralled. They can feed the animals (goats, ponies, pigs, chickens, ducks, a kangaroo and rabbits), go on a pony ride, or take a tractor ride to the back of the property to feed the bigger cows.

At the northern entrance to the Valley, Evedon Park Bush Retreat overlooks a charming lake, surrounded by 320 hectares of natural Australian bushland.

Catering for all tastes and occasions, Evedon Park offers a stress-free environment for a romantic getaway or family weekend and boasts its own restaurant and a tasting room for local producer Talisman Wines.

DAY TWO Rise and Shine!

Set the pace Take in the fresh Ferguson air by getting active.

For an adrenalin kick, grab your bike and set off for the Mount Lennard Mountain Bike Network, near Pile Road in the Wellington National Park.

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

Compared to modern trails these are a little more organic with fewer machine-made trails and jumps. The one exception is the jump area at the bottom of this network, which gives riders a fun place to push themselves with doubles and table tops. The Grizzly Trail is one of the more popular and technical trails and is a one to three hour, 6km loop. This narrow single-track weaves through jarrah forest providing more than enough obstacles, jumps and berms to keep even the most experienced riders on their toes.

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, seek

Pint-sized After that morning you might like a cold one from nearby Wild Bull Brewery. Wild Bull sits proudly on top of Pile Road, with stunning views over vines and valleys. It offers premium, locallymade beer, food, wine, art, and music. Try their range of specialty brewed products, including their Pear Cider; expertly handcrafted, exploding with the sweet taste of pear and perfect on a hot day. Families also love Moody Cow Brewery on Ferguson Road for its preservative-free beers and cider brewed on-site and served overlooking the brewery’s open grassed area and play equipment.

out the Crooked Brook Forest.

Hidden among the jarrahs, the four Crooked Brook Walk Trails range from an easy 600m wheelchair-accessible path, to the more moderate 10km trail that takes two to three hours to complete. If you like a little more intensity, the Marri Trail is also stomping ground for trail runners and delivers splendid views across the Ferguson Valley and out to the coast. The beauty of the Crooked Brook Forest excels in spring when the wildflowers come into bloom, but it has plenty more to offer up with a peaceful billabong, picnic tables, BBQs and a nature playground for kids. |

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Creative endeavour Get a feel for the artistic side of Ferguson Valley at Lyndendale Art and Antiques. Serving as a gallery for the works of local artists, Lyndendale regularly hosts a different artist-inresidence, demonstrating an ever-changing range of art and craft techniques to visitors.

Sweet treat If you’d rather a coffee and something sweet, stop in at St Aidan Wines. The name derives from the district's historic church that sits on its boundary.

Taste their Zena Liqueur Muscat (it’s the Geographe region’s Best Fortified) with a morning tea ‘Sweet Bite’ from their European-trained chef at the rammed earth cellar door.

What’s cooking?

Depending on your tastebuds here are a couple of options for lunch: For a fabulously long and lazy lunch, head to Hackersley Estate. The tasting rooms and restaurant overlook the lake and vineyard, and Aaron and Adrie Devitt serve up a sensational five-course degustation that changes with 20

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the seasons.

If you’re after something simple, try Ferguson Falls Wine Cafe, home to the Best Pizza in WA (Gold Plate Awards). In a small, intimate venue you will unearth mouthwatering stone-baked pizza topped with farmhouse cheese. Take away a selection of cheeses made from the milk of the on-site dairy herd for a quick, light supper tonight.

Table with a view Most places in the Ferguson Valley are blessed with exceptional views and a favourite is Green Door Wines.

Green Door produce Spanish and Italian wine varieties served in cute carafes to sample at your table. Order their 100 Mile Platter with sheep’s milk cheese from

Roelands, mixed olives from Boyup Brook, fruit loaf from Dardanup and much more.

If you’d rather be cloaked in nature, try Wellington Food, Wine and Cottages. Relax on their deck, nestled into the tranquil forest surroundings to watch the kangaroos, taste local wines and enjoy a delicious Foresters Plate with Ha Ve cheeses, chicken and pistachio pate, bacon jam, biscotti and more.

Wine time Stop for a late afternoon tasting at Willow Bridge Estate. The Cellar Door is the Geographe Wine Region’s largest and most prestigious cellar door. The 180 hectare vineyard is sited high

Meet the locals Take a detour along the picturesque Ferguson Road where you will stumble across the hidden village of Gnomesville. What began as a silent protest has mushroomed into a quirky collection of thousands of garden gnomes.

Bring your own and add to this eclectic collection. visitbunburygeographe.com.au

SCHEDULE YOUR STAY IN FERGUSON VALLEY TO COINCIDE WITH ONE OF THESE CLASSES AND EVENTS… Wine-tastings with the maker @ Willow Bridge Estate Hour-long sessions each with a different focus such as barrel tastings or vineyard walks.

Visit willowbridge.com.au on the western watershed of the Darling Ranges, offering spectacular views over the coastal plain and across the waters of Geographe Bay. Willow Bridge was established in 1996 with numerous wine varieties planted on its grounds, while if you're after a boutique experience, Ferguson Hart Estate is twice-winner of the best wine in the Geographe Wine Region. Ferguson Hart offers SBS, chardonnay, GSM, shiraz and port. They also serve up delicious homemade cake and superb espresso for the driver and house a boutique art gallery.

Still hungry?

Back at your accommodation enjoy a simple dinner of wine and cheese sourced from your day’s foraging. Guests of Peppermint Lane Lodge can arrange dinner ahead of time, and Evedon Park Bush Retreat caters to guests on Friday and Saturday nights in their restaurant with wood-fired pizzas.

DAY THREE Homeward Bound A hint of nostalgia

Films on the Ferguson @ St Aidan Wines A series of movie nights under the stars with a full-screen open-air cinema on the lawn adjacent to the cellar door. Visit saintaidan.com.au Spanish cooking classes @ Green Door Wines Discover how to cook authentic Spanish food including paella and churros. Visit greendoorwines.com.au

After breakfast and check-out, linger a little longer in the historic town of Dardanup. Start at the Visitor Centre (originally a oneroom school built in 1896) and pick up a Dardanup Heritage Trail map, which you can use to hunt out the 15 historic sites and stories of the town. Reflect on our pioneering past at the Dardanup Heritage Park. Open Sundays and Wednesdays, it holds one of Australia’s best collections of heritage agricultural equipment.

Before leaving town, order a parmi for lunch at the Dardanup Tavern (aka The Dardy). Built in 1905, this country pub is sought out for their seven different types of parmigiana toppings.

After lunch, don’t leave without stocking up on authentic wood-fired sourdough bread and almond croissants at the bustling Dardanup Bakery.

EXPLORE AT YOUR OWN PACE // The Ferguson Valley is home to artisan producers and wineries as well as - of course - Gnomesville.

Opposite, Green Door Wines, Hackersley Estate.

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Sunday 9 December 3pm - 8.30pm Bicentennial Square Bunbury FREE ENTRY Free activities and entertainment RAC Street Parade The Apprentice and Traineeship Company Carols Concert

Saturday 26 January 4pm - 9pm Bicentennial Square Bunbury FREE ENTRY Fireworks display Live music Kids stage Free activities and entertainment

Shop. Eat. Repeat.

Bunbury is blessed with an eclectic collection of shops, from artisan creators to one-off fashion designs. And of course there’s always time to stop for a drink and a feed along the way too.

Fashion forward Victoria Street is the street to head for if you’re keen on giving the credit card a work out: it’s full of little boutique stores that are big on style.

Start at Sabotage. You’re destined to do some damage here, as it's packed with leading Australian labels - 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 and Empire Rose, just to name a few), as well as talented up-andcoming designers to discover.

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

Creative, inc.

Maker + Co This unusual collective, in one

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of the most beautiful buildings in Bunbury, is hard to define in just a few words but definitely worth a visit. A co-working hub offering spaces for local entrepreneurs to work and grow, a store that offers art, clothing, designs, prints, creations and ethical products and a venue for launches and other events, Maker + Co is one of the more interesting places to hang out in Bunbury if you’re looking for something unusual to take home after a visit to the city. // 75B Victoria Street, Bunbury. Visit weliketomaker.com Classy glass If you find yourself near Koombana Bay, make sure you drop into Lava Art Glass Gallery and Studio.

This treasure trove of glassware showcases the beauty and versatility of glass, promoting glass for artistic expression. The gallery showcases art glass by Western Australian glass artists, while the studio is happy to take on commissions, provides consultation in architectural art glass services, and designs and creates leadlights, stained glass and fused architectural panels. Owned by glass artist Brenda Ellen, this is an unmissable destination for lovers of glass art. // Lava Art Glass Gallery and Studio, Unit 3/15 Bonnefoi Boulevard, Marlston Waterfront, Bunbury. Visit lavaartglass.com.au BRAG BRAG (Bunbury Regional Art Gallery) is something of an icon in the south west community, giving regional artists and audiences valuable exposure to contemporary and traditional art, and providing exhibition and artistic development opportunities for artists working in regional and remote locations. There are exhibitions covering visitbunburygeographe.com.au

a wide spectrum of artistic styles and eras, from the cutting edge to Indigenous art. The exhibition programing has strong regional significance and national relevance, as well as being housed inside one of Bunbury’s oldest historic buildings. The pink former convent is a treat in itself, and many traces of its past lives can still be seen as you wander through the spaces.

Don’t miss the urban art on the walls nearby too; perfect Insta opportunities await. // BRAG, 64 Wittenoom Street, Bunbury. Visit brag.org.au Refuel and recharge There’s a new cafe that we’re keen to discover once it opens in October - Zebu Cafe and

Bar. It’s next to Lord Forrest Hotel (20 Symmons Street) and, at the time of going to press, the team were renovating the space.

If you’ve got brekkie on your mind, head to the hotel’s Atrium Restaurant. You’ll dig into a European-style breakfast buffet that’s served on Saturday and Sunday mornings (6.30 to 10.30am). There’s also the luxe King and Queen’s Champagne

Breakfast, a full hot and cold buffet selection with waffles, French toast, bakery options, chocolate fountain, fruit platter and cheese boards, fruit kebabs, juice and all the trimmings. Parking is free at Best Western Plus Hotel Lord Forrest. Booking is essential call 08 9726 5777.

If you’re keen for a drink, the Bayview Bar offers world-class waterfront views overlooking Koombana Bay. The alfresco lounge bar also overlooks Koombana Bay and has a choice of lounge and high chair seating which provides a relaxed environment for casual dining and drinking with friends before dancing the night away. If you’re hungry for more, the Bayview Bar and Grill provides you with a variety of food, beverage and entertainment options along with beautiful views and great atmosphere. Find them upstairs at 15 Bonnefoi Bvd, Koombana Bay, Bunbury (visit bayviewbar. com.au)

have been found at the Argyle Diamond mine in the Kimberley region of Western Australia for 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 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.

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

Mention Bunbury Geographe Magazine at Smales Bunbury & receive 10% off any diamond purchase or call 08 9791 1622.

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

GET

REEL There’s something special about seeing a movie outdoors on a warm, balmy night. Norman Burns has the pick of the BunGeo locations to do just that.

W

ho doesn’t like going to the movies? There’s something magical about the big screen – not to mention all that yummy popcorn.

And movies in the Great Outdoors – with a nice cold semillon for company – add a wow factor no download at home can compete with.

Found takes a look at some of the fantastic movie offerings in the Bunbury Geographe region this spring and summer.

And if you prefer noshing away on the popcorn engrossed in that blockbuster under a roof, Bunbury’s BREC will have another awesome line-up of flicks for its Summer 2018 International Film Festival.

Balingup Village Green/ Donnybrook Amphitheatre Grab that beanbag or foldout chair, pack a picnic dinner, throw in a rug and

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settle in for a great night’s entertainment under the stars.

Yes, free outdoor movies will be screened at the Donnybrook Amphitheatre (January 12 and 25) and Balingup Village Green (February 9 and March 8). Better still, get a group of friends or your book club crew – the more, the merrier.

For more details, visit donnybrook-balingup. wa.gov.au St Aidan Wines As well as being a fantastic winery, St Aidan Wines is the perfect setting for a balmy summer’s night at the movies.

Five sessions are planned on the winery’s lawn (Friday, December 7; Friday January 18; visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Friday February 1 and Friday February 15, with the finale on Friday March 8) with screenings of popular movies on the Rural Cinemas Giant Outdoor Screen.

Tickets are just $18 for adults, kids under 16 $8 (and free for the under-fives).

Check out St Aidan’s Facebook page or visit saintaidan.com.au/ event for more information for

bookings and what films will be shown when.

Capel Golf Course Watch movies on the golfing range this summer. Contact the club for the full line-up.

Capel Golf Club, 1380 Bussell Highway Stratham, capelgolfclub.com.au (08) 9795 7033.

Don’t miss . . .

BREC International Film Festival – Summer19 BREC International Film Festival returns this summer with a sizzling selection of indie films from around the globe, as well as family friendly sessions to entertain the little ones. Check screenings, times and grab your tickets online at bunburyentertainment.com

Half H - Market Eating House

MARKETEATINGHOUSE.COM.AU and RIGHTONBURGERS.COM.AU

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Art & Culture

Naked ambition Tom de Souza had the unexpected pleasure of working on The Naked Wanderer, a movie filmed in the BunGeo region back in March. Here’s his experience of what it’s like behind the scenes as a movie runner.

I

t was a sunny Friday morning in March, and I was out cutting wood in the yard when I received an unexpected phone call. On the other end of the line was Josh, a film producer from Perth. I’d never met him before. I’d never worked or even studied in film before, but nevertheless, he was offering me a job.

A brisk and enthusiastic discussion followed. He was producing a feature film over two weeks in Bunbury, he said, with another week around the Turquoise Coast. He needed a runner: someone who could transport the cast, crew and other miscellaneous items between locations. To fill the position, all I needed was a driver's licence and a vehicle.

Check, and check.

Monday morning, 4.30am.

A black horizon to the east rises to midnight blue, deep orange, then pink. I had left early because the location was an hour's drive from home, and I didn’t want to miss the 6.15am breakfast. I squinted through the windscreen in curious anticipation. I thought this sort of stuff only happened in Hollywood, Sydney, or the Gold Coast. Not in regional Western Australia.

I had briefly leafed through the script. The story was of a heart-broken young man who decides to walk 4,000km up the coast of Western Australia, in the nude, with the secret goal

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of getting his ex-girlfriend back.

It wouldn’t be hard to find the main actor, I thought. Just look for the naked bloke.

I arrived to find a kind of makeshift camp on the oval.

There was a catering truck, an aisle of gazebos, makeup and costume trucks and caravans for the actors, and portaloos, and trailers and serving trolleys.

Around 50 people, all of them clothed, fortunately, milled around the undercover tables and chairs, eating toast and bacon and baked beans and eggs, all bleary eyed in the early morning mist.

The camp was known as ‘The Unit’. Wherever we filmed, The Unit wasn’t far away; and the three or four men who worked The Unit were the film’s unsung heroes. First to arrive, last to leave, it wasn’t uncommon for them to work 18 hours per day. It was a tough gig, but they were everyone’s best friend - they had a coffee machine bolted to a desk in the back of their truck, and maintained general spirits about the place with a playlist of Phillip Glass, Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, Dolly Parton, Lou Reed and Eddie Vedder.

There was an obvious hierarchy about the place.

Some demarcated their positions more vigorously than others. The executive producer was top of the wazza, I learned; he was the one overseeing all financing, creative and

Callan Durlik (Writer, Associate Producer and Actor)

production activities. There were other producers too: the line producer, who was in charge of the budget; and associate producers, who had helped shape the story; then the director sat somewhere at the top of the scheme too.

My job duties were implicitly defined, and with a little initiative I was able to attach myself to different departments.

There was a particularly strong sense of camaraderie about The Unit blokes that resonated with me, and I spent much of my time there. They were, singularly, a unit, and The Unit; but eager to learn, I migrated down to Set. On set, there were numerous teams. Each had their own vans

or trucks laden with hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of gear, and they worked as independent contractors, operating on a variety of available projects throughout the year.

There was the camera team, the lighting team, and the grips team.

They all answered to the Director of Photography, who operated the camera and made executive creative visual decisions.

The grips were the film set’s workhorses. They carted all the lighting and camera stands from truck to set, shifted it around for different shots, then back to the truck for a location move, and unpacked it all again for the next scene. It doesn’t sound like much, but often they had to build a small railway-like visitbunburygeographe.com.au

structure for a trolley that took four men to lift, so that the DoP could slide along and capture a smooth, moving shot.

After a few days on set, I was handed a radio. It was a portal to my discovery of the unique argot among film professionals.

Most of it derived from Citizens Band slang, but one particular phrase etched indelibly into my brain was ’10:1’, code for ‘they’re on the dunny’.

One particular job I was assigned on set was to shield the actors with umbrellas between shots, so that the make-up wouldn’t melt from their faces in the scorching March sun. It wasn’t the most glamorous gig, but it was an

opportunity to converse with the cast, who mostly kept to one another’s company off set.

Angus McClaren, from Packed to the Rafters, was lead actor, and Natasha Liu Bordizzo was the film’s co-star. Then there was Alan Little, a local bloke from Bunbury acting in his first feature film. He was the only Aboriginal person on set, and like me, the experience wasn’t at all what he expected.

“It was much better than I thought. The cast and the crew, everyone was just so lovely. Everyone all supported each other, looked after each other really well. It made the experience much better, made me feel really comfortable on the show,” Alan said.

Alan discovered acting four years ago. The Naked Wanderer was a major step for him, he said, and he hopes that through acting he can inspire and encourage other young people to find their own way in life.

“I wish there was more focus on acting in school, being Aboriginal you’re just hammered with sports. There is nothing else. When I was in school there wasn’t much interest in other pathways, everyone is so focused on sports. I was searching for what I wanna do, and now my goal is to show my nephews and nieces, sons and daughters, show them there are other different career paths, not just acting. They can do whatever they want. They just

have to put their minds to it,” he said.

The days rolled into weeks, and soon, the caravans and catering trucks were packed up and rolling in a convoy up to Lancelin for the final week of the film. There was often a wrap party to celebrate the end of the job, but with the Easter weekend on our doorstep, everyone rushed home. At the final wrap call, we all shook hands and went our separate ways without fanfare or debauchery.

Driving home, I watched the sun sink over a glassy Indian Ocean, no cameras or lights or action, just the natural theatre of Western Australia, playing out its own moving picture.

TOP CREW // Above, Callan Durlik (Writer, Associate Producer and Actor) and Angus McLaren (Actor). Above left, Alan Little (Actor). Top, Mick McDermott (Director of Photography), Clint Lawrence (Grip), Dan Spriggs (Gaffer). Inset, Alan Lindsay (Director and Producer)

IN A NUTSHELL The Naked Wanderer is about a heartbroken young man who decides to walk 4,000km up the coast of Western Australia naked, for charity, with the secret goal of making his ex-girlfriend jealous. It stars John Cleese, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Sophie Kennedy Clark and Angus McLaren. Follow Facebook.com/pg/tnwau for news about the movie.. |

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Art & Culture

Nature’ s rich canvas

Drawing on the inspiration of nature, Preston’s artistic community is launching a new event – Art . . . Naturally – and we’re all invited to explore the beautiful textile works they’ve produced. By GABI MILLS. Images by BIANCA TURRI.

L

iving in such a gorgeous part of a world, it’s no surprise perhaps that Preston River Valley resident Fiona Richardson wanted to introduce the wider world to her special piece of the Bunbury

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Geographe region.

“A group of Lowden and Yabberup residents hit upon the idea of an art event to help promote Preston River Valley, specifically textile fine art, as it’s an area of art that receives little exposure,” says Fiona.

“We wanted to also showcase local artists in their studios, and this was received with great enthusiasm. We are very lucky to have a collection of talented artists working in different media,” she says.

The exhibition and the associated competition, which is open to all textile artists in the Bunbury Geographe region, has a theme – For The Love of Nature – and includes 2D flat wall works, 3D sculptural works and wearable art.

“We live in a beautiful part of the south west, with forests of jarrah and marri right on our doorstep, and the community of Preston River Valley itself is a strong one, supporting one another in our ventures,” says Fiona.

The competition entries will be judged by a highly regarded Noongar artist, Sandra Hill.

“Sandra lives and works in Balingup, and was awarded a creative development fellowship from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander board of the Australian council of the Arts,” says Fiona. “Sandra’s work is in high demand with many of her works held in major collections. Jan Hart, a renowned artist working in the Ferguson Valley will also judge competition entries.”

The exhibition itself will be curated by Georgina Richardson, a graduate of Curtin University with a degree in Fine Arts, majoring in textiles and illustration.

“Georgina’s year of study at WAAPA in the costume department continues to inspire her work,” says Fiona.

“Her mixed media approach enables her to produce work that pushes the boundaries visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Art that Flows

MEET THE ARTISTS Cynthia Dix

Cynthia is a practising artist, painter, print maker, ceramicist and glass artist. Her own sculptures are dotted throughout her garden on the 100acre property by the Preston River, where she lives and works. Cynthia will welcome you along with glass-maker and mentor fellow artist, Heather Smedley. Together they will present a stunning array of affordable gifts, ceramics, prints, cards and paintings.

Rainbow Downs, 2654 Donnybrook-Boyup Brook Road, Mumballup. Visit cynthiaspictures.com TEXTURALLY RICH // Left, the work of Janelle Barnes, an artist who works in mixed media. Framed work, a 2-D fine textile piece by Georgina Richardson.

Above, a fibre wall hanging work by Jenny Doherty from her Ferguson Valley studio.

between fashion and art.”

There’s a sense of excitement in the community about the forthcoming event, bringing together as it does some fascinating works under one roof in the hamlet of Yabberup-Lowden.

“We are proud to be able to hold our exhibition in the Yabberup Hall, a heritage-listed building that’s been at the heart of the community for the last 122 years,” says Fiona. “The hall is a focal point for many community events throughout the year so it’s fitting that it will house this important artistic event to which all are invited.”

Supported by the Donnybrook-Balingup shire, the exhibition and artisan trail will be an effective drawcard for the Preston River Valley.

“I feel privileged to work on this project with all the very talented artists and talented, generous volunteers who are donating their time and talents,” says Fiona. “I see this event providing enjoyment for our region, evolving and growing for many years to come.”

Art . . . Naturally, Yabberup Hall, Preston River Valley, November 3 and 4. Visit facebook.com/imaginegwnp or imaginegwnp.com/events

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.

Janelle Barnes

Janelle is passionate about art, creating works using different media including ceramics, textiles, table ware, clothing, hand-printed fabrics, pottery and mosaics. She will have an array of beautiful local produce to purchase as cooking is another passion.

“I love living in the Preston River Valley as it offers me abundant produce and inspiration,” says Janelle.

Yabberup Studio, Donnybrook-Boyup Brook Road, Yabberup.

Visit facebook.com/Yabberup Studio/

Jan Atherton

Jan and Colin Atherton are opening up their stunning large farm garden to visitors, with all proceeds from the $6 entry going to Leukaemia Cancer Research. With over 275 roses featured throughout the garden, including floribundas and stunning climbers, visitors are invited to meander throughout this lush and inviting garden with areas to sit and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

Browse market stalls, buy some plants, enjoy live music or taste local wine. Note: no dogs are allowed.

Fernbank, 492 Donnybrook-Boyup Brook Road

ARTIST Peter Reynolds IMAGE BY Kevin Gordon

Experience art that flows.

Sally Young

Sally Young’s work is all about raw material opulence, uniqueness and quality. A renowned artist, Sally works with locally-sourced merino wool, making one-of-a-kind, handmade, ready to wear art. She also makes resin jewellery, and her straw bale studio which is on the upper tributary of the Preston River among the jarrah and marri trees, is made from 80 percent recycled materials.

Sally Young Designs, Lot 1157 DonnybrookBoyup Brook Road, Mumballup Visit facebook.com/sallyyoungdesigns

Marilyn Dreaver

A studio potter for over 30 years, Marilyn Dreaver loves wood-firing and salt glazing, creating oneoff pieces and domestic ware.

Studio 500, 500 Sandhill’s Road, Brookhampton

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

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram |

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www.lavaartglass.com.au

Art & Culture

Hidden gem Roelands Village is a very special place, open to all, and a focal point for those in search of healing and reconciliation.

By

R

oelands Village was once Roelands Native Settlement Farm, an Aboriginal mission run by the Protestant church. From 1938 to 1973 it housed over three stolen generations of forcibly removed Aboriginal children.

Syd Jackson and Les Wallam were two of those 500 kids. They grew up here in the 1940s and 50s, respectively, on a strict regime of farm work, church and schooling.

Today, Les manages Roelands Village, while Syd is a public ambassador. They’ve taken back their former childhood home and converted it into a centre of positive healing and, in reconciling with their days at the mission, they

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TOM DE SOUZA.

hope to build a brighter future for all Australians and preserve their history for everyone.

“Roelands is a reflection, an understanding, an acknowledgment,” says Les. “You gotta know the past to be able to appreciate it, and to be able to move forward from that. That’s what this is all about – and having a lot of fun along the way.”

Roelands Mission was closed in 1973 when assimilation policies were retired, but Roelands remained in possession of the church and was run as a commercial orchard and boarding house until it was placed up for auction in 2004.

When Les and Syd learned of visitbunburygeographe.com.au

its sale from other ex-residents, whom they consider as family, they developed a proposal to run it as their own and lobbied the Indigenous Land Corporation for its purchase.

They banded together with Woolkabunning Kiaka, an Aboriginal corporation founded by ex-resident and elder Alan Kickett, and were successful in their acquisition. Les is now CEO of WKI, and together with Syd, they have helped laboriously restore the village to commercial function.

Roelands offer the full gamut of services: a commercial kitchen, conference centre, accommodation in the neatly

renovated cottages, historical and cultural tours for school, corporate, and community groups, and culturally sensitive re-engagement programs for Aboriginal youth.

Future plans include a mountain biking trail, bush tucker trail, and a native food café; a memorial garden which pays tribute to the 500 exresidents is currently under construction.

On December 1, Roelands will run their Roelands Village Festival to acknowledge the past and celebrate the future.

The day will include artists in residence, cultural performances and dance, and interactive

NEW BEGINNINGS // Roelands Village will hold a festival in December to acknowledge the past and celebrate the future.

activities like basket weaving and didgeridoo lessons.

Les encourages everyone to get involved, and says Roelands is a place to bring all Australians together.

“It’s a good feeling being back here,” says Les. “That’s what it’s all about.

We want this place to be open and inviting. Roelands really belongs to everyone. Us ex-mission kids, we’ve got a history here at Roelands; but the missions and reserves and settlements, they’ve operated all around Australia. It’s part of Australia’s history. It belongs to everyone. And by opening this up, it encourages people to get involved and be a part of that.”

Roelands Village is an ideal venue for schools, groups or as a corporate training and meeting facility. Visit roelandsvillage.com.au for more information. Additional details on Aboriginal culture and tourism experiences in the Bunbury Geographe region are available by visiting waitoc.com. |

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Food & Drink

rustic

On the

trail

Take a fresh food odyssey through the heart of WA’s growing country.

By

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TOM DE SOUZA.

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Blurry white lines flash through the windscreen. On either side of the car, bucolic pastures wrap around tall hills, and clumps of white rock and roaming cattle dot the valleys.

Occasionally, a river flowing heavy with the residual rain of winter cuts beneath the highway. My girlfriend, dog and I are travelling a country road

just outside of Bunbury. This surrounding turf is south west WA’s food bowl, home to some of the freshest produce in the entire country.

The Department of Agriculture estimates the region's agricultural sector is worth almost a billion dollars.

Bunbury is the regional capital, and much of that produce

moves through its port, the beating economic heart of the region, or through Victoria Street, its main artery.

At the southern-most end of the main strip is one of the newest bakeries on the block. The Bread and Butter Bakery was developed with the knowledge of Yallingup Woodfired Bread baker visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Gotthard Bauer, and operates on the sensible philosophy that simple is best. The bread is made from nothing but flour, water, salt, and yeast, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

This interior is simple, spacious, and delightfully vintage. Soft, golden festoon lights hang low from the ceiling.

A door offers a portal to a neighbouring restaurant. At Café 140, it’s Friday night and service is in full swing.

The restaurant and bakery are under the same proprietorship, and the chefs and bakers work together. The

it’s here, in these delis, that vigour is tangible and enticing as the products themselves.

In the early post war years, many Italian migrants worked the dairy and cattle farms around Bunbury, like the Piacentinis. Kelly Piacentini grew up the daughter of an Italian dairy worker, and as per Italian custom, she learned to appreciate fresh food from an early age. She recalls days of her childhood spent making tomato sauce and pasta by hand, and gathered around the table with small armies of extended family.

Today, Kelly is bequeathing

“There is certainly a huge revolution happening at the moment,” Kelly says.

“People are becoming more aware of nutrition and the fuel they are putting in to their bodies.

When you buy something from here, you can see what you’re buying – it’s not in the packet – and you can guarantee its freshness,” she says.

“There really is no substitute for fresh food. You can disguise it with preservatives and added sugar and salt, but you just cannot replace the taste of freshness.”

Out through the flat plains, past the old colonial brick

architecture and the rolling hills, across the Collie River and out to Roelands Village. This was once an Aboriginal mission, run by the church. It housed forcibly removed children from the stolen generation.

Les Wallam was one of those children. Today, Les manages the facilities and helps to run cultural education and TAFE programs for local youth.

He also hires a commercial kitchen to local businesses, and when we arrive, a sharp, mysterious tang wafts from the kitchen. Max’s Black gourmet foods are making sauce from native fruits. There are candied and pickled quandongs, and a delicate candied Geraldton wax.

To Max’s Black proprietor, Tahn Donovan, food isn’t just about eating. It’s an experience, she says, that brings us closer to one another, and is woven TASTE OF THE SOUTH // Left, explore the BunGeo region and you're sure to fall in love with some pretty special food producing artisans. Bread and Butter creates delicious wood-fired bread. Below, Green Door Winery.

bakery services the restaurant with fresh bread and pizza bases, the chefs concoct the French patisserie custards and jam fillings for the donuts next door.

I’ve always been a sucker for Italian delis. The masses of post WWII Italian migrants have brought with them an inimitable passion for fresh produce, and

the gifts of her childhood to the Bunbury community. She’s been the sole operator of Rusticana for the past 15 years, since she began, aged 23. She operates the only whole and bulk food store in town, meaning customers can select 100g or 25kg of a particular product from an array of aisled tubs in her store. |

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IT'S ABOUT BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER . . .

SITTING AROUND A TABLE, HAVING A FEED - TAHN DONOVAN

into the fabric of our very being.

“It’s about bringing people together,” she says.

“Sitting around the table, catching up, having a feed. It brings us all closer together.

These native foods are a great 34

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way to represent Aboriginal Australia, and to recreate that experience for everyone.

On the South West Highway, most passing motorists can’t help but cut a glance at the horny cow outside Robert and

Penny’s Ha Ve cheese factory.

Robert bought this property when it was a derelict marron and deer farm. He’s invested everything into renovating and restoring the place, mostly on the back of his own labour.

Like most business people, Robert restored this place using his unique logic and available materials. Some might call it rustic or boutique, but if you asked the owners, they’d probably just call it sensible.

Robert has been making cheese for eighteen years now.

Eight months ago, he expanded into butter, and his garlic and chive blend has taken out gold medals in every competition he’s entered it in. He says cheese-making is a fine art that takes years to perfect.

“It took me five years to get the blue cheese right. When I started, I knew nothing. It’s

a very delicate process. All cheese is a living, breathing organism. It needs to be treated as one,” he says.

Today’s common logic dictates that products require a certified organic tick of approval to be considered healthy. But Kathy and Ashley Keeffe, of Green Door Wines in the Ferguson Valley, don’t ascribe to that misguided view.

Almost all of the grapes are grown here, fermented here in oak barrels and Spanish clay amphora pots, and often consumed here. There are no chemicals used in the process, but out here, things don’t require supercilious certification to approve it as such. Life is organic by nature, and the flavour of the place speaks for itself, says Kathy.

“We looked at going for organic certification, but we didn’t visitbunburygeographe.com.au

think it was really that necessary.

People that come out here just have to take a look around,” she says, gazing through a window in the rammed earth walls at the roaming sheep ‘mowing her grass’.

During numerous trips overseas, Ashley and Kathy developed a natural affinity with Spain, and they’ve incorporated elements of their predilection into an intimate restaurant and winery. A green embroidered Moroccan door from the ancient medinas of Fez, leads to a jarrah deck, where the view on a clear day extends beyond 100 acres of sloping vineyard, past the Capel salt mine, and on a clear day, all the way to the flashing beacon of Cape Naturaliste lighthouse.

The night sky; grains of fine castor sugar spilled across a sheet of black velvet.

The sky heaves and surges with the weight of the stars.

We’re staying at Discovery Parks-Bunbury Foreshore, one of the few pet-friendly accommodation sites in Bunbury. Park Manager, Richard, says he was driven towards filling the void of petfriendly accommodation after numerous trips away with his wife and two dogs.

“When we go away, we have to look for somewhere that

allows pets and is accepting of them, and we know how difficult it is,” he says. “Our pets are a part of our family. We like to treat our guests the same way.”

Bunbury’s two Discovery Caravan Parks are part of a larger national chain, which

scheme of market places. Too super for a farmer’s market, too alacritous for a supermarket, this shopping complex is redefining the way we approach our food.

There are no aisles in the Farmers Market. Instead, a path winds a meandering course through the fruits, then vegetables, meats, cheeses, breads, antipasto. There are grill stations and tasting samples along the way, and it’s an approach general manager Leith Johnson says is designed to reconnect customers with their food.

“It’s not just about the food. It’s also about education.

Sampling the product, and having someone there to serve it, helps customers to build a relationship with the people they're buying the produce from, and get the right advice in different ways to cook the product and the right flavours to match it with. It’s something really important that has been

sleepiness of a Sunday morning; but even the bleary eyed can’t miss the Bunbury Farmers Market, just off the Forrest Highway.

The Bunbury Farmers Market occupies its own classification in the grand

PASSIONATE PRODUCERS // Below, John Small's Smallwater Estate produces delicious marron. Above, Kelly Piacentini runs Rusticana, an authentic Italian deli serving the community. Opposite, Diana Robb of Spring Valley Orchard, sells her produce all over the region. Far left, Ha Ve Cheese Factory.

features 65 parks around Australia. All camping sites and two dedicated cabins at the Koombana Bay park are pet friendly. It’s also a site of great colonial history - the front reception marks the approximate position of Bunbury’s first colonial settlement, and numerous wrecks are located within 50m of the park.

The traffic moves about Bunbury’s streets with the |

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lost in today’s world,” he says.

Heading inland, over the Darling Scarp, down into the valley country below and back up into the rolling hills around Donnybrook. Off the main drag, a gravel road cuts through second growth forest, and out to Smallwater Estate.

John Smalls once built a marron pond out the back of his Perth garage. John grew up on the outskirts of Nelson, on the South Island of New Zealand. During the rural days of his youth, he fished the rivers for trout and freshwater crayfish, and tended to the next door neighbours’ sheep on

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school holidays.

The idyll of John’s youth remain indelibly etched into his fascinations, and so when he found a blank corner out the back of his Perth panel-beating garage, he put a marron pond in, of course.

“It was just to look at,” he says.

“I put koi fish and marron in there, and after a hard day of work, I would just go and sit out there and watch them.”

These days, at John’s Smallwater Estate, he looks out over 20 underwater acres of terraced marron ponds. He runs a half-tonne of marron per year through his restaurant – a

converted transportable home he bought from a bloke up the road.

Endemic to south west Western Australia, marron are a local delicacy. John’s variety are as fresh as you can get, sourced straight from the pond before they end up on the plate; oh, and John also makes one of the best cabernets in the country too.

Sunday afternoon, and the lazy shadows grow tall in the valleys. Out through Donnybrook town, Australia’s ‘apple capital’, and a small bridge leads over the narrow upper Capel River, and onto Spring Valley Orchard.

Diana Robb is 66, with bright cheeks, a set of glittering blue eyes, and a brilliant smile. Of her four vegetable gardens, the main strip is a sight to behold. Rows upon rows of vegetables, at least two tennis courts long blooming with flowering artichokes and leeks and kale and wild parsley.

Every weekend, Diana travels to the Subiaco and Kalamunda Farmers Market in a truck laden with her produce.

“People at the Farmers

Market, they love it – they can look straight over the stall and we tell them what the food was grown in, when it was picked, who picked it, what it’s had added to it,” she says. “What it hasn’t had added to it. It really is important, I believe, to develop a relationship with the people you buy your food from. Food is not a product. It’s produce.”

Throughout the year, Diana opens the orchard for visitors to come and pick their own fruit.

She also opens up her farm to volunteers, who help her run the orchard in exchange for food and lodgings.

“It really is a reciprocal exchange,” she says.

“They help us with work on the farm, and the experience they have out here really can’t be taught; the value of fresh foods, of knowing where things come from, and knowing the people who produce them. " It’s one of the many fruits of life. It’s such a joy to be able to share that experience..”

Visit visitbunburygeographe. 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

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Oakway Estate Wines

Smallwater Estate

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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

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Food & Drink

BLACK (AND GREEN) GOLD Olives are one of nature’s great gifts and the BunGeo region is blessed with some of the best. By CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

R

olling vineyards may be one of the biggest drawcards for the south west, but it’s also worth seeking out another variety of liquid gold that can be found tucked away in the olive groves of the region. While the vines produce the grapes, it is the thousands of olive trees that produce litres of delicious and life boosting Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) every season.

Olives are one of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world. Yes, you read that correctly. Just like cherries and plums, olives are stone fruits. They aren’t quite ready to indulge in straight from the tree, though. Edible olives take time to create. There are plenty of options for you to sample both olives and olive oil related products on your travels in the south west, with over a dozen producers whose products can be found on the farm and the shelves of culinary stockists.

There are plenty of good reasons to add some olive filled deliciousness to your diet. Once cured, the naturally sour and inedible olives from the tree turn

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into salty and flavoursome treats. There are four ways to cure olives: water curing, brining, dry curing and lye curing all work best for different varieties of olive. No matter which method is chosen, their savoury richness adds bite and depth of flavour to any dish.

Essentially when pressed, olive oil is simply the juice of the olives and it’s no secret that olives and their oil are brilliant boosts to any diet, high in antioxidants and vitamin E. Be sure to check out some of the following olive groves in the Bunbury Geographe region:

Rokewood Olive Grove - Balingup rokewoodolives.com.au/ Olive groves abound on the family farm without chemicals and sprays and the fruit is picked fresh and processed on site to award-winning olive oils and table olives. Kalamata olives are marinated in brine and red wine vinegar and contain no additives or preservatives. Winning awards left, right and centre, you can find their products online or throughout the region at local suppliers.

Sathya Olive Co - Binningup sathyaoliveco.com/our-story Founded in 1999 by Keith and Tanuja Sanders, Sathya Olive Co started as a hobby and has grown to produce award-winning olive oil and products over the past 20 years. They aim to produce the most eco-friendly produce possible, running on solar power and using natural fertilisers. Their unique product range can be found online along with ideas for recipes and how to make best use of them in the kitchen. Tanuja’s Indian heritage has been influential in developing a unique and punchy range of olive products such as visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Indian-style pickled olives, and oils infused with Asian flavours such as lemongrass and curry leaf. “We believe that cooking good, healthy food is not only one of life’s greatest pleasures, but a skill that everyone should enjoy,” she says.

Destiny Olives – Boyanup destinyolives.com Harking all the way back to the early 1900s in a small village in Sicily, this family-run business has grown through three generations of olive growers and is now based in Boyanup. With the goal to make a natural premium product by combining modern day practices with ancient techniques, their EVOO is smooth and fruity and can be found online or through local suppliers.

Stratham Valley Farm Capel - facebook.com/ StrathamValleyFarm/ Homemade preserves and cold pressed EVVO are the name of the game at this local producer. See their Facebook page for the next location that their market stall can be found at.

Preston Valley Grove Donnybrook prestonvalleygrove.com.au With 2,500 trees, Preston Valley Grove produces a lot of olive oil!

Regularly winning gold medals, their extra virgin olive oil is one to try. Flavoured oils and extra virgin olive oil can be purchased at local stockists and online.

OLIVE OIL 101 Extra virgin, virgin and regular olive oil. What’s the difference and how should you use them?

EVOO This oil is the highest quality. It must be processed mechanically without chemicals or hot water, be derived from the first cold pressing and have an acidity level of less than one percent which is why it tastes superior. Unlike wine, this is made to enjoy now – use within a year of pressing to enjoy the best flavour and health benefits. Enjoy in dips, dressings or by simply dunking freshly baked bread into!

Virgin Olive Oil This product is also from the first pressing and produced without any refining. This acidity level is higher than EVVO and can be up to 3.3 percent. Not as high in quality as extra virgin olive oil.

Good for cooking and baking.

Pure Olive Oil A blend of virgin and refined olive oil is not as nutritionally dense as virgin and extra virgin olive oil. Best kept for cooking at higher temperatures.

Sherwood Springs – Mumbellup sherwoodsprings.com.au Producing award-winning olive oil for over 10 years, Ian and Helen Wildy have planted mostly Tuscan olive varieties on their property.

Tarnagulla Farm – Balingup tarnagullafarm.com Order a selection of goodies from premium extra virgin olive oil, table olives and wildflowers produced at the picturesque farm run by Malcolm and Sue Lee since 1995.

Table olives include Kalamata and Volos, two of the tastiest varietals for pickling.

Grindon Olive Oil - Boyup Brook grindon.com.au The Ritson family farm produces not only exceptional extra virgin olive oil but also delicious dukkha and table olives. They produce delicate and fruity oils and to make their oils even more unique, you can take away their oils in a neoamphora container. It's a hand-crafted wooden vessel, using jarrah that's been salvaged from trees that were sacrificed for development over 100 years ago.

Open 7 Days 15 Bonnefoi Blvd Bunbury www.bayviewbar.com.au

Food & Drink

rosé

BY ANY OTHER NAME Rosés are the perfect drink for spring and summer - and as luck would have it, some of the best are made right here in the Bunbury Geographe region.

Fergal Gleeson gives them a whirl.

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osé has well and truly arrived. In 2017, sales of rosé in Australia increased by 65 percent, according to liquor industry statistics. And it’s not just an Australian thing. It’s part of a global trend that has seen millennials from New York to London to Perth embrace the pink drink.

The French have been imbibing rosé for years. In fact they drink a lot more rosé than white wine. In the English speaking world, rosé was frumpy and gauche.

That all changed a few years ago when the Hamptons set developed a taste for rosés from Provence. Hip young urban Instagrammers jumped on the trend and rosés’ brand had changed to the drink for the beach, for wine bars, for picnics, for summer. Here was an inexpensive wine that you could enjoy without all the stuffy, pretentious talk.

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The trend is towards lighter coloured, refreshing rosé. But they are not all the same. Rosé can be made from any red grape. The traditional Provençal grapes are grenache or mourvedre. Italian and Spanish varieties, which are now established in BunGeo, also make fine rosés.

A pinot rosé will tend to be pale and light, a shiraz will have more fruit and be fuller flavoured and a tempranillo will be savoury with texture from the tannins and so on. Sales spike from spring to autumn but there is no reason not to be drinking more complex examples all year round.

Rosé was a girly drink but it has now been reclaimed by men. Is the target market high viz vest wearing ute drivers?

Probably not. But the word “brosé” was coined to reclaim rosé from the girls, so why not?

Man up and drink it with the boys.

Bakkheia Wines 2018 Cojones Muy Grande Bakkheia are a small producer of Mediterranean-style wines in the Preston Valley. Ilonka and Michael Edwards tend the land, organically grow the grapes and make the wine. They are passionate about sustainable living and growing great food and wine. Bakkheia (also known as bacchanalia) 'is the frenzy induced by Bacchus - freeing one from one’s normal self, through madness, ecstasy, or wine'. Intrigued? Their wines are only available through a private wine list. Contact the winemaker for further details.

Winemaker’s notes:

A Provençal dry style rosé from 40 percent grenache, 35 percent cabernet, and 25 percent mourvedre. It’s a 100 percent single vineyard and grown organically. Bright delightful strawberry cream fruit notes with delicious

lingering savoury flavours. A wine to be served at 8-10 C with charcuterie and cheese.

Visit bakkheia.com.au Capel Vale 2017 Regional Series Pemberton Rose Capel Vale were the pioneering winery in Geographe in 1974 and are also the largest producer. The winery was established by Perth-based Dr Peter Pratton and his wife Elizabeth. Their operations have since expanded with the purchase of vineyards in Mount Barker, Pemberton and Margaret River. Gourmet Traveller Wine has awarded Capel Vale “Best Large Cellar Door 2018” in the region.

Dining is available at Match Restaurant. They are a 5-star rated Halliday Winery.

Winemaker’s notes:

This 100 percent pinot noir rosé displays aromas of bright berry visitbunburygeographe.com.au

fruits with floral edges. The palate is full of red apples and fresh strawberries with a crisp dry finish. A great wine to drink on release. Enjoy with seafood paella or grilled chicken.

Visit capelvale.com.au Fifth Estate Wines Rosé 2017 Fifth Estate Wines is situated in Harvey. It’s a small vineyard managed with great attention to detail by owners Mark and Julie Moloney. They produce shiraz, chardonnay, rosé and tempranillo wines of great balance and flavour. Fifth Estate winemaker, Peter Stanlake, knows the Geographe region intimately.

Winemaker’s notes:

This bright young wine has a lifted aroma of red berries and rose petals which are instantly appealing. The aroma leads into a crisp and refreshing palate that has zingy fresh plum and cherry flavours. Subtle hints of tropical fruits and balanced acidity make this an easy drinking wine that will delight discerning rosé drinkers. Enjoy chilled on a lazy summer afternoon with your favourite cheese or spicy Asian cuisine.

Visit fifthestatewines.com.au Green Door Wines 2017 Rosé – The Flamenco

Green Door Vineyard & Winery is a small boutique vineyard and winery run by Ash and Kath Keeffe in the Ferguson Valley, 20 minutes east of Bunbury. Their vines produce fruit primarily from Spanish and Italian varietals. Ashley Keeffe uses traditional European winemaking techniques and minimal intervention to make wine true to its original flavour.

Cellar door and café open 11am to 4.30pm, Thursday to Sunday.

Winemaker’s notes:

The Flamenco Rosé is a blend of 60 percent grenache and 40 percent mourvedre grapes. The grapes were crushed, left on skins for three days and basketpressed off to a stainless steel vat for stabilisation. The Flamenco is a French-style dry rosé, pink in colour, with strawberries and cream on the nose. The 2017 rosé has fresh raspberries and strawberries on the palate with a delicate mouth feel.

Visit greendoorwines.com.au Harvey River Estate Harvey River Estate Rosé 2017 The patriarch, Giuseppe Sorgiovanni, emigrated from Calabria in 1928 to Geographe and grew oranges. In 1999 inspired by his father’s love of wine, son Kevin developed Harvey River Estate. Talented

winemaker Stuart Pierce came on board in 2005 after vintages in France, South Africa and Clare Valley. Stuart is a Jimmy Watson Trophy winner (Australia’s most prestigious wine award). A wide variety of wines are available under the Billy Goat Estate, Harvey River Estate and Grey Elk ranges reflecting different styles and price points. Cellar door open daily from 10am until 4pm.

durif and riesling. They won the Best Cabernet Award at the Geographe & Alternatives Wine Show 2017. Cellar door open 11am to 5.30pm daily.

Winemaker’s notes:

A fruity wine, made from the Muscat a Petit Grains grape grown on the family vineyard at Glen Mervyn. Handpicked ripe fruit has produced a wine exploding with the floral perfumes of Muscat and rosewater. The palate is fresh, sweet and grapey. To be enjoyed chilled. A ‘fun’ wine.

Visit mandalayroad.com.au

Winemaker’s notes:

A pale pink blend of cabernet, merlot and grenache. Clean fruit fragrance with vanilla bean and rhubarb. Dry balanced natural acid with delicate tannin structure frames this fruitdriven rosé.

Visit harveyriverestate.com.au

Mazza Wines Bastardo Rosé 2016 David and Anne Mazza specialise in growing Spanish and Portuguese varieties near Donnybrook. They are wines for the adventurous drinker!

They grow tempranillo, touriga nacional, graciano, tinta cão, bastardo and sousão (all with the exception of tempranillo are very rare in Australia).

Their range has received very favourable ratings from leading Australian critics James Halliday and Huon Hooke.

Mandalay Road Moscato 2018 Bernice and Tony O’Connell planted their vineyard in 1997 on a hilly, picturesque 40-hectare property. They envisaged a quiet, idyllic, holiday home which produced “a few grapes” for some experimental home winemaking. It was a part-time venture initially with both still working full time in Perth. This quickly grew to 10 acres, with initial planting of shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay and zinfandel, later expanding to include muscat,

Winemaker’s notes:

David and Anne make a delicious dry, rosé from a Portuguese variety called bastardo which is traditionally |

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Food & Drink

used to make Port. Very little bastardo is planted in Australia and most of it goes into fortified wines. They believe this may be the only Australian rosé made from bastardo. The rosé stays in contact with the skins for 24 hours to attain its lovely salmon blush.

Visit mazza.com.au Millbrook Winery 2018 Regional Rosé Millbrook Winery is a multiaward winning, boutique vineyard, farm, orchard, restaurant and winery.

Chardonnay, viognier, petit verdot, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and nebbiolo are currently under vine in the 20-acre vineyard.

Winemaker’s notes:

Made from 100 percent Geographe tempranillo, the 2018 vintage was both mild and early which allowed the fruit to ripen while maintaining a beautiful amount of natural acidity.

The fruit was handpicked and pressed directly off to tank to ensure vibrancy of flavour was retained. Made in a dry, modern style with savoury notes complemented by bright, generous fruit, it’s pale blush pink in colour. The aromas are of fresh red berries with a hint of rose petal. This makes 42

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for a dry and balanced wine with crisp acidity, showcasing flavours of summer pudding, strawberry shortcake and Turkish delight. Best drunk over the next year, well chilled.

Visit millbrook.wine Smallwater Estate 2015 Roze Smallwater Estate is the most awarded boutique winery in the Geographe region. The onsite restaurant takes advantage of its unique and picturesque location overlooking dams and vines and beyond to the beautiful rolling hills and forests of the district. Marron comes from the dam on the property.

Proprietor John Small says “Our Roze is a dry style that goes well with cheese. I have always referred to it as a man’s rosé! This style is really starting to get traction in the Perth market.” The 2015 Roze has collected seven wine show medals. The 2018 Roze is coming soon.

Winemaker’s notes:

Brilliant ruby pink, light intensity colour made from the zinfandel grape. Very lifted aroma of musk lifesavers and ripe raspberries and rose petal. The palate is full and sweet fruited with mixed berry flavours finishing with crisp cleansing acid.

Visit smallwaterestate.com

Talisman Wines 2018 Arida Rosé The West Australian Wine Guide 2017 Small Producer of the Year and a 5-star rated Halliday winery, The Talisman vineyard is situated high in the hills of the Ferguson Valley. The unique site is surrounded by the Wellington National Park and was initially purchased by the Robinson family for its extreme beauty as a weekend escape. Talisman Wines was started in 2009. The 2017 Arida won best rosé at the Geographe and Alternatives Wine Show.

Winemaker notes

Pale salmon in colour, this is 100 percent cabernet and undergoes a wild barrel fermentation with about seven weeks in oak. Nose: Subtle savoury varietal cabernet characteristics of capsicum and tomato leaf with juicy raspberry and a hint of rose petal. Taste: dry and fresh with complex lees characters which will continue to enhance and soften the wine in the coming months.

Visit talismanwines.com.au Vineyard 28 2017 Moscato Vineyard 28 is a familyowned boutique vineyard and winery run by Mark and Pippa Cumbers who have

made their home here. Take the time to visit them at their cellar door and experience the Italian grape varieties and wine styles that they are passionate about growing and making.

These include rare Australian plantings of nebbiolo, dolcetto and arneis which are native to Piedmont. Cellar door and Quilt Shop open daily 10am to 5pm.

Winemaker’s notes:

A touch of pink as it is made from muscat rouge and petit grains. Rich apricot and peach characters assail the palate.

Wonderful light sweetness with a clean crisp finish. Fun, spritzy and zesty. Excellent as an aperitif wine with fresh fruit and cheese platters. A wine to be enjoyed young and fresh.

‘Geographe Best Sweet Table Wine’ at the 2017 Geographe and WA Alternative Varieties Wine Show Visit vineyard28.com.au Willow Bridge 2018 Rosa De Solana Willow Bridge (along with Capel Vale) is the other large winery in Geographe. It was established by Jeff and Vicky Dewar in 1997 with the purchase of a breathtaking 180-hectare site in the Ferguson Valley. Willow Bridge have an extensive range but there is a real focus on value for visitbunburygeographe.com.au

SAY G’DAY TO THE

THE FRENCH HAVE BEEN IMBIBING ROSÉ FOR YEARS

money wines with the majority on offer for less than $30. They are a 5-star rated Halliday Winery.

Winemaker’s notes:

The Willow Bridge Rosa De Solana highlights the purity and vibrancy of the tempranillo grape. A wonderful array of fresh fruit flavour, scented spice and intense palate punch, suited to the spring and summer months. Estate-grown from the spectacular hillside vineyard in the Ferguson Valley, fruit is sourced from the Cameron block which was planted in 2009. The purity of forest berries are evident on a juicy palate, creamy and almost chalky with a light savoury finish.

Visit willowbridge.com.au Windfall Estate Wines Single Handed Rosé 2017 Until recently known as Bonking Frog Wines, this small boutique winery was originally dedicated to merlot which they made in a variety of styles including a reserve and a rosé. Merlot still dominates the range but they have expanded it to include The Frog Song Sauvignon Blanc which is sourced from the Ferguson Valley as well as Frog Song Shiraz and Single Handed Chardonnay from Great Southern. Self-contained accommodation is available at the Vineyard Cottage.

Winemaker’s notes:

Vibrant cherry red colour made from 100 percent merlot. Fresh and vibrant flavours of sweet cherries and raspberries are given complexity by hints of savoury spice. Perfect with spicy pad Thai or peri peri chicken wings.

Visit bonkingfrog.com.au

GREAT AUSTRALIAN HOLIDAY

Alternative Wine Trail Bunbury Geographe

In an exciting new development, Trails WA is about to launch an Alternative Wine Trail for Bunbury Geographe to promote driving holidays and day trips to the region.

The plan is to map out a trail of nine wineries throughout Geographe to help wine lovers navigate their way through some of the region’s best known cellars doors and restaurants.

The route starts in Harvey with visits to Vineyard 28 and Harvey River Estate. It then steers you to tastings at Green Door Wines, Willow Bridge Estate and St Aidan Wines in Ferguson and Henty. For those who’ve still got stamina there’s Thomson Brook Wines, Smallwater Estate and Oakway Estate & Ned’s Brew Club in Donnybrook. The trail concludes with a visit to Capel Vale Wines and Match Restaurant.

The map will be available online, from visitor centres and participating cellar doors.

STOP PRESS Wines of WA (WoWA) has just secured $2 million in funding from federal and state government to boost international visits to Western Australia’s wine regions through an integrated marketing campaign. They should think about highlighting the great diversity of rosé available in the Geographe wine region, in my opinion.

STAY 4

PAY 3*

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READY TO EXPLORE THE BUNBURY GEOGRAPHE REGION? We have a wonderful offer for you and your family.

STAY 4 NIGHTS IN ANY CABIN OR SITE AT DISCOVERY PARKS - BUNBURY FORESHORE OR BUNBURY VILLAGE AND ONLY PAY FOR THREE* – THAT’S ONE NIGHT ON THE HOUSE!

Book today discoveryholidayparks.com.au

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*Terms and conditions apply. Travel between 01/10/18 and 30/11/18 to receive this offer.

Subject to availability. This offer may change at any time. DHP3609

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Food & Drink

Core values Crisp, refreshing and possibly the perfect summer drink – cider is attracting a growing legion of fans. And with an amazing supply of some of the world’s best apples right on its doorstep, the Bunbury-Geographe Region is perfectly poised to become a cider lovers’ haven. Some local producers are already leading the way, as Norman Burns discovers.

T

o paraphrase a famous Monty Python movie quote, “what have the Romans done for us?”

Well, roads and aqueducts aside, it was the Romans who refined the art of extracting juice from wild apples to make cider.

A couple of millennia later and cider (albeit in a far more sophisticated form than that of 55BC) is a beverage that’s gaining popularity around the world – in fact, according to a report by Allied Market Research, the global cider market is expected to be worth $16.5 billion annually. That’s a lot of apples in anyone’s language.

And the beautiful BunGeo region holds some of the aces here, with Donnybrook producing some of the world’s finest apples – the

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ideal ingredient, of course, to produce fine ciders.

While many wineries and the odd brewery in the area dabble in making some cider, Custard & Co and the quirkily named Runamuk have put, err, all their apples in one basket.

Runamuk founder Paul Hinton got into the business through a twist of fate.

“I was diagnosed with coeliac disease, which was unfortunate as I did like a beer at the time,” says Paul. “Not wanting to give up drinking I embarked on a quest to find a coeliac-friendly beverage and came up with cider.”

But even this proved problematical.

“Unfortunately, the ciders I first came across were the commercial, pre-fab mainstream ciders that I was not a fan of, full of additives and

preservatives,” he says.

“I started to research different cider regions and found a whole new world of cider away from the commercially generated options and I thought I’d try my hand at making some.”

Using friends and family members to critique his creations, what started as a hobby for Paul quickly became an obsession which has morphed into a full-time business – Runamuk, based in Stratham, 10km from Bunbury.

“We use Donnybrook apples from fourth-generation growers at Orchard 160. The apples are crushed, pressed, fermented, bottled and kegged onsite at Stratham. The process is all very traditional, if not a little too manual at times, but all good fun,” says Paul.

Runamuk now makes three styles – Scoundrel (dry), Grifter (medium dry) and Pedlar (sweet), with stockists throughout the south west and Perth metro area.

“Our ciders are preservativefree, gluten-free and vegan friendly,” says Paul. “Runamuk is all about creating a revolution in the industry away from what cider has been portrayed as and showing the public there is an alternative, not just with Runamuk, but with the growing number of craft cideries around Perth and the south west.”

Long-term, Paul has his eye on a cellar door for Runamuk (“both in the south west and Perth, but the venue will need to suit the brand”) and believes Runamuk can make a real impact in the market.

“We’re not just an ad-hoc visitbunburygeographe.com.au

house,” says Wendy.

Currently upgrading the cidery, Wendy says plans for a new style cider are now in train.

“We’ve dabbled in a new type of cider and so far it is very promising; hopefully in the next few weeks we can unveil what we are up to,” she says.

And that will be great news for Custard & Co’s growing legion of fans.

“Customers rave about the cider. They love that they can taste the ‘apple’ in there and that it tastes so pure. The feedback is fantastic and we are very proud of what we make.”

addition to the commercial breweries and wineries but a force to be reckoned with.”

Custard & Co has been on the cider scene since 2010 but changed hands last year and new owners the Prinsloo family are giving the brand a real shot in the arm.

“We were initially going to buy a farm and keep cattle but decided this would be better as a family business as the kids get older,” says Wendy Prinsloo.

Custard & Co uses locally sourced apples to produce three styles (Vintage Dry, Scrumpy and Original), distributing to restaurants, pubs and bottle shops (there is no cellar door – yet).

“We use all-natural fermentation with no added yeasts; we don’t add in juice concentrates either. We believe that if you make a product with passion and love and patience, then you have the recipe for a great cider. We are fortunate to have many local farmers who can supply us, as well as the pack

THE LOWDOWN Custard & Co ciders are available at select bottle stores, bars and restaurants.

For general enquiries email manager@custardco.com.au.

Runamuk ciders are available at bottle shops in Perth and the south west. Visit their Facebook page facebook.com/ RunamukCiderCo or website runamukciderco.com.au for more information.

Other wineries and breweries in BunGeo also produce cider. Check out the Old Coast Brewery they produce Southcider.

“Donnybrook orchards provide the apples we do the rest,” says Ivanka Harris from the brewery.

Fermented in small batches, this traditional sparkling apple cider is made entirely at the Old Coast Road Brewery.

“Cask-conditioning using champagne yeast creates slightly cloudy appearance, a sign of authenticity,” says Ivanka. “We now have a canning sealer apparatus which allows our customers to purchase a one-litre can to take home.”.

Love beer? Check out Moody Cow Brewery, Harris River Estate winery, Mash Brewing Bunbury and Wild Bull Brewery also produce great drops. |

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Ring the

changes A beautiful cocktail ring is something to treasure, but did you know the history behind these colourful gems?

T

he history of cocktail rings goes back to when they were a symbol of rebellion and independence.

Sparked by the Prohibition which swept across America almost a century ago, the subsequent cultural changes particularly relating to women changed forever the cultural landscape.

The 1920s were a period filled with tension between traditional values rooted in pre-war nostalgia and the dramatic social and political changes taking place.

Frequently referred to as the ‘Roaring 20s’ or the ‘Jazz Age’, this decade gave rise to the growing number of women

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visitbunburygeographe.com.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

who not only gained the right to vote but also increasingly worked outside the home.

Clothing styles changed as women abandoned restrictive corsets and long dresses in favour of shorter hemlines and trousers. The term ‘flapper’ was used to describe a new breed of young women, both in the United States and Europe, who cut their hair into a bob, wore make-up, smoked, drank and danced with abandon to the latest jazz music.

Alcohol was banned, but this didn’t stop partygoers from seeking out hidden speakeasies, often run by gangsters, where entry could only be gained via a secret code word. Flappers on the underground cocktail scene would wear oversized rings to draw attention to the fact that they were sipping illicit alcoholic beverages. In fact, the cocktail culture that endured long after the 1920s was spurred on by the Prohibition as the contraband alcohol tasted so bad that it had to be mixed with other ingredients to make it drinkable.

In this new era of freedom, a bold cocktail ring was also a way for women to flaunt their independence. Usually worn on the right hand, the ring was not a wedding band and had most likely been bought with a woman’s own money. This is a

sentiment that lives on even in today’s less restrictive society.

In the 1950s and 60s, the cocktail ring became the standard dress-up accessory for women heading to a cocktail party, restaurant or night at the opera. It briefly went out of fashion in the 1970s only to return even bigger and bolder in the power-dressing 80s, when women wore oversized rings during the day and night.

The cocktail ring is now a firm accessory in any women’s wardrobe. From the bold, to elegant, these rings all have one thing in common – they are all “noticeable”.

Cocktail rings are not understated, but are bold in

colour and almost exaggerated in size, yet their show-stopping colour and design can be beautiful and exquisite.

Smales Jewellers periodically celebrate the cocktail ring by handcrafting a beautiful collection for the Australian market and have been doing so for over 75 years.

STUNNING SPARKLERS // Above left,Smales Bespoke Smokey Quartz and Diamond ring, $4,400 ; Above centre, Smales Bespoke Morganite and Diamond ring, $6,150. Above right and opposite page, Smales Bespoke Two-Toned Mint Quartz and Diamond ring, $3,782.

Each design is marked with the Smales engraving, and the stones are hand-selected by the family who still own and operate the business today.

You can explore the heavenly ranges at smales.com.au or visit showrooms in Subiaco, Bunbury, Karratha, Kalgoorlie and Geraldton.

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Make a

H

vow

otel Lord Forrest in Bunbury has been hosting down south weddings for years, with many happy moments created for newly weds in the south west town.

Guests love the location and the spectacular ocean view, making stunning backdrops for wedding photographs.

Whether it’s a small, intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Hotel Lord Forrest has the perfect wedding function for you, with luxurious furniture and elegant decor,

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the wedding team at the hotel will work hard to achieve your dream wedding. They can help with every aspect of your big day, from theme and styling, photography, videography, flowers to accommodation and the full wedding experience at the hotel. They can even liaise with local wedding planners to help create your perfect fairytale wedding - because everybody loves a happy ever after.

Visit lordforresthotel.com. au/weddings for more information.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

big

Your

T

day

he Old Coast Road Brewery and Function Centre couldn’t be more idyllic. You’ll find it nestled on the edge of the beautiful Myalup pine forest in between Mandurah and Bunbury with panoramic views of the countryside for

you and your guests to enjoy.

The stunning beauty of this delightful location just west of Harvey creates a private and unforgettable atmosphere perfect for wedding receptions.

The friendly team at OCRB can cater for wedding parties from 40 to 250 people; you’re

able to customise your reception with a choice of a cocktail style, set menu or buffet options. You can even serve a spit roast if that’s your choice.

The team are also on hand to help with making sure your wedding party is entertained they have access to a fantastic

selection of musicians and DJs who regularly play at the Old Coast Road Brewery.

To assist with the planning of your wedding reception please email mail@ocrb.com.au or Free Call on 1300 792 106 for your wedding package and its options.

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Adventure & Nature

Welcome to

Dolphin Central J

The Dolphin Discovery Centre has been given an upgrade and then some.

Get ready to be wowed by this brilliant new attraction.

By

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ANITA HURST.

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ust along the coast of Koombana Bay, you’ll find a new state-of-the-art Dolphin Discovery Centre, which looks like it will be the Next Big Thing for the Bunbury Geographe region.

The Dolphin Discovery Centre has a long history in the region, stemming back to the mid 1960s. A local resident of Bunbury, Evelyn Smith, had a love for wild dolphins and began a relationship with these magical creatures that shaped the future of the town. She regularly fed the dolphins from a small jetty near her home and built a unique understanding of these fascinating mammals. Later, the Dolphin Trust established the Interaction Zone and the Dolphin Discovery Centre, allowing tourists and members of the community to interact, understand and enjoy the dolphins, just as Mrs Smith had during her life.

Fast forward to 2018, and Koombana Bay is now home to over a 150 local wild bottlenose dolphins, who regularly visit the centre at peak seasonal

times during the year.

The Dolphin Discovery Centre community is home to over 200 dedicated international and local volunteers, waiting to share their dolphin tales with you.

Some of these volunteers and staff have worked at the centre for over 20 years, and they greet the dolphins who visit as if welcoming an old friend. They know the dolphins individually by name and show pride in watching them grow from infants to adults.

One of the most popular visitors – Eclipse – has recently shown her flirty side and when she does fall pregnant, volunteers will be eagerly anticipating the new arrival to this unique neighbourhood of underwater visitors. The passion that these volunteers have for this wonderful place and the animals is infectious and illuminating, making the centre not just a tourism asset for the region, but a heartfelt community in its own right.

The philosophy behind the centre is both the conservation of and

research into bottlenose dolphins and other native marine life and educating the community and its visitors. The centre is still conducting ongoing research via a strong partnership with Murdoch University. The researchers study habits, feeding patterns, and fin identification. Researchers are still trying to understand the exact reason why these beautiful mammals visit the zone so regularly. Local dolphins treat the beach as a haven, with some repeatedly visiting during periods of illness or injury. The dolphins clearly view the interaction zone as a safe area where they can interact with their human fans. Visitors can also see conservation in action as aquarist Jan Tierney works tirelessly with volunteers to rehabilitate sick and exhausted turtles that have been washed up. Her team performs this vital work in the centre’s Turtle Triage, nursing them to full health before releasing them back to the wild.

Over the past few months, visitors will have seen that the Dolphin Discovery Centre has been closed for exciting

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

redevelopments, with new additions that will showcase an environmentally-aware, purpose-built building. We’re told that the redevelopments will ‘delight the senses through digital displays’, with amazing aquariums, educational tours, marine life interactions and an

abundance of those ultimate insta-worthy selfie spots for your must-have travel pics.

There will be other exhilarating options for visitors to choose from at the Dolphin Discovery Centre too. They could take a leap on the wild side and join an intimate Swim Tour with

an abundance of local and tropical sea life. Why not get soaked by an octopus during a feeding and education session?

Make sure you listen out for the well-known bell ringing out; it’s the sound that heralds the arrival of dolphins in the Interaction Zone. Time to get up close and personal with the locals.

The new Dolphin Discovery Centre will open in December 2018. The official launch will be during the Dolphin City Festival, February 15 to 17 .

Visit dolphindiscovery.com.au.

wild dolphins or, if they would rather stay dry, test their photographic skills on an Eco Boat Cruise where it’s possible to view dolphins in their own environment.

Alternatively, you can relax and take your time exploring the new facility and its aquariums filled with

Getting there is half the fun Kick back, relax and discover Australia’s Bunbury and Geographe region on our iconic Australind train or one of our luxury road coaches.

We operate five-star road coach services to destinations including Bunbury, Boyup Brook, Capel, Collie, Dardanup, Donnybrook and Harvey. Or, why not catch our Australind train to Bunbury. All services are fully accessible and equipped with on-board entertainment, air conditioning, charging ports and toilet facilities.

With 50% discount for Seniors and WA Pensioners and up to 75% for families when you travel with between two and four children*, there has never been a better time to travel with us.

Don’t forget, WA Pensioner Concession cardholders and Veterans’ Gold cardholders receive four free trips on Transwa services every two years.

To book your next holiday, or to see where Transwa can take you, call 1300 662 205 or visit transwa.wa.gov.au. *Terms and conditions apply.

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Adventure & Nature

Child’s play From free strolls through a botanic wonderland to flying through the forest on a zipline, meeting thousands of gnomes or hand-feeding a kangaroo, there's plenty to do with the kids in BunGeo. Tried and tested by Lizzy Pepper, her hubby and kids.

Feed a kangaroo or parrot Get up close and personal with some incredible Australian animals at Bunbury Wildlife Park. Feed brightly coloured parrots, rosellas and ducks in the walk-in aviaries, and say hello to chatty cockatoos and corellas. There’s a wombat, wallabies, possums and quokkas. We loved walking among the young kangaroos; they bounce over quickly expecting food, and gently nibble from your hand. The kangaroos were about the same height as our three year-old and happily accepted cuddles and pats. BYO picnic or dine at the café. There’s also a huge free playground 52

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next door.

Prince Philip Drive, Bunbury.

Adults $10.50. Children 3 to 16 years $5.50. Family (2 adults, 2 children) $28.50.

Pick your own fruit What a wondrous way to get back to nature, exploring an orchard and picking your own organic fruit.

Ripening is at the mercy of the weather, so ring ahead to check if there is fruit available to pick.

Collie Blueberry Farm should have organically grown blueberries in January, February and March, plus you can meet the resident chickens and ducks.

Take a tour of a working

farm and learn how fruit is grown organically at Spring Valley Orchard in Newlands.

You’ll taste what’s in season – perhaps cherry tomatoes or broccoli – then pick plums (mid-January to late March) or apples (mid-April to late June).

Green thumbs might score a plant cutting if you’re lucky.

Collie Blueberry Farm, 52 Cherry St, Cardiff. Call 08 9734 4538 Free entry.

Spring Valley Orchard, 19724 S Western Hwy, Donnybrook.

Tours $10 per adult, children free.

Stroll through the trees Golden Valley Tree Park is an unexpected gem, the largest arboretum in Western Australia sprawling over the

picturesque hills of Balingup.

Magnificent any time of year, we visited in summer and walked through an acorn grove to a hilltop stand of heritage pear trees where we stopped and admired the view. A flock of about 50 black cockatoos screeched overhead, sealing the magic moment.

Wander through the World Collection or Australian Collection and admire rare and unusual trees from all around the world.

Play a game of hide and seek, slide down grassy slopes on a piece of cardboard, or splash in the creek beds. Barbecues available.

Lot 164 Old Padbury Rd Balingup. visitbunburygeographe.com.au

Fly through the forest Fancy flying through the forest on an exhilarating zipline, ‘snowboarding’ between trees or climbing a cargo net high off the ground?

Forest Adventures South West is the only high wire course in the south west, set in the last remaining tuart forest in the world.

It’s an awesome adventure for families with kids aged 7+. Experts are on hand to help you master the safety equipment and deal with any nerves. The equipment is superb – a double carabiner safety system ensures you’re 100% secure.

12 Ludlow Park Road, Busselton.

Bookings recommended.

different zones. We loved it all – the trampoline zone, the gladiator-style battle above a foam pit, and the flying leap onto a billowy surface.

Kids aged 3+ can burn off plenty of energy and there’s a free soft play area for youngsters under three.

Add your gnome to the community; it will need a sign saying where it’s from. It’ll be in good company among gnomes from New York, England, Ireland and Spain.

LOT 4059 Wellington Mill Rd, Wellington Mill.

Jump around Bounce, tumble, balance and flip your way around Gravity ETC, 1,800sqm of wall-towall trampolines in seven

43 Norton Promenade, Dalyellup. Bookings recommended. $18 peak, $15 off peak per person.

Get to know Gnomesville Gnobody quite knows how Gnomesville started, but gnomes come from all around the world to live here. Stroll around and have a giggle at what these 5,000 gnomes get up to.

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Adventure & Nature

Making a

SPLASH Get out on the water and enjoy a new perspective of the BunGeo landscape.

By

CASSANDRA CHARLICK.

ne of the greatest joys of getting away from the hustle of everyday life is the chance to slow down and enjoy the simple things.

Put away the smartphone, unplug from the online world and spend a few hours enjoying the sun on your face and fresh sea air of the south west. Bunbury and its surrounds have a wealth of options to satisfy thrill seekers through to salt water worshippers.

Ease into the holiday pace of life with a gentle outing on the water. Stand up paddle boards are the ideal introduction for those yet to gain their sea legs.

The peaceful waters of Koombana Bay are home to SUP Bunbury, a team of ASI qualified (Academy of Surfing Instructors) with years of experience between them. Whether you are experienced in the art of paddling or trying it for the first time, they have a range of options to suit. Let their friendly instructors guide you in one-on-one or group lessons, skills development courses, sunset tours or. for the fitness focused, why not 54

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try a SUP Fit session?

Looking for a more flexible option? They also run SUP Yoga classes - think yoga but with the added element of the sea breeze gently blowing through your hair and the potential sweet

surprise of a visit from a pod of dolphins.

Of course, the Dolphin Discovery Centre will offer a host of activities when it reopens in December for those searching for a new dolphin friend. Swim with

majestic wild dolphins as they jump and splash in Koombana Bay with the swim encounter experience.

Be warned though, there’s a chance they might not be as interested in you as you are in them! Alternatively, stay visitbunburygeographe.com.au

UNDERWATER ADVENTURES // Go diving, try SUPping or set sail - the ocean is ready and waiting for you.

high and dry on the Dolphin Discovery Centre’s Dolphin Eco Cruise. Spend one and a half hours on board the vessel getting up close with the dolphins and learning about their behaviours from the knowledgeable staff accompanying you on the vessel. Holding up to 28 passengers, it is an intimate experience for any lovers of these beautiful mammals of the deep.

Another option to stay afloat is with Octopus Garden Dive Charters. Take out their chartered boat with space for up to 10 people for a beautiful scenic cruise of the crystal clear waters nearby.

Relax and let their crew take care of things while staying above board, or jump under the sea foam and take the chance to view some of the region's diving delights.

Local dive shops can arrange hire of equipment if you don’t have your own to hand and guides will be keen to show you the way to Bunbury’s own sunken jewel, the FV Lena Dive Wreck. With a wealth of sea life now calling the vessel home, explore the wreck and come face to face with some local marine beauties out at sea.

Keen divers can also

jump on board with South West Water Sports, who can arrange bespoke diving sessions and water sport vessel hire throughout the region’s beaches. Choose from SUPs, kayaks and mirage Hobie diving kayaks which enable the best of both worlds! Paddle out to sea and jump in for a scuba or snorkel before paddling back to shore. Just be sure to have lunch ready afterwards – all that ocean action is bound to work up an appetite.

If you want to align your dining with your drifting even further, Three Water Cruises offer the option of a Geographe wine cruise or morning tea eco cruise.

Alternatively, a Sunday morning breakfast BBQ while sailing up the quiet estuary river waters sounds like the perfect way to wake up sleepy heads. Operating within the Collie River and the Leschenault Estuary, both fresh water and salt air lovers will be sated on their five star vessel ‘Elandra’.

Finally, if you would like to learn to sail, then Oceanwest Charters is the only accredited sail training centre in WA offering internationallyrecognised RYA (Royal

Yachting Association) sailing qualifications. Their stunning yacht, Samsara, is also available for Skippered Charters and Corporate Entertainment if you fancy getting out on the water for

a day or even a weekend; anchor for lunch and a swim or try taking the helm. Check out their website (oceanwest. net.au) to get onboard.

So slip on some sunnies and set sail.

OCTOPUS’ GARDEN Marine Charters

• Specialists in Scuba Diving Charters, Scenic Dolphin Cruises and boutique group charters in the crystal clear waters off Bunbury with unrestricted access to the magnificent beaches and the many dive sites beneath the surrounding waters • Located at the northern end of the Geographe Bay, home to a vast array of aquatic life, including the world-famous Bunbury Dolphins.

• Max. limit of 10 divers or passengers, we offer you a personalised experience and there’s no rush to get you out and back – just enjoy the complete experience.

What are you waiting for…the clear waters of the Indian Ocean beckon you, come join us!

Casuarina Boat Harbour (Service Wharf) Bunbury E kimroyce@gateway.net.au T Skipper Kim Royce 0438 925 011

www.octopusgardendivecharters.com.au Like us on facebook: Octopus Garden Dive Charters

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Adventure & Nature

Water worlds Discover some truly picturesque lakes and waterholes and you’ll be rewarded with memorable moments (and an enviable Insta feed of pix).

By

TOM DE SOUZA.

T

he south west is renowned for its wild rugged coastline; but for those with a keen sense of adventure, the Bunbury Geographe region is one rich in fresh water sources.

Take a gamble along the road less travelled and you find a whole new inland world just waiting to be explored. These are some of the BunGeo’s best water holes, but there are plenty more hidden secrets out there waiting for you to find.

Black Diamond Lake Black Diamond Lake hasn't always been a lake. An open cut coal mine in the 1940s, operations ceased in the early 1950s, and the abandoned void was eventually filled with water.

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Long on the recreational radar of local Collie residents, Black Diamond Lake and its forest surrounds have been popular in recent years thanks to the rise of Instagram, and it’s now used for swimming, diving,

picnicking and other water activities like canoeing and kayaking.

The Department of Mines says pit lakes and sites like Black Diamond often fill naturally with rain or groundwater, and the

ethereal azure water is caused by silt-sized rock fragments suspended in the water column that reflect a bluegreen light spectrum.

Camping at the lake isn’t allowed and there are few facilities, so take out what

TAKE A DIP // Above, Black Diamond Lake's beautiful hues make it a favourite for Instagrammers. Honeymoon Pool and opposite, Ironstone Gully Falls are also must-visit destinations for nature lovers.

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

you brought in and leave nothing but your footprints.

Wellington Dam Wellington Dam is the largest dam in Australia’s south west. Around here, there are myriad pools, swimming holes, and rivers to explore among the stunning 17,000 hectares of jarrah, marri, and blackbutt forests of Wellington National Park.

Potters Gorge is a resplendent first port of call. An ancient river gorge submerged beneath the Wellington Dam, there’s a boat ramp here, and you can throw out a line for redfin perch or, in season and with the appropriate permits, catch trout or marron.

The water here is a popular spot for those with small children – it’s shallow on entry and a bit warmer than the cool depths of the Collie River. Camp on the shady shores of the dam, but don’t forget to book - camp sites are in high demand through the summer months and can be reserved online at the Department of Parks and Wildlife website.

Down at the dam lookout, gaze over the breathtaking vista across calm waters.

After a big winter of rain, you can see cascading water overflowing over the dam wall and down to Honeymoon Pool, where the river tumbles over granite boulders into a deep pool. Perfect for a swim on a hot day or a languid paddle in a canoe.

Another great feature of the park is the Kiosk at the Dam, where you can sit in the shade and enjoy a delicious morning or afternoon tea or lunch overlooking the vast horizon of water.

Grimwade Dam Grimwade was once a thriving mill town of WA’s foundational timber industry.

All that’s left is an old town site, with some rusting footings, the scattered remnants of old homes and gardens, and a beautiful dam.

The triangular Grimwade Dam has a beach in one corner and a small timber jetty close by.

It’s fed by a winter stream, so the water is clean and great for swimming. There are free camping sites on the bank and beside a huge pool on the Balingup Brook. Vivid displays of wildflowers can be found along any of the walking trails in the area during wildflower seasons, primarily October through to November. There are no amenities at Grimwade, so you need to be self-sufficient.

Ironstone Gully Falls There’s plenty of history behind this picnic site.

A bit off the beaten track, it was reserved in 1903 for use as a recreation area for the Capel River settlers, though the last official sports meeting was held in 1919.

Though it's not an official trail, the site is famous for its rich red rock, over which a small tributary from the Capel River tumbles. Catch it after the winter months to see the brook meander over a series of rapids before dropping over a nine-metre high ledge. There are wildflowers, remnant jarrah bushland surrounds with BBQ and toilet facilities.

There are plenty more waterholes out there waiting for you. Finding them is half the fun.

Visit visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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Destination Australind

BUNBURY

Bunbury shines at this time of year with myriad ways to while away the sunny days, from swimming with dolphins in the morning to tapas at sunset.

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Bunbury 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 Beach life - Find your perfect beach in the City of 3 Waters. Serene Koombana Bay is one of only a few northfacing WA 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.

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Art-astic - Take a walk in the sunshine to 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 Bunbury Fringe Festival (February), 58

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featuring music, comedy and art that will open your mind to the quirky side of the city.

3 Fin fun - Be one of the first to explore the new-look Dolphin Discovery Centre at Koombana Bay from mid-December, but in the meantime you can still take an intimate swim with some of the 150 or so wild dolphins who make this spot their home.

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

4 Work up an appetite Visit Victoria Street for a feed and a shopping spree. One of Bunbury’s most-loved 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

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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

Waterfront or Austral Parade dining precinct near the iconic Parade Taphouse. Enjoy the last of the afternoon’s rays with a beverage outdoors at Mojo’s, Rose Hotel or overlooking the Jetty Baths at Vat2 5 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.

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

Spinway WA & Gecko Bike hire at the Visitor Centre or pick up a super-cute 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 hourand-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.

7 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.

8 Selfie snaps - Take a pic in front of the much-loved chequered lighthouse at WyalupRocky Point (it’s awesome at sunset) or within the mysterious paperbarks at the Big Swamp Wetlands. Head over to the nearby Bunbury Wildlife Park for a selfie with a kangaroo or feeding the birds. Bunbury’s Mangrove Walk is a truly spectacular way to stretch your legs and get a cool pic or head to the top of the Maiden sand dunes for a selfie with the city.

memorable undersea experience, diving on the Lena shipwreck 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.

10 Pantry fillers - Stock up on fresh produce at Bunbury Farmers Market. 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, hand-pressed 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

Australind

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

Donnybrook Balingup region

BUNBURY

Gelorup Stratham

Boyanup Lowden

Capel DONNYBROOK

Busselton

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, like the summer stone fruits the area is now just as well known for. 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. 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.

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Must-dos 1 Core values - Munch an apple or two. During summer, stop by a farmgate stall to stock up on local peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots and cherries.

2 Play time - Take the kids to Australia’s biggest free-entry playground, the Apple FunPark in the heart of Donnybrook.

Toddler and pre-schooler 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.

Kirup

BALINGUP

3 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 just outside of Balingup to follow alongside the Blackwood River and search out secluded swimming holes at the Wrights Bridge Walk Trail.

up-and-coming 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 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.

4 Grape expectations - Home to some of the Geographe’s best

5 Screen time - Pack a picnic and settle under the stars for a

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

free outdoor movie screening at the picturesque Balingup Village Green or nestled along the bank of the Preston River at Donnybrook Ampitheatre.

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.

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

There are 60ha of exotic and native trees which are at their spectacular best in spring and early summer – a must-do picnic spot. On the 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. 8 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

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 drop-off service to each track..

Heights Scenic Lookout for stunning views of the town and orchards. Lunch at a local pub? Try the Mumby Pub in Mumballup or the Balingup Rib and Steakhouse.

9 Filling station - Try the scrumptious cakes from Lady Marmalade, a marron and chardonnay pie from Smallwater Estate, or a great Aussie pie on the terrace at the Old Shed Cafe in Balingup.

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 of fresh fruit, veg and local produce in regional WA. Don’t miss the funky fit-out at JT’s Coffee Barn – perfect for a caffeine refuel.

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

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Destination

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.

Australind BUNBURY

Eaton

Gelorup Stratham

Capel

Burekup

FERGUSON VALLEY Dardanup Boyanup

Donnybrook

Busselton

Ferguson Valley region AN INFLUX OF tree-changers has helped transform this region from agricultural towns 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 Ferguson

Hart 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

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7 Let’s eat! - Here are a few foodie options to get you started: for a fab five-course degustation head to Hackersley Estate. Low key and a little arty, Hackersley overlooks a lake with cows grazing in the background. Down the road is St Aidan Wines - their European trained chef has a resume that will blow your mind. 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. Small’s Bar Eaton has a talented team who have scoured the region for the best of the best local produce.

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

You’ll quickly forget you are 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.

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driven-gnome village with over 7,000 little inhabitants. Bring along a gnome and add it to the collection. Before you go, pick up a copy of the recently released, super-cute children’s illustrated book, Gnomesville – the real story by Lesley Geers.

3 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.

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, lightning and insect attack.

church in Western Australia 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.

5 Creative country - Go in search of artists hiding in the hills. Visit one of the local galleries for unique artwork, ceramics, glassware, and jewellery. Visit Lyndendale Gallery showcasing unique local artwork and maybe even meet an artist-in-residence, or during the Dardanup Art Spectacular when acclaimed artists such as Russell Sheridan and Linda Skrolys open their galleries and studios to the world.

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

FIND A LOCAL FERGUSON VALLEY (DARDANUP) VISITOR CENTRE A 5 Ferguson Road, Dardanup WA 6236 T 08 9728 1551 • W www.fergusonvalley.net.au

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Destination

Australind BUNBURY

Dalyellup

Gelorup

Stratham Peppermint Grove Beach

Boyanup

CAPEL

Donnybrook

Busselton

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

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 and into the newly redeveloped Erle Scott Reserve which boasts skateable elements, nature playground, BBQs and picnic tables. 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 passion 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; 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.

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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.

Sunset feels - Watch a sunset at Peppermint Grove Beach. Get here early and spend time at one of the Geographe’s best beaches for swimming, fishing, surfing and canoeing.

Stay locally at the Peppermint Grove Beach Holiday Park 3

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

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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

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 Etc 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.

Check out the newly developed skateable links at Capel’s Erle Scott Reserve, as well as the skate bowl in Boyanup.

5 Sweetie pies - Indulge your sweet tooth with the most scrumptious cheesecakes and

cake (gluten free) from The Fat Birdie, served with Margaret River Yahava coffee, while Capelberry do a great breakfast bruschetta designed to fill up the hungriest of travellers. Stock up on homemade pies and sourdough bread from the Capel Bakery, where you can also pick up some great in-season local farmgate produce and a range of handmade and natural olive oil soaps and skincare balms.

6 Let’s pack a picnic - Dine al fresco at Ironstone Gully Falls and discover the wildflowers while enjoying gorgeous views of one of the prettiest waterfalls in the region. Following winter the stream, having tumbled 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.

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

In spring, the surrounding countryside bursts into colour with a stunning display of wildflowers; make sure you bring your camera/phone for some snaps.

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Fairy tale finds - Go in search of the Gingerbread House. Let your kids decorate gingerbread men and explore the wall-to-wall shelves of lollies, while you sit back and relax with a coffee and a tasty home-baked treat.

collectables. Visit the Quirky Den, a cute little shop on the main street, Tree Memories Gallery which hosts fine wood craft, and the Jalinda Orchard and Art Gallery. During your wander there are plenty of refreshment stops including the Boyanup Bakery as well as the French brocade store, Rustic French Living which is housed in a beautiful old church in Boyanup. Enjoy morning tea as you search through its unique French finds and if you are looking for a lunch spot with old-world charm try The Bull and Bush Tavern.

8 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.

9 Charm and craft Hunt down curiosities and

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Destination

COLLIE RIVER VALLEY Allanson Collie

Australind BUNBURY

Gelorup Stratham

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

Boyanup

Capel

Donnybrook

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.

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 with a fabulous little gallery that punches way above its weight.

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

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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.

2 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 – its 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. Don’t miss 8 Thai Ladies who have moved into town. Their authentic Thai food and bulletproof coffee have a cult following.

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

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 Grey-Smith. 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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Top gear - Get your

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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 February 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, canoeing or picnicking. Follow the Collie River in Wellington National Park to uncover an array of natural swimming pools and, if the water's course is high, an ideal place to kayak. Or try water skiing on the intense blue waters of Stockton Lake.

7 Secret sanctuary - The beautiful, serene Honeymoon Pool in Wellington National Park 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 even on a hot summer day. Not far away is another Instagrammable favourite - Black Diamond Lake - with vibrant, blue waters just begging for a selfie.

8 Black gold - 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

Boyanup

Capel

Donnybrook

Busselton

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.

Balingup 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 a 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 your mind, to one of Australia’s largest collection of teapots; the people and things of Boyup Brook will intrigue and delight.

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

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also showcases the impressive Krandal Doll Collection, the Little Art Gallery, and locallymade 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 longest 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

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

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, built for Commander Scott with convict labour.

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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 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. Beulah Wines is a small, family wine producer sourcing premium fruit and dedicated to 6

making wines that express the unique qualities of the Nield family’s Boyup Brook vineyard (by appointment only).

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

FIND A LOCAL

Perup is an awesome natureimmersion experience.

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

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 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.

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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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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

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.

4 Sky high fun - Boost the adrenaline 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.

5 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.

6 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

visitbunburygeographe.com.au

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 AUSTRALIND INFORMATION CENTRE Cnr Paris Road and Old Coast Road Australind 6223 T +61 8 9796 0122 E info@harveytourism.com

Alverstoke (circa 1841) offers the ultimate barn wedding experience surrounded by lush green pasture, orchard and a heritage rose garden.

Mornington Springs, a very 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.

largest jarrah tree 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.

BBQ and spend the day in their beautiful landscaped surroundings and nearby Harvey Dam’s Amphitheatre.

7 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.

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.

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 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 Ha Ve Cheese.

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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,

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 10

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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 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.

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

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

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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p 9728 3043

e info@wfccc.com.au

www.wfccc.com.au bunburygeographe.com.au

IMAGE Bianca Turri

PEPPERMINT LANE LODGE

Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre

...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.

DON'T MISS OUT! Make sure your business is FOUND in the Bunbury Geographe region, Call Natalie on

peppermint lane lodge

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

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

THE NEW BUNBURY DOLPHIN DISCOVERY CENTRE

A ustr al i a’s P r em i er W i ld Dolphin Ex p er i en ce

OPENS DECEMBER 2018!

0426 752 352

Free Entry to the Wild Dolphin Interaction Zone, new Cafe/Restaurant and new Gift Shop

(natalie@premiumpublishers.com.au)

Additional experiences include new Interpretive Centre, Dolphin Eco Cruises & Dolphin Swim Tours

to book your place in the Autumn/Winter edition of Found Magazine 2019.

29/09/2016 8:16 AM

d olphindis covery.com.a u Lot 556 Koombana Dr, Bunbury

E info@dolphindiscovery.com.au

T +618 9791 3088

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.

✆ 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

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Gelorup

Stratham

Hwy stern th We Sou Picton

d ty R H en

Sou

Dalyellup

lds Hw y

Burekup

wy st H

re Rd

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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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Albany

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