South West Life

The Southern Right and Humpback whales are about to make their annual splash in the waters off Cape Leeuwin, Augusta.Celebrate their return with the inaugural Whalesong Augusta Festival over the Foundation Day long weekend, June 4th to June 6th, 2010.

Flinders Bay in Augusta is the first port of call for many whales that come to feed, breed and play from June to September. Whale watching here is a very unique experience because it’s one of the few places in the world where you can observe Southern Right and Humpback whales interacting. Kick off your long weekend with the magnificence of a whale watching cruise with Naturaliste Charters. Seeing nature’s most enormous and graceful beast is an unforgettable experience that cannot be matched.

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is the perfect vantage point for land-based whale watching! Climb to the top of mainland Australia’s tallest lighthouse or gaze out to sea where two oceans meet through the decking binoculars! Tours of Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse are available to visitors all weekend.

The Augusta Hotel will be hosting entertainment all weekend and is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal and gaze out over the Blackwood River – whales can sometimes even be spotted in the distance! The Variety Club Dinner and Auction will be hosted on Saturday night before the Sunday morning start of the Mini Moo Bash.

The Mini Moo Bash will be revving up in the main street amidst an abundance of markets stalls, art displays and street entertainment. Participants are invited to explore the region following the course notes in their own vehicle whilst partaking in fun stops along the way! To join in the fun and raise money for the Variety Club please phone the Augusta Hotel on 08 9758 1944.

Check out the whaling history displays at the Augusta Historical Museum and learn all there is to know about Augusta’s whaling heritage – including the 1986 mass stranding which drew international attention.

Other sensational ‘must-do’ activities on offer in Augusta over the long weekend include tours of the ancient underground wonderland at Jewel Cave, stunning eco tours on the Blackwood River and exploring the towering Boranup Forest.

A business passport initiative is being coordinated by the Augusta Chamber of Commerce. President Kelly Donaldson is excited about encouraging long weekend visitors to enjoy the scenic views of Blackwood Avenue and its many small businesses.  Through the passport  visitors will have the opportunity to win a whale watching cruise and tours of Jewel Cave and the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse simply by popping into local businesses in the main street. 

“Augusta is a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of Perth and our businesses have a great perception of tourism and its importance to the town. By visiting local businesses and getting their Whalesong Passport stamped, visitors can win great prizes that will enhance their wonderful Augusta experience” said Mr Donaldson.

Pick up a programme from local businesses, the Margaret River or Augusta Visitor Centre’s or visit www.margaretriver.com for more information.

Whalesong Augusta is proudly supported by the Augusta Chamber of Commerce, Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association, Southwest Development Commission, Healthways, Augusta Margaret River Shire, Naturaliste Charters and the Augusta & Districts Community Bank. 

The secret’s out - Augusta is simply the best place to view whales in Australia. Whale watching in the Margaret River region is a truly magical experience.

Photo courtesty of www.margaretriver.com