LATEST NEWS

What's new and trending in 2026
Western Australia is welcoming a mix of dreamlike new projects, products and experiences next year. A mega lineup of Dream Events includes the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix presented by KPMG; the return of AFL Origin for the first time in 26 years; the Australian-exclusive Lighting the Sound; and the 25th anniversary edition of the Ord Valley Muster. In the accommodation space, Hyde is on its way to the city; and Heyscape Denmark's new cabins will open by March 2026. Abercrombie and Kent's new eco-lodge in Purnululu National Park is also underway. Perth Film Studios will begin production and Perth Surf Park is set to open in late 2027. The Perth / Boorloo food scene will welcome Baillie Hill, and there's an exciting multi-venue project from Kailis Hospitality Group in the works. WA will also gain its eighth Camping with Custodians site and expanded aviation and cruise options. 

WA welcomes two new direct international flights
Perth's status as Australia's Western Gateway continues to grow, with Qantas introducing two new non-stop international services this month. Travellers can now fly direct from Auckland and Johannesburg, opening smoother, faster connections between Western Australia and two key global regions. Each route operates three times per week, offering greater flexibility for holidaymakers, business travellers, and those visiting friends and family. The new services enhance Perth's role as a vibrant hub for international travel, making it easier than ever for visitors to step straight into Western Australia's sunshine, culture, and unforgettable landscapes. 

Margaret River Region hosts World's 50 Best Vineyards awards
WA's renowned Margaret River Region hosted The World's 50 Best Vineyards 2025 awards last month - the first time the prestigious awards have been held in Australia. The annual awards celebrate the top 50 vineyards globally which combine exceptional wine, food and visitor experiences. VIK, located in Chile's Millahue Valley, took out the acclaimed title of Best Vineyard. The event has already generated strong national and international interest in WA's Margaret River Region, which uniquely combines world-class wine, towering forests, ancient caves, spectacular beaches and thousands of years of Aboriginal culture.

Aboriginal cultural experiences, outdoor activities and upgrades at Rottnest
Rottnest Island / Wadjemup is introducing a mix of experiences for the 2025/26 summer, with a focus on Aboriginal culture and outdoor recreation. Dooga Waalitj Healing will offer art workshops, cultural walks, smoking ceremonies and language classes, while Koorda's Crew provides immersive Aboriginal cultural activities for children. Outdoor fun includes pickleball at the redesigned Bathurst tennis courts, with Rotto Rackets Sports, beach equipment from Rotto Rentals and guided island tours with Rotto Rickshaws. The island has also upgraded the South Thomson boardwalk, and refurbished 52 Stay Rottnest units at Longreach and Fay's Bay with new kitchens and bathrooms. 

Ord Valley Muster celebrates 25 years in 2026
In 2026, the Kimberley will celebrate the 25th anniversary edition of the beloved Ord Valley Muster, to be held from 15 - 24 May in Kununurra / Goonoonoorrang. The festival offers a full calendar of Aboriginal culture, music, entertainment, food and wine, and art, taking place within the stunning Kimberley surroundings. 2026 promises the return of the popular Muster Rodeo, Corroboree Under the Stars, and Comedy in the Park, as well as an array of new events and experiences. Each year, the highlight is the iconic Kimberley Moon Experience including the Kimberley Fine Diamonds Dinner, a black-tie event held under a glittering Kimberley sky.

NEW TOURS, ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMODATION OFFERINGS

HYDE Perth taking bookings from March
The heart of Perth / Boorloo will welcome an exciting multi-level hotel development in March 2026. Located on Pier Street, this 121-room hotel will be HYDE's first ground-up, purpose-built hotel globally and promises to be a sophisticated, luxury hotel offering. Its hero will be FARRA - a Grecian-inspired dining, pool and terrace venue which combines Mediterranean influence with West Australian produce. At the core of the HYDE brand is music and a distinctly bohemian spirit, and this ethos will be reflected throughout HYDE's lively program of experiences. Local artists and musicians will helm the cultural program, while DJ residencies, live sets, poolside gatherings, and wellness sessions will deliver memorable guest experiences. 

Wilderness hiking tours launch in Ningaloo
Two Coral Coast operators are offering new ways for travellers to experience the magic of Ningaloo. Trek Ningaloo has introduced the 'Ningaloo Private Wilderness Charter' - a full-day, tailor-made adventure shaped around guests' interests and fitness levels. Led by founder and wilderness guide Ian Vickers, the experience takes in dramatic limestone gorges, scenic ridge walks, secluded beaches and the striking coastline of Cape Range National Park. 

Exmouth Adventure Co has also launched the 'Essence of Ningaloo' - a three-day, two-night journey through Cape Range and the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef / Nyinggulu. Highlights include exploring Yardie Creek, snorkelling at Turquoise Bay and visiting cultural sites such as the Jurabi Turtle Centre. Evenings unfold at a comfortable base camp, complete with hearty meals, storytelling and stargazing. 

Quirky history tour available in Mandurah
An e-bike tour with a charismatic difference has launched in the coastal city of Mandurah / Mandjoogoordap. The Bike Kiosk's 'Magical Mandurah with the Minister' tour is led by former WA Minister for Culture and the Arts, David Templeman - known as the 'singing minister'. During 90 hilarious minutes, guests will take in Mandurah highlights including the foreshore, city centre and Giants of Mandurah sculptures, while discovering more about the region's rich history. The tour promises multiple costume changes, lively storytelling, and spontaneous street theatre, followed by a delicious seafood feast at Cicerello's seafood restaurant. Some of the proceeds from this tour is donated to the Mandurah Historical Society.  

Escapes accommodation extension for Margaret River vineyard
Renowned Margaret River Region winery Aravina Estate has unveiled 21 new eco accommodation offerings as part of its Aravina Escapes brand expansion. The contemporary cabins are set high on Wildwood Ridge and offer sweeping views of the property's spectacular lake and vineyards, enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows. Cabins offer elegant fit outs and guests have a choice of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, accessible and honeymoon cabins. The honeymoon cabin features a striking red bathtub overlooking the vines - perfect for relaxing evenings. The cabins are located a short stroll from Aravina's varied offerings – its cellar door, restaurant and pizza bar, craft brewery, and WA's first official Surf Museum, which takes a deep dive into the state's surfing history, complete with surfboards, photographs and memorabilia. Aravina Estate is located in Yallingup, in the heart of WA's award-winning Margaret River Region.  

Luxe new addition to Tree Chalets collection
Grandis is the latest cabin from Tree Chalets, offering gorgeous farmland and tree-lined views from its secluded deck, alongside a freestanding cast iron tub, perfect for sunset unwinding. Inside, guests will find a serene bedroom with plush linen, spacious living area complete with log fireplace, and bathroom stocked with luxurious Leif products. Grandis is one of three premium cabins on a stunning property located just 15 minutes outside of Busselton / Undalup in the Margaret River Region. Offering a relaxing tree-stay, the property features walking trails and more than 1,000 towering Rosegum trees. Guests can elevate the luxury further with grazing boards and hampers on arrival.  

Spooky stories to thrill hikers
Award-winning hiking operator Off the Beaten Track WA has launched a further two experiences in the Perth Hills. 'Twilight Tunnels & Haunted Horizons' is a spooky 10 km hike through John Forrest National Park, past waterfalls, glowing lookouts and a walk through Perth's oldest (and some may say 'most haunted') Swan View Tunnel. Afterwards, hikers indulge in gourmet grazing, herbal tea, and stories under the stars. For a nature experience that's more soulful, less spooky, guests can try the 'Vibrations in Nature' hike. This gentle four kilometre sunset hike along the Bibbulmun Track concludes with a one-hour outdoor sound bath on the summit of Mt Vincent. Guests will enjoy a deeply restorative session hosted by Parnita's Yoga – with gongs, singing bowls and chimes creating a grounding experience. The evening concludes with antipasto grazing, herbal tea, and a peaceful twilight walk. 

Private Properties adds an exclusive new option
Travellers seeking a dreamy South West escape can book the Artists' Retreat from Private Properties. This spacious, three-bedroom home can accommodate up to six guests, making it perfect for family and group holidays. It's located a short stroll from spectacular Eagle Bay in the Margaret River Region and boasts stunning ocean views, a wraparound veranda and private gardens. Located near the iconic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, Eagle Bay is a short distance from dining hotspots like Meelup Farmhouse, ilma Beach House, Wise Wine and Eagle Bay Brewing Co, and within easy reach of Dunsborough. Private Properties has an extensive portfolio of luxury holiday properties throughout the South West region, including in Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and Yallingup.

Sunset charters await in Rockingham
Catalpa Charters is a new operator in Rockingham, an hour south of Perth, offering a variety of cruising options along the picturesque coastline. The three-hour 'Western Rock Lobster Catch and Keep Tour' allows guests to experience the thrill of the catch, while discovering more about this sustainably caught delicacy, including how to identify and appreciate this WA seafood star. For a relaxing experience, guests can opt for the three-hour 'Sunset Cruise' to take in this region in gorgeous golden light. Those seeking a truly exclusive experience can also book a private charter.

NEW FOOD & BEVERAGE OPENINGS

Pearla & Co opens its doors
Fresh seafood, ocean-inspired interiors and major culinary credentials have arrived in Leighton Beach, Fremantle / Walyalup in the form of Pearla & Co. From founder and executive Chef Scott Bridger (of Bib and Tucker fame), Pearla & Co is serving up modern coastal dishes with a focus on locally sourced produce like WA's famous shellfish. The catch-of-the-day is dry-aged on site in two speciality showcase fridges, while the cold bar is home to oyster shucking and seafood preparation. An impressive marble 10-metre bar is a feature of the interior design and near the entrance, a dedicated 'food cube' allows the team to pick fresh herbs and edible leaves daily. The name is deeply personal - a tribute to Scott's grandmother Pearl and an acknowledgement of the community of growers, fishermen and suppliers which come together to create this very special venue. 

Little Creatures lands in Elizabeth Quay
One of WA's most iconic breweries has branched into Perth / Boorloo, just in time for summer. Located at Nine the Esplanade, Little Creatures Elizabeth Quay comprises more than 500 sqm of interior space across a central bar and dining area, plus 390 sqm of alfresco area. Little Creatures' iconic beer range sits at the centre of the beverage list, alongside a comprehensive wine and cocktail list. The dining menu showcases West Australian produce through a selection of share plates, pub classics, stone-baked pizzas, seasonal salads and premium grilled meats. Little Creatures is also set to unveil its renovated location in Fremantle soon. 

Tigerfish officially opens in Cottesloe
Longstanding coastal icon, The Cottesloe Beach Hotel has upped the sizzle factor with the opening of Tigerfish. Touted as a 'spirited bar and dining destination', this upscale modern establishment is delivering bold Southeast Asian flavours and design. Its varied spaces include a curved cocktail bar, light-filled dining room, cosy booths and perfectly positioned tables-for-two overlooking the Indian Ocean. An open robata grill elevates the kitchen theatre, while the private dining room will ensure events are intimate and stylish. The menu is designed to share, and drinks include handcrafted cocktails and an expansive wine list. Highlights include the Tigerfish House Punch, Albany rock oysters with red nahm jim and prawn toast spring rolls. Tigerfish is perfectly positioned opposite Cottesloe Beach, which is approximately 25 minutes' drive from Perth CBD.

CURRENT & UPCOMING EVENTS

United Cup Perth
2-11 January 2026 | Perth
The United Cup sees some of the top international men's and women's tennis stars join forces in an electrifying mixed-team competition. Across nine days, RAC Arena will come alive with high-stakes group matches and unmissable finals qualification clashes. Beyond the court, fans can enjoy live entertainment, food, and family-friendly experiences in the heart of Perth city.

The Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix
17-18 January 2026 | Fremantle
Perth is set to host the world's best in high-speed, close-to-shore racing for the first time in Fremantle. The Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix, presented by KPMG, will kick start the 2026 Rolex SailGP Championship, a global calendar of events featuring national teams battling it out in identical high-tech, foiling catamarans and racing at speeds exceeding 100kmph. 

Fringe World Festival
21 January - 15 February 2026 | Perth
Fringe World Festival is Perth's beloved annual arts celebration, boasting an open-access lineup of brilliant artists. Over the month, more than 600 captivating acts redefine genres across circus, cabaret, comedy, music and theatre. Fringe World Festival in Perth is the third largest Fringe Festival globally, and second largest nationally.

HSBC SVNS Perth
7-8 February 2026 | Perth
HSBC SVNS brings the ultimate festival experience to Perth transforming HBF Park into a weekend celebration of sport, music, food, and culture. Expect high-energy rugby sevens matches featuring some of the world's best players, live music performances and vibrant fan zones.

2026 AAMI AFL Origin
14 February 2026 | Perth
On Saturday, 14 February 2026, Western Australia will take on Victoria at the iconic Optus Stadium, marking the first elite-level Origin clash in over 25 years — a moment fans have been waiting for since Victoria last faced South Australia at the MCG in 1999.

AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026
1- 21 March 2026 | Perth
Perth/Boorloo is set to host a series of matches from some of Asia's top women's football teams as part of the AFC Women's Asian Cup in 2026. Perth Rectangular Stadium will play host to six group stage matches, followed by two quarter final matches, promising fast-paced matches and unforgettable moments.