So Perth

Fans heading to Optus Stadium for AFL matches this season will notice some significant changes designed to enhance their matchday experience and reduce environmental impact.

From the Fremantle versus Melbourne clash on Saturday, March 21st, followed by the West Coast versus North Melbourne match on Sunday, March 22nd, full-strength beer will be available throughout the stadium’s general public areas for the first time, bringing the venue in line with other major Australian stadiums.

The change follows a comprehensive review and consultation process with key stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, suppliers, and hirers. While 13.5 per cent wine has been available across all areas of the venue, 4.5 per cent beer has previously only been served in specific member and hospitality areas, which can serve up to half of attendees at some events. Full-strength beer will now be available alongside existing mid-strength options, giving fans more choice regardless of where they’re seated.

Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti said the changes would improve the fan experience while maintaining a strong focus on safety and responsible service.

“Optus Stadium is a world-class venue, and these changes are about improving the experience for fans and offering more choice, wherever they’re seated,” Saffioti said.

Australia’s first major stadium with fully reusable cups

In a groundbreaking sustainability initiative, Optus Stadium will simultaneously become Australia’s first major stadium to offer 100 per cent reusable drink cups to all patrons.

Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn highlighted the environmental benefits of the initiative, which grew out of the Cook Labor Government’s Plastic Free Riverpark Grant Program.

“When changes like this are applied at scale, across tens of thousands of fans at a venue located right on the river’s edge, they deliver real environmental benefits and show how major venues can operate more sustainably,” Swinbourn said.

Following a competitive tender process, the stadium’s operator VenuesLive has awarded the contract to Western Australian business FSG NickNack, a division of FrothStop Group, to supply and manage the reusable cup system. Dedicated return bins will be located throughout the venue, with cups collected, washed, sanitised, and reused for future events.

FSG NickNack’s cup and washing equipment technology has proven itself internationally, successfully supplying cups for more than 100,000 people at a single-day event and washing 700,000 cups during a five-day festival.

Strong fan support during trials

The reusable cup initiative builds on sustainability measures already in place at the stadium and supports the WA Government’s Plan for Plastics. A trial conducted during the 2024 AFL season showed strong patron support, with most fans reporting a better drinking experience compared with disposable cups.

With the introduction of the reusable cups, the price of a beer at the stadium will rise by 40 cents.

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After a more than seven-year absence from Australian stages, Lily Allen is returning with her biggest tour yet. The British singer-songwriter has announced she’ll perform at RAC Arena later this year — on Sunday, November 1st — as part of her biggest ever headline tour of Australia and New Zealand.

The show, titled Lily Allen performs West End Girl, will see Allen perform her critically acclaimed fifth studio album in its entirety, in the order the songs appear on the record. The album, which dropped in October, has already amassed more than 275 million streams globally and debuted at number six on the Australian ARIA Albums Chart.

Perth will be the final stop on the tour, which kicks off in Auckland on October 21st before moving through Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. The tour marks Allen’s first visit to Australia since her No Shame tour in 2019.

A return to music

For fans who’ve followed Allen’s career since her 2006 debut Alright, Still, this tour represents a significant moment. After announcing she was stepping away from music following her 2018 album No Shame, Allen turned her attention to theatre, starring in sold-out runs of 2:22 A Ghost Story and The Pillowman, as well as co-hosting the award-winning podcast Miss Me with her best friend Miquita Oliver.

West End Girl uses Allen’s move to New York as the basis for a narrative journey across 14 new songs. Written primarily in collaboration with her musical director Blue May, the album has earned widespread critical acclaim, with the Sunday Times UK calling it “fantastic” and BBC declaring it “one for the history books”. 

Influencing a new generation

During her time away from music, Allen’s influence has only deepened among a new generation of pop artists. Billie Eilish has spoken about crying the first time she heard Smile, while Olivia Rodrigo — who invited Allen to perform Fuck You at Glastonbury in protest at the US Supreme Court — credits her with showing how to “say what the fuck you want”. 

The artist’s impact has been recognised beyond streaming numbers, too. Allen recently appeared twice in triple j’s Hottest 100 2025, with ‘Pussy Palace’ landing at number 38 and ‘West End Girl’ at number 88. She’s also been nominated for three BRIT Awards 2026: Artist of the Year, Mastercard Album of the Year, and Genre Category: Pop.

Tour dates and locations

• Spark Arena, Auckland — Wednesday, October 21st
• Brisbane Entertainment Centre — Friday, October 23rd
• TikTok Entertainment Centre, Sydney — Sunday, October 25th
• Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne — Wednesday, October 28th
• RAC Arena, Perth — Sunday, November 1st

How to get tickets

Telstra Plus Members can access presale tickets from Wednesday, February 4th at 11:00 am via telstra.com.au/plus. The lilyallenmusic.com and Frontier Member presales commence Thursday, February 4th at midday, with general sale beginning Monday, February 9th at 1:00 pm.

Tickets and tour information are available at lilyallenmusic.com/tour.

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Whether you’re a local or blow-in, if you’re looking for an unforgettable day on the water, Mandurah Cruises’ Dolphin Cruise & Views Tour is an experience not to be missed. Just an hour south of Perth, Mandurah’s stunning coastline, vibrant waterways, and abundant marine life await. And with a reputation as one of the best-value marine tours in Western Australia, this one-hour cruise is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the region’s natural wonders.

Alternatively, if you’ve heard about Thomas Dambo’s Giants of Mandurah exhibition and are eager to see them up close, Mandurah Cruises also offers an exciting new, two-hour Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise. This tour takes you past one of Mandurah’s most famous Giants, Seba’s Song, which was specifically designed to be viewed from the water. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in the vast wilderness of the Peel-Harvey wetlands and the Dawesville Channel, while keeping an eye out for jovial dolphins in some of Mandurah’s most renowned waterways, including the Port Mandurah canals. Throughout the journey, knowledgeable local marine biologists provide live commentary, enriching your experience. The boat itself is purpose-built for nature viewing, with a bow viewing area that is perfect for spotting dolphins and capturing those unforgettable Giant selfies.

Set sail through Mandurah’s scenic playground Credit: West Beach Studio

Mandurah boasts some of the most scenic and diverse waterways in WA. This Dolphin Cruise takes you through Mandurah’s serene, winding channels, offering spectacular views of the coastal landscape. From the bustling Mandurah Ocean Marina to the calm estuary waters, the cruise route showcases the region’s top sights. You’ll drift through beautiful canals, bordered by luxury waterfront homes, pass by fishing boats at the local harbour, and explore wetlands that are recognised internationally for their ecological importance.

Get up close with WA’s largest resident dolphin population Credit: West Beach Studio

Mandurah’s pristine waters are home to more than 100 Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, the largest permanent population in Western Australia. These playful, curious creatures are known to approach the boat, giving guests a close encounter in their natural habitat. You’ll see them feeding, frolicking, and gliding effortlessly through the water, often right beside the boat. And with Mandurah Cruises’ dolphin sighting guarantee, if you don’t spot any dolphins, you’re invited to join another tour for free!

Marvel at bird life and cultural landmarks Credit: West Beach Studio

Alongside Mandurah’s resident dolphins, you’ll spot a variety of bird life, including majestic pelicans, ospreys, black swans, and other water birds. The surrounding wetlands are teeming with life, hosting migratory shorebirds from around the globe and showcasing the area’s diverse ecosystem. As you cruise, you’ll also have the chance to view cultural landmarks and hear stories about the Aboriginal heritage of the area, offering a fascinating insight into the deep cultural and historical roots of Mandurah.

Fun for the kids and live commentary for all ages Credit: West Beach Studio

Families with young children will find this cruise especially enjoyable. Onboard, kids can experience the thrill of nautical play with a realistic engine room, a captain’s wheel, a boat bell, and giant binoculars, all designed to spark imaginations and keep little ones entertained.

Throughout the cruise, a friendly and knowledgeable local guide provides live commentary, sharing captivating stories and insights about Mandurah’s unique environment, local wildlife, and rich cultural history. It’s an engaging way to learn about this beautiful region while soaking up the sights.

Savour famous fish & chips on board Credit: Cicerello’s Mandurah

No trip to Mandurah is complete without tasting the local fish and chips. For those taking the 11:30 am cruise, you can opt to add a delicious meal from Cicerello’s, known for its locally sourced fish and authentic West Australian flavours. You’ll enjoy a classic lunch while you cruise, adding an extra touch of local flavour to your experience.

Daily departures and a convenient central location Credit: West Beach Studio

The Dolphin Cruise & Views tour departs daily from central Mandurah, making it easy to fit into any travel itinerary. With cruises running year-round, it’s the perfect way to explore the region, whether you’re visiting in the peak of summer or during the cooler months.

Why choose Mandurah Cruises’ Dolphin Cruise & Views tour?

• Guaranteed dolphin sightings, or cruise again for free.
• Just an hour from Perth, this scenic one-hour tour is the perfect day trip.
• Cruise through the stunning Mandurah Ocean Marina and picturesque canals.
• Spot diverse wildlife and visit wetlands of global significance.
• Engage with Mandurah’s history and natural beauty through live commentary.
• Enjoy fun, hands-on experiences for kids on deck.
• Tuck into Mandurah’s best fish & chips on the 11:30 am cruise.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, looking for a family adventure, or simply after a relaxing day on the water, Mandurah Cruises’ Dolphin Cruise & Views is the perfect choice. With dolphins, incredible scenery, and fascinating wildlife at every turn, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Mandurah’s coastal paradise. Book your spot today and embark on WA’s ultimate marine experience!

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In February 2026, art doesn’t politely wait for you inside velvet-roped venues. Instead, thanks to the grand return of the recently reinvented Perth Festival, it now ambushes you in the wild, popping up in unexpected places, surprising streets, and hidden spaces across the city. 

The year’s Perth Festival program, running from February 6th to March 1st, is taking the scale, creativity, and ambition you expect from Australia’s longest-running arts festival, and inviting you to experience it all in places outside the ordinary. Office buildings, bridges, riverbanks, power stations, cathedrals, hidden bars, and more come into play across 23 packed days.

The sheer scale is impressive: 108 events, including 13 Perth Festival commissions, 20 world premieres, nine Australian premieres, and 24 feature films. And with 33 of the experiences on offer completely free of charge, it’s easier than ever to wander, discover, and stumble across something worth your time. 

Here are the venues we’re excited about at Perth Festival 2026. 

East Perth Power Station, and Casa Musica by the River Credit: Perth Festival / Nu Shade

Following a 2025 reinvention, the East Perth Power Station is now fully stepping into its role as a festival epicentre. The colossal industrial space will host immersive sound, history, and art, before flipping the switch for a run of major live moments deserving of its scale. That might mean genre-defying singer-violinist Sudan Archives, an underground club takeover from SYBER: 013, Baker Boy’s high-octane set, or Aussie art-rock supergroup Bleak Squad.

Just outside, Casa Musica offers a more laid-back counterpart, with free live music spilling out along the riverfront. Sunset sessions, all-ages crowds, and First Nations art projected onto the power station walls make this hot spot an easy place to start your night (and a surprisingly hard one to leave).

Perth Town Hall, But Not As You Know It Credit: Perth Festival / Franz Bato & Aaron Claringbold

Step inside the The Embassy, and you’d be forgiven for not recognising it as the Perth Town Hall. The soaring space will be transformed into a glittering ballroom of another era, where music, movement, and unexpected performances come together for the duration of the festival. Over a dozen unique experience await, from Somi’s  soulful blend of East African folk and New York jazz to Ali Bodycoat’s jazz, swing and big-band glamour. Le Gatau Chocolat’s intimate, genre-hopping Raw Cacao show also returns, peeling back the layers of the man behind the drag, with Marney McQueen’s comedic cabaret and pop-infused Songs About Boats! bringing a touch of Broadway to the ballroom.

St Mary’s Cathedral, After Hours Credit: Perth Festival

The Sanctum Series brings finely tuned musical performances into one of Perth’s most arresting architectural spaces. From the transcendent chamber sounds of the Lonquich–Clerici–Mehner Trio with Júlia Pusker to the intimate ensemble work of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra’s Echoes Through Time and the ethereal Nordic harmonies of Åkervinda, the series transforms the cathedral into a stage, with the grand building’s incredible acoustics enhancing the marvel of these skilled musicians. 

Forest Place, Reimagined  Credit: Perth Festival / Edify Media

This unassuming public square has become one of the festival’s liveliest destinations for dance. There’s Cercles, the open-air communal experience bringing 150+ amateur movers together in the heart of the CBD; Concrete Echoes, a free world premiere uniting Indo-Pacific dancers in breathtaking displays of artistic athleticism; The Perth Moves Dance Battle, where every style — from breaking to ballet and beyond — goes head-to-head into a high-energy showdown that’ll have the whole space heaving; and more. All happening at the humble city square you’d likely pass through without thinking twice. 

Boorloo Bridge, Illuminating Country  Credit: Perth Festival / Sky Perth

Before carrying thousands of sports fans during the footy season, the Boorloo/Matagarup Bridge will become one of Perth’s most unexpected canvases for a large-scale animated light installation for Perth Festival. Each night, the bridge will come alive with a spectacular animation of colour and history, visible from far and wide, but best experienced up close from the banks of the Swan.

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As tempting as it is to stockpile your annual leave for a month-long overseas escape, there’s an equally dynamic destination that’ll deliver epic landscapes, incredible coastlines and unforgettable experiences, all much closer to home. 

Western Australia proves you don’t need to cross oceans to find adventure. On this side of the Nullarbor, every detour off the highway reveals something extraordinary, and the longer you stay, the more you’ll discover.

Here’s why Australia’s largest state belongs at the very top of your bucket list. 

A state built on scale

Let’s start with the obvious: Western Australia is big. Very big. With a colossal 2.5 million square kilometres of land extending across this consistently sunny state, travel in any direction from the small but mighty city of Perth / Boorloo, and you’ll encounter contrasting landscapes that are sharply distinct and demanding of your time and attention. 

Ningaloo Reef I Nyinggulu

Heading north along the dreamy Coral Coast, turquoise waters are bordered by coral reefs, otherworldly limestone formations, and red earth brilliantly blanketed with wildflowers. Travelling even further north, and the sandy white beaches give way to the Kimberley’s cascading waterfalls and deep gorges carved over an unfathomable amount of time. Down south, the terrain shifts again: towering karri trees, cool-climate and award-winning vineyards meet dramatic coastlines shaped by the full force of the Southern Ocean.

El Questro, The Kimberley

Of course, this vast, sparsely populated land comes with a whole lot of space to breathe. From secluded beaches along more than 12,000 kilometres of coastline, seemingly endless highways flanked by little more than sky and scrub for company made for road tripping, and inland plains as far as the eye can see, there’s plenty of room for every kind of traveller. 

Redefining luxury Purnululu National Park, The Kimberley and Amalia Gorge, El Questro

You won’t find the very best of Western Australia in swanky hotels with identical fittings and imported finishes (though there’s plenty of choice there too when you want them). It should come as no surprise that the most impressive, immersive, and indelible experiences in WA happen outdoors. 

Here, luxury is defined by access rather than opulence. Think thriving reefs only reachable by boat, difficult-to-reach tracks left largely untouched, and private encounters that aren’t marred by the masses because the distance does the filtering. These kinds of uniquely WA adventures aren’t polished for easy consumption — the further you travel, the more you’re rewarded. 

Meaningful travel with country first Koomal Dreaming, Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands Experience

Undeniably, one of the most powerful aspects of travelling through Western Australia is the opportunity to connect with Aboriginal culture in ways led, shared, and shaped by the Traditional Owners of the land. 

Guided experiences offer invaluable insight into the world’s oldest living culture, with knowledge passed on through traditions, cultural practices, and storytelling stretching back tens of thousands of years. These walks, tours, and encounters fundamentally reframe the land around you, revealing how Country has been understood, managed, and cared for long before it became a destination on a map. It’s an essential part of Western Australia’s story, and one that adds an immeasurable amount of meaning to any trip. 

Plan Your Holiday Here

The culture, the landscapes and the adventures are all waiting, and it’s easier to access than you might think. BKB Holidays makes pulling off an unforgettable WA escape seamless, stress-free and suited to how long you want to stay and how far you want to go. From epic 10-day journeys through the wilderness and wine regions to short-and-sweet stays moving from the city to the coast, your next dream holiday starts here. 

The post Why WA Belongs At The Very Top Of Your Travel Bucket List appeared first on So Perth

Who doesn’t love a spectacular fireworks display?

The City of Perth will be the centre of all the festivities, with a full-day event program followed by a breathtaking fireworks display lighting up the Swan River with a dazzling array of colours. The fireworks will be choreographed to music, creating an immersive visual experience that will captivate everyone. This year, there will be a double fireworks display and a drone show.

Australia Day Perth fireworks locations

Australia Day fireworks — did you know that you don’t just have to head to the city to celebrate Australia Day and watch a fireworks display?

While the Swan River foreshore in the City of Perth will be the biggest of the lot, there are several other locations also putting on an explosive show, lighting up the skies.

Here is a list of known Perth fireworks locations for Australia Day.

Bunbury

Event: Skyfest — Bunbury Australia Day
Best viewing spots: Koombana Foreshore, Jetty Baths, Koombana North, Boulters Heights, The Cut, and Grand Canals.
Time: 8:30 pm
Duration: 20-30 minutes

Kalbarri

Event: Kalbarri Australia Day
Location: Murchison River Foreshore
Time: 8:00 pm

Geraldton

Event: Geraldton Australia Day
Location: Geraldton Foreshore
Time: 8:30 pm

Perth Credit: City of Perth

Event: City of Perth Australia Day
Location: Langley Park, Perth
Time: 8:30 pm

The city is your number one destination for Perth Australia Day fireworks celebrations and festivities.

Come along from 3:00 pm to enjoy the free events at Langley Park and the Birak Concert at the Supreme Court Gardens.

Make sure you arrive early, though, to secure your spot on the foreshore and set yourself up with the perfect view to watch the spectacular Australia Day fireworks display.

The fireworks will commence at 8:30 pm and run for 30 minutes, finishing at 9:00 pm.

For more information and an up-to-date event program, head to the Visit Perth website

Rockingham

For those looking for fireworks south of the river, the Rockingham foreshore will come alight, along with some special guests, in celebration of Australia Day.

Event: Celebrate Australia Day
Location: Churchill Park and Bell Park, Rockingham Foreshore.
Time: 8:30 pm

The post Perth Australia Day Fireworks 2026: Start Times & Locations appeared first on So Perth

If you’re searching for an otherworldly way to experience the natural beauty and culinary delights of Rottnest Island, look no further than the Luxe Island Seafood Cruise by Rottnest Cruises. This half-day, deluxe dining experience on the waters of Rotto (as the locals call it) is an incredible journey for the senses, combining local seafood, premium wines, and breathtaking coastal scenery in one indulgent package. Aboard a 69-foot luxury vessel, the Luxe Island Seafood Cruise provides the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for anyone looking to fully immerse themselves in Western Australia’s coastal paradise.

Here’s everything you need to know about this one-of-a-kind experience:

Set sail on the turquoise waters of Rottnest Island Credit: Base Imagery

Your Luxe Island Seafood Cruise begins the moment you board a sleek and spacious pleasure boat, designed for both luxury and comfort. As you settle in, the mesmerising views of Rottnest’s turquoise waters and pristine bays instantly set the mood for a day of indulgence. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest to the island, the unique vantage point from the water offers a fresh perspective of Rottnest’s famously postcard-worthy landscape.

This immersive sea-to-plate experience takes you to some of Rottnest’s most scenic spots, anchoring in one of the island’s hidden bays where you can take a dip, relax on deck, or simply soak up the surroundings. From the moment you set sail, a welcome cocktail and flowing beverages — think Margaret River wines from Howard Park and boutique beers — ensure you’ll have everything you need to unwind and revel in the journey.

A gourmet feast curated by a renowned WA chef Credit: Jarrad Seng

Dining is at the heart of the Luxe Island Seafood Cruise experience, with a menu curated by celebrated Western Australian chef Tony Howell. Known for his dedication to and passion for sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, Howell has crafted a seven-course menu showcasing the state’s best seafood and local produce.

As the centrepiece of this gourmet experience, guests are invited to catch their own Western Rock Lobster, a quintessentially West Australian delicacy and a highlight of the island’s marine bounty. Under the guidance of the experienced crew, you’ll get the chance to haul in a lobster pot from the waters and snap a “lobster selfie” to commemorate the moment. Once caught, your lobster is then freshly prepared and cooked right on deck by your private chef, adding a unique, personal touch to the dining experience.

The seven-course menu showcases the incredible flavours of land and sea, featuring local seafood such as scallops, octopus, and amberjack, along with seasonal ingredients from across the region. Prepared with flair in a live barbecue kitchen, this meal combines the allure of fine dining with the laid-back, endless summer vibe of Rottnest Island. Dishes are served in a combination of cocktail-style service and long-table dining, creating a sociable atmosphere where guests can while away the hours with new friends.

Sip and savour Credit: Shot By Thom

A great meal deserves great drinks, and the Luxe Island Seafood Cruise has you covered. You’ll be treated to complimentary, flowing beverages throughout the cruise, featuring bottles from the revered Howard Park winery in the world-class Margaret River region, a selection of boutique beers, and non-alcoholic options for every taste.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a beer lover, or simply in the mood for a cold drink on a warm day, the onboard selection provides the perfect pairing for each of the dishes served. There’s something special about enjoying a fine glass of wine while taking in the coastal scenery of Rottnest Island — a true sensory experience that brings together the flavours of WA with its stunning landscapes.

Relax in barefoot luxury Credit: Supplied

As your boat anchors in a secluded bay, you’ll have the chance to dive into the shimmering turquoise waters and experience Rottnest Island up close. Jump into the pristine waters, float on water mats, or simply relax on deck with a drink in hand — this is the epitome of barefoot luxury.

With three spacious decks to explore, there’s no shortage of places to kick back and take in the panoramic views. Be it a sun-soaked spot on the upper deck, a shady seat overlooking the water, or a cosy corner to share a conversation, there are ample comfortable and stylish spaces to unwind.

For those who prefer to stay on board, the spectacular anchor point provides the perfect vantage point to appreciate Rottnest’s unspoiled beauty. The experienced marine crew is always on hand to share their knowledge about the island’s history, marine life, and environment, adding a deeper layer of insight to the experience. It’s the kind of thoughtful detail that makes the Luxe Island Seafood Cruise more than just a culinary experience — it’s a guided exploration of Rottnest Island’s culture and natural wonders.

Make it a full day on Rottnest Credit: Jarrad Seng

The Luxe Island Seafood Cruise operates from October to April, with convenient departures from Rottnest Island’s central Thompson Bay. To make the most of your island adventure, optional return ferry transfers are available, allowing you to start your day with a ferry ride from Fremantle or Perth before boarding the cruise. This makes it easy to enjoy a full day on the island, giving you time to explore the beaches, bike trails, and charm of Rottnest before and after your cruise.

The Luxe Island Seafood Cruise is a one-of-a-kind culinary experience that eloquently fuses West Australian flavours with a picturesque, interactive adventure. It’s the ultimate choice for those wanting to celebrate the beauty of WA with a delicious sea-to-plate showcase.

To find out more or to book the Luxe Island Seafood Cruise, visit the Rottnest Cruises website.

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The 2026 AFL Origin match between Western Australia and Victoria has officially sold out, with around 60,000 fans set to fill Optus Stadium on Saturday, February 14th.

The Australian-exclusive event marks the return of the State v State clash after 26 years, with the sellout expected to draw thousands of out-of-state visitors to Perth and inject millions of dollars into the local economy.

Hundreds of thousands of footy fans across Australia are also expected to watch the AFL’s best players represent their home states, with the game being broadcast live nationally.

Tourism Minister Reece Whitby said the early sellout demonstrates the demand for high-profile sporting events in Western Australia.

“It’s estimated that thousands of event tickets have been purchased by out-of-state fans, which tells us that our local tourism and hospitality businesses can expect a big weekend when AFL Origin comes to Perth on February 14th, with millions of dollars expected in visitor spend,” Whitby said.

Western Australia’s team takes shape

The sellout follows recent announcements about the star-studded line-ups, with Callum Ah Chee and Brandon Starcevich among the players representing Team WA, while Patrick Dangerfield will take the field for Victoria.

Team WA will proudly wear a guernsey locally designed and manufactured by Bassendean-based sporting apparel company Burley Sekem, featuring the iconic Western Australian black swan against black and gold colours.

The WA squad Aaron NaughtonWestern BulldogsBradley HillSt KildaBradley StarcevichWest Coast EaglesCallum Ah CheeAdelaide CrowsChad WarnerSydney SwansCharlie CameronBrisbane LionsDarcy CameronCollingwoodJesse HoganGWS GiantsJordan ClarkFremantle DockersKysaiah PickettMelbourneLawson HumphriesGeelong CatsLiam BakerWest Coast EaglesLuke JacksonFremantle DockersMitch GeorgiadesPort AdelaidePatrick CrippsCarlton Football ClubRory LobbWestern BulldogsSam TaylorGWS GiantsShai BoltonFremantle DockersTom BarrassHawthornTrent RiversMelbourneWil PowellGold Coast Suns The Vic Squad Hugh McCluggageBrisbane LionsJack SinclairSt KildaJacob WeiteringCarlton Football ClubJeremy CameronGeelong CatsMarcus BontempelliWestern BulldogsMatt RowellGold Coast SunsMax GawnMelbourneMax HolmesGeelong CatsNick DaicosCollingwoodNoah AndersonGold Coast SunsSam DarcyWestern BulldogsToby GreeneGWS GiantsTom StewartGeelong CatsZak ButtersPort Adelaide Part of Perth’s blockbuster summer of sports

The 2026 AFL Origin joins a strong line-up of major events for Western Australia this summer, beginning with the United Cup, continuing with the inaugural Perth Sail Grand Prix last weekend, and the popular Rugby SVNS in early February, and culminating with the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in March.

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Western Australia has officially welcomed more than one million international visitors in a single year for the first time in the state’s history, marking a milestone achievement for the local tourism sector.

New data from Tourism Research Australia reveals WA received 1.024 million overseas visitor arrivals in the 12 months to October 2025, smashing the pre-COVID-19 benchmark of 996,000 arrivals and delivering full recovery from the pandemic two years ahead of national forecasts.

The record-breaking numbers position WA as Australia’s strongest performer in the international tourism recovery, with the state recording the nation’s largest year-on-year percentage increase in overseas visitor numbers.

Tourism currently ranks as WA’s fifth-largest employer, supporting more than 120,000 jobs across the state in 2023-24 and sustaining over 30,000 tourism and hospitality businesses.

The international market recovery follows the interstate market’s full recovery in March 2023, providing a comprehensive tourism sector rebound across all visitor segments.

Global campaigns drive visitor surge

Tourism Minister Reece Whitby attributed the milestone to strategic marketing investments, including the award-winning Walking On A Dream global tourism brand, celebrity-led campaigns like Drive the Dream featuring Daniel Ricciardo, and targeted conversion campaigns with international trade partners.

“More than a million international visitors in a year is an incredible achievement, and to not only deliver international visitor recovery ahead of the nation, but exceed it by 28,000 visitors, is a phenomenal result for Western Australia,” Whitby said.

“Thanks to our global brand cutting through the competitive world stage, and a strong conversion and trade focus helping deliver more bookings, we’ve achieved what no other State has managed, and put our tourism industry back in the strong position it was in before the COVID-19 pandemic, and ready to hit the new heights set out in our 10-year plan for tourism.”

Major events, including WWE: Crown Jewel and the Bledisloe Cup, have also drawn international attention to the state, whilst growing interest in Aboriginal tourism experiences has contributed to increased visitor participation.

Aviation expansion fuels growth

WA’s expanded aviation network has played a crucial role in the tourism boom, with the state now connected to 20 global cities and serviced by 24 international airlines. International seat capacity into WA hit 131% of January 2019 levels, whilst interstate seat capacity topped 110%.

The cruise industry has emerged as another strong performer, reaching 160% of pre-COVID-19 levels and bringing thousands of visitors to Perth and regional ports.

The post WA Smashes International Tourism Record With Over One Million Visitors appeared first on So Perth

Western Australia’s ambition to become a leading destination for film and television production has taken a major leap forward with the completion of Perth Film Studios, the state government announced today.

The almost $300 million facility has been delivered on time and on budget, marking a significant milestone in the Cook Government’s plan to diversify the economy and position Perth as a creative powerhouse for national and international screen production.

Premier Roger Cook said the studios represent a new era for the WA screen industry. “This studio complex is absolutely world-class, and I look forward to seeing it welcome the first of many national and international productions as we begin a new era for the WA screen industry,” he said.

A studio built for the big screen

Located in Perth’s north-east corridor, the state-of-the-art complex features four massive sound stages totalling more than 8,200 square metres of production space — the equivalent of more than 31 tennis courts. With 40-metre clear spans, the studios can accommodate large-scale productions that previously would have looked elsewhere.

The facility’s backlot is the largest in the southern hemisphere at 23,200 square metres, making it 22% larger than the turfed surface of Optus Stadium. This expansive outdoor filming area opens up opportunities for productions that require extensive exterior sets and staging.

Supporting the sound stages are two annexes, workshops for set and prop construction, and 8,500 square metres of office and administration space. The complex includes hair, makeup and costume facilities, production offices, staff amenities, and a theatre screening room — everything needed for a self-contained production hub.

Building with local materials

The construction itself has been a boon for the local industry. Contractors used 160,000 cubic metres of locally sourced sand to level the site — enough to fill 64 Olympic-sized swimming pools. More than 1,670 tonnes of locally acquired and manufactured steel went into the structure.

The facility also celebrates local Aboriginal culture through public artworks by Lea Taylor and Buffie Punch, including an entry statement and yarning circle. These incorporate motifs inspired by Mia Mia shelters, water, fire, and the native banksia leaf, connecting the modern studio complex to Country.

Creating pathways in the screen industry

Perth Film Studios forms the cornerstone of the Western Australian Screen Industry Strategy, designed to create career pathways for WA’s talented creative professionals. The facility will provide work and training opportunities for actors, camera operators, costume and set designers, sound and lighting technicians, video editors, makeup artists, and numerous other roles in the screen industry.

The state government has invested $233.5 million in construction and a further $57 million to support management and operations over the first ten years through an agreement with Perth-based company Home Fire.

Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk emphasised the real opportunities the facility creates. “It will provide real career pathways, provide work and training for actors, camera operators, costume and set designers, sound and lighting technicians, video editors, makeup artists and many other roles,” she said.

The completion of Perth Film Studios positions Western Australia to compete for major productions and build on the state’s strong history of location-based and regional filming, creating new opportunities for the local screen industry and economy.

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