A scoop of fun in Margaret River
Since 1993, Simmo’s Ice Creamery has been a must-visit destination for families, foodies, and adventurers exploring the picturesque Margaret River region. Just three hours south of Perth, in the charming coastal town of Dunsborough, and bordering the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, Simmo’s blends world-class ice cream with family-friendly fun.
Dunsborough’s scenic charm, with its beautiful coastline, and undulating hills, sets the stage for an unforgettable visit. Along the way, you’ll pass grazing dairy cows, boutique wineries, and chocolate factories, all showcasing the region’s bountiful produce and rich dairy heritage. From handcrafted brie to Simmo’s signature ice cream, the ‘cosmopolitan’ food trail highlights the area’s unique offerings.
The story behind Simmo’s is as rich as its flavours. Founder Garth Simpson, originally from Ireland, turned a family recipe into an award-winning business after moving to the region to join his father, Gordon, who had spotted an opportunity. “The milk in the Margaret River region is fantastic – it was a no-brainer to make ice cream,” says Garth.
The early days were tough, with only $150 in sales during their first week. “My dad said, ‘Son, we’ve got to do something different.’ So, we started experimenting with crazy flavours – like my mother’s brown bread with sultanas and baked beans. Basically, anything we could churn into a frozen delight – and the locals couldn’t stop talking about it,” Garth recalls. The gamble paid off, and word spread fast.
Today, Simmo’s boasts over 100 unique flavours, with 60 on display daily. Each batch is pasteurised on-site using 5,000 – 6,000 litres of locally sourced milk and 3,000 litres of cream weekly. Bold creations like alcoholic ginger beer, prunes soaked in whisky with mascarpone cheese and grape claret sorbet reflect Simmo’s commitment to creativity and local ingredients. “Ice cream is fun – it’s a fun job. You see little kids sitting on the lawn, ice cream dripping down their faces with huge grins, and it makes it all worth it.”
Beyond its ice cream, Simmo’s expansive Family Fun Park draws visitors of all ages. The park features an 18-hole astroturfed mini-golf course, an adventure playground, and shaded picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a day out.
“The South West is a special place. You’ve got beautiful green pastures, postcard-perfect hills, world-class vineyards, and the beach just minutes away. It’s a little piece of paradise,” Garth shares.
With its idyllic setting and easy access to gourmet experiences, Simmo’s is a highlight of any Margaret River road trip. Whether you’re savouring a cone in the sunshine or taking home a tub, Simmo’s invites you to support local dairy farmers and enjoy the best of Western Australia.
Simmo’s Ice Creamery, 161 Commonage Road, Dunsborough, WA. Open daily 10am–5pm.