09 May 2024
LATEST NEWS
WA's most anticipated restaurant of the year has officially opened
Described as 'luxurious Californian country club meets Parisian hotel lobby', Perth (Boorloo) has welcomed the opening of Gibney – a sophisticated seaside brasserie and grill located in Cottesloe and overlooking the Indian Ocean. With a capacity of approximately 160, this brasserie and grill will be formal in its approach with tablecloths, jacketed wait staff, all soft furnishings, marble, brass and high-end tableware. The menu draws inspiration from traditionally classic steakhouses and brasseries throughout Europe, London and New York. Gibney joins the Kailis Hospitality Group portfolio, alongside coastal venues The Shorehouse in Swanbourne, Island Market and Canteen in Trigg, Kailis Fish Market Café in Fremantle and the recently announced Magic Apple Wholefoods, also due to open in 2024.
Pair'd to highlight the best of Western Australia's culinary delights
WA's newest homegrown culinary event will take place on Wadandi Country in the Margaret River Region from November 14 to 17. Pair'd showcases the uniqueness of the world-renowned wine region and will tantilise tastebuds with a dreamlike blend of incredible local produce paired with wines harvested from local vines, accompanied by live music on nature's stage. The recent launch of the Sydney to Busselton (Undalup) direct flights with Jetstar is another great incentive for interstate food and music lovers to travel to WA.
Stories development in Yagan Square
A new chapter for Yagan Square in Perth (Boorloo) is starting to open with several outlets in the Stories complex launching this month. Alba is a modern Italian restaurant with an open plan kitchen. Ground is a hole in the wall coffee window with scrumptious pastries and toasties. When it's completed, Stories will feature a multi-storey rooftop pub, beer hall, secret bar, three restaurants plus the CBD's biggest beer garden to date. All are opening between now and mid-May. It's an initiative of Nokturnl which has been reimagining precincts across Perth, including The Old Synagogue in Fremantle, The Beaufort in Highgate and The Station in South Perth.
Rebirth, reflect, repurpose and replay at new Perth arts festival
A July winter arts and cultural festival has been announced for Perth (Boorloo). RE//Perth will activate multiple Northbridge spaces in a celebration of creativity and urban exploration. Produced by ARTRAGE, the team behind FRINGE WORLD, RE//Perth boasts a 10-day program from July 4 to 14. Each of the different event components focuses on a different theme, encompassing food and drink (RE//Birth); performance (RE//Flect), sustainable fashion (RE//Purpose), and kids (RE//Play). Each series will have a range of free and ticketed events varying from a high-end degustation culinary experience, dance and acrobatics shows, recycle fashion workshops, live ice carving and more.
Camp alongside Traditional Owners at Lombadina
The seventh Camping with Custodians campground officially opened at Lombadina on May 2. Located just over a two-hour drive north of Broome on the Dampier Peninsula, it offers up to 35 campsites, plus amenities such as a camp kitchen and ablution facilities. The first of its kind to be based within a remote Aboriginal community, Lombadina gives visitors the chance to immerse themselves in Aboriginal culture through experiences such including mud crabbing tours, ancient footprint tours uncovering the history of the Lombadina Mission, kayaking adventures, and four-wheel-drive tours to Cygnet Bay, Swan Point, and One Arm Point. Camping with Custodians in WA is an Australia-first initiative, establishing public campgrounds on Aboriginal lands, all owned and operated by the Aboriginal community.
Discounted airfares within Western Australia to continue in 2024
The affordability of regional airfares throughout WA will continue to be improved with the State's Affordable Airfare Program to be rolled on in 2024. It means discounted airfares will be available between Perth and Broome (Rubibi), Kununurra (Goonoonoorrang) and Exmouth, including:
- Virgin Australia discounted airfares for $219 one-way between Perth and Broome and $259 one-way between Perth and Kununurra.
- Qantas discounted airfares for $199 and $209, dependent on date of travel, between Perth and Exmouth
- Airnorth and Nexus Airlines discounted airfares for $199 one-way between Broome and Kununurra.
It follows a huge uptake in previous years, with nearly 29,000 tickets purchased in 2023 for services from Perth into Broome, Kununurra and Exmouth, potentially saving travellers hundreds of dollars.
NEW TOURS, ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMODATION OFFERINGS
Women's only multi-day hike in Karijini
The Hike Collective has launched a new five-day tour in the dreamy Karijini National Park in WA's Pilbara region. Specifically designed for women, the tour includes hikes in striking gorges, swimming in natural pools and watching the sunrise atop Mount Bruce (the second highest mountain in WA), aiming to boost the feeling of empowerment and connection through introspection and adventure. The Hike Collective's new flagship experience invites women to practice mindfulness and connect with the ancient landscapes and like-minded individuals, with a focus on sustainability and benefits to the local community. This tour will commence in early October 2024.
Latest addition to WA women's wellness travel
Holistic Hen has announced its latest women only weekend getaway in the coastal city of Mandurah (Mandjoogoordap), just a one-hours drive from Perth (Boorloo). The Mandurah mini-break package is fully customisable with the choice of three experiences to match your vibe. This ranges from meditation or yoga classes, SUP or kayak hires, gin or vodka tasting boards, high tea boat cruise, tarot reading to a Paint & Sip session. Along with the three experiences, two nights at Seashells Mandurah with breakfast, are included in the package.
See majestic Mandurah's Giants and playful dolphins
Thomas Dambo's Giants of Mandurah exhibition is a sight to behold, especially Seba's Song that was deliberately designed to be best seen by the water. Mandurah Cruises is now operating a year-round sightseeing cruise after its 2024 summer success which allows visitors to see the giant from aboard a boat. Spend a morning lounging on a Super Cat vessel as it cruises through Mandjar Bay in the coastal town of Mandurah (Mandjoogoordap), spotting resident dolphins in the Dawesville Ocean channel and feasting on fresh fish and chips for lunch.
The ultimate Kimberley experience
Go Wild Adventures has introduced The Ultimate Ord River Experience in the Kimberley. As the name suggests, guests will their inner adventurer and go wild - swimming in sandy beaches, canoeing through red cliff gorges and luxury camping in remote campgrounds along the Ord River near the town of Kununurra in WA's North West. A private guide will take guests canoeing each day and you have the option for afternoon hikes to discover secluded waterfalls. The 5-day tour is running as a trial for six weeks this year, so travelers should book their Kimberley experience now.
Retreat to the Mackerel Islands
Experience an exclusive island escape on the Mackerel Islands in the Pilbara region of WA's North West. This three-day tour begins with a mesmerizing scenic flight departing from Exmouth that soars directly over the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu) where guests can spot gentle whale sharks and majestic manta rays. Apon landing in the tiny paradise of the Mackerel Islands, guests can spend the day on either a kayak, SUP or snorkeling through crystal waters with a personal island guide, then relax in a beachfront cabin before enjoying a dinner under the stars. This tour is seasonal, with departures available until October 2024.
Dudja Dreaming Cultural Tours officially launched
Located in the Toodyay valley (home to three Native Title groups), just over a one-hours drive from Perth, Dudja Dreaming is a new tour offering immersive experiences to enhance cross-cultural learning and stimulate growth through truth-telling and reconciliation practices. With four different hour-long tours to choose from, travelers can either stroll along the Avon River, head out to scenic lookouts or participate in the Newcastle Gaol Museum Experience, whilst engaging with WA's diverse and important Aboriginal history.
Rottnest Island sunset and seaplanes season extended
Swan River Seaplanes has designed a new flight package, created to embrace Perth's stunning Indian Ocean sunsets. During the four-hour experience, guests can enjoy a seaplane departing from the Swan River (Derbal Yerrigan) to Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) and indulge in a Inizio Grazing board at Isola restaurant, before boarding a ferry back to the mainland. Also included is a glass of sparkling wine prior to the flight and a cocktail on arrival at Isola.
LIFESTYLE & CULTURE UPDATES
Lightscape returns to Perth this winter
King's Park and Botanic Gardens (Kaarta Koomba) will be transformed into an ethereal world of twinkling lights, laser-lit forests, and vivid colour. Lightscape is returning to Perth this year after a huge success in 2023. Running from June 7 to July 28, new creations have been added to the 1.8-kilometer trail. Some new additions will be a kaleidoscope rainbow path, walkway of giant hot pink neon hearts and a 10-metre-high waterfall of light. Food trucks and pop-up bars where visitors can drink mulled wine to combat the cold are scattered around the event.
https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=LSPTOURS24&irgwc=1
Record participation for Margaret River Region Open Studios
Margaret River Open Studios is again celebrating a bumper event ahead, with 144 artists taking part in 2024. From September 7 to 22, painters, potters, mosaicists, illustrators and more will show off their creative skills in hay sheds, cow barns, converted water tanks, sea containers and renovated train carriages across the Margaret River Region. This event is perfect for art lovers who yearn to get into the artist's mind and talk about all things art, creativity and inspiration. In 2023 the event saw more than 14,000 visitors who made 145,000 studio visits to support local artists.
Annual Revealed exhibition opens this week
Held in Fremantle Arts Centre in Perth's port city of Fremantle, Revealed is an annual art exhibition honoring the diversity, skill and passion of contemporary Aboriginal art practice in WA. Running from May 10 to August 4, Revealed features painting, silk print, glass sculptures and more, each depicting a connection to Country, culture and regional life. This exhibition is also an opportunity to ethically purchase original art from Western Australian independent artists and art centres.
Metamorphosis: Artists in Collaboration with Plants
FORM is opening its fifth exhibition in its Southern Exposure series in mid-May at the FORM Gallery and Café in East Perth. This series celebrates WA artists who live or have connections to the southern regions of the state. The Metamorphosis exhibition draws inspiration from the magic, wonder and power of the natural world and the importance of protecting it. This free art event runs from May 17 to July 13.
NEW FOOD & BEVERAGE OPENINGS
Find your way to Dunsborough's newest cellar door and kitchen
Wayfinder Wines, located in the Margaret River Region, has opened a unique tasting concept in the center of Dunsborough. The cellar door and restaurant are a freshly renovated space with clean aesthetics paired with earthy colours. The menu features fresh produce from the Wayfinder vineyard and farm and locally sourced meat and seafood. Its wines have a distinct elegance and structure to them, as a result of the fruit being hand-picked early.
A South Bird in the West
An American-inspired diner, dedicated to Nashville hot chicken has opened on William Street in Perth's cultural hub of Northbridge. South Bird showcases the co-owners passion for fried chicken, with a commitment to finding a perfect combination of flavour, spice and crunch. Good food, beers and cocktails have been combined with jazz, blues and hip-hop music to create a playful and mischievous vibe.
Fox Friday comes home to Perth
Fox Friday Brewing Co is now open in the Perth (Boorloo) suburb of Burswood, located in the former Blasta Brewing site. Co-owner Benn Hooper is originally from WA and after successful Fox Friday openings in Tasmania and Melbourne, is ready to reconnect with the local beer and hospitality community. Check out the glass curtain walls in the tap room, giving guests the chance to watch the brewing process while dining on local produce and seafood.
Margaret River Wine's 2024 Vintage exceeding expectations
The cool, wet winter weather in the Margaret River Region disappeared quickly last year, replacing it with a dry, warm spring – and a hot summer. These conditions led to low disease pressure across the vineyards. 2024 was known as a 'mast year' with ample and prolonged marri (corymbia calophylla) blossoms which helped keep native silvereye birds away from the grapes. This resulted in all varieties reaching maturity early, including the iconic chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon the region is renowned for. The concentration of aromas and flavours looks promising for high quality, special wines across the 2024 vintage.
Ferngrove Wines launches ultimate tasting experiences
Ferngrove Wines in Frankland River, north of Denmark, has opened its Cellar Door for three unique new tasting experiences sharing the passion for the cool climate wines from the Great Southern region of WA. The tasting experiences include the Experience Ferngrove Tasting- a casual introduction to six wines; a Museum Tasting Experience of special back-vintage wines; and a Bespoke Tasting Flight of 10 wines across the portfolio. Along with the tasting experiences, guests can dine on pizzas, charcuterie boards or cook their own barbecue feast in the gardens; or stay overnight in the Ferngrove Chalets for a proper Great Southern Winery experience.
Taste the WA season at UMA Restaurant
Overflowing with locally sourced produce, UMA Restaurant, in Pan Pacific Perth has launched a new seasonal menu. As Perth (Boorloo) descends into winter, the seasonal menu will focus on warmer dishes with deep undertones and texture, all made with sustainable cooking techniques. Langostinos Shark Bay tiger prawns and wines, cheese and charcuterie from Más Vino Wine Bar are some of the WA locals on display.
Seek out Broome's latest haven
Open, airy and drenched in golden sunlight, Haven Café has opened in Broome's (Rubibi) Chinatown. The brunch spot features specialty West Australian roasted coffee topped with latte-art swans and mouth-watering food like pulled pork benedict and cinnamon scroll waffles that can be tasted 7 days a week. For anyone in a rush, there's the option to order online in advance so you can just swing past on your way to the glorious Broome beaches.
Feast in Freo on lobster
The Cray Seafood and Grill restaurant has added yet another location to their WA repertoire. The Cray Fremantle opened in mid-March, broadening Perth's seafood culinary scene. Located just a ten-minute walk from the Fremantle train station, it's the perfect location to spend the day exploring the maritime city and ending the day local WA seafood. The Cray's iconic seafood platters, which have been popular across social media, feature local crayfish, king crab legs, clam seafood chowder, a range of oysters and more.
Zookeepers Broome reimagined
Open and operating at the historic “Old Zoo” site in the Kimberley town of Broome, Zookeepers is a new, vibrant, family-owned cafe serving drool worthy food and West Australian specialty coffee roasted by Micrology. Hand-made sourdough pastries, focaccia sandwiches, fresh sashimi poke bowls and cinnabuns are some of the choices for guests, whether they're dining in or simply grabbing and going. Zookeepers will be opening for dinners later this year. The cuisine will be Asian-fusion inspired, serving dishes like laksa, Peking duck and nasi lemak.
Tapas Bar opens in WA's oldest wine region
The Tapas Bar has opened in Perth's Swan Valley wine region, offering tapas-style dining alongside Oliver Farm Wines and local beers and spirits from Swan Valley craft producers. In the former site of The Cheese Barrel, The Tapas Bar is showcasing Western Australia's local cuisine and wines while guests bask in the sunshine of the outside deck that overlooks the Susannah Brook and surrounding bushland. Its menu features Shark Bay tiger prawns, Wedge Island octopus, popcorn crocodile, kangaroo carpaccio and more. Bookings are recommended and can be made online or over the phone.
Cabin Fever heats up
Cabin Fever is set to heat up the Margaret River Region from July 12 to 21 with 10-days of winter-themed food and wine events. Festival favourites are back in 2024 with more than 40 events dotted from Busselton (Undalup) to Margaret River and everywhere in between. The festival highlights the diverse range of experiences throughout the region with a series of unique events featuring regional produce, award-winning wine and beverages, live music, art and entertainment.
Lucky Bean Cafe reopens
The lucky new owners of Lucky Bean Cafe have reopened their family run coffee van. Parked up on the shore of Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grande near the coastal town of Esperance, the view consists of pure white sand, azure blue ocean and kangaroos bounding around. The opening hours are determined by the weather, but Lucky Bean is usually open Wednesday to Saturday from 9am-2pm. Guests can enjoy barista coffee, snacks, cold drinks and icy poles on their road trip in WA's Golden Outback.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Triple World Title Boxing: Lomachenko vs Kambosos
May 12 | RAC Arena | Perth
Perth (Boorloo) will host a premium boxing event this weekend, with three World Title fights, including the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Lightweight World Title, secured in an Australian-exclusive. Thousands are expected to flock to Perth's RAC Arena on May 12 to see the world's best boxers take part in this blockbuster event, which will also be broadcast across the globe to more than 100 countries. The main event will see Australian George Kambosos Jr. and Ukrainian Vasiliy Lomachenko fight for the IBF Lightweight World Title, with two additional world title fights to be announced in the coming weeks. Preceding the main event, a series of engaging activities, including a public open training session, will amplify the excitement in Perth in the lead-up to the spectacle.
The Gibb Challenge
May 10 to 17 | The Kimberley | WA's North West
Participate in the 2024, Gibb Challenge, an epic adventure through the stunning Kimberley region of Western Australia. This multi-day cycling challenge covers over 700 kilometers of rugged terrain, traversing the iconic Gibb River Road. Cyclists from all walks of life come together to test their endurance and explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Kimberley, from rugged gorges to ancient rock formations. It's a journey of camaraderie, determination, and appreciation for the natural beauty of the Australian outback.
Forest Rally
May 16 to 19 | Busselton | Australia's South West
Forest Rally is getting ready to rev up in Western Australia's South West region. A thrilling showcase of speed, skill, and adrenaline is held amidst the picturesque landscapes of Busselton through to Nannup. This rally event invites drivers and spectators alike to immerse themselves in the heart-pounding action as competitors navigate the challenging forest trails and gravel roads with precision and determination. With its dynamic course weaving through towering trees and scenic vistas, the Forest Rally promises an exhilarating experience for motorsport enthusiasts who will travel to compete or simply watch in awe.
Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival
May 17 to 19 | Margaret River | WA's South West
Escape to a world where words, creativity and expression have no limits at the Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival. Each year the festival brings together an array of thought-provoking writers to the Margaret River Region including novelists, journalists, academics and established and emerging storytellers from WA, interstate and overseas. The biggest literature event in WA, guests can immerse themselves in a weekend of talks, panels and workshops. The series of events are taking place at the festival hub, at Margaret River HEART in the town centre, and includes a new Busselton Special Edition satellite event in Busselton.
Ord Valley Muster
May 17 to 25 | Kununurra | WA's North West
The annual Ord Valley Muster will once again light up the Kimberley in 2024 with dazzling performances from some of Australia's top artists. The Screaming Jets, Rogue Traders, Sarah McLeod and Bob Evans will all take to the stage at the Nexus Airlines Kimberley Moon Experience on May 18, with tickets now on sale for the pinnacle event. Held in the town of Kununurra (Goonoonoorrang), the eastern gateway to the other-worldly wonders of the Kimberley region, the iconic nine-day festival will take place from May 17 to 25. The program also features traditional dance, performance and art from Waringarri Aboriginal Arts, storytelling led by local Miriwoong Elder David Newry, comedy shows, local cruises, art shows and unique dining experiences, plus the mustering rodeo.
May 31 | Optus Stadium | Perth
Two of Italy's most successful football clubs, AC Milan and AS Roma, will go head-to-head in an Asia Pacific exclusive blockbuster match at Optus Stadium in Perth on May 31. This marks the inaugural encounter between two Series A teams on Australian turf, with AC Milan making their long-awaited return to Australian soil after over three decades. Similarly, AS Roma will be stepping onto Australian grounds for the first time since 2015, when they faced off against Real Madrid in Melbourne. The match is the latest initiative growing WA's connection with Italy, with the popular direct flight between Rome and Perth set to return for a third season in 2024.
Little Italy
June 1 | Perth
Be transported to Little Italy without ever leaving Western Australia. From 2pm to 10pm, a vibrant celebration of all things Italian will be held at the WA Italian Club and Dorrien Gardens. Experience the authentic flavors of Italy as you savor genuine cuisine and beverages, delighting your palate with tastes directly from Italy's soul. Immerse yourself in a vibrant cultural experience with classic Italian music and entertainment, ensuring a day of enjoyment for all ages. Discover lively market stalls, embrace the thrill of football activities, and rejoice in the essence of Italy's enchantment.
Pinjarra Festival
June 1 to 2 | Pinjarra | Destination Perth
The annual Pinjarra Festival, a vibrant celebration of community, culture, and creativity is being held in the charming town of Pinjarra, Western Australia on the first weekend of June. From live performances by talented musicians and dancers to art displays showcasing the creativity of local artists, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the Pinjarra Festival. Mouthwatering food stalls offer a diverse array of culinary delights, while market stalls tempt visitors with unique crafts and wares. Families can delight in children's activities and entertainment, creating cherished memories together. The Pinjarra Festival embodies the spirit of community, uniting people in celebration and fostering a sense of pride in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Albany Classic 'Around the Houses'
June 1 to 2 | Albany | WA's South West
The Albany Classic "Around the Houses" takes place on the first weekend of June in the heart of Albany's CBD, with scenic views of the ANZAC Peace Park and Princess Royal Harbour. This captivating display of historic motor sport features a diverse array of vehicles, ranging from vintage wire wheels and post-vintage classics to open-wheel racers and powerful muscle cars. Organized by the Albany Classic Motorsport Club in collaboration with other local and Perth-based motorsport clubs, this event celebrates the rich heritage of automotive racing in the region.
June 1 | Mullewa | WA's Coral Coast
The Mullewa Muster and Rodeo is a thrilling annual event that showcases the vibrant spirit of outback Australia. This rodeo extravaganza offers a mix of adrenaline-pumping rodeo action and family-friendly entertainment. Spectators can watch top-notch bull riding, barrel racing, and other exciting rodeo competitions, all set against the stunning backdrop of the West Australian outback. With live music, delicious food stalls, and activities for all ages, the Mullewa Muster and Rodeo promises a memorable experience for attendees from near and far.
Goldfields Cyclassic
June 1 to 2 |Kalgoorlie | WA's Golden Outback
The Goldfields Cyclassic is a 2-day premier cycling event that traverses the breathtaking landscapes of Western Australia's Golden Outback. This challenging yet exhilarating race attracts cyclists from across the country to compete in one of Australia's most iconic cycling events. Divided into two stages, the event offers participants the opportunity to test their skills and endurance on both road and dirt tracks. From the eucalypt woodlands to rugged terrain, riders will experience the beauty and diversity of the Goldfields firsthand. With categories catering to all skill levels and age groups, the Goldfields Cyclassic is not only a thrilling competition but a cycling community celebration.
Leonora Golden Gift
June 3 to 4 | Leonora | WA's Golden Outback
2024 is the 21st year of the Leonora Golden Gift. In a small outback town, elite athletes showcase their speed, strength, and endurance and compete in a variety of events ranging from sprints to distance races. The 'track' is the bitumen main street in the town of Leonora, just 234km from Kalgoorlie. The Golden Gift fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, offering spectators a chance to cheer on their favourite athletes and enjoy a range of family-friendly activities such as fireworks, concerts, market stalls and lawn-ball tournaments.
June 11 | HBF Park | Perth
FIFA World Cup 2026TM qualifier match between Australia's Subway Socceroos and Palestine is being held at HBF Park this winter in Perth. The Subway Socceroos will be playing in Western Australia for the first time since 2016 and the state is expected to see audiences from across the country travelling to watch the Round Two qualifier.
Red Country Music Festival
June 14 to 15 | Pilbara Tour | WA's North West
The Red Country Music Festival, nestled in the heart of Australia's picturesque countryside, is a vibrant celebration of all things country music. An exciting 2024 lineup includes Lee Kernaghan, Ashleigh Dallas and Bradley Hall Band. With its pulsating beats and soul-stirring melodies, the festival offers an electrifying atmosphere where music enthusiasts from far and wide gather to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of country tunes. Beyond the captivating performances, attendees can indulge in a variety of activities, from line dancing under the open sky to savoring delicious local cuisines and exploring artisanal crafts.
Truffle Kerfuffle
June 28 to 30 | Manjimup | WA's South West
The Truffle Kerfuffle festival will return to the heart of Australia truffle country in Manjimup to celebrate the region's 'black gold'. The weekend of festivities includes long table feasts, decadent dishes laden with freshly harvested black truffles, intimate fireside cooking masterclasses with acclaimed chefs, truffle dog demonstrations and truffle hunts in orchards. Along with wine sessions, spirit tastings, free cooking demonstrations and a marketplace filled with locally grown produce. Manjimup, situated in WA's Southern Forests and Valleys, stands as the premier truffle hub of the Southern Hemisphere, yielding approximately 85 per cent of Australia's black truffle output.
