PERTH AND SURROUNDS

Joining us for the Conference offers a fantastic opportunity for you to explore Perth and all it has to offer, whether it be your first visit or you are returning to the West. 


Australia’s sunniest capital city, Perth effortlessly blends urban cool with raw natural beauty. It’s a city where relaxation and adventure go hand in hand. It’s heart is bustling with new bars, restaurants and cultural spaces and its waterfront and coastal lifestyle adds to the relaxed warm hospitality you will enjoy. 


Just a short drive away are the beautiful wineries of the Swan Valley and an array of stunning beaches where you can watch amazing sunsets and even swim with wild dolphins. A visit to historic Fremantle is a must-do as is an encounter with our

quokkas on the island sanctuary of Rottnest Island. 


Western Australia is brimming with one-of -a-kind adventures to be discovered. Whether it’s sipping your way through Australia’s most premium wine country in the Margaret River Region, or exploring the spectacular landscapes of the

Kimberley – its all there waiting for you. 


So the message is clear – plan to add a day or two to your visit. Bring your family and friends and create outstanding memories of discovering Perth and Western Australia. To help in your plans, visit here. 

Discover Perth Surrounds

ROTTNEST ISLAND

Spend a day (or a weekend) at Rottnest Island, located 19km off the coast of Perth.

Things to do and see

Rottnest island is a popular tourist destination, with its primary claim to fame being the adorable native quokkas. There are a range of activities available, including segway and bicycle hire, glass bottom kayaks, skydiving, surfing, fishing, scuba diving, whale watching, and the famous ‘quokka selfie’. For a slower pace, there are more than 60 beaches and bays to choose from.


Places to eat and drink

The island has a range of options available.  For fine dining and cocktails, visit Isola Bar E Cibo or Lontara. 

To take in some sunset views, try Geordie Bay café or Pinky’s Bar & Restaurant.

For a quick bite between adventures, visit one of the restored caravans (Frankie’s, Lexi’s, and Kalli’s), or the local bakery.


Getting there

Ferries depart from the Barrack Street Jetty in the Perth CBD. The ferry takes approximately 90 minutes to reach the island.

There are also ferries regularly departing from Fremantle (South of Perth) and Hillary’s Boat Harbour (North of Perth).

For more information visit www.rottnestisland.com. 


FREMANTLE

Take a day trip from the CBD to Fremantle. 


Things to do and see

Visit the Fremantle markets and then move to the café strip to explore the many stores along the way. Explore Fremantle Prison and take one of the many tours (including torchlight, tunnel tours, and in October, special ghost tours).

Visit the WA Maritime Museum and the WA Shipwrecks Museum, both just a walk away from the Fremantle city centre.

See some local art at the Fremantle Arts Centre.

Visit the Roundhouse, and then take a short walk to Bathers Beach House.

Places to eat and drink

Enjoy a cocktail with a view of the sunset at Bathers Beach House.

Have a beer at Little Creatures Brewery or Gage Roads Brewery.

Grab a meal at Tonic and Ginger, with before/after dinner drinks nearby at L’Chaim, Mr Chapple, or (for the young at heart) the Arbor.

If you are near the markets, stop by Emily Taylor or Sailing for Oranges.

Getting there

For those staying in the Perth CBD, Fremantle can be accessed by car or train:

  1. Take a 20 minute drive - South on Kwinana Freeway, then exit towards the coast onto Canning or Leach Highway, which will take you all the way to the Fremantle city centre. Paid parking is available at various spots in the city centre; or
  2. Take a 30 minute train ride from Perth Station to Fremantle Station.

For more information visit www.fremantle.wa.gov.au. 

COTTESLOE BEACH 

If you are coming to Perth to experience a sunset in the West, then Perth's iconic Cottesloe Beach needs to be on your list. 


Things to do and see

Cottesloe Beach is one of the Perth’s most popular spots for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and enjoying ocean sunset views over a glass of wine, a refreshing beer or a relaxed dinner.


Places to eat and drink

You can enjoy the sunset from the sand, the raised grass areas shaded by trees, or from the restaurants along the coast. For sunset dining, try Il Lido (Italian and European dining), or for something more relaxed, Fish and Chips at Cott & Co. Fish Bar


Getting there

A short walk from Cottesloe Train Station after a short 15-minute train ride from the City.

For more information visit this site.

PARKS AND NATURAL ATTRACTIONS

Perth and its surrounds offer a variety of parks and natural attractions for those looking to embrace nature and get some fresh air. Caversham Wildlife Park, North of Perth, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers. With over 200 species of native animals, visitors can observe and interact with kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and more. The park offers educational presentations and wildlife encounters, providing a unique opportunity to learn about our wildlife.

John Forrest National Park is a scenic park that offers a range of outdoor activities. It features picturesque walking trails,

picnic areas, and waterfalls, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and exploration. The park is home to various bird species and native fauna, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Serpentine National Park, located in the Peel region, is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park is characterised by its stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Serpentine Falls, which cascade into serene pools. Visitors can enjoy bushwalking, swimming, and picnicking amidst the lush surroundings. The park also offers camping facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy an extended stay.


For more information visit this site.