Hundreds of locals, seasonal workers and visitors from across the globe came together on 29 January for Margaret River’s Vintage 2026 Welcome to Country & Smoking Ceremony, marking the official start of the wine region’s harvest season. The event — now in its fourth year — was blessed with perfect Bunuru weather, warm sunshine and light coastal breezes that created an idyllic backdrop for the community celebration.
Organised by the Margaret River Wine Association (MRWA) with support from the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, TeamsWork and the Undalup Association, the free community event celebrated the region’s cultural richness, and the vital role of its international workforce.
The evening began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Wadandi custodians Dr Wayne Webb, Iszaac Webb and family, a sacred ritual that cleanses the spirit, body and soul while symbolically ushering in a new season. Attendees gathered on picnic blankets and chairs at Cowaramup’s Pioneer Park Amphitheatre, enjoying live music and performances that highlighted the deep connection between country, community and the land where Margaret River wine is made.
An inspiring aspect of the event was its global representation: guests and workers from at least 23 nationalities stood shoulder to shoulder to celebrate together, showcasing the rich diversity that defines the Margaret River wine community. Flags and traditional attire added colour and life to the gathering, reflecting the shared contributions of seasonal workers who travel from around the world to support the Margaret River’s vineyards and cellar doors.
“Vintage in Margaret River is about both place and people,” said MRWA CEO Amanda Whiteland. “This event is not only a cultural ceremony that honours the season and our connection to Wadandi Boodja, but it has also become a meaningful way to recognise the incredible diversity and contribution of the people who make our wine region thrive.”
The multicultural spirit was amplified through traditional dance and song, as visiting PALM workers shared performances from their home cultures, adding a powerful dimension of mutual respect and cultural exchange to the celebration.
With the onset of vintage 2026 imminent and a season of harvest ahead, the success of this inclusive community event reaffirmed Margaret River’s reputation as not just a world-class wine region, but also a welcoming community where culture, tradition and diversity are honoured with warmth and pride.
