South West businesses give vital help to eco-projects

Nature Conservation Margaret River Region is giving a big shout out to the amazing local businesses that have signed up as business sponsors to support nature and the environment.

They include gold sponsors and iconic wine producers of the region, Cape Mentelle and Clairault Streicker.

And bronze sponsors and well-known businesses Settlers Tavern and Cape to Cape Explorer Tours.

“Local business sponsors are so essential in helping us run our wide range of programs supporting the Margaret River region’s precious environment,” Nature Conservation general manager Drew McKenzie said.

“Your business can help the cause and become a gold, silver or bronze business supporter by getting in touch at info@natureconservation.org.au.

“Every little bit helps, and your business can make a real and meaningful contribution to our precious nature.”

Cape Mentelle have been long-term supporters of Nature Conservation’s on-ground work, education programs and organisational requirements and staffing.

Cape Mentelle’s winemaking and viticulture chief David Moulton said stepping up to become a business sponsor was an easy decision.

“Supporting the work of Nature Conservation is a privilege; a tangible way to help protect the unique environment we live and work in,” David said.

“In such a spectacular but fragile landscape, the Cape Mentelle team takes its environmental responsibilities seriously.

“Through educating and empowering our staff we have established strong custodians of this diverse and beautiful region.”

“While we’ve worked together on numerous projects over the years, we couldn’t think of a better organisation to stand alongside and support as formal partners,” Clairaut Streicker head viticulturist Chris Gillmore said.

“Nature Conservation Margaret River Region has a great team dedicated to conservation and environment in our region.”

Over the years the conservation group has partnered with Clairault Streicker on annual revegetation planting days, fencing across vineyard waterways, supplementary bush and waterway planting, weed removal, and carrying out environmental assessments and monitoring.

Meanwhile, bronze sponsor Cape to Cape Explorer Tours – headed by local ecotourism advocate Gene Hardy – specialise in guided and self-guided hiking adventures on the Cape to Cape Track.

The business also includes Gnarabup accommodation Surfpoint Resort.

“We’re big fans of Nature Conservation’s work and we’re so proud to step up our support,” Gene said.

“It’s never been more important for locals and visitors to be custodians for this special place, learn more about it, and help protect it.”

Cape to Cape Explorer Tours and Surfpoint Resort have also been big supporters of Nature Conservation over the years, and they are part of the Friends of the Cape to Cape Track and regulars in the WA Beach Clean-Up.

Settlers Tavern meanwhile has been a cornerstone of local culture since the 1970s. It’s evolved into a gathering place for a diverse mix of locals and visitors. And for the past 20 years, owners Rob and Karen Gough have focussed on family-friendly hospitality and great food and drinks.

Drew thanked all the business sponsors and said their support was invaluable. “And we really hope to grow the pool of business sponsors this year, so don’t hesitate to get it touch for a chat,” he said.