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WHALE WATCHING REPORT

Cruise Departing: 10am and 2pm -  Flinders Bay Boat Ramp, Davies Road,  Augusta (Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure)

Seats Available:  10am - BOOKED OUT!    2PM- YES - BOOK NOW

Conditions:  Moderate conditions, SW winds, 5 knots.

Whale sightings: (Frid) - Great Cruise - Lots of whales.  Check us out, front page of today's West Australian! WOW!
MOO-VE OVER - COWPARADE HAS BEEN LAUNCHED!

Close to 500 dignitaries, sponsors, artists and media attended the much-anticipated launch for CowParade Margaret River 2010 at Colonial Brewery on Sunday 21st February.
 
Grazing of the CowParade herd took place for the first time in the lush, grassy expanses of the Colonial Brewing Company – home to Margaret River’s award winning ales.  
 
Guests were treated to an up close and personal account of some of the inspiration and stories behind the artistic creations as they meandered through 75 of the final 80 masterful life-sized cows and five mini-moos during the afternoon.
 
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA) CEO Francine Errico said this was an exciting moment for all of the 49 sponsors, 17 event partners and over 100 artists who have been involved in the project.
 
“The stunning array of colour and spectacle with the cow art will amaze people,” she said
 
“This is such a wonderful way to show the depth of talent we have in the local region, state and nation.”
 
CowParade was officially opened by the Honourable Brendon Grylls MLA, Minister for Regional Development. The event was supported by $50,000 through Royalties for Regions, which specifically went towards the artists fees, to help cover some of the material costs.
 
“Regional development is about building on the amenities, attractiveness and the type of things that make people want to stay. Margaret River is certainly at the forefront of this” said Mr Grylls.
 
Mr Grylls also commented on the event’s world renowned status and expressed his delight at bringing an international event to regional Western Australia.
 
“It [CowParade] will be remembered as another great calendar event for this region.”
 
Tourism Western Australia (TWA) Acting CEO Stephanie Buckland joined Mr Grylls in congratulating the organisers in bringing this event to the State. “The TWA cow will be stationed at the Perth International Airport to greet visitors on arrival. The event definitely fits the model for the new TWA brand: experience the extraordinary!” said Ms Buckland.
 
Ms Errico paid tribute to the many people and sponsors who had been involved in making the CowParade a success.
 
“We have said from the onset that this event would only cost as much as we could raise. I am proud to announce that through combined cash sponsorship, grants and in-kind services and products, we have collectively made a $1.2million event. The potential benefit to region is likely to be about $25million.”
 
Most of the herd will assemble for one final time at the CowParade charity auction in Busselton on Saturday 10th July. In the mean time they will be put out to pasture at iconic destinations, attractions and businesses from Augusta to Busselton with some very exciting locations in store.
 
CowParade runs from 1st March until 27th June 2010 from Busselton through to Augusta.
 
For more information on the event visit www.margaretriver.com
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
MARGARET RIVER AMT DONE AND DUSTED

The Margaret River AMT wrapped up today with the Mosswood Men’s Singles Event concluding the tournament this morning in front of a healthy crowd down at the local Tennis Club. Although it was quite windy at the club, the local members were counting their blessings after the explosive weather the night before that swept across the South West.
 
Number one seed Matthew Ebden (WA) took the honors easily against his unseeded opponent Kirril Tcherveniachki (NZD). Ebden appeared unfased by his International counterpart, only conceding one game in the first set of the final. Ebden’s focus and level of fitness was noted by bystanders, as he appeared fresh and ready to do it all over again after taking the match 6-1, 6-0 and had this to say about the match “Yeah, I had a good game out there today. I settled into my stroke straight away and my serve was really working for me. Kirril was a great opponent and he’s playing some great tennis and it’s fantastic he made the final. I’m heading up to Perth today and will stay a couple of days before heading back down to Esperance on Sunday or Monday for the Main Draw Event in Esperance.” 

Ebden is currently seeded number 3 in the Cliffs Esperance International, behind the controversial and number one seed Brydan Klein scheduled for his first match back since his suspension from the game earlier this year. The Chemmart Women’s Singles Final was played yesterday with New Zealand’s Dianne Hollands (No 4 seed) going head to head with New South Wales Mia Vriens (No 9 seed) in the final. Hollands knocked out the number one seed Emily Webley -Smith (GBR) to advance to the final with Vriens knocking out the number 2 and 3 seeds the previous day.
 
Hollands was the clear favourite going into the final and she didn’t disappoint. She came out firing and took the first set easily 6-3. Vriens then settled into her stroke and sent countless forehands deep into the court, grazing the lines on either side. Hollands however, was too strong in the end and closed the match out in straight sets claiming the 2nd 7-5. Both Hollands and Vriens headed to Esperance this morning, before heading North to Kalgoorlie. Hollands has been in the Country for the past 9 weeks and had this to say about the tournament “It has been a fantastic event and I have really loved being apart of it.
 
Everyone at the club has been so helpful and friendly, which makes it so much easier to be away from home. Not to mention the high standard of play in both the Women’s and Men’s events.” Hollands has been sleeping in a swag for the past week and claimed it settled her and kept her relaxed throughout the tournament! PDF Created with deskPDF PDF Writer - Trial :: http://www.docudesk.com Emily Webley-Smith (GBR) and Danielle Brown (GBR) were too strong for Marisa Gianotti (WA) and Hayley Eriksen (NSW) in the Watershed Women’s Doubles Final. The British duo dominated the entire match, closing the final out in 86 minutes 6-4, 7-5. 

The Margaret River Engineering Men’s Doubles Final was forced off the court yesterday afternoon, after a heavy down poor of unexpected rain washed over the courts. The match recommenced and saw WA duo Sam Ashenden and James Stuttard take the honors against Scott Robertson (SA) and Christian Prendiville (WA), winning the match in a thriller, 10-5 in the Super Tie Break. All attention now moves to Esperance, for the Cliffs Esperance International with the Men’s qualifiers starting tomorrow. 

For more information please contact Aly de Souza Tennis West: Events, Marketing and Media Communications Ph: 0432 393 517
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).
 
 
MUST GOLD PLATE AWARD!

 

Must Margaret River have made a significant impact at the Gold Plate Awards held by the Catering Institute of Western Australia. 

Over 1000 industry professionals attended the Perth Convention Centre on Monday evening for the 42nd annual Awards evening. In 2003 Must Winebar, who are known as Perth’s most recognised and locally awarded wine bar, won Best New Restaurant after opening in 2002, this year it was sister venue Must Margaret River’s turn to take out the title for 2009 after opening in January of this year.
Furthermore Must Margaret River have taken home the award for Licensed Dining Country – WAwhich cement’s their reputation as consistently providing outstanding food, wine, service and atmosphere to the Margaret River region.

Please contact Garry Gosatti on 0437 907 841 for further details
XANADU WINES - GOLD PLATE AWARD WINNERS – AGAIN!!!

At the Western Australia’s Gold Plate Awards, Xanadu Estate in Margaret River was named winner of the Best Restaurant within a Winery Country category, making it Xanadu’s seventh consecutive year of Gold Plate awards.

“The wine and food experience at Xanadu has long been renowned as one of the region’s finest. To again achieve these awards is testament to the great talents and dedication of the Xanadu Team” said director Darren Rathbone.

The Catering Institute this year celebrated 42 years of Gold Plate Awards, Australia’s longest independent awards, acknowledging the epitome of culinary talent and service within Western Australia.

This is the seventh consecutive year Xanadu has been presented with a gold plate, winning awards in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and now 2009. 

‘It’s been a fantastic year at Xanadu, receiving both food and wine awards from all over - we’re putting a great amount of creativity and feeling into our food, working with fresh local and seasonal produce,’ Head Chef Iain Robertson said.

The awards solidify an exciting year for Xanadu which recently received a star rating in the 2010 Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide.

Cellar door opens daily 10am – 5pm.
Restaurant opens daily for lunch
Xanadu Wines - Boodjidup Road, Margaret River 08 9758 9531 - www.xanaduwines.com

 

 
JAHROC TAKES OUT A SWAG OF AWARDS!

On Saturday night at a gala event at the Perth Convention Centre with 550 guests from around Australia, Jahroc Furniture of Margaret River won 5 awards including the major award for the evening “The Best of the Best” over all categories in the 2009 FIAA Australian Furniture Awards for their stunning “Project West Kimberly” collection. Earlier in the evening Jahroc were happy to take out the Western Australian top gong amongst other awards but went on to then take out the Furniture Industry in Australia's highest and most sort after accolade. The full list of awards won by Jahroc is below.
  1. “The Best of the Best” over all categories in the FIAA 2009 Australian Furniture Awards
  2. “Excellence in the use of Native Timbers” in the FIAA 2009 Australian Furniture Awards
  3. “The Best of the Best” over all categories in the FIAA of Western Australian 2009 Furniture Awards
  4. “Excellence in the use of Native Timbers” in the FIAA of Western Australian 2009 Furniture Awards
  5. “Excellence in Dining Furniture” in the FIAA of Western Australian 2009 Furniture Awards
CAPE MENTELLE TWILIGHT MOVIES, SUMMER 2010

Cape Mentelle will host a season of Twilight Movies in the beautiful winery gardens of their Margaret River property during the summer of 2010.

The season of seven twilight screenings will see a return to the classic era of cinema when the feature movie was preceded by a short film. In the case of the Cape Mentelle Twilight Movies the feature movies will be quality independent movies and the short film opener will be selected from the very best young Australian filmmaking talent.

Following the short and successful two screening season of summer 2009 Cape Mentelle is coming back bigger and better in 2010 with a season commencing on Saturday, January 2nd and concluding with a special screening on the Saturday night of the Margaret River Wine Festival on April 10th.

Estate Director Robert Mann is understandably excited about the expanded 2010 season, "We’ve got a great short list of new and interesting feature movies and some fantastic Aussie shorts that in combination with our beautiful setting and fine wine is guaranteed to make a great night."

Guests will be able to claim a spot on the winery lawns that slope gently down toward the screen and enjoy a glass of Cape Mentelle wine and a picnic before the movie, or perhaps take advantage of the winery’s purpose built Petanque lanes for a game of boules until darkness falls. Food and other beverages will also be available on site.

The movie short list includes the stunning UK project "What About Me?" an exploration of music and culture featuring such artists as Michael Stipe, Billy Connolly and Tim Robbins. Another exceptional import is "The Kite Runner", based on the acclaimed novel by Khaled Hosseini.

Screening dates are listed below, final movies are to be confirmed:

Saturday, January 2nd 
Friday, January 8th 
Saturday, January 16th 
Saturday January 23rd 
Saturday February 13th 
Saturday, April 3rd 
Saturday April 10th

Cape Mentelle is located at 331 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River, WA. Gates will open at 5.30pm with screenings starting at approximately 7.30pm. Tickets are $25 available through Cape Mentelle, 08 9757 0812 or the Margaret River Visitor Centre www.margaretriver.com or 08 9780 5911.

Media contact 
Mat Janes, Marketing Manager Cape Mentelle
E – mjanes@estatesandwines.com.au
T – 0418 553 561