by Nathalie Craig
PERTH is a vibrant yet relaxed city, seamlessly weaving development and natural beauty. The Western Australian capital is thriving with events, delicious dining options and modern convention space while still maintaining its incredible sense of space and calm.
The Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre is situated along the Swan River and has 23 rooms designed to cater for meetings and seminars. Private boardrooms are available for up to 16 people, River View Rooms for 540, and the Riverside Theatre, Perth’s largest tiered theatre for up to 2,500 seated delegates. The fact Perth is in the same time zone as 60% of the world’s population, including Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan and the Philippines is another driving factor making the city an ideal business events destination.
Just outside its CBD, Perth has ideal places to inspire delegates – think picturesque beaches, winery vistas in the Swan Valley or hanging with the Quokkas on the unspoilt Rottnest Island. Here’s our top picks on what will impress:
ROTTNEST ISLAND
JUMP on board a 45-minute express ferry to be transported to this pristine nature reserve. The car-free island is home to some of Australia’s most idyllic swimming and snorkelling spots with more than 135 species of vibrant tropical fish and 20 species of coral. Hire bikes to cycle through the awe-inspiring natural environment with no need to worry about vying for space with cars. A great drawcard for the island is its native Quokkas – also known as the word’s friendliest marsupials. A Quokka selfie is a must – these creatures are definitely not camera shy.
CRUISE THE SWAN RIVER
A CRUISE on the Swan River is one of the finest ways to experience the surrounds of Perth. On departing the city centre passengers have front row seats to riverfront attractions like the Bell Tower and King’s Park before reaching reach Fremantle where the river meets the Indian Ocean. Fremantle is known for its maritime history, buzzing markets and super fresh seafood. Cruise operators such as Captain Cook offer buffets and live entertainment on board.
SWAN VALLEY REGION
FOLLOW the state’s 32km food and wine trail just half an hour’s drive from Perth city CBD. The region has an ever-growing list of restaurants and cafés, wineries, breweries and artisan wares. Iconic vineyards dotted throughout the valley include Sandalford, Houghtons and Mandoon Estate. Gourmet goods on offer span from extra virgin olive oils, cheeses, olives, pickles and preserves to handmade chocolate, fudge, truffles, nuts and nougat. Get involved with a master class or a tour of the vineyards.
KINGS PARK AND BOTANIC GARDEN
ONE of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Kings Park and Botanic Garden encompasses 400 hectares of bushland and sculpted gardens. It provides some of the best views of Perth’s skyline and the Swan River. The park also houses the State War Memorial and State Botanic Garden. Picnic in the park, enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes, or dinner in the fine dining restaurant. Rottnest Quokka
THE SHOALWATER ISLANDS MARINE PARK
LOCATED just 50 km South of Perth, the protected marine park has the largest colony of the smallest species of penguin in the world. Join Rockingham Wild Encounters to cruise or swim alongside wild bottlenose dolphins, sea lions and seabirds. Adventure cruises and sea kayak tours to see the incredible marine wildlife and spectacular islands depart daily.
SEGWAY TOUR
FOR a unique way to get delegates exploring the city and surrounds, Perth has super popular guided Segway tours. Guides will share engaging stories about the city as guests cruise along on their own Segway. No prior Segway experience is needed to get rolling with these tours because training is included as part of the fun.
