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The Magic Of The Margaret River Region

Name: Gerry Patman

Previous Occupation:
12 Years RAN, Viet Vet, marine engineer; 12 years building 64 trawlers and servicing the WA Fishing Industry; 17 years teaching skippers tickets in TAFE; now a maker and mender of things that don't eat grass.

Why did you move to the Margaret River area?
I fell in love with Cowaramup over 25 years ago and my dream was to buy a small holding and enjoy all that the SW of WA has to offer. Dream is now being realised, not too sure if I want to dream again!

What are some of the great things about living in the area?
Weather, very clean air, lovely people, space, wildlife, fishing- some of the best in Australia, did I mention the wines?

And…some of the not so good things about living where you do?Disorganised expansion without the required infrastructure.

What's the climate like?
Wet in winter, excellent in summer when we experience cool nights, it's referred to as a Mediterranean climate.

What activities are you involved in?
Occasional engineering jobs for a local winery or neighbouring farmers, must be challenging or I'm not interested, keen lawn bowler, fishing, shooting, I guess I'm of the hunter-gatherer type.

Do you think that all age groups are catered for in your area?
Very well.

Being a popular tourist area, are there problems with the influx of people during peak times?
As we say ‘If it is tourist season, why can't we shoot them?’ No, the service industries and wineries rely heavily on tourism.

Any tips on great restaurants and cafes?
There are so many in the district it would be unfair to single out specific places as very few disappoint. All tastes and budget levels are catered for. I often lunch at Woody Nook Winery, great hosts, good food and excellent wines, laid back surrounds and I have been known to linger longer.

Any other tips or comments?
Could go on but won't.

Editor: Drop into the excellent Margaret River Visitor Centre for information on things to see and do.
100 Bussell Highway, Margaret River, WA, 6285
Telephone: 61 +8 9780 5911
Email: welcome@margaretriver.com