Celebrating Community and Creativity
Arts Margaret River and the Shire of Augusta Margaret River are proud to announce the official
opening of the Anne Shepherdson Courtyard at the Margaret River HEART - Nala Bardip Mia as a revitalised space designed to enhance comfort, creativity, and community connection.
Anne Shepherdson OAM was a cornerstone of the Margaret River community and one of the
founding figures of Arts Margaret River. Her decades-long dedication helped establish a thriving arts
culture that continues to enrich the region today.
The courtyard’s transformation, including the installation of a new retractable feature for all-weather
comfort, is being established in partnership between the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and Arts Margaret River, with funding from the Government of Western Australia – Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
A launch event on March 15, 2026 will feature live performances, visual art exhibitions and music,
celebrating both the region’s vibrant arts scene and the legacy of one of its most beloved champions.
Shire President Julia Jean-Rice said Anne’s passing in 2024 was deeply felt throughout the
community, and the Council was delighted to honour someone who made the Shire a richer and
more connected place to live.
“Anne’s leadership helped shape a vibrant arts landscape that continues to enrich our community,”
she said.
“Establishing the Anne Shepherdson Courtyard at Nala Bardip Mia will ensure her legacy lives on at
the Shire’s most significant cultural space, while the upgrades to the space itself will add to the
versatility of the venue”.
President of Arts Margaret River David Shelton, said
“Anne was instrumental in shaping the arts landscape of this region, and it’s deeply fitting that her
name will live on in a place that continues to bring people together.”
“The Anne Shepherdson Courtyard is a beautiful reminder of what can happen when community,
creativity and collaboration come together.”
Michelle Wright, General Manager of Arts Margaret River, added: “This courtyard will make Nala
Bardip Mia an even more welcoming and versatile venue — a space where local artists, performersand audiences can connect and thrive. It’s a wonderful step forward for our community and a
heartfelt tribute to Anne’s enduring impact.”
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is proud to partner with Arts Margaret River to deliver
programming at its premier arts & cultural venue Margaret River HEART – Nala Bardip Mia.
Arts Margaret River has supported artists and delivered cultural experiences
across the region for 50 years. In 2024/25, the organisation facilitated 404 activations, including 193 community-focused events — with 86 offered free of charge. Attendance exceeded 47,000, a 22% increase over the previous year, reflecting the community’s growing engagement with local arts and culture.
The Anne Shepherdson Courtyard at Nala Bardip Mia marks the next chapter in that story — a place
where art, music, and community spirit continue to thrive in the heart of Margaret River.
Further details for all events are available via: www.artsmargaretriver.com