Latest News
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WHALE WATCHING REPORT - BUSSELTON/DUNSBOROUGH
WHALES, WHALES AND MORE WHALES!!
CRUISE DEPARTING:
Busselton - Port Geographe Marina
Dunsborough - Pro-Fisherman's boat ramp
DEPARTURE TIMES:
9:30am and 10:00am (every day) / 1:00pm and 2:00pm
SEATS AVAILABLE TODAY:
9:30am and 10:00am - YES, BOOK NOW!
1:00pm and 2:00pm - YES, BOOK NOW!
WHALE SIGHTINGS:
Yesterday we saw 27 Humpback Whales including many sets of mothers and calves, with lots of showing off their beautiful tails, spyhopping, pectoral slapping and lots of breaching. We regularly see pods of dolphins and also do a run down tghe lovely Busselton Jetty on the way in (time permitting).
TO BOOK YOUR TOUR:
RING MARGARET RIVER VISITOR CENTRE ON: 08-9780-5911
OR EMAIL: welcome@margaretriver.com
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MARGARET RIVER IS WONDERFUL
Margaret River is Wonderful
Those who have been coming here for years have always known it. But now it’s been confirmed - Margaret River truly is a wonder. The results have been announced in Jetstar’s recent Seven Wonders of Australia campaign and the Margaret River region has been come in at number six.
The campaign, which was run through Jetstar Australia’s Facebook page, allowed the public to choose their favourite location of the eighteen finalists from throughout Australia. Attracting around 80,000 votes during the week long voting period, the top seven include some of Australia’s most iconic destinations.
Topping the Seven Wonders of Australia was geological marvel The Twelve Apostles and the stunning Great Ocean Road in Victoria followed by Newcastle’s Bogey Hole and the magnificent Whitsunday Coast. The natural wonder that is Darwin’s Kakadu National Park was in fourth place, followed by Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. With the wine, beaches, caves and forests of the Margaret River region (sixth) followed by the Daintree Rainforest near Cairns (seventh), all of these destinations show the great diversity available for visitors to experience across Australia.
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) CEO, Simon Ambrose was delighted to hear that visitors were pinpointing Margaret River as a destination held in such high regard.
“The beauty and breadth of experiences available in the Margaret River region really places it as one of the must visit destinations in Australia – for residents and international visitors alike.”
“It is great that the region’s stunning beaches, delicious array of wine, beer and food products, natural wonders like limestone caves and Karri Forests and man-made attractions have been recognised as one of the Seven Wonders of Australia and we look forward to seeing this message promoted to potential visitors” said Mr Ambrose.
ENDS
For further information please contact
Lisa Hoskin
Acting Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association
Phone: (08) 9780 5917
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LIGHT THE NIGHT FOR BREAST CARE
LIGHT THE NIGHT FOR BREAST CARE
The lighthouses of Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste are set to illuminate the sky of the Margaret River Region in a whole new way on Saturday 20th August when they turn pink for breast cancer awareness.
The Augusta Margaret River and Geographe Bay Tourism Association’s are joining forces on International Lighthouse Day to raise funds and awareness for the work of the McGrath Foundation through a new event known as Illuminate.
The McGrath Foundation raises money to place Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia. These nurses coordinate care for women with breast cancer, their families and carers, providing information, support and service referral. Currently there are two McGrath Breast Care Nurses in the South West region, one in Bunbury and one in Albany and the aim of the event is to help increase the number of nurses servicing this vast area.
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) CEO, Simon Ambrose said Illuminate will be an opportunity to mark International Lighthouse Day with a valuable community contribution.
“International Lighthouse Day really celebrates the importance of lighthouses around the world and their contribution to maritime safety. What we’re doing this year is taking the opportunity to do something special for the community and hopefully raise money to secure more Breast Care Nurses for the region.”
Both lighthouses will host activities and entertainment from 2pm – 7pm, with the lighthouses turning pink from 6.30pm. Entry to each site’s grounds after 2pm will be via gold coin donation for the McGrath Foundation. Everyone attending is asked to bring a torch and will be invited to switch them on as the lighthouses are illuminated.
Geographe Bay Tourism Association (GBTA) CEO, Matt Walker said that “the afternoon will be a great family line-up of fun and entertainment at both sites and hopefully everyone will stay on to help us flick the switch for breast cancer awareness.”
“This will the first time that we’ve turned the lighthouses pink and it will be a great photo opportunity for lighthouse enthusiasts around the region to capture something really special.
“So bring your torches and your gold coins and help us make a difference.”
ENDS
For further information please contact
Lisa Hoskin
Acting Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association
Phone: (08) 9780 5917
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MEGAFAUNA ROARS INTO THE 21ST CENTURY
A new interactive, educational tool has been launched which aims to enlighten WA students about the fascinating extinct Megafauna and natural environment of the South West.
Complemented by a variety of educational programmes at Caveworks and Lake Cave, the Megafauna website (found at www.megafauna.com.au) went live this week and is targeted at school groups throughout the state. The website provides an interactive and engaging forum which focuses on five central themes – Megafauna (literally meaning big animals), Biodiversity, Culture & Heritage, Climate Change and Geology.
The new website has been launched by the Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) and is aimed at building awareness of the often overlooked natural assets within the region. The geological phenomenon of the limestone cave network beneath this corner of the South West has long been common knowledge, and the new Megafauna website combines this with an introduction to the remarkable scientific and prehistoric history also associated with the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge.
“We are excited to be presenting a living classroom to the students of WA. The Megafauna website will act as a resource that will lead into hands-on interaction at the Caves and the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse” said Mandy McLauchlan-Andrews, Education Officer for the AMRTA.
“Through the use of actual fossil casts, marsupial skulls, life sized replicas and the opportunity to participate in a ‘bone dig’ at Caveworks students will gain insight into the variety of ancient animals that once roamed the area” said Ms McLauchlan-Andrews.
‘Megafauna’ covers the world of Australia’s prehistoric giant animals which have strong links with the South West, where three previously unknown species of Megafauna were uncovered in Mammoth Cave. Visitors to the website are taken back 50,000 years where they will be introduced to such amazing animals as 'thylacoleo' the marsupial lion and 'zygomaturus' the enormous diprotodontid. Users can even participate in their very own digging game as they uncover the fossilised remains of these extinct beasts.
The South West corner of Australia is one of only 34 internationally recognised biodiversity hotspots due to its unique, rich reservoirs of plant and animal species. Megafauna.com.au examines biodiversity closely and allows visitors to the website to use the ‘microscope game’ to examine stygofauna – small animals that live permanently in the underground water.
AMRTA Natural Environment Manager Lindsay Hatcher, whose exploration of the cave networks has led to Megafauna discoveries, understands the importance of past flora and fauna and how it has shaped the biodiversity that exists today in the Margaret River region.
“Many micro eco systems are currently under threat and through educational initiatives we hope to encourage generations to come and look beyond the ‘known’ and help to protect these unique environments before we lose them forever” said Mr Hatcher.
Working closely with the traditional custodians of the land, the Wardandi and Bibbulmun people, both the educational website and the external educational programmes will incorporate an Aboriginal element to enlighten participants about the cultural and heritage elements of the region. European settlement of the region is addressed with particular reference to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and its importance as a coastal maritime landmark and weather recording station.
The Climate Change Program looks not only at the impact human activity is having on the Earth's climate, but also examines the natural process of climate change through geological time. It is this 'gradual climate change' that has caused the evolution of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge. Groups will also hear about the research being undertaken by the AMRTA into the hydrology of Lake and Jewel Caves.
The AMRTA is working closely with school groups across Western Australia to implement the Megafauna.com.au educational programme into their school curriculum.
Tours of Mammoth, Lake and Jewel Caves and the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse can be booked through Caveworks on +61 8 9757 7411 or email caveworks@margaretriver.com.
ENDS
For further information please contact
Lisa Hoskin
Acting Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association
Phone: (08) 9780 5917
Email: communications@margaretriver.com
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JEWEL CAVE RE-INTERPRETED
Following an extensive redevelopment the stunning Jewel Cave, near Augusta, was officially re-opened last night by the Honourable Brendon Grylls, Minister for Regional Development.
Over 170 people gathered for the opening of the Jewel Cave Preservation Centre, which is equipped with interpretation panels, retail stands and full cafe facilities. The uniquely designed building has been crafted to incorporate the natural environment and overlooks lush forest, whilst offering a comfortable and engaging visitor experience.
Guests were invited to tour Jewel Cave and experience for themselves the dazzling beauty of its ancient adornments. As Western Australia’s largest show cave, Jewel Cave is home to a stunning array of gravity defying stalactites, straws and flow stones which entice visitors into this magical subterranean treasure trove.
The rejuvenation of this dazzling attraction is a major step forward for the Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) who have been developing the project for over eight years. The AMRTA worked with Willcox Architects on the project in order to develop an ecologically sensitive building which best complements the natural integrity and beauty of the site.
Chair of the AMRTA Board, Rachel House, acknowledged the input that different organisations had in the project. The $3.1 million project has received funding from a variety of sources including Lotterywest, Royalties for Regions, TQUAL, South West Development Commission, RIFP and Envirofund.
Ms House commented that, “A great many people have dedicated a lot of time and hard work bringing this vision to life and to see it culminate in such a fantastic facility is testament to their determination.”
Minister Grylls, who oversees the Royalties for Regions program, officially welcomed guests to the occasion and was delighted to experience the results of the funding for himself.
“As well as the direct environmental benefits to the cave, the redevelopment creates a first rate experience for visitors,” he said.
Minister Grylls also commended the AMRTA on its commitment to developing iconic projects for the region.
“The redevelopment now provides easier access for visitors and allows for a more eco-friendly environment around the cave entrance,” the Minister said.
The project, which saw the cave close for four months during late 2010, included the removal of 50 year old infrastructure from the site to enable natural filtration of water and the protection of threatened ecological communities that live within the cave. Along with a new tunnel entrance, car parking and walkways have been constructed to tie into the Preservation Centre design.
“By taking the time now to put infrastructure in place that preserves and protects this spectacular hidden underworld we are helping to ensure that this delicate eco system continues to thrive into the future” said Simon Ambrose, CEO of the AMRTA.
Locals and visitors alike will benefit from the new facilities which have preserved majestic natural attraction for future generations and has enabled repeat visitors to enjoy a whole new experience at Jewel Cave.
For more information about the awe inspiring limestone caves in the Margaret River region and information about visiting go to www.margaretriver.com
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COWPARADE WILL NOW TAKE ON AUSTRALIA
CowParade Margaret River was awarded the title of Western Australia’s best ‘Major Festival and Event’ at the 2010 WA Tourism Awards on Saturday 20th November at the Burswood Entertainment Complex.
This spectacularly wacky and innovative event concept generated a vast amount of publicity around the world. The gold medal adds to the success of an event that attracted more than 65,000 people to the Margaret River region, increased visitor length of stay and raised $437,000 for charities, local community groups and regional special projects.
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) Event Manager Sharon Batley accepted the award.
“I would like to thank the entire team at the AMRTA and the Steering Committee for working together to make the event a reality. CowParade wouldn’t have been possible without the support of over 70 sponsors, partners and host venues, including Eventscorp, TQUAL and Royalties for Regions.”
“More than 100 talented artists created 85 pieces of moovellous cow art that was enjoyed by the many visitors who explored the Cow Trail and made CowParade such a remarkable success. CowParade was an incredible destination marketing initiative that not only promoted Margaret River but the state of Western Australia” said Ms Batley.
The evening was a great night for the AMRTA. In addition to CowParade gold the AMRTA collected silver in Tourism Marketing and bronze in the Ecotourism category for Wildflower Tours Margaret River.
There were two other local operators who won the highest accolade in their categories. The Natural Olive Oil and Soap Factory was awarded the gold medal for Specialised Tourism Services and Sean Blocksidge from Margaret River Discovery Company was recognised as the 2010 FACET Golden Guide.
The Margaret River Discovery Company is currently rated as the number one tour experience in all Australia on the popular Tripadvisor website. “I am honoured to be named the 2010 FACET Golden Guide and humbled to join the elite group of previous winners who are dedicated to providing outstanding tourism experiences” said Mr Blocksidge.
The Geographe Bay Tourism Association was awarded gold in the category of Tourism Marketing.
AMRTA CEO Simon Ambrose commended all local nominees and winners. “The Margaret River region was extremely well represented at the 2010 awards with medal winners from a range of categories that reflect the diversity of experiences available. I encourage all operators in the region to strive for success to ensure that we maintain the world-class tourism product that the region represents” said Mr Ambrose.
The AMRTA would like to congratulate all of the other medal winners from the Margaret River region, including Wine for Dudes, Saracen Estates incorporating Duckstein Brewery, Injidup Spa Retreat, Wildwood Valley Villa and Cottages, Forest Rise Eco Retreat, Jarrah Grove Retreat, Smiths Beach Resort and Veolia Transport (South West Coachlines). Congratulations to all of the other nominees from the region.
All category winners from Saturday night’s awards now progress to the QANTAS Australian Tourism Awards which will be held in Perth in March 2011.
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BE TEMPTED MARGARET RIVER LAUNCHED
Three years ago the AMRTA became the first tourism association in Western Australia to open a satellite office in Perth with the launch of ‘Tourism Margaret River’ at the Perth Busport.
In partnership with Be Tempted, Tourism Margaret River has now relocated to one of the premier shopfront locations in the state – London Court! Research shows that London Court is one of the Top 5 most-visited locations in Perth, ranking alongside Kings Park, Fremantle, The Bell Tower and Swan Valley!
AMRTA CEO Simon Ambrose expressed his excitement at the new opportunity.
"The partnership represents an amalgamation of the fine produce and quality tourism services that are indicative of the Margaret River region."
"Be Tempted has been based in London Court for nearly four years and showcases the finest selection of food from Margaret River by providing gourmet hampers, tastings and giftware."
"Tourism Margaret River specialises in providing information services, a free booking facility and professional itinerary development for those looking to escape to the stunning Margaret River region" said Mr Ambrose.
Complete with merchandise, a 60 inch plasma screen featuring spectacular regional images and that special down south vibe, ‘Be Tempted Margaret River’ is a one-stop shop for city workers and visitors alike.
The AMRTA would like to thank the Natural Olive Oil Soap Factory, The Wine and Truffle Company and Brookwood Estate for providing delightful tasting opportunities for visitors during the launch. Other businesses that provided products and services on the evening include: Bettenay Wines, Margaret River Nougat, Offroad Buggies Margaret River, Darby Park Serviced Residences, Margaret River with Neil McLeod and Margies Big Day Out.
For more information on Tourism Margaret River please visit www.margaretriver.com. For more information on Be Tempted please visit www.btmr.com.au
The Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) has opened its latest innovative initiative with the launch of the collaborative Be Tempted Margaret River venture on Friday 19th November.
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AMRTA WINS WA'S MOST PRESTIGIOUS TOURISM AWARD
The Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) was recognised for its outstanding contribution to tourism when it was awarded the highly coveted Sir David Brand Award for Tourism at the 2009 Western Australian Tourism on the weekend for the second year running.
The award follows a fantastic year for the AMRTA having also won the National Tourism Award for Visitor Information & Services for a second time and being a finalist in the GWN Top Tourism Town Awards.
AMRTA CEO Francine Errico acknowledged the continued support of the industry and the hardworking and dedicated Committee of Management, AMRTA management and staff who enabled the Association to achieve such a prestigious award.
“We are so honoured to win this award, which truly recognises the AMRTA as industry leaders in Western Australia for our contributions and commitment to tourism.”
“I am so proud of the Committee of Management and staff of the AMRTA whose combined team work, dedication and tireless efforts are what this award stands for.”
The Sir David Brand Award for Tourism recognised the AMRTA as a progressive, innovative and cohesive organisation which was committed to fostering excellence in sustainable tourism and delivering positive, unique and memorable tourism experiences to all visitors.
AMRTA staff, Paul Sofilas and Jasmine Meagher, were also recognised on the night for their contribution to the tourism industry.
Paul Sofilas won the coveted FACET Golden Guide award against six other contenders. Mr Sofilas’ ongoing dedication and passion for his role as a Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse guide stood him in good stead as he was recognised as WA’s top tour guide.
Mr Sofilas said it was an amazing accomplishment and a career highlight.
“I would like to thank the AMRTA and the fantastic crew at the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse for all their support. They make my job so much more enjoyable and rewarding.
“I would also like to thank my hero, Sir John Forrest, who after years of inaction used the royalties from the Kalgoorlie gold rush to build the Lighthouse which is still an important navigational aid and unique part of the Cape Leeuwin experience. This was evidenced by Lonely Planet when they highlighted the lighthouse when listing the south west as one of the top 10 destinations in the world.”
Jasmine Meagher followed by taking out the Sir David Brand Young Achiever Medal as a testament to her tireless dedication in her role as the PR/Communications coordinator at the AMRTA, volunteer for three community organisations and ongoing volunteer commitment to events in the region.
Ms Meagher thanked the sponsors and Tourism Council WA (TCWA) for hosting the awards, and those who have played a part in inspiring her in the past years.
“To be recognised for such an award is absolutely phenomenal. This award is more than I ever expected and is a testament to the fantastic group of young people in the industry who inspire me to achieve my best. I also have a fantastic support network who all play a part in who I am as an individual.”
The evening was hosted by Channel 10’s Narelda Jacobs and 94.5fm’s Dean Clairs and attended by TCWA Chairman, Graham Moss, State Tourism Minister, Dr Liz Constable, Tourism WA CEO Richard Muirhead, VIPs and over 800 guests from the WA tourism industry.
The AMRTA faced strong competition in the award from industry stalwart and ‘Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Boutique Breweries’ winner on the night, Sandalford Wines.
On the night the AMRTA was also inducted into the WA Tourism Awards Hall of Fame for Visitor Information & Services having won the award for the previous three years.
Ms Errico said it was an incredible accomplishment of the Association and its staff to be recognised for the best tourist information services in the state.
Ms Errico also sent her congratulations to AMRTA members Beachlands Holiday Park, Forest Rise Eco Retreat and Riverglen Chalets on their category wins and the medal achievements of Leeuwin Estate, Forest Rise Eco Retreat, Natural Olive Oil Soap Factory, Laurance of Margaret River, Peppermint Park Eco Village, Injidup Spa Retreat, Windmills Break and Smiths Beach Resort. The AMRTA CEO also recognised the outstanding efforts of Margaret River Backpackers, Forte Leeuwin Apartments, Jarrah Grove Retreat, Saracen Estates, and Sean Blocksidge who were finalists at the awards.
The AMRTA was represented on the night by Ms Errico and a contingent of staff who enjoyed the “Under the Sea” themed awards ceremony in Perth.
For further information please contact
Jasmine Meagher
PR & Communications Coordinator
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association
Phone: (08) 9780 5911
Email: marketing@margaretriver.com
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AUSTRALIA'S SOUTH WEST 1 OF THE WORLD'S TOP 10 REGIONS!
You will find the stunning Margaret River region nestled in Australia's South West, which has been chosen by Lonely Planet as one of the world's Top 10 Regions for 2010.
Australia's South West offers some of the most varied travel experiences in Western Australia. From towering forests, to whale watching, gourmet food and wine to awesome surf, Australia's South West offers some of the most varied travel experiences in Western Australia.
Margaret River and its surrounds are a popular destination for world-class wineries, top surfing and fun family holidays. In winter months holidaymakers are lured by the promise of cosy log-fires, invigorating walks on beach, horse riding through forest, whale watching and an almost endless array of delicious local produce to indulge in.
The pristine waters here are teeming with colourful marine life. Scuba divers are drawn to the Destroyer Escort HMAS Swan – Western Australia's most famous shipwreck, purposely sunk to create a haven for marine life. Close by is also one of Australia’s most impressive artificial reefs, the Busselton Jetty. It’s an underwater kaleidoscope of brilliantly coloured tropical and sub tropical corals, sponges, fish and invertebrates. The jetty’s underwater observatory is located eight metres below sea level and provides an opportunity to connect with this magical underwater world without getting wet.
The region’s limestone caves are must do attractions – Mammoth, Lake and Jewel Caves all offer a memorable and breathtaking experience all year round.
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is the tallest on mainland Australia and offers the rare opportunity to take a tour of a working lighthouse. It is also here that you can spot the dramatic meeting point between the Southern and Indian Oceans and a range of wildlife including dolphins, sea lions and (in season whales).
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