What’s Happening in February?

February marks the start of the Bunuru season, or the Season of Adolescence. Characterised by long, hot days and short nights, it is known as the second summer. Perfect for lazy days at the beach, paddles up the river, or fishing along the coast, this month is also jampacked with plenty of epic events.

Those passionate about fitness will know that February brings the goods with the iconic Busselton Jetty Swim as well as the WA Junior Surfing Titles. Whether you like to swim, surf or simply spectate, these sporty events bring the region alive with activity ensuring a healthy and happening February.

If you are looking for something a little more low key, then look no further than the Cowaramup Sundowners, a mainstay of any south west summer itinerary. Round things out with the South West Beerfest – a day dedicated to celebrating the quality and quantity of outstanding craft breweries in the region.

Don’t worry. This multi award-winning Arts/Science exhibition of Australia’s deepest caves and some of its oldest still-living Australian long-leggy friends is sure to tickle your inner child – not your neck.

The Sixteen Legs ‘Enter the Cave’ Exhibition is set up as a twisting interlocking cave-like maze that changes shape and structure at each different venue. The maze hosts a range of components, including lowing photos, sculptures, paintings, written works, music, vocals, video installations and more, all intertwined with the science and factual information of our nation’s caves, and spiders, that call them home.

There may be intermittent closures of the exhibition, call 0404 839 193 to plan ahead.

All throughout the month of February, Scenic Helicopters will be soaring the south west skies offering Winery, Brewery & Beach Flights.

With flight options for every occasion and budgets, covering skies from Bunker Bay all the way down to Augusta, it is the perfect way to spend a special day.

Arrive in style for lunch at your favourite winery, explore the entire Leeuwin-Naturaliste Cape by air or spend the day at a secluded beach. Whatever option you choose, it is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience complete with breathtaking aerial views of the region. Available each Saturday and Sunday throughout February.

Sway and swirl to local vocalist, guitarist and percussionist, Laine Wolfe, at the Summer Live Music at Clairault Streicker.

Enjoy her groovy, upbeat tunes paired perfectly with seasonal fare and award-winning wine provided by Clairault Streicker. The cellar door will be open from 10am with the Vineyard Kitchen serving up scrumptious delights from 11am.

Live music, lunch, and wine, need I say more? This is a free event, but bookings are recommended.

If you missed her at Clairault Streicker, catch Laine Wolfe at Sun-Sets on the Bay at the Busselton Cultural Precinct Courtyard.

A self-professed one-woman powerhouse, Laine is all about atmospheric, feel good, acoustic rock served up on unusual instruments like a suitcase drum. She recently finished up a massive national tour and now she is back across the Nullarbor to serve up great tunes in her hometown.

Head to Yallingup on February 4th and 5th to catch the best young guns of the surfing world battle it out for a spot on the WA State Junior Team.

Soak in the sun and show these little legends some support as they shred their way to the top at the WA Junior Surfing Titles.

Now there is no denying that February is all about love. If you are looking to tie the knot, but don’t want the hassle of all the organising and planning, check out Big Love Pop-Up Weddings!

Designed for lovebirds seeking an intimate, easy way to say ‘I do’, these pop-up weddings come with a breathtaking vineyard backdrop and a decadent degustation lunch at Rustico Hay Shed Hill.

Simply lodge your paperwork a month prior to your big day, then you can be wed by award-winning Celebrant Anita Revel. Who knew getting married could be so easy and fun!

Any true foodie knows Fervor, the pop-up dining legends that uses native Australian ingredients to serve up unforgettable experiences. And any self-proclaimed wino knows Mr Barval for their pure, elegant and balanced wines.

This February these two are teaming up to dish out the gourmet collaboration of our dreams. Set at the stunning Mr Barval Winery overlooking the Calgardaup Brook enjoy a bespoke dinner hosted by winemaker Rob Gherardi and chef Paul Iskov.

Savour five incredible courses plus petit fours all while sipping sensational paired wines under the stars. Not to mention this is also the release of the long-anticipated Mr Barval 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Riserva. Tickets will sell fast so book early to avoid disappointment!

Nothing says summer like a crisp, cold glass of Rosé!

Now pair that pink drink with traditional paella and the strums of the Spanish guitar and you’ve got yourself the perfect end to any sunny day: Pink & Paella.

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Domaine Naturaliste’s stunning cellar door tucked in amongst the vines. Sip the newly released 2022 Grenache Rosé with friends and familia as local guitarist Bruce Godden serenades you til sun set.

Don your best goggles and swim cap because the Busselton Jetty Swim is finally here!

Centred around a 3.6 km ocean swim around the iconic Busselton Jetty, this event has grown into so much more. Designed with everyone in mind from professional swimmers to beginners, there are multiple options so you can truly choose your own adventure. With a full solo swim around the Jetty, team relay, a one-mile swim, Simon’s Shortcut (500m) and a kid’s swim of 222m, there is something for everyone.

Want to stay dry instead? Well, there are lots of family-friendly entertainment & activities all weekend long!

This South West Summer staple is back! It’s the Cowaramup Sundowners.

The last three Sundays of February in Cowtown are all about wholesome family fun with community concerts presented by Arts Margaret River.

Head to Pioneer Park on the 12th, 19th, or 26th to catch local musicians playing a wide variety of music styles. Bring a picnic along or peruse the various local community food and drink options.

This year will feature the folky pop tunes of Olive Mae, country rock from JV Rail, local youth 5-piece band Knot Shore, Michael Ward & the Shoreline, originals and covers by Si & B, and finally a nine-piece Aretha Franklin tribute band called Riverbugs.

Finish off this action-packed month with a daylong festival of frothy fun.

The South West Craft Beer Festival has got it all – brews, food, music, and guaranteed good times. The best breweries the region has to offer will all be in attendance showing off new creations as well as old classics. Sip, sample and savour over 175 beers from at least 25 different breweries and cideries such as Rocky Ridge, Colonial, Eagle Bay, Boston and Brewhouse Margaret River.

The Busselton foreshore will transform into the south west’s very own beertopia and trust me – you do not want to miss it!

Get ready because in March, Augusta is bringing all the big events!

Start the month off right with the Augusta River Festival. This beloved event is finally back for the first time since 2020 and it is bigger than ever. A full-day festival set on the foreshore of the Blackwood River, it includes live music, 70+ market stalls, children’s activities, lantern parade, food, drinks, and much, much more!

Mighty Dragon Boards offer a worthy challenge to those who want to get involved in river racing, built for teams of 4, these are stand up paddle boards with a difference. Then finish the day with epic fireworks display. Plus, Margaret River’s Concrete Club will be hosting a free skateboarding clinic and an outdoor roller disco!

Head back down south at the end of the month for an outdoor concert at the Augusta Hotel.

Dr Fish, a Perth soul and blues band, will be jamming all night long on the lawn overlooking the Blackwood River on Saturday the 25th of March.

Serving up a swath of soul, blues and roots music, this band will make you groove and move to the beat. You can bring your own picnic, but for the drinks, Augusta Hotel has got you covered with delicious local wine and beers on tap!