MARGARET RIVER Think of quality wine in Australia and the first call to mind will be Margaret River in WA. Just off the south west coast of WA are new and established wineries vying for the tri-fector in this massive and productive wine growing region. I.e.; local, national and international success. The region produces just three percent of total Australian grape production, but commands over 20 percent of the Australian premium wine market. An amazing feat in such a short period. The town is named after the river, which is presumed to be named after Margaret Wyche, cousin of John Garrett Bussell (founder of Busselton) in 1831. By 1910, the town had a hotel which also operated as a post office. After World War I, an attempt by the Government of Western Australia to attract migrants to Western Australia (known as the Group Settlement Scheme) and establish farms in the region attracted new settlers to the town. In 1922, over 100 settlers moved into the district. The rest is history. Given the overall level of agricultural production Margaret River is a prosperous centre. Add the booming wine interest, Margaret River is a lively and exciting tourist destination. The Margaret River War Memorial is located in the cbd. The hotels are in the main street. The Catholic and Anglican churches are also near the town centre. The nearby pristine beaches, the wineries plus the vibrancy the young set brings make Margaret River jump. Allow plenty of time to enjoy. Diary notes