Right from the start, Joy & Simon Ensor set out to establish their tourism venture with “green ideals”. This commenced with the careful choice of land. They positioned the chalets on their bush block to both maximise their solar orientation and maintain privacy for their guests. The energy efficient dwellings feature hand-made mudbricks providing excellent insulation and natural shade has been utilised for exposed walls. Sheoak and Jarrah timber for bench tops, coffee tables and trim, along with bush poles were all sourced from the property. All proof that comfort and environmentally sensitive design can co-habit together in harmony.
In 2001 they embarked on their next major step in the protection and enhancement of their property. With the help of 10 volunteers from the Australian Conservation Trust Volunteers, they commenced the installation of a custom-built predator proof fence surrounding the whole 100acres. The 2.4km’s of feral proof fencing has transformed the property into a “Wildlife Conservation Sanctuary” specializing in a safe release site for critically endangered native wildlife and assisting the return of the bush land to an “Eden status” for local fauna. Other works have included the re-clearing of walk trails and the spreading of 72 tonnes of crushed limestone to prevent the spread of die-back disease.
Joy & Simon Ensor have gained Advanced Accreditation with the Ecotourism Association of Australian. They are also recipients of the following Awards. Finalists in the Australian Banksia Awards 2001 & 2002, Finalist WA Landcare Awards 2001, WA State Finalist Telstra Small Business Awards 2001, WA finalist Environment Awards 2002 in Eco Buildings & Small Business Leadership & Responsibility. Plus many more awards like in 2019 becoming a Finalist in Australia's Favourite Family Business., being the only Western Australian finalist & only Australian tourism business..
Their multi–awards in tourism and environmental accolades recognise their hard work & dedication to the environment & region they call home. Joy explains, “entering into various awards have kept us on track and proves we are what we say we are”.
Joy and Simon’s vision for the future has been clear from the very beginning.
Their aim is to raise awareness of how easy it is to be more environmental and energy efficient in your home, and that protection for our natural environment is urgent. They are hopeful that, by Yelverton Brook is showing the way and others will follow their lead.