Here is the South West region

Serving up a coastal culinary adventure, the world-class Margaret River Region is an unparalleled destination for gourmet experiences and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Amid its sprawling vineyards, you’ll find welcoming cellar doors, award-winning restaurants, local providores and distilleries just waiting to be discovered. Beyond the delicious food and wine scene, the South West’s natural attractions invite adventurous travellers to explore.

Take to the ocean at the breathtaking surfing, swimming and snorkelling spots dotted along the coast, or spot humpback whales majestically making their way through the water on their annual migration.

On land, walk among the leafy giants of the area’s tall timber forests, connect with Aboriginal culture in Wadandi and Bibbulmun country, and experience barefoot luxury on a section of the iconic Cape to Cape Track.

September

21

12 Events

SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday

Events

Australia’s largest open studios event returns this September, and more than 140 incredible artists will feature! Spanning from Busselton to Augusta, artists will throw open their studio doors for 16 days, welcoming in art appreciators from far and wide to sneak a peek into their usually private creative spaces. Of the 144 talented artists now busily creating for September, 31 will be taking the leap for the first time, and 12 artists have never missed a year, participating in all 11 events. This year, the event will be bolstered by increased support from long-time event partner, Private Properties. Margaret River Region Open Studios presents a rare experience to get inside an artist’s mind through their art and creative spaces – to talk to them in person about their inspiration, process and style, and see where the artistic magic happens. In 2023 the event attracted approximately 15,000 visitors who made 145,000 studio visits so anticipation is high for this year’s event. Margaret River Region Open Studios is made possible thanks to Private Properties, Tourism Western Australia, Government of Western Australia, Jacksons Drawing Supplies, Rio Tinto, Swings & Roundabouts, City of Busselton and the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

Free

07 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Free

07 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Some Like it Hot is an exhibition that intersects sweat, sex, desire and discord in Darwin, Australia’s hottest and most remote capital city. The exhibition showcases works by much-lauded Territory-based artists Therese Ritchie and Franck Gohier, well known for their satirical work that combines wit and humour with astute social observation. Here curator Wendy Garden reflects on their practice through the lens of gender representation in the context of settler imaginings of the tropics. Both Gohier and Ritchie have spent much of their impressive careers in Darwin, putting human behaviour under a philosophical microscope. Ritchie brings her background in journalism, her political awareness and her sharp eye for design to her insightful take on the world we live in. Gohier born in France arrived in Australia as a child and moved to Darwin with his family in the aftermath of Cyclone Tracy. Sifting through the domestic debris of that devastation began a fascination with collage and the expressive possibility of utilising seemingly random combinations to highlight an inherent absurdity. Both artists unsettle us and encourage us to engage more critically with perceptions of the everyday. Reflecting its Top End genesis, this exhibition about heat, place and gendered behaviour is challenging, amusing, irreverent and impressive. but most of all, Some Like it Hot is very cool.

Free

31 Aug 2024 - 10 Nov 2024

Free

31 Aug 2024 - 10 Nov 2024

Iluka Visions showcases artworks created by students in years 7 to 12 from high schools across the South West region stretching from Mandurah to Manjimup and serves to underscore the important role of art education in a holistic learning experience. This year will exhibit collaborative school artworks, workshopped with professional South West artists Alex Desebrock, Charlotte White, and Deanna Mosca.

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

In 2024 the 2nd Indian Ocean Craft Triennial investigates the multi-various languages codified in contemporary craft. Visit the major international exhibition at six galleries, conferences, and over 70 more exhibitions and events across Western Australia. Bold and emblazoned with character, the ceramic work of Madoda Fani carries a dramatically unique sensibility. Inspired by his African heritage, Fani makes hand-coiled, burnished and smoke-fired pieces that are a contemporary evolution of the traditional ceramics indigenous to Southern Africa. Although he uses traditional techniques, Fani's curvaceous, coiled forms and hand-carved embellishments are entirely distinct. He works on a large scale, building organic-shaped vessels whose smooth surfaces are punctuated by intricate, repetitive patterns that give them a scaled, insect-like appearance.

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

In 2024 the 2nd Indian Ocean Craft Triennial investigates the multi-various languages codified in contemporary craft. Visit the major international exhibition at six galleries, conferences, and over 70 more exhibitions and events across Western Australia. A relationship with donkeys is not unlike a relationship with one’s own art practice, in that it’s an endlessly interesting negotiation with an independent and mysterious 'other', at times delightfully cooperative, at times frustratingly opaque and unruly. Jillian Green's art practice has become entwined with her relationship with two young donkeys. Jillian dreams of one or the other literally every night, down to the subconscious level firmly being yoked to both. Like all Equines, their visual perception is dominated by contrast, light and dark, and therefore shape. In The Upholstered Donkey Jillian depicts shapes associated with the boys and their environment. Weaving with wool came to her after a couple of particularly long wet winters. Given donkeys do not have protective oils in their skin, the need to protect themselves from the weather became a concern, shapes of shelter, rugs and coats entered their arena. This occasionally figurative language of soft geometry continues to evolve.

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Welcome to the dawn of the space age. From the 1950s through to the 1970s, Australia was gripped with excitement as humanity made its first forays beyond Earth’s atmosphere. From cutting-edge scientific research to architecture, design, television and more ‘Out of this World’ explores Australia’s role in the space race. Learn about the history of Woomera Rocket Range, see how futuristic architecture influenced Australia’s Expo pavilion in 1970, and meet everyone’s favourite pencil-nosed spaceman, Mr Squiggle. This exhibition is supported by the Australian Government's Visions of Australia program and the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, a program aiming to improve access to national collections for all Australians.

Free

14 Jun 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

Free

14 Jun 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

The Bloom Festival provides an opportunity for communities to work together and celebrate ‘everything that blooms’ in the region. Each year, passionate people from rural and regional townships across eight shires collaborate on a festival like no other, ensuring a trip to the Great Southern takes pride of place on the Australian travel calendar each spring. Events and activities include arts, crafts, displays, exhibitions, fauna and flora-themed activities, creative workshops, food events, markets, Noongar cultural events, open gardens, wine and dine events, family fun days, movie nights, live music, heritage trails, guided flower walks, tours and hikes including through the Stirling and Porongurup Ranges. The Festival spans from Kojonup, out to Pingrup, down to Bremer Bay, across to the Porongurup and Frankland Rivers, taking in major centres such as Katanning, the Stirling Range and Fitzgerald River National Parks and everything in between. Make sure you put this wildflower wonder on your itinerary to explore all the blooming best of the Great Southern Treasures in Western Australia. The 2024 Great Southern Treasures Bloom Festival is presented by WCP Civil and supported by the State Government through Tourism Western Australia, Royalties for Regions and the following partners: Australia's South West, Rio Tinto, Road Safety Commission, Great Southern Development Commission, Clever Octopus, and CBH Group.

21 Sep 2024 - 20 Oct 2024

21 Sep 2024 - 20 Oct 2024

Shiraz and Venison is back! To kick off another long weekend, join owner, Barry Stimpson, who will be firing up the BBQ again for venison brioche burgers with produce as local as you can get from just next door at Margaret River Venison farm. A vegetarian option of grilled haloumi cheese salad will be available by prior request.
Spanning over 35 000 square kilometres, the Southern Art and Craft Trail is the largest of its kind in Western Australia showcasing the creative works of over 600 artists, and 400 plus students in over 70 venues encompassing galleries, home studios, cafes, Auction rooms, town halls and school displays. Regional artists exhibit artworks ranging from painting, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, printmaking, photography, woodwork, jewellery, glass art, sculpture and more. Audiences can view artwork in studios and meet the artist, adding a multi-layered experience to viewing and experiencing art. Hands-on workshops are held in various locations. Galleries, museums, wineries, cafes, shops and unused spaces become venues offering both a unique cultural experience and economic spin-off for local businesses. Artists collaborate to create pop-up galleries in vacant shops and tourist destinations including visitor centres in Denmark, Mt Barker and Albany. Art Centres and Open Home Studios in many regional areas embrace the trail including Lake Grace, Manjimup and Dumbleyung. This year marks the 21st anniversary of the trail. Participate in hands-on workshops, and meet artists as they create during demonstrations.

Free

21 Sep 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

Free

21 Sep 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

Come along to the inaugural Busselton Caravan and Camping Show. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the scene, the Busselton Caravan and Camping Show has something for everyone. Don't miss out on expert advice, interactive exhibits, and the chance to explore your next dream destination. View the best caravans, campers, trailers and accessories plus enjoy fun for the whole family at the south west’s newest caravan and camping showcase!

Free - $15

21 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Free - $15

21 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Rural Women’s Day Ltd is a registered not-for-profit organisation that aims to Connect rural and regional women through community, collaboration and celebration. This second Rural Women's Day event in Western Australia with host Sarah Hayes. Sarah has the most incredible day planned for all rural and regional women, with guest speakers, activities, and the opportunity to connect. The day will involve times being seated and times being active indoors and outdoors. Please refer to the website for dress code, guest speaker list and further details.
The Albany Farmers Market comes alive as a car park in the heart of Albany transforms every Saturday into a busy thriving marketplace, with local producers bringing their fresh, seasonal products to sell directly to locals and visitors. The quality and range of product every week is enormous. Not only every imaginable type of fruit and vegetables but also organic beef and lamb, venison, kangaroo, capretto, free-range chicken, fish, seafood, honey, bread, yoghurt, cheese, milk, cream, ice-cream, oils, jams, preserves and fresh flowers and much more. Many locals now rely on the markets for their major weekly shop because of the comprehensive range and sustained quality of produce, enjoying the wonderful interaction with the producers, whilst at the same time enjoying catching up with old friends. Visitors enjoy an opportunity to see, sample and buy produce that is truly local.

Free

04 Nov 2023 - 28 Dec 2024

Free

04 Nov 2023 - 28 Dec 2024

Australia’s largest open studios event returns this September, and more than 140 incredible artists will feature! Spanning from Busselton to Augusta, artists will throw open their studio doors for 16 days, welcoming in art appreciators from far and wide to sneak a peek into their usually private creative spaces. Of the 144 talented artists now busily creating for September, 31 will be taking the leap for the first time, and 12 artists have never missed a year, participating in all 11 events. This year, the event will be bolstered by increased support from long-time event partner, Private Properties. Margaret River Region Open Studios presents a rare experience to get inside an artist’s mind through their art and creative spaces – to talk to them in person about their inspiration, process and style, and see where the artistic magic happens. In 2023 the event attracted approximately 15,000 visitors who made 145,000 studio visits so anticipation is high for this year’s event. Margaret River Region Open Studios is made possible thanks to Private Properties, Tourism Western Australia, Government of Western Australia, Jacksons Drawing Supplies, Rio Tinto, Swings & Roundabouts, City of Busselton and the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

Free

07 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Free

07 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Some Like it Hot is an exhibition that intersects sweat, sex, desire and discord in Darwin, Australia’s hottest and most remote capital city. The exhibition showcases works by much-lauded Territory-based artists Therese Ritchie and Franck Gohier, well known for their satirical work that combines wit and humour with astute social observation. Here curator Wendy Garden reflects on their practice through the lens of gender representation in the context of settler imaginings of the tropics. Both Gohier and Ritchie have spent much of their impressive careers in Darwin, putting human behaviour under a philosophical microscope. Ritchie brings her background in journalism, her political awareness and her sharp eye for design to her insightful take on the world we live in. Gohier born in France arrived in Australia as a child and moved to Darwin with his family in the aftermath of Cyclone Tracy. Sifting through the domestic debris of that devastation began a fascination with collage and the expressive possibility of utilising seemingly random combinations to highlight an inherent absurdity. Both artists unsettle us and encourage us to engage more critically with perceptions of the everyday. Reflecting its Top End genesis, this exhibition about heat, place and gendered behaviour is challenging, amusing, irreverent and impressive. but most of all, Some Like it Hot is very cool.

Free

31 Aug 2024 - 10 Nov 2024

Free

31 Aug 2024 - 10 Nov 2024

Iluka Visions showcases artworks created by students in years 7 to 12 from high schools across the South West region stretching from Mandurah to Manjimup and serves to underscore the important role of art education in a holistic learning experience. This year will exhibit collaborative school artworks, workshopped with professional South West artists Alex Desebrock, Charlotte White, and Deanna Mosca.

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

In 2024 the 2nd Indian Ocean Craft Triennial investigates the multi-various languages codified in contemporary craft. Visit the major international exhibition at six galleries, conferences, and over 70 more exhibitions and events across Western Australia. Bold and emblazoned with character, the ceramic work of Madoda Fani carries a dramatically unique sensibility. Inspired by his African heritage, Fani makes hand-coiled, burnished and smoke-fired pieces that are a contemporary evolution of the traditional ceramics indigenous to Southern Africa. Although he uses traditional techniques, Fani's curvaceous, coiled forms and hand-carved embellishments are entirely distinct. He works on a large scale, building organic-shaped vessels whose smooth surfaces are punctuated by intricate, repetitive patterns that give them a scaled, insect-like appearance.

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

In 2024 the 2nd Indian Ocean Craft Triennial investigates the multi-various languages codified in contemporary craft. Visit the major international exhibition at six galleries, conferences, and over 70 more exhibitions and events across Western Australia. A relationship with donkeys is not unlike a relationship with one’s own art practice, in that it’s an endlessly interesting negotiation with an independent and mysterious 'other', at times delightfully cooperative, at times frustratingly opaque and unruly. Jillian Green's art practice has become entwined with her relationship with two young donkeys. Jillian dreams of one or the other literally every night, down to the subconscious level firmly being yoked to both. Like all Equines, their visual perception is dominated by contrast, light and dark, and therefore shape. In The Upholstered Donkey Jillian depicts shapes associated with the boys and their environment. Weaving with wool came to her after a couple of particularly long wet winters. Given donkeys do not have protective oils in their skin, the need to protect themselves from the weather became a concern, shapes of shelter, rugs and coats entered their arena. This occasionally figurative language of soft geometry continues to evolve.

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Free

10 Aug 2024 - 27 Oct 2024

Welcome to the dawn of the space age. From the 1950s through to the 1970s, Australia was gripped with excitement as humanity made its first forays beyond Earth’s atmosphere. From cutting-edge scientific research to architecture, design, television and more ‘Out of this World’ explores Australia’s role in the space race. Learn about the history of Woomera Rocket Range, see how futuristic architecture influenced Australia’s Expo pavilion in 1970, and meet everyone’s favourite pencil-nosed spaceman, Mr Squiggle. This exhibition is supported by the Australian Government's Visions of Australia program and the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, a program aiming to improve access to national collections for all Australians.

Free

14 Jun 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

Free

14 Jun 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

The Bloom Festival provides an opportunity for communities to work together and celebrate ‘everything that blooms’ in the region. Each year, passionate people from rural and regional townships across eight shires collaborate on a festival like no other, ensuring a trip to the Great Southern takes pride of place on the Australian travel calendar each spring. Events and activities include arts, crafts, displays, exhibitions, fauna and flora-themed activities, creative workshops, food events, markets, Noongar cultural events, open gardens, wine and dine events, family fun days, movie nights, live music, heritage trails, guided flower walks, tours and hikes including through the Stirling and Porongurup Ranges. The Festival spans from Kojonup, out to Pingrup, down to Bremer Bay, across to the Porongurup and Frankland Rivers, taking in major centres such as Katanning, the Stirling Range and Fitzgerald River National Parks and everything in between. Make sure you put this wildflower wonder on your itinerary to explore all the blooming best of the Great Southern Treasures in Western Australia. The 2024 Great Southern Treasures Bloom Festival is presented by WCP Civil and supported by the State Government through Tourism Western Australia, Royalties for Regions and the following partners: Australia's South West, Rio Tinto, Road Safety Commission, Great Southern Development Commission, Clever Octopus, and CBH Group.

21 Sep 2024 - 20 Oct 2024

21 Sep 2024 - 20 Oct 2024

Shiraz and Venison is back! To kick off another long weekend, join owner, Barry Stimpson, who will be firing up the BBQ again for venison brioche burgers with produce as local as you can get from just next door at Margaret River Venison farm. A vegetarian option of grilled haloumi cheese salad will be available by prior request.
Spanning over 35 000 square kilometres, the Southern Art and Craft Trail is the largest of its kind in Western Australia showcasing the creative works of over 600 artists, and 400 plus students in over 70 venues encompassing galleries, home studios, cafes, Auction rooms, town halls and school displays. Regional artists exhibit artworks ranging from painting, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, printmaking, photography, woodwork, jewellery, glass art, sculpture and more. Audiences can view artwork in studios and meet the artist, adding a multi-layered experience to viewing and experiencing art. Hands-on workshops are held in various locations. Galleries, museums, wineries, cafes, shops and unused spaces become venues offering both a unique cultural experience and economic spin-off for local businesses. Artists collaborate to create pop-up galleries in vacant shops and tourist destinations including visitor centres in Denmark, Mt Barker and Albany. Art Centres and Open Home Studios in many regional areas embrace the trail including Lake Grace, Manjimup and Dumbleyung. This year marks the 21st anniversary of the trail. Participate in hands-on workshops, and meet artists as they create during demonstrations.

Free

21 Sep 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

Free

21 Sep 2024 - 06 Oct 2024

Come along to the inaugural Busselton Caravan and Camping Show. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the scene, the Busselton Caravan and Camping Show has something for everyone. Don't miss out on expert advice, interactive exhibits, and the chance to explore your next dream destination. View the best caravans, campers, trailers and accessories plus enjoy fun for the whole family at the south west’s newest caravan and camping showcase!

Free - $15

21 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Free - $15

21 Sep 2024 - 22 Sep 2024

Rural Women’s Day Ltd is a registered not-for-profit organisation that aims to Connect rural and regional women through community, collaboration and celebration. This second Rural Women's Day event in Western Australia with host Sarah Hayes. Sarah has the most incredible day planned for all rural and regional women, with guest speakers, activities, and the opportunity to connect. The day will involve times being seated and times being active indoors and outdoors. Please refer to the website for dress code, guest speaker list and further details.
The Albany Farmers Market comes alive as a car park in the heart of Albany transforms every Saturday into a busy thriving marketplace, with local producers bringing their fresh, seasonal products to sell directly to locals and visitors. The quality and range of product every week is enormous. Not only every imaginable type of fruit and vegetables but also organic beef and lamb, venison, kangaroo, capretto, free-range chicken, fish, seafood, honey, bread, yoghurt, cheese, milk, cream, ice-cream, oils, jams, preserves and fresh flowers and much more. Many locals now rely on the markets for their major weekly shop because of the comprehensive range and sustained quality of produce, enjoying the wonderful interaction with the producers, whilst at the same time enjoying catching up with old friends. Visitors enjoy an opportunity to see, sample and buy produce that is truly local.

Free

04 Nov 2023 - 28 Dec 2024

Free

04 Nov 2023 - 28 Dec 2024