WA's whale watching season is underway
WA is home to the 'humpback highway', as 30,000 gentle giants move up and down the west coast during the Southern Hemisphere's largest whale migration. The state also has one of the world's longest whale watching seasons — from May to December — and a range of tours around the Dream State, including Whale Watch Western Australia, Live Ningaloo and Naturaliste Charters Whale Watching offer the chance to spot humpbacks, southern right and even blue whales. September to late-November is the prime time to see them frolicking off the coast of Perth / Boorloo, while other hotspots include Albany / Kinjarling, the Margaret River region, Broome / Rubibi, Exmouth / Warnangoora, and Esperance / Kepa Kurl.  

An otherworldly array of wildflowers 
One of the greatest flower shows on Earth, Western Australia's renowned wildflower season, is underway. Each year, more than 12,000 species burst into bloom, with the Coral Coast region particularly renowned for its spectacular displays. More than 60 per cent of WA's wildflower species are found nowhere else in the world, which is further boosted by its 100-plus national parks, giving wildflower chasers endless viewing opportunities. The six-month flowering season generally begins on the vast landscapes of the Pilbara, Goldfields and Coral Coast, with September traditionally heralding the start of the Perth / Boorloo season, including within the iconic Kings Park and Botanic Garden. WA's wildflower season will then sweep through the South West, finishing in November. Wildflower events also abound, including the Everlasting Kings Park Festival in September, the Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show from 8 – 20 September, Bloom Festival from 27 September to 26 October and Grounded: Esperance Hiking Festival 18 to 22 September. The Djilba Esperance Wildflower Festival, from 20 to 24 September is another colourful calendar highlight.   

Top WA operators join The Dream Collective
More than 190 leading Western Australian tourism operators have been inducted into Tourism WA's industry recognition program, The Dream Collective, run in partnership with Tourism Council WA. The program, now in its second year, champions WA tourism operators and experiences that are committed to enhancing their business in the areas of customer service, accessibility, marketing, and sustainability and are actively contributing to building a high-performing WA tourism sector. The 2025 cohort includes businesses from across WA such as Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm in the Kimberley, Mandalay Holiday Resort in Busselton and Live Ningaloo in Exmouth.  

Home and Away swaps the Bay for WA
Australian television icon, Home and Away, is set to film a series of special episodes in Western Australia this October, in partnership with Tourism WA. It's the first time in the longstanding show's 37-year history that filming is taking place in WA, with the episodes to be broadcast to viewers across Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and close to 50 other international markets. Filming is set to take place in October with episodes expected to air in 2026. The episodes will be supported by a promotional campaign featuring teaser content and location highlights, enticing viewers to visit WA. 

Team draws announced ahead of AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026™
The Final Draw for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026™, has been announced, revealing the teams that will play in Perth next year in this blockbuster global football competition. WA will proudly host the opening match of the Tournament, during which Australia's beloved Matildas will take on the Philippines, before hosting fixtures featuring Japan, Chinese Taipei, Vietnam, India, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan. The three thrilling weeks of football will take place from 1–21 March 2026 (at Perth Stadium and Perth Rectangular Stadium) and is anticipated to attract thousands of out-of-state fans to WA. Additionally, the cumulative broadcast audience is set to reach over 100 million viewers across the duration of the event.

Tickets on sale for exclusive UFC Fight Night Perth
Tickets are now on sale for the eagerly anticipated, Australian-exclusive UFC FIGHT NIGHT: ULBERG vs. REYES, soon to ignite RAC Arena in Perth/Boorloo on Sunday, 28 September. Headlined by world No.3 ranked UFC light heavyweight Carlos “Black Jag” Ulberg and world No.8 former title contender Dominick “The Devastator” Reyes the five-round bout may determine the next light heavyweight title contender. UFC Fight Night Perth is anticipated to entice thousands of UFC fans to WA and will be broadcast live to millions of fans across 170 countries. The Australian-exclusive showdown will be the only UFC Fight Night scheduled to take place in Australia this year, and the first in Australia since 2018.

NEW TOURS, ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMODATION OFFERINGS

From ocean to outback: latest tours by New Leaf Connect
Overnighting in an outback homestead, and a scenic flight above the Abrolhos Islands are just two of the experiences on offer from New Leaf Connect's new tours - Coral Coast Explorer, and Station Stays. The Coral Coast Explorer is a one-night, two-day itinerary which includes an Abrolhos islands snorkel and scenic flight, a pink lake experience and an expedition into the breathtaking gorges of Kalbarri. The itinerary is an ideal option for visitors short on time seeking maximum sightseeing opportunities. Meanwhile, the Station Stays experiences offer a variety of options and departure points for intrepid travellers seeking authentic outback experiences. Guests will have the opportunity to stay on real working stations, dine fireside beneath the stars, and enjoy stargazing in pristine skies. 

Australian-first vessel soon to arrive in Ningaloo Reef
Ocean Eco Adventures is soon to launch Australia's first electric sea-going charter vessel to take visitors on scenic and sustainable tours of the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef / Nyinggulu. The new vessel, Wirraji (Baiyungu for Storm Bird), will offer a whisper-quiet, small group touring experience, and a peaceful and low impact way to discover this pristine environment. Offering a luxurious chartering experience, professional crew and snorkelling equipment, Wirraji will be the perfect vessel for manta ray swimming and snorkelling tours. The new vessel will arrive in Coral Bay in the coming months, with bookings now available for 2026.

Best Western Hotel Kununurra opens in the Kimberley
The Best Western Cambridge Hotel Kununurra located in the Kimberley town of Kununurra / Goonoonoorrang in WA's North West, is officially open and welcoming guests. The refurbished hotel features stylish rooms reflecting the colour palette of the surrounding landscapes; a swimming pool, ample parking and the newly opened The Cambridge Brasserie 47, an onsite restaurant and bar which honours the flavours and produce of the Kimberley. Located a few minutes from Kununurra Airport, the hotel is positioned within walking distance to local shops, restaurants and galleries. 

New luxe cabins open in Esperance
A premium accommodation offering is now open in Esperance / Kepa Kurl, giving visitors an elegant, nature-inspired base from which to explore the region. Box Hill Esperance is situated 12 kilometres east of Esperance, and 30 kilometres from Cape Le Grand National Park, and comprises two stunning cabins which have been lovingly constructed using local materials including reclaimed jarrah beams. The cabin's centrepiece is an impressive stone fireplace which includes ancient, fossilised shells, dated up to 50 million years old. Both cabins also offer an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, king-sized suite, stunning artworks, a luxurious rain shower and freestanding stone bathtub. Each detail has been thoughtfully considered; from the quality appliances (including coffee machine); to the peaceful colour scheme; to the outdoor fire pits which offer an enticing and cosy place for a wind down wine. The two cabins are open and welcoming guests, with a second stage on the horizon for 2027.  

Private Properties launches chic new addition
The Roost, located in laid-back Prevelly, has joined the Private Properties stable, offering guests a stylish home-away-from-home in the Margaret River Region. Architect-designed and equally suited to couples and groups, the home comprises three spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property offers sweeping views over Prevelly and the Indian Ocean; and seamless indoor-outdoor living to the cantilevered deck and grassed grounds. Cleverly designed for year-round appeal, The Roost includes underfloor heating, a barbecue, sun loungers and outdoor shower. Prevelly is located in the heart of the Margaret River Region, minutes away from the area's famous surf breaks, renowned wineries and spectacular forests and caves.  

NEW FOOD & BEVERAGE OPENINGS

That's the spirit: Moontide Distillery wins big at industry awards
Moontide Distillery's Gwendoline Vodka has been awarded 'Australia's Best Flavoured Vodka' at the Australian International Spirits Awards. Lightly flavoured with Kimberley boab and wattleseed, the Gwendoline won a gold medal, in addition to the trophy for best flavoured vodka, and was applauded for its complexity, texture and lingering aromatics. Moontide Distillery is based in Broome / Rubibi and  is renowned for its impressive range of gins, spirits, bitters and vodkas, which emphasise native botanicals and locally sourced ingredients. At its cellar door, visitors are invited to sample its product range, enjoy guided tastings, or relax and enjoy a drink and curated cheese board.  

South West Bottega delivers on Italian flavour
Newcomer South West Bottega has recently opened in Vasse, bringing the warmth and flavour of Italian hospitality to the Margaret River Region. Its seasonal menu serves up Italian favourites like bruschetta, caprese salad and lasagne, alongside a delicious repertoire of pizzas and paninis, plus the all-important dolci like cannoli and tiramisu (made with amore, of course). In addition, the venue is also a treasure trove of lovingly refurbished old furniture, one-off accessories and art – giving visitors reason to linger longer. Family, community and sustainable living is at the heart of South West Bottega, and this ethos is reflected across every element, from the hand-pulled pasta to the local ingredients and partnerships with local growers. 

North 54 lands in Leederville
Lunchtimes in the inner city suburb of Leederville are a whole lot tastier with the arrival of North 54 on Oxford Street. This colourful new addition is already charming diners with its joyful yellow and red aesthetic and fresh and flavourful bites. Founder chef Bac Pham has created a succinct menu of modern banh mis, bowls and snacks based off his time spent in Thailand and his Vietnamese background, with banh mi highlights including son in law eggs, lamb meatball and roast pork options.

LIFESTYLE & CULTURE UPDATES

The Great Southern Treasures Bloom Festival returns
The Great Southern is soon to host a wildflower spectacular, with the return of the Bloom Festival this spring. From 27 September to 26 October, the region will host more than 70 events and displays across its charming towns, including wildflower walks, art exhibitions, open gardens, agricultural shows, and food and wine experiences. The event kicks off with the Bloom Street Party in Ongerup, with other highlights throughout the month including 'Feast in the Fitz', a degustation dinner with Fervor; paint and sip in the vines; and a long table lunch at Plantagenet Wines.  

CURRENT & UPCOMING EVENTS

Festival of Small Halls
Award-winning Australian singer-songwriter Emily Barker and contemporary songwriter Charlie A'Court are gracing the stages of town halls across the Golden Outback throughout August, as part of the Festival of Small Halls. The festival invites folk and acoustic artists to perform in regional communities throughout Australia and offers connection and exceptional performances for small communities. Throughout the month, the festival is travelling to Perenjori, Corrigin, Merredin, Lake Grace, and 13 other small halls across the Wheatbelt, Golden Outback, and Great Southern region. 

Event listings

Shinju Matsuri
23 August – 7 September | Broome
Shinju Matsuri, Japanese for 'festival of the pearl', has been a celebration of Broome's unique multicultural and pearling history since 1970. This iconic festival unfolds across a series of vibrant events showcasing the fusion of flavours, sounds, and colours that define this outback gem. Join fellow foodies for the Sunset Long Table Dinner on Cable Beach or enjoy cultural performances at the Carnival of Nations.

Lance East Exotics Tarmac West Rally
18 - 21 September | Various, Perth
The Lance East Exotics Tarmac West Rally will be held in Perth and surrounds from 18 to 21 September. Rally drivers will race the clock along about 250 kilometres of closed roads that will include long flowing stages and tight technical stages that require deft driving. The event is open to rally cars and has a category for standard road cars. 

Bledisloe Cup
4 October| Perth
Rugby Union's ultimate showdown is back in Perth. The Wallabies face archrivals, the mighty New Zealand All Blacks, in an epic battle for the iconic Bledisloe Cup. With the Wallabies determined to reclaim the Cup after years of anticipation, the stakes have never been higher.

WWE Crown Jewel: Perth
10 - 13 October | Perth
Crown Jewel: Perth will feature some of the biggest WWE Superstars, including Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena, who will make his final WWE appearance in Australia as part of his 2025 farewell tour, Australian native Rhea Ripley, and more.

The West Test - The Ashes
21 - 25 November | Perth
The most iconic series in world cricket is coming to Perth in November. The NRMA Insurance men's Ashes series kicks off at Perth Stadium on Friday, 21 November. The Ashes remains one of the most historic and hotly contested events in world sport – and you will not want to miss this.

Pair'd Margaret River Region
20 – 23 November | Margaret River Region
Pair'd Margaret River Region x Range Rover returns with over 30 unique events, each curated to showcase the best of the region's wine, food, culture, and natural beauty. World-renowned chefs join forces with local culinary icons, acclaimed winemakers, and musical trailblazers to create experiences that could only happen in this breathtaking wine destination.