No images? Click here Travel and lifestyle news from Western AustraliaMay 2024 EditionKaya ,Welcome to the May edition of This is WA, bringing you the latest travel and lifestyle news from across Western Australia. In May, the Aboriginal season of Djeran draws to a close, marking a transition from hot weather to cooler nights with dewy mornings. Gentle southerly breezes take the place of strong gusts, while vibrant flowers like the red flowering gum and summer flame burst into bloom. The cooler climate means the beginning of whale season in the South West region. In the Kimberley town of Broome (Rubibi), May marks the start of the Wirralburu season. The wind gusts are strong, drawing in the cool desert weather and the salmon start biting as the lizards go into hibernation, signaling the seasonal change for the Yawuru people. Embarking on a journey to Western Australia during this period offers an exciting adventure. It's an ideal moment to explore the Kimberley region, renowned for its captivating landmarks like the otherworldly beehive-like domes of the Bungle Bungle Range. With the State’s Affordable Airline Program continuing in 2024, now is the perfect time to book a flight to regional Western Australia. From pristine coastlines to rugged outback scenery, Western Australia provides diverse experiences for all travelers. Keep reading to discover the exciting updates across Western Australia. What's HotPair'd to highlight the best of Western Australia's culinary delightsWA’s newest homegrown culinary event will take place on Wadandi (Saltwater) country from November 14 to 17. Pair'd showcases the uniqueness of the Margaret River 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 Jetstar flight is another great incentive for interstate food and music lovers to travel to WA. Stories development in Yagan SquareA 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. WA’s most anticipated restaurant of the year has officially openedDescribed as ‘luxurious Californian country club meets Parisian hotel lobby’, Perth has welcomed the opening of Gibney – a sophisticated brasserie and grill located by the water at Cottesloe. 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. Discounted airfares within Western Australia to continue in 2024The affordability of regional airfares throughout Western Australia 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:
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. Rebirth, reflect, repurpose and replay at new Perth arts festivalA 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 LombadinaLast week, Camping with Custodians opened the doors to its seventh site in WA at Lombadina. Just over a two-hour drive north of Broome on the Dampier Peninsula, there’s 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 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.
Tours, Attraction & AccommodationTime for reflection on women’s only multi-day hike The Hike Collective has launched a 5-day tour, The Karijini Journey, specifically designed for women. It 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 practices and connect with the ancient landscapes and like-minded individuals. The Kariniji Journey is an insightful experience into the local culture and natural beauty of the North West region that also focuses on sustainability and benefits to local communities. 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 Mandurah (Mandjoogoordap). 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 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, 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, release your inner adventurer and go wild, swimming in sandy beaches, canoeing through red cliff gorges and luxury camping in remote campgrounds in Australia’s North West. A private guide will take you canoeing each day and you have the option for afternoon hikes to 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 reef on Mackerel Islands Experience an exclusive island escape on the Mackerel Islands in Australia’s North West. This 3-day tour begins with a mesmerizing scenic flight departing from Exmouth that soars directly over the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu) where you can spot gentle whale sharks and majestic manta rays. Once you’ve arrived in the tiny paradise of the Mackerel Islands, spend the day on either a kayak, SUP or snorkeling through crystal waters with your personal island guide. Guests can relax in their 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) is Dudja Dreaming - a cultural tour company that provides 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
Lifestyle & CultureLightscape 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, with this season expected to completely sell out. 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, a 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.
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, Revealed is an annual art exhibition honoring the diversity, skill and passion of contemporary Aboriginal art practice in Western Australia. Running from May 10 to August 4, Revealed features painting, silkprint, 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. This series celebrates Western Australian 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.
Food & WineCabin Fever heats upCabin Fever is a 10-day destination winter festival held each July throughout the Margaret River Region. 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. 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.
A South Bird in the west
The co-owners of South Bird have a passion for fried chicken and have committed 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.
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.
Zookeepers Broome reimagined Open and operating at the historic “Old Zoo” site in the North West region, Zookeepers Broome is a new, vibrant, family-owned café, 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 on the menu in WA's oldest wine region The Tapas Bar has opened in the Swan Valley, offering tapas-style dining alongside Olive 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.
Fox Friday comes home Fox Friday Brewing Co is now open in the Perth (Boorloo) suburb of Burswood, in the former Blasta Brewing site. Co-owner Benn Hooper is originally from Western Australia and after successful Fox Friday openings in Tasmania and Melbourne, is ready to reconnect with WA’s 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.
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 in 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.
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, 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 Australia’s North West.
Feast in Freo on lobster
EventsTaste Great Southern May 2 to 12 | Great Southern region | WA’s South West Taste Great Southern is a celebration of the region’s incredible food, wine, people and attractions. The event program will include more than 40 culinary events over 11 days ranging from long table lunches, unique dinners, degustations, premium pairing events, community markets, wine sessions and more. More than 20 local and nationally acclaimed chefs will head up the program, with festival favourites including the Great Southern Cellar Door, Catch of the South, Women of the Region Luncheon and Great Southern Wine Journey returning for the 2024 program. The events will be held across the Great Southern towns of Albany, Denmark, Mount Barker, Frankland River, Porongurup and Katanning. SEVEN Gravel Race May 11 | Nannup | WA’s South West The SEVEN Gravel Race emerges as a thrilling testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and camaraderie in the world of cycling. The 125 km long world-class course spans seven sectors, starting and finishing in the picturesque Nannup. From winding forest trails to rugged mountain passes, and then 3200 metres of vertical climbing, SEVEN is a blend of adrenaline-fueled racing and scenic Western Australia exploration. Margaret River Ultra Marathon May 11 – 12 | Margaret River | WA’s South West The Margaret River Ultra Marathon 2024 is set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Western Australia's Margaret River region and stands as a pinnacle of endurance and adventure in the world of trail running. This event challenges runners to push their limits in an 80km ultra marathon or 42km marathon across rugged terrain, awe-inspiring forests, pristine beaches, and rolling vineyards. With its diverse course offering a mix of single track, fire trails, and technical sections, the marathon promises a true test of stamina and skill for participants of all levels. 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. Image Credit: CRM Photographer 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. 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. AC Milan vs AS Roma 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. Albany Classic ‘Around the Horses’ 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. Mullewa Muster and Rodeo 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. Socceroos vs Palestine 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 Truffle KerfuffleJune 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. |