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Published: November 26th 2008
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From Perth we headed south to Margaret River known for its big surf and ample wineries. On the way we saw our first native animals since arriving in OZ- kangaroos. Hopping across a field as we drove I was so happy to see these animals in their natural homes instead of pent up in some zoo. I set about yelling "kangaroo" for the rest of the week every time we saw our marsupial friends (much to Ev's delight- I think I nearly scared him off the road a few times).
We continued our drive into Margaret River and instantly knew we were in a very nice area. We were staying at Walcliffe House the first residence built in Margs by the Bussell family. We wound down the drive and our jaws dropped in amazement at the 3 houses and immense gardens that stretched before us on the banks of Margaret River. We parked up and quickly set about exploring the extensive gardens in full bloom and gazing at the river from each balcony. Our amazement continued to find that we had kangaroos and kookaburras in our yard and the adjoining paddock. Wow!!!
We quickly found the surf break, only
a 2 minute drive or 15 minute kayak from our temporary home. And spent countless hours throughout the week watching the surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers tackle the 4-8 foot waves pounding the shoreline.
During the days we spent our time exploring the asset that has put Margaret River on the map, its wineries. Our first day out we started by padding our stomachs and headed for the Margaret River Chocolate Company. After a ridiculous number of free spoonfuls of chocolate we headed for the Dairy Company where we had our fill of cheese and yogurt before hitting the wineries. Our first winery was a bit of a wash and the wines were less than nice but the second winery made up for it. Adinfern Wines were the best we tasted but sadly not sold outside of Australia. A visit to Voyager, Redgate, Xanadu and Leeuwin wineries rounded out our regional tastings. I felt like a real pro by the end of it, not that I looked like one but those cellar doors sure can make you feel important "would you like to try some wine ma'am? Where would you like to start (as they hand you a list
of 10-20 wines)".
Our trip to Margaret River was amazing and we were so sad to leave. Headed back to Perth to have a weekend with Josh and Christine, friends from the UK. We spent time catching up, bouncing on their massive trampoline, hanging out with their 2 new horses and having an outing on their boat up the coast from Hilary's. A lovely weekend and great to see them again.
From Perth we are "going tropo" and flying to the Northern Territory.A massive thanks to Tom, Helen, Michael, Rose, Josh and Christine who put us up during our time in Perth. So great to see you all.
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