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Member Famil Program: Margaret River & Surrounds May 2023

Our latest Member Famil took place on Thursday, 11th May and took in a range of businesses in Margaret River & Surrounds. With enthusiastic hosts, the event provided an opportunity for participants to present updates on their offerings to local operators as well as learning more about the activities of their neighbours.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that the upcoming Member Famil will explore Augusta and Surrounds. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, September 6th, as we embark on another enriching experience. Stay tuned for additional details and booking information, which will be made available soon. Make sure to keep an eye on our newsletter for the latest updates.

Now, let’s delve into some of the highlights of the day!

MR Refund

Our first stop was to MR Refund, an impressive organisation that collaborates with 230 businesses across Margaret River, Dunsborough, Nannup, and Pemberton. Their dedication to sustainability is evident through their remarkable accomplishment of recycling more than 205 million containers since their inception. They are also planning to open a collection centre in Vasse, pending the acquisition of a suitable commercial space. One of their notable services is the business collection service, which has gained popularity due to its assistance with environmental reporting and cost savings that can be invested back into the businesses and their staff. What sets MR Refund apart is their commitment to recycling 100% of the collected containers, ensured by their meticulous processes that guarantee clean and uncontaminated products.

Currently, the WA Government is seeking feedback on the potential inclusion of wine bottles in their container scheme. You can share your thoughts by visiting the Container Deposit scheme survey before June 1st 2023. For more information on how your business can utilise Containers for Change, get in touch with MR Refund.

Ninjas in Mocean

Our next destination, Ninjas in Mocean, is a thrilling venue located in the heart of Margaret River town. With their newly established regular operating hours, visitors and locals can now enjoy their services with confidence, regardless of the weather conditions. Ninjas in Mocean caters to a wide range of interests and age groups, including children as young as 1 year old. The venue offers an array of activities, such as free play in the soft playground and ninja course, as well as options for birthday parties and ninja classes. It’s the perfect solution for parents seeking to entertain their kids during their holiday. While the kids have a blast, parents can indulge in barista coffee and savor delicious food available on-site. Ninjas in Mocean guarantees a fun-filled experience for the entire family.

Big Love Tiny Chapel

As we head up to Cowaramup, we have the pleasure of meeting Anita, the visionary behind Big Love Tiny Chapel. Anita wears multiple hats as a wedding celebrant, artist, and proprietor of Margaret River Heartland, a charming accommodation on their property. The concept of the Big Love Tiny Chapel brings a touch of magic to pop-up wedding days. What truly sets Anita’s approach apart is her unwavering commitment to ensuring that the hosting venues reap maximum benefits. When clients choose the Big Love Tiny Chapel, all food and beverages for their special day are sourced exclusively from the host venue. Anita is enthusiastic about forging new partnerships with local venues, so if you’re intrigued by this innovative collaboration, do reach out to her for more information.

Wow Illusions and Margaret River Nuts & Cereals

Our next destination, Wow Illusions and Margaret River Nuts & Cereals, is an extraordinary attraction that captivates visitors of all ages. With new illusions added regularly there’s always something fresh and mesmerising to explore. The gravity-defying room, in particular, had our group scratching their heads, and we even had a close call with one of our members who almost got lost in the mirror maze!
What truly sets this space apart is its joyful atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression of happiness on anyone fortunate enough to visit. Additionally, the on-site cafe treats guests to a delectable assortment of delights, including ice cream and delicious cakes. Meanwhile, the Nuts and Cereals store offers their renowned muesli, a beloved staple of the Margaret River region.

The Grove Distillery & Brewery

Our next stop, The Grove Distillery & Brewery, is a beloved Margaret River institution. With the recent opening of their restaurant, Fusion, our group eagerly savored a much-needed lunch. Led by Head Chef Jono, Fusion offers a delightful menu featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that perfectly complement The Grove’s impressive selection of liquors, spirits, and beers. They have also thoughtfully curated a special menu specifically catering to tour groups, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all visitors.

Passel Estate

Passel Estate is a renowned winery that brings together a team of talented winemakers, combining the expertise of seasoned professionals and emerging talents. Their commitment extends beyond crafting exceptional wines, as they actively engage in bushland rehabilitation and native plantings, demonstrating their dedication to environmental preservation. A notable initiative is their participation in the FAWNA soft release program, highlighting their support for wildlife conservation.
Visitors are provided the opportunity to taste a selection of wines from Passel Estate’s core range, and some special older vintages. The estate warmly welcomes dogs, and we were greeted by an adorable wine dog who clearly enjoyed our group’s attention. For a more immersive experience, Passel Estate offers online bookings for unique experiences that allow guests to explore the property, indulge in wine tastings, and savour specially crafted chocolates.
To stay updated on their monthly events, we recommend following their social media channels for the latest news and updates.

Uniquely Balanced

Our tour culminated at Uniquely Balanced, a tranquil studio nestled on the outskirts of Margaret River in Burnside. This beautifully designed space offers visitors a serene environment to unwind and indulge in the transformative experience of Peter Hess Sound Healing. With its focus on relaxation and holistic wellbeing, Uniquely Balanced provides an excellent alternative for those in search of inner peace and rejuvenation. Moreover, it caters to individuals who may have physical limitations, offering a therapeutic option beyond traditional massages.

Kombi Cruz

Our day was made even more memorable by the exceptional services of Stu and Janelle, our brilliant chauffeurs from Kombi Cruz. With their expert guidance, we not only stayed on schedule but also enjoyed a delightful musical journey throughout the day. They effortlessly cruised in two distinctive vehicles: Lola, a meticulously restored 1969 VW Kombi, which never failed to capture attention as we gracefully passed by, and a VW Crafter. Kombi Cruz offers their unique services for both Weddings and Tours, providing a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the region in style.