The first 2022 Member Famil took place on Thursday, 17th March (also St. Patricks Day and attendee Sasha McDonald of Glenarty Road’s birthday!). The tour took in a range of businesses in Augusta & Surrounds with hosts both getting to share updates on their offering to local operators as well as learning more about their neighbours. It was also great to have Kat Lombardo on board with her many hats as accommodation operator and CinefestOZ AMR Events Officer.
Some testimonials from the day:
“As someone who grew up in Augusta and is really passionate about the area, it was great to see and experience some of the other attractions/activities available to people.”
“Meeting all of the people doing what they love and seeing the passion that they put into their work was just amazing. “
The next Member Famil will take in Busselton & Surrounds with more information to follow soon. Please email Membership if you are interested in participating. EOIs will be considered to ensure a diverse mix of tourism offerings are experienced and preference will be given to businesses that can schedule a staff member to attend.
Please read on for some highlights from the day!
Whirlwind Olives and Oil
The day started with an alfresco tasting on the deck overlooking the Olive grove. Ann-Marie gave a guided tasting of their range of products and provided an insight into their story and the process of harvesting.
Glenarty Road
The group got a taster of Glenarty’s Forage on the Farm experience – amongst the vines, tasting and enjoying wines and feasting on seasonal produce, house-made charcuterie, farm snacks, cheese and freshly baked bread. It was an immersive farm experience witnessing the production process from behind the scenes, sampling grapes straight from the vine and being introduced to the concept of regenerative farming all while strolling through the farm.
Molloy Hideaway Holiday Park
Park managers, Sue and Bill showed the group their accommodation options and the many different activities guest get to enjoy during their stay. Canoe, kayak & SUP hire are all available and there is a private boat ramp. A special highlight for all was hand feeding the very friendly kangaroos and the Australian Ringneck birds.
Blackwood River Houseboats
As a delightful surprise, Pam actually took the group on a short cruise aboard the Storm. Pam spoke about their commitment to Ecotourism and how they have addressed it in every aspect of the business.
The Colourpatch Café & Bar
Situated in its amazing location overlooking the Hardy Inlet, the menu at Colourpatch is rich with different options with a focus on fresh seafood. The group enjoyed their selection from the menu accompanied by a glass of refreshment while discussing all things Augusta.
Boranup Gallery
James shared some of the history of the gallery which has been operating for approximately 30 years. The handcrafted furniture utilises local wood that has been manufactured onsite. A range of local artists are exhibited within the gallery displaying a multitude of mediums including jewellery, paintings, and ceramics.
EcoAdventures Margaret River
The group met up with Lee and Gary who shared the process of designing and building the bikes and developing this unique Eco-experience for the region. The group was guided by Gary, for a snippet of the Forest Grove Trail Ride, taking in natural bushland and vineyards.
Jewel Cave
The last stop for the day was a semi-guided tour of the first chamber at Jewel Cave, hosted by Cave Guide Jackson.