You know you’re living in a special place when local business leaders and politicians can be found at one of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet, digging in for conservation and giving ‘hands on’ support for the protection of Margaret River’s natural environment.
To celebrate the Chamber’s 3rd Environment Event, MRCCI members joined force with the Margaret River Coastal Residents Association. Together, they planted seedlings and undertook dune brushing at Gnarabup lookout, completing in a couple of hours what would’ve taken the Association days to finish. The activities were part of a bigger effort to revegetate and revitalise the dune system, prevent erosion and provide habitat for native creatures – a project the Coastal Residents Association has been committed to for years.
Following the conservation activities, Mother Nature returned the favour presenting a spectacular sunset over the ocean, with members soaking in the view from the deck of the White Elephant Cafe while enjoying sensational canapes and a glass of Vasse Felix. With the setting sun came messages of sustainability, conservation and cooperation, highlighting how inextricably linked Margaret River’s natural environment is to the local economy, and why maintaining its health is vital for the future.
Chamber President, Steven Castan kicked off proceedings acknowledging the great work done by Nature Conservation while updating members on the Chamber’s commitment to supporting environmental efforts, recently signing an MOU with Nature Conservation and teaming up with other industry leaders on their new and ambitious Giant Light Steps Alliance.
Next to speak was Nature Conservation’s Chair, Dr Boyd Wykes, who showcased their ‘Business Wall of Fame’ and the tremendous projects they’ve been able to achieve with the support of local businesses. Other speakers included Adrian and Janet Wilson from the Coastal Residents Association, who outlined the fantastic work their volunteers are doing and the need for more support to maintain it, followed by Jodie Lane from Fair Harvest Permaculture, who spoke about her success in building a business that promotes environmental protection, including an organic cafe, sustainability workshops and soon to open permaculture campground. Jodie’s efforts were recently recognised at the MRCCI’s Business Awards, where she won the Environmental Excellence category, presented by Nature Conservation Margaret River Region.
To top off a terrific event, a member raffle raised hundreds of dollars for additional coastal conservation works, with prizes including a $100 voucher from the Artisan Store, lunch for two at Fair Harvest and wine from the Chamber. Congratulations to the winners!
As the night drew to a close, after the scrumptious food and delicious wine, our members left with new found knowledge on community conservation efforts in the region and possibly even some ideas for their own business in the future.
The Chamber extends a very big thank you to our co-hosts, Nature Conservation and the White Elephant Cafe, and event supporters, Vasse Felix, Fair Harvest, the Margaret River Artisan Store and the Margaret River Coastal Residents Association.
We look forward to seeing all our members again at the next chamber event!
