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40 BEST OF
THE WEST
Revisiting Western Australia after twenty years, growth to Perth has levelled off but it has transformed
Elizabeth Sherry of helloworld Mt Maunganui
finds a great destination brimming
with attractions year-round.
HELLOWORLD : EXPLORE : WINTER EDITION
Renewing my acquaintance with Western Australia made
me aware of how much the place has changed in twenty
years. The mining boom that brought years of rapid
the city, bringing a level of sophistication and vibrancy
that now makes it a great tourism destination. I have no
hesitation in referring to Perth as one of my favourite
cities and I can see why it is often named one of the top
places in which to live.
Perth’s superb location on the banks of the Swan River is
complemented by its lively mix of modern architecture
and restored heritage and Art Deco-era buildings. From
bustling inner-city laneways to the relaxed ambience of
Fremantle Harbour, you can sense the positive energy.
Hospitality standards are high, as they are in much of
Australia, and we indulged in fine dining, enjoyed high
tea at the Duxton Hotel, had a tasting at Little Creatures
Brewery at Fremantle, sampled divine chocolate at an
outlet of the Margaret River Chocolate Company and had
an idyllic wine tasting and lunch at Mandoon Estate in the
Swan Valley.
Perth city is easy to get around and on our first morning
we woke early for a walk along the river; the city felt alive
and we felt safe walking before daylight. The river is used
for a number of morning activities with dragon boating
and rowing while the river bank is utilised by runners and
fitness enthusiasts.
THINGS TO DO IN PERTH
I recommend a tour of the award-winning Perth Mint,
which offers an understanding of Western Australia’s
considerable mineral riches and the mesmerising
opportunity to watch molten gold being made into gold
bars, and coins being struck. I also found out how much I
weighed in gold: I’d be worth a bit!
The city has events and festivals throughout the year but
the Wildflower Festival in September is a highlight. It is
held in historic Kings Park overlooking Perth and there are
displays and workshops and guided walks. You can also
see the famous boab tree and enjoy a picnic or lunch at
the park café.
Perth has a number of attractions right on its doorstep
such as the iconic beaches at Scarborough, or you
can take the city train to Fremantle for a Convicts and
Colonials tour that includes a look underground at the
World Heritage-listed Fremantle Prison.
Nineteen kilometres offshore is Rottnest Island with its
famous population of quokkas, a cute small marsupial
about the size of a cat. A Bike and Ferry Combo package
is a great way to explore the island. Further afield are the
world-famous Margaret River wine region, the towering
tingle trees in Valley of the Giants near the southern coast
of WA and whale-watching and winery visits (of course).
Again, a good way to combine fitness and indulgence is
with mountain bike or kayak tours that stop at boutique
microbreweries and cellar doors.
BROOME - FOR YOUR BUCKET LIST
After seeing Perth we took a two-and-a-half-hour flight
north to Broome, which should be on your bucket list as
it is one of the most unforgettable destinations. Words
can’t describe the beauty of its contrasting blue sea and
deep red earth. From April to October you enjoy clear
sunny days with average temperatures of around 30
degrees C.