The history of Margaret River is inextricably linked to the river of the same name that flows through the town. The river was named by one of the region's first explorers, John Garrett Bussell, in the early 1830s in honor of his cousin. The first European settlers began to establish themselves here in the 1850s, building homesteads and developing the land. The town was officially proclaimed and gazetted in 1913.
Key Factors in the Town's Development
The transformation of a small settlement into an important regional hub was driven by several factors:
Natural Resources: Dense forests featuring valuable eucalypt species (karri and jarrah) attracted loggers, providing the initial economic spark.
The Group Settlement Scheme: In the 1920s, this government program encouraged a mass influx of immigrants, primarily from the UK, to develop farming in the area.
Geographical Location: Proximity to the Indian Ocean and a unique climate created perfect conditions for agriculture, though its full potential was revealed gradually.
Early Cultural and Economic Characteristics
In its early period, the economy of Margaret River relied on logging and dairy farming. Life for the first settlers was a harsh struggle against nature: clearing the land of giant trees required colossal effort. The town's culture formed around a tight-knit community of farmers and loggers, united by shared hardships and isolation from major centers. It was only in the second half of the 20th century that the focus shifted to the winemaking and tourism for which the region is famous today.
Timeline
Key Historical Milestones
Over 40,000 years ago: The region was inhabited by the Wadandi people, known as the "Saltwater people."
1831: Explorer John Garrett Bussell names the Margaret River after his cousin, Margaret Whicher.
1857: Alfred and Ellen Bussell establish the Ellensbrook Homestead, becoming some of the first permanent European settlers.
1913: The town of Margaret River is officially proclaimed and added to the state map.
1922: Implementation begins for the government's "Group Settlement Scheme," attracting many British migrants to establish farms.
1924: Completion of the railway line connecting the town to the regional center of Busselton.
1950s: The region's coastline becomes popular with surfers who discover world-class waves here.
1967: Dr. Tom Cullity plants the first vines at Vasse Felix, marking the start of commercial winemaking in the region.
1972: The Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is established to protect the area's unique forests, caves, and coastline.
1985: The first concert is held at Leeuwin Estate, bringing international attention to the region's cultural life.
2011: Major bushfires cause significant damage to the surrounding areas, destroying several historic buildings.
2013: The town celebrates the centenary of its official foundation.
Milestones
Stages of the Town's Transformation
Margaret River has undergone a remarkable journey from an isolated logging settlement to a world-class resort. Below are the key stages that defined the modern economic and cultural landscape of the region:
The Timber Boom Era (Early 20th Century). The first economic driver was the extraction of valuable timber (jarrah and karri). This not only attracted the first laborers but also stimulated the development of transport infrastructure, including the construction of a railway connecting the town to the ports.
The Group Settlement Scheme (1920s). A large-scale government program to attract migrants radically changed the landscape. Forests gave way to pastures, turning the region into a dairy farming hub, which provided economic stability for decades to come.
The Birth of Surf Culture (1950s). The discovery of perfect waves along the coast (notably at the Main Break spot) changed the social fabric of the town. Young people and adventure seekers flocked here, laying the foundation for the future active tourism industry.
The Wine Revolution (1967). Scientific confirmation that the local climate mirrored that of Bordeaux and the planting of the first vines at Vasse Felix marked a turning point. The economy shifted from basic farming to premium production, attracting capital and a new wave of intellectuals to the region.
Development of Event Tourism (Since 1985). The launch of concerts at Leeuwin Estate, and later the hosting of World Surf League tour events, put Margaret River on the international stage, transforming it from a local getaway into a global brand.
Gastronomic Flourishing (2000s). The marriage of winemaking with fine dining and farm-to-table products finalized the town's image as an elite destination for gourmets, leading to a boom in the construction of luxury hotels and restaurants.
Architecture
Urban Development and Cityscape
The architectural character of Margaret River was shaped not by classical European styles, but by the utilitarian needs of the first settlers and the availability of natural materials. The town developed as a linear settlement along its main artery—the Bussell Highway—retaining the feel of a cozy rural center surrounded by towering karri forests.
Urban planning highlights the transition from temporary logging camps to permanent farming settlements, and eventually to a modern tourist resort with an emphasis on sustainability and harmony with the landscape.
Architectural Styles and Eras
The architecture of the town and its surroundings is a blend of historical heritage and contemporary Australian design:
Colonial and Vernacular Style (Late 19th — Early 20th Century).
Early structures were built using materials at hand: local timber and limestone. These were simple, functional buildings with gabled roofs and wide verandas for sun protection. The style is characterized by modest decoration and pragmatism.
Group Settlement Era Style (1920s).
The period of mass migrant influx left its mark in the form of "Group Settlement cottages." These are small timber-framed houses, often clad in weatherboard, which became symbols of the region's development. Many of these have been restored today.
Federation and Inter-war (1920s–1940s).
Public buildings and hotels from this period feature elements of simplified Classicism or the Federation style (the Australian version of Edwardian architecture), adapted for provincial conditions. Common features include brickwork, parapets, and corner entrances.
Modern Regionalism and Eco-architecture (Since the 1980s).
With the growth of winemaking and tourism, a unique "Margaret River style" emerged. It combines modern forms with natural materials such as rammed earth, glass, steel, and raw timber. This style dominates the architecture of local wineries and boutique hotels.
Iconic Buildings and Landmarks
Despite its small size, the town boasts several landmarks that reflect its history:
The Margaret River Hotel. Built in 1936, it is a striking example of inter-war architecture and remains a central town landmark with its distinctive corner facade and balconies.
The Old Settlement. A historical museum complex where original 1920s "Group Settlement" era buildings are preserved, showcasing the daily lives of the early farmers.
Ellensbrook Homestead. Located nearby, this historic homestead (built in stages starting from 1857) is constructed from local stone and timber, serving as an excellent example of early colonial architecture.
Notable People
Prominent Figures of the Region
The history and modern face of Margaret River have been shaped by bold pioneers, visionary entrepreneurs, and talented contemporaries. Here is a list of people who played a key role in the development of the town and brought it global recognition.
John Garrett Bussell — Explorer and Pioneer
A key figure in the region's early history. In the early 1830s, he explored these lands and named the river after his cousin, Margaret Whicher. The town, which became the region's center, eventually inherited this name.
Grace Bussell — National Heroine
Known as "Australia's Grace Darling." In 1876, at the age of 16, she rode her horse into the raging surf to rescue passengers from the sinking steamship SS Georgette. Her bravery became legendary and brought attention to the remote settlement.
Sam Isaacs — Stockman and Rescuer
An Aboriginal stockman who worked for the Bussell family. Alongside Grace, he risked his life during the rescue of those aboard the SS Georgette. His courage and horsemanship were decisive in saving dozens of lives, for which he was awarded a bronze medal by the Royal Humane Society.
Dr. Tom Cullity — Winemaking Pioneer
A cardiologist from Perth who believed in the potential of the local soil. In 1967, he founded the Vasse Felix winery and planted the first commercial vines (Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling). His success proved that the region was ideal for producing premium-class wines.
Diana and Kevin Cullen — Vintners and Environmentalists
Founders of the famous Cullen Wines. They were not only industry pioneers but also active environmental advocates. Diana Cullen became the first woman to receive the prestigious Qantas/Wine Magazine Winemaker of the Year award, setting the standards for biodynamic winemaking in Australia.
Denis Horgan — Philanthropist and Founder of Leeuwin Estate
He turned winemaking into an art form by merging it with culture and tourism. He initiated the famous Leeuwin Estate Concerts, featuring international stars like Sting and Ray Charles, which drew an international audience to Margaret River.
Taj Burrow — Professional Surfer
A global surfing legend who grew up on the region's waves (in neighboring Yallingup). His success on the World Surf League (WSL) tour solidified Margaret River's status as one of the planet's premier surfing destinations.