Shire supported events happening this month
It might be Makuru, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do!
July falls in Makuru, the coldest and wettest of Wadandi Boodja's six seasons. It also marks the start of the 50th National NAIDOC Week (5–12 July 2026) which recognises and celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
To celebrate and connect with the stories and culture of this place, Nala Boodja Eco Clan Aboriginal Corporation invites you to their NAIDOC Rivermouth Gathering. This free community event will feature a smoking ceremony and collaborative community land art installation.
You also won't want to miss Ngaluk Waangkiny exhibition at Nala Bardip Mia – Margaret River HEART from 2 July until August. We’re so proud to partner with Arts Margaret River to bring this the landmark exhibition, along with the best in live theatre, music, community and dance to Nala Bardip Mia - Margaret River HEART.
Ngaluk Waangkiny means ‘us talking’ in Noongar, and this multimedia storytelling project offers an important opportunity to learn about Australia's often untold Aboriginal history through the poignant, powerful and, at times heartbreaking stories of ten respected Elders.
To coincide with this exhibition, there will also be opportunities to hear directly from lead photographer Cole Baxter, who will share the stories behind the project's documentation through an artist talk and photography workshops.
If you're looking for something to do with the kids, the Margaret River Swim School is offering a short course swim program, or head to the Nala Waabi Mia – Margaret River Rec Centre for our giant Inflatable Fun Day. There's even a dedicated evening session for older kids and teens.
And of course, no July would be complete without Cabin Fever. Returning for its 10th year, this much-loved winter festival once again brings together the very best of our region with an irresistible mix of incredible food, world-class wine, live music, cosy fires and unforgettable experiences. It's the perfect excuse to rug up, head out and embrace everything winter has to offer.
There are also some fantastic workshops throughout the month, including a practical session on soil health with Lower Blackwood LCDC, colourful Rainbow Crochet workshop celebrating Pride Month, and the launch of our End of Life Matters community information series, designed to help you plan for the inevitable.
We’re so proud to support these diverse events through our grants programs and community partnerships to celebrate the place we call home and the people who make it so special.
Check out the full list of events below.
P.S. Keep an eye on our socials, we'll have some Cabin Fever giveaways coming your way!
July events
2 July – Ngaluk Waangkiny Launch & Exhibition
Honouring the voices and legacy of ten respected Elders. Runs until August at Nala Bardip Mia – Margaret River HEART
5 July – NAIDOC Rivermouth Gathering
Celebrate the beginning of NAIDOC Week with Nala Boodja Eco Clan Aboriginal Corporation.
7 July – Integrated Soil Nutrient Management Workshop
Lower Blackwood LCDC presents a practical workshop to help you get soil savvy.
7 July – Inflatable Fun Day
Bounce, splash and slide your way through the school holidays, with dedicated sessions for juniors (ages 3-6) and an evening session for older kids and teens.
8 July – End of Life Matters: Get Your Death Ducks in a Row
The first session in a four-part community information series offering practical guidance for end-of-life planning.
13 July –Cole Baxter Photography Workshop
Join the Ngaluk Waangkiny project’s lead photographer for one of two photography workshops..
14 July – Artist Talk: Cole Baxter
Noongar photographer Cole Baxter shares his experiences documenting Ngaluk Waangkiny and explores photography as a tool for storytelling and cultural preservation.
13–17 July – Swim School Short Course Program
Build confidence and improve swimming technique during the winter school holidays.
16 & 18 July – Rainbow Crochet Sessions
Celebrate Pride Month through colourful crochet workshops suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike.
18–26 July – Cabin Fever Festival
Ten days of food, wine, music and winter experiences celebrating the best of the Margaret River Region.
22 July – End of Life Matters: Palliative Care
Learn more about palliative care and the support available for people living with life-limiting illness, their families and carers.