Our latest Member Famil on Thursday 7th September took us on a journey through the picturesque area of Augusta and its surrounds.
With the springtime sun shining and chauffeured by Jason from the team at Bushtucker Tours, we took in a range of businesses from ‘new kids on the block’ to Augusta icons.
Hosts were able to share updates on their offering to local operators from across the region, as well as learning more about their neighbours.
Below are some highlights from the day!
Hamelin Bay Furniture
Our first stop was Hamelin Bay Furniture Gallery, where Danielle welcomed us with open arms despite busily preparing for Open Studios. This family-owned gallery showcases beautiful, handcrafted wood and resin furniture made from locally and sustainably-sourced Southwest WA timbers. Danielle’s photography adorns the walls, highlighting the local wildlife, as well as stunning aerial images of the pristine Southwest WA coastline. The gallery also features several other local artists and creatives’ work, including ceramics, and jewellery.
Arlewood Estate
Our journey continued to Arlewood Estate, a picturesque boutique winery hidden just off the highway in Forest Grove. With a wine making ethos inspired by the family’s Italian heritage, we were treated to an early morning wine and chocolate pairing experience with Paris. Tasting their heritage La Bratta wines and the exclusive chocolate bars from the team at Temper Temper, it was a great opportunity to hear more about the family’s history of winemaking and grape growing in northern Italy.
The Colourpatch
Needing a caffeine fix we headed back to the heart of Augusta to the Colourpatch to enjoy coffee and tea whilst enjoying its stunning views of the Blackwood River.
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Our journey then took us past Granny’s Pool down to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse at the southwestern tip of Australia, where the Indian and Southern Oceans converge. Lighthouse Keeper Paul gave us a snapshot of the history of the lighthouse, and we had opportunity to explore the site’s interactive Interpretive Centre – an experience that celebrates the history and lives of the numerous lighthouse keepers who were custodians of this rugged coastline.
Augusta Hotel Motel
After a morning of exploration, it was time to satisfy our appetites at the Augusta Hotel Motel over lunch. Another local favourite, the newly renovated restaurant – with more amazing views of the Blackwood – made for a memorable dining experience with a special menu laid on for us by the team.
Augusta River Tours
Who doesn’t love an unplanned stop? With Jason having done a remarkable job to keep us all on schedule, we had time to stop by and see and hear about the new season of Blackwood River tours with Graeme from Augusta River Tours. With some guests so eager to experience the tour they had arrived a month early (!), the only disappointment for our group was not having time to get out onto the river on what was a beautiful Augusta day.
Boogaloo Camp
Our day officially came to a close at Boogaloo Camp where we had opportunity to hear about the upgraded amenities at the site. Guided by new owner Nicki, we had a chance to see the off-grid, eco-friendly, adults only luxury camping accommodation first-hand. With charmingly furnished bell tents, a yoga experience, and even more developments to the site in the pipeline, it is an exciting time for the crew and for upcoming visitors.
Karridale Tavern
Our starting and wrap up point was the Karridale Tavern. Those that had driven to Karridale to join the bus had the opportunity to share stories of the day’s adventures over a final glass of wine or beer. A thank you to the team for allowing us to park our cars for the day!
Some testimonials from the group:
“As a first-time visitor it was great showcasing this beautiful region with such a relaxed and enjoyable group of people!”
“My highlight was meeting the other operators and seeing what innovative and creative things are on offer for visitors and the community alike.”
And that was it! The next Member Famil will take in Dunsborough & Surrounds in November – with more information to follow soon. Once open, 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. We look forward to welcoming you on board for the trip!