Go West issue 27 by bbmlive.com

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Internet no minimum charge, Free iTunes library, Burn photos to CD, Secure luggage storage. Huge noticeboard for employment, Cars for sale, WWOOFING (work for board and food), Items for sale, Lifts offered or wanted, Rental apartments 4 weeks to 6 months. We sell maps, Lonely Planet books, VIP and YHA memberships from $37, New sleeping bags $30, New 3 man tents $55. All tour bookings and information available, Greyhound bus tickets and passes, Train tickets, Domestic flights, Hostel bookings Australia wide from $16. South West tours from 1 - 5 days, Ningaloo Reef tours, Diving, Skydiving, Campervan hire. Best rates in Perth.

Travel Forever (08) 6267 0700 fax: (08) 6267 0701 www.travelforever.com.au info@travelforever.com.au

135 Barrack St, Perth

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Go Contents 6

Map of Western Australia

Go Rockingham

Go Travelling

Go Down South

Distances & Travel Times

Go Golden Outback

Go to Bed in the West

Go Coral Coast

Go Indigenous WA

Go Shark Bay

Go Perth Culture

Go Ningaloo Reef

Go WA Events & Festivals

Go North West

Go Perth

Go Get a Job

Go Burbs & Beaches

Immigration & Visas

Go Hillarys

Go General Info

Go Fremantle

Caravan Parks & Camping

Go Out of Perth

Accommodation Listings

Go Rottnest Island

Divers with whale shark, Ningaloo Reef. Image thanks to Tourism Western Australia.

Go Western Australia Welcome to Australia’s largest state. Remote, vast and beautifully diverse, this is where your real Aussie adventure is sure to begin. From the surf to reef, from the forests to the rugged national parks in the north, WA has it all. Begin your adventure in Perth, a vibrant and booming city. Northbridge is the traveller’s hub, housing most of Perth’s hostels, pubs and nightclubs. Be sure to take a walk along Swan River, and snap up some spectactular photo oppurtunites from King’s Park. Fremantle, Perth’s artistic and historic hub, is a city not be missed. It is also a gateway to Rottnest Island, where bike hire is the easiest and most adventurous way to get around. Heading south, give yourself at least 3 days to experience some of the most breathtaking beaches in Australia. The area boasts a number of wineries and boutique breweries, as well as forests, caves and wildlife. If you are eager to take up surfing, this is the time and place to do so! Take a walk along the southern hemisphere’s longest jetty in Busselton, indulge yourself on a wine and cheese tasting tour, take a tree top hike through the Valley of the Giants or swim with wild dolphins in Rockingham. Heading north are the Pinnacles, stunning limestone formations situated in the desert of Nambung National Park. This is a great place to try sandboarding! Follow the coastline to Kalbarri National Park, where the picturesque Z-Bend gorge is sure to amaze. Further north, is the majestic, coastal town of Monkey Mia - a popular spot to feed dolphins in World Heritage Listed Shark Bay. Continuing your journey north, you will then arrive in Coral Bay or Exmouth - the gateway to Ningaloo Reef. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo begins at the forefront of the beach. Hire a snorkel for a day and experience the coral and marine life of one of the best snorkel sites in the west.

Travelling inland, North - East of Exmouth is Karijini National Park - rated by many travellers as one of the best experiences on the west coast. Embodied with spectactular gorges, hiking trails, natural water holes and wildlife - such as red kangaroos, rock wallabies, echidnas and bats - Karijini is an exotic getaway enriched with Aboriginal heritage and culture. Further north on the coast, lies Broome - a happening, tropical oasis, in The Kimberley Region. The vast, rugged terrain offers adventure enthusiasts beaches, waterfalls, crocodiles, gorges and a diverse beauty you would struggle to find anywhere else. Travelling the West requires a tad more effort than when over East, but the end result is far more rewarding! Hiring a campervan is a great way to explore the state as you wish. Keep in mind, most rental companies do not provide insurance for travelling on unsealed roads. So for those of you eager to venture beyond the beaten track, a 4WD vehicle would be ideal. There are fantastic guided tours that can take you to the hot spots and these are a great way to meet like minded travellers. If you are looking for work or a 2nd year visa, WA is the place to do it! Many regional towns offer hospitality jobs in outback roadhouses and seasonal fruit picking is usually available in the north. WA has it all - the warmth, the views, the ‘no worries’ attitude and an opportunity to venture beyond the tourist trail. Of all the exotic, breathtaking destinations, there are many more to be discovered along the 12,000KM coastl Welcome to the wild, rugged and beautifully diverse West! Katie Tobias

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Go Western Australia

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Go West Handbook PTY CAB AUDITED PUBLICATION Ph: +61 8 9433 6162 Fax: +61 8 9431 7806 Email: gowest@gowesthandbook.com While every care has been taken to ensure that information is accurate and correct at the time of publication, GO WEST Handbook assumes no responsibility for any entry or omission herein. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. It would be greatly appreciated if any inaccuracies or changes of information were brought to the attention of GO WEST Handbook. Copyright reserved 2011. GO TEAM: Managing Director - John McMahon Writers - Steve Skogerboe, Katie Tobias Design & Web - Jess Comber, Shefali Khanna Quality control - Louahna Lloyd Marketing Director - Guchi Shakir

D id y o u k n o w ?

What to cal Aussies.. Perth locals – Perthites West Australians – Sandgr opers South Australians – Crow Eat ers Northern Territorians – Terr itorians Queenslanders – Banana Benders New South Welsh People - Sydney Siders Victorians – Mexicans (sou th of the border) Tasmanians - Taswegians

as e often referred to West Australians ar “Sandgropers”. name of an are stuck with the Unfortunately we est Australians grub that many W tle lit g in m su as un ure mining is insect is a miniat Th . en se r ve ne ve ha n grow s through sand, ca machine that swim ing) and is ts 6 legs (2 for digg to 6cm long, spor life cycle, is known about its native to WA. Little has been breeding habits. It diet, distribution or er’ was adopted e name ‘Sandgrop th at th d te es gg su t days in WA eir early settlemen by Europeans in th es, suffered e bitten by sandfli when people wer ap and wore bbed with sand so sandy blight, scru sandshoes.

. Backpack Western Australia Inc up! your local industry gro Become a member of PO Box 717 Applecross WA 6953 5 3290 M: 0407 301 708 T: 61 8 9316 8505 F: 61 8 931 lia.com W: www.backpackwesternaustra E: margaret.wilson17@bigpond.com kwa http://www.twitter.com/backpac

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Go travelling Get Some Wheels The wide open roads and vast uninhabited distances in Western Australia are perfect for a classic road trip. With that said, beware, there’s some very wild country out there. If buying, choose your vehicle well, and if you’re mechanically disinclined – please have someone who knows their gaskets check things out, like someone from the RAC. Go to http://rac.com.au Of additional importance is making sure that the vehicle you are buying has current Western Australia registration. Failure to do so could result in a long aggravating process of getting the vehicle registered. When all is said and done weeks may have passed you by and likely you will have forked out over $500 for Western Australia registration and number plates.

Distances and travel times from Perth by road Destination

Klms

Hours

Albany

409

Augusta

321

Broome

2275

Bunbury

130

1.5

Busselton

230

2.5

Carnarvon

904

11.5

Cervantes

174

Coral Bay

1132

Darwin

4027

Denmark

491

Derby

2495

Dunsborough

256

Esperance

725

Exmouth

1259

Buses

Fitzroy Crossing

2600

Bus routes cross all over Western Australia. Provided you can stand sitting still for hours on end they are convenient –some do last for days but you can get a Greyhound pass that allows you to hop on and off at whim. On board there is always air conditioning and video entertainment. Go to www.greyhound.com.au

Fremantle

0.5

Geraldton

427

Gibb River

2741

Greenough

403

Go Camping

Harvey

140

In Western Australia lodging can be hard to come by on those two or three day road trips between cities, where the vast expanse is pepperd only by rocks and trees. So what better way to get by than by bringing the lodging with you. This is accomplished by none other than camping. Camping is one of the best ways to go out west as you can pitch your tent just about anywhere.

Hyden

339

Kalbarri

591

Kalgoorlie

595

Karratha

1537

Kununurra

3280

Lancelin

127

1.5

Margaret River

277

3.5

Meekatharra

756

Monkey Mia

859

Mount Barker

359

New Norcia

134

1.5

Northam

1.25

Paraburdoo

1598

Pemberton

388

Pinnacles

256

Port Hedland

1710

*Rottnest Island

.45

Tom Price

1556

Walpole

423

Wyndham

3291

Yanchep

.75

Better still, hire a campervan. This will provide you with a home on wheels, cooking and camping equipment supplied, little or no accommodation costs and the adventure of a life time without the worry of breakdowns as roadside assistance is included in the hire. Another advantage is that you don’t have the hassle of having to sell your well used vehicle at the end of the trip, and you can just take the vehicle one way.

Off License The pivotal requirement to drive in Western Australia is that you have a valid driving license from another country which is recognized as having roads similar to Australia. In the event you cannot drive there are some alternatives to getting around.

Trains Rail infrastructure is limited within Western Australia. The focal point is in Perth and the rail connects to only three locations: Kalgoorlie, Bunbury, and the Avon Valley. To inquire about fares and timetables consult the Transwa Booking Centre at 1300 662 205.

*by ferry

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Wander the Wild West with Aussie Wanderer Adventure Tours! Aussie Wanderer Adventure Tours is the leading small group, nature based tour company in Western Australia, offering the broadest range of tours and giving you the best value for money. With an average group size of 12 the company focuses on a personal approach, giving the passengers that ‘private tour’ experience. In the bus they’ll enjoy a real good atmosphere as heaps of music and games are being played. Then out of the bus the days are filled with great adventure activities, visiting all the highlights and letting them experience Western Australia to the max. With our Jump On Jump Off option Aussie Wanderer now meets all travel needs. The tour guides are young, energetic, passionate Aussies professionally trained, highly experienced and qualified First Aiders. They are there every step of the way making sure the tour is a fun, interesting, adventurous and safe experience. Aussie Wanderer is nationally accredited ensuring they operate at the highest standards possible. The company is a proud Western Australian owned and operated tour operator dedicated to providing once in a life time experiences.

Western Australia. . One thing that is immediately apparent about Western Australia is that it is rather large. In fact, it’s bloody massive. This one state covers some 2.5 million square kilometres and, comparatively speaking, there is hardly anyone in it. If you’re into swinging cats, this is the place to be - there’s more wide open space in WA than virtually any other populated location on earth. To many people the remoteness is an attraction in itself. The WA experience could hardly be further away from the mega-touristy and commercial conditions that visitors to the east coast of Australia encounter, yet the west has a wealth of natural and cultural attractions which its glitzier cross-continental cousin states can only dream about. The beautiful and vibrant city of Perth holds the twin honours of being both the world’s most isolated and sunniest capital city, and that is only the starting point of your WA adventure. Want some more reasons why everyone should Go West? Well glance your goggles over this lot: • is bigger than the whole of Western Europe. • has a population of just two million people, with about 90% of those living in and around Perth. • enjoys an average winter temperature of 18C and a summer one of 30C. • is home to countless Aboriginal language groups. • boasts the world’s oldest living organisms - stromatolites in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area - and evidence of the planet’s first recorded life forms entombed in the Gascoyne and Kimberley regions. • takes up roughly one third of the whole of Australia. • has Australia’s biggest monocline - that’s a rock to you and me - in the shape of Burringurrah, which is twice the size of NT’s Uluru and can be found in Mount Augustus National Park. • is four times larger than Texas, USA. • was first ‘discovered’ by a Dutch trading ship in 1616. Captain Dirk Hartog, the first European to set foot on Australian land, did so about 160 years before England’s Captain Cook waded ashore and stuck a Union Jack in the ground. • contains a region - the Kimberley - which is three times the size of England, but has a population of only about 26,000. • experiences ‘dry’ and ‘wet’ seasons in its far north - rather than winters and summers.

• has over 70 National Parks and two World Heritage Listed areas - Shark Bay and Purnululu National Park (the Bungle Bungles). • is visited every year by the world’s largest fish, the gigantic whale shark.

Go Touring On offer are fantastic organized tours that take you to many places you otherwise would never hear about in Western Australia. These are most convenient for travellers whose stays are likely to be short lived, if you are travelling on your own, in a group or are a couple - or if you don’t have your own transport, or, just want a fun, inexpensive option that includes all meals and accommodation with experienced guides and a group of like minded people! Regardless of what your primary interest is – i.e. surfing, sipping wine in the valleys, exploring the vast stretches of beautiful red-rock rimmed national parks – there will be a tour to accommodate your needs. See See www.aussiewanderer.com.au Images this page & opposite thanks to Aussie Wanderer

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+ gossip + news + What's on + travel + music

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Outback travelling and camping tips • Inform people of your itinerary. Mobile phone coverage is not always reliable in remote areas. • Seek advice on road conditions – unexpected changes are common. • Buy a map and compass and learn how to use them (or invest in a satellite navigation unit if you’re flush). • Carry plenty of drinking water, food, extra fuel and warm clothes. • Look out for wildlife and livestock – for interest and safety’s sake. • Limit your driving time to daylight hours – kangaroos and livestock are very common and dangerous for drivers from sunset until after dawn. • Give way to road trains – bloody huge trucks. • Leave station (farm) gates as you find them. • Take extreme care to prevent bushfires. Try to use an established fire place, don’t make fires within 3 metres of any vegetation and never leave a fire burning unattended. Take note of fire danger signs and bans – which carry severe penalties if not heeded. • Collect firewood or use wood provided – don’t chop anything down. • Don’t use soap in creeks and riverbeds. • Make sure the area you are to set the tent up on is free from sharp objects that are likely to damage the floor of the tent and/or ants’ nests. • Check there are no overhanging branches that might fall on your tent. Gum trees are particularly dangerous. • Ensure that you are not erecting your tent in a natural waterway, i.e. a riverbed or anywhere water can channel during heavy rain. • If your vehicle breaks down or you are lost, never, ever leave the vicinity of the vehicle - you will have a far greater chance of being found!

The Wet & The Dry Most visitors to our State’s nether regions tend to embark from Perth – or they may live there. Important to consider when planning an itinerary, either north, south or inland of Perth, is that with such huge distances to cover, the weather will be considerably different than current Perth temperatures, rainfall, wind, humidity etc. The beauty of this is that when it’s winter (June-August) in Perth - mild and wet compared to European winters - it is much warmer as you head north so, basically it is always summer somewhere in Western Australia. You just have to get your timing right. From Kalbarri up you will find winter temperatures to be as warm as mid 20’s °C during the day and this continues to rise as you head north, with mid winter temperatures hitting the mid 30’s °C and more in places like Broome and Kununurra. The Kimberley climate is defined by a distinct wet season and dry season. Located north of the Tropic of Capricorn, the Kimberley region enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. This applies not only to Western Australia, but also across the north of Australia. There is no spring, summer, autumn and winter, which can be initially confusing for visitors. A very broad generalization is: When it is winter in Perth, it is the dry season in the State’s far North. When it is summer in Perth, it is the wet season in the north. So the time from May to October is the Dry season, and from November to April is the wet season.

The wet season is a different story... hot and humid, and sometimes, very wet and stormy. Flooding is not unusual and even the main highway gets cut off at times, sometimes for many days. During this hotter time of the year the land heats up a lot more than the ocean does. Hot air rises upwards, a low pressure trough forms and sucks in moist air from the oceans. The air cools, moisture condenses, and it rains. It can be dramatic to experience an electrical tropical storm in action. So generally it is best to visit the far northern regions in the dry season if you are seeking sun, sand, balmy nightlife, some secluded tropical oases and want to access all areas (a 4WD vehicle may still be needed due to lack of sealed roads and rugged terrain). The downside can be that meccas such as Broome get very busy and accommodation needs to be booked in advance. The upside to visiting in the humid Wet season is that popular tourist haunts are all yours as tourist numbers are down and you’ll get to meet the real characters that make up the local population. The downside is many tourism operators “shut up shop” and enjoy a Christmas holiday themselves and flooding can prevent access to wonderful attractions. Whether sultry, stormy wet or sunny, funny dry is your style it’s important to know what you may be in for. More information about the State’s weather and climate can be found at http://www.bom.gov.au/

The Kimberley dry season is characterized by clear blue skies, easterly winds and balmy days with some chilly nights. The weather is very stable, and outdoor events can be planned years in advance. It won’t rain and every day is perfect.

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Go to bed in the West.. WesternScarborough, Beach Lodge wa 6 Westborough Street Scarborough, Western Australia Tel: (08) 9245 1624 E: westernbeach@iprimus.com.au

www.westernbeach.com

Walking distance to cafes, shops & services... Only 5 minutes by bus from Perth City BACKPACKERS

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Dorms from $24, Twin Share from $36 & Private from $48 (per person, per night)

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Swimming pool, BBQ, pool table, TV rooms, FOXTEL, large kitchen, laundry, tour desk 24 hrs email/Internet Present this voucher at check-in to receive a FREE internet card (Valued at $10)

CALL NOW: (08) 9227 1521 www.beattylodge.com.au 235 Vincent Street, West Perth, Western Australia 6005

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Go Indigenous WA

Aboriginal rock art and stencils, located west of Kununurra. Image thanks to Tourism Western Australia.

The first inhabitants of Western Australia were Indigenous Australians from a variety of language and kin groups. Indigenous people continue to have a significant presence in the region. In fact to this day there are more then 365 language groups in Australia and more than 60 in Western Australia alone.

“You can learn more about the beauty of Indigenous culture by visiting various Indigenous centres spread throughout Western Australia.” Western Australia is heavily stacked with a rich Indigenous history and culture. Many of these original ethnic groups were vanquished during the 200 years of European colonial expansion. Modern day Indigenous Australians are the key to humanity’s oldest continuous culture, providing a living link with up to 70,000 years of history. In the Kimberly Region you can explore ancient rock art and cave paintings. The world famous Bradshaw paintings known as Gwion Gwion are here and are believed to be 50,000 years old. Local communities offer family stays for an authentic experience of Aboriginal culture on the Dampier Peninsula. You can learn more about the beauty of Indigenous culture by visiting various Indigenous centres spread throughout Western Australia. These centres can be found at Karijini National Park in the Northern Pilbara Region, Monkey Mia in Shark Bay,Yallingup in the Southwest, inland at Kojonup and in and around Perth. See www.urbanindigenoustours.com The Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Committee – or WAITOC are a great resource for getting some first hand experience of Western Australia’s Indigenous culture, see www.waitoc.com

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Go Perth Culture

Session’ as it has come to be known, sees hordes of locals and visitors congregating at beachside pubs to watch the sun go down.

Despite existing on the fringe of an already isolated continent, Perth and Western Australia are also abuzz with modern cultural activity. In fact WA’s isolation has resulted in cultural traditions that are truly unique and quite distinct from their urban Aussie counterparts to the east.

Pubs along Cottesloe Beach, Fremantle and Scarborough Beach are famous for these Sunday afternoon drinking parties. Most venues crank up the music with their favourite DJ’s and the drinking is fast and furious.

Perth has more hours of sunshine then any other state capital in Australia. This has given rise to a prolific and rich outdoor culture. Entertaining, socializing and drinking outdoors, is simply the way life is lived over here. As for festivals - well Perth is second only to Sydney in the number of music festivals it hosts, particularly over the summer months.

Go Get Sporty

Western Australia is also the backdrop for such epics as Australia the movie, Rabbit Proof Fence and author Tim Winton’s multi award winning novel Dirt Music. The annual Perth Arts Festival (Feb 13 – March 8) is an arts fest of major international standing with a 55 year history. Check out www.perthfestival.com.au for this year’s free entertainment and gigs. For those with a taste for history The Western Australian Museum (www.museum. wa.gov.au) has brilliant branches in Perth, Fremantle, Albany, Geraldton and KalgoorlieBoulder. The museums have exhibits that explore local history alongside Aboriginal culture and Indigenous wildlife. During the summertime seek out various outdoor cinemas; classic, cult, and new release films are played under the trees and stars on balmy evenings. Throughout the year countless events are held in Western Australia. These range from Broome’s Shinju Matsui Pearl Festival to Perth’s Good Vibrations dance fest. To find out more check out our events guide (page 18) or go to www.westernaustralia.net/events or www. cultureandarts.wa.gov.au.

All Australians love their sport and Aussies on the west coast are no exception. In summer cricket is the national religion of Australia. The Western Australian Cricket Association ground – the WACA – is up amongst the best as a place to catch a game. In winter time the action is far from dying out. The season for Australian Football League – or ‘footy’ as it is known here – kicks off during this time. The game is played in WA, SA, NT and Victoria. Aussie Rules is fast paced and seemingly has no rules when you first watch it. Western Australia has two teams, the West Coast Eagles and the Fremantle Dockers. The sport is an integral part of Western Australian culture so be sure to come and check it out.

Go Chow Down Virtually all restaurants and most pubs and bars offer outside tables wherever possible and dining al fresco is very popular, especially in summer. Areas to check out include Northbridge, Fremantle, Mt Lawley, Leederville and Scarborough. All these ‘strips’ offer a variety of restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs. The range of food on offer is enormous, from lunchtime favourites such as food halls and sushi shops to upmarket restaurants for a classy evening meal. In between you will find something to suit all palates and pockets, including some fantastic BYO curry houses and many venues and flavours reflecting the ethnic diversity of WA’s population. Keep an eye out for fancy restaurants offering specials for dining outside on week nights or during the day. Seafood is fantastic all over WA, particularly to Northern Europeans who are used to seeing prawns about an inch long. Over here they’re huge by comparison. Fancy seafood platters are often surprisingly cheap and could hardly be fresher if they were still flapping. In the coastal suburbs and townships there are some legendary fish and chip shops to be found.

Go Make a Splash As a traveller, other than a kick-around on the beach and a bit of compulsory Frisbee, most sport you participate in will involve you getting wet. Australian culture is inseparably linked to the rivers, dams and beaches and water sports are at the heart of the WA lifestyle. With vast stretches of unspoilt coastline, the very accessible Swan River and a beautiful climate year-round, there is no better place to get wet.

Go Pop Culture Recently Perth and Freo have earned a reputation for being Australia’s equivalent to Britain’s Manchester or the United States’ Seattle, due to the many first class artists and bands it has produced, including Gyroscope, John Butler Trio, The Waifs, Little Birdy, and The Little Panda Band. Check out unique local radio at RTR 92.1 FM.

Go on a Session Watching the sunset as it sinks into the Indian Ocean with your bevvie of choice in hand, is an Aussie cultural tradition that is unique to Perth and WA as a whole. The ‘Sunday

Whether it’s trying your luck at surfing, windsurfing, kite-surfing, kayaking, sailing, snorkeling or scuba diving, WA has some of the very best breaks, spectacular seascapes and delicious dive spots for you to enjoy. The local sealife is amazing and friendly - well, most of it is. Maybe avoid the ones with big teeth. As well as offering you the chance to swim alongside the biggest fish in the world, the whale shark, WA has dolphins, whales, seals, dugongs, turtles, manta rays and countless other maritime wonders in its surrounding waters. Other activities you can try include bushwalking, climbing, four-wheel driving, beach volleyball, dirt biking and sandboarding. Gyms which offer packages for backpackers generally leave brochures around hostels. Public swimming pools such as The Fremantle Leisure Centre, Beatty Park, Claremont Pool and Bold Park are set in scenic surroundings, have heated pools in the colder months and are cheaper if you buy a 10-swim or monthly pass.

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march Sculpture By The Sea Mon 14 – Tues 22 March 2011 Cottesloe Beach Cost: Free Over 60 local, interstate and international artists will transform Perth’s most popular beach into a stunning sculpture park overlooking the Indian Ocean. A free CAT service to the beach will depart daily from Cottesloe Station. www.sculpturebythesea.com.au

4th All Japanese MotorCycle Show Whiteman Park Sunday 27 - March 2011 Cost: $5 Celerbrating 30th Anniversary of the Suzuki Katana http://www.japbikeshow.com.au/

april Telstra Drug Aware Margaret River Pro Mon 4 April - Sun 10 April 2011 Surfer’s Point, Margaret River Cost: Free Heading South? Check out Western Australia’s biggest pro surf competition. As the sun sets, enjoy the sights and sounds of the nightly art and music festivities. www.drugawarepro.com

Creamfields Tues 23 April 2011 Claremont Showgrounds, Perth Cost: $95 One of the UK’s finest dance festivals has now extended to the sunny city of Perth. Deadmuas and Martin Solveig will join an exciting showcase of DJs from across the globe. www.creamfields.com.au

Fremantle Street Arts Festival Sat 23 - Tue 23 April 2011 Fremantle Cost: Free! Fremantle is the place to be during the Easter long weekend, attracting over 100,000 each year. The streets ooze artistic talent as buskers, musicians, actors, poets and circus folk alike showcase their skills. www.fremantle.gov.au

may

Cut Copy Fri 13 May 2011 Metro City, Perth Cost: $45 + booking fee Promoting the release of their new album, Cut Copy will be appearing at Metro City mid May. A venue so big and a band so electrifying will surely result in a great night out! www.metrocity.com.au Groovin The Moo Sat 14 May 2011 Hay Park, Bunbury Cost: $99.90 + booking fee Groovin the Moo brings an array of international and local acts to the regional town of Bunbury, south of Perth. This year’s line up has just been announced, featuring Cut Copy, The Wombats, Art vs Science and The Drums. www.gtm.net.au

Fairbridge Festival Fri 29 April - Sun 1 May 2011 Fairbridge Village, Pinjarra Cost: $165 Adult Early Bird, Family Tickets also available. An all ages, 3 day camping festival that celebrates world and folk music, Fairbridge Festival is sure to rejuvinate your soul. Situated 100km south of Perth, the event boasts not just international and homegrown musicians, but street theatre, poetry, jam sessions and workshops. www.fairbridgefestival.com.au

Wild West Comedy Festival Weds 18 - Sun 29 May 2011 Perth city and surrounds Cost: $24 - $46 Perth’s very own laugh-a-thon will showcase a number of local and international comedy acts at various venues in Perth, Northbridge and Mt Lawley. www.wildwestcomedy.com.au

West Coast Blues and Roots Festival Sun 17 April 2011 Fremantle Park, Fremantle Cost: $139 + booking fee Bob Dylan, Elvis Costello, Rodrigo Y Gabriela and The Cat Empire are joined by some of Australia’s favourite local and international acts. This is a West Aussie tradition and one of our longest running festivals. www.westcoastbluesnroots.com.au Trading Post Perth Challenge Fri 29 April - Sun 1 May 2011 Barbagallo Raceway, Wanneroo Cost: From $23.80 for a day pass Motor enthusiast? Head north to Wanneroo as the V8 Supercars return to Perth. http://perth.v8supercars.com.au Argyle Diamonds Ord Valley Muster Thur 12 May - Sun 22 May 2011 The East Kimberley, Kununurra The Ord Valley Muster is a ten day event that celebrates

the history and cultural significance of the East Kimberley region, with it’s very own rodeo, triathlon, art exhibitions, markets, workshops and musical performances. If you are eager to indulge in a true Australian experience, plan your trip north for mid May! www.ordvalleymuster.com.au

The Dandy Warhols Tue 24 May 2011 Metropolis, Fremantle Cost: $71.50 This band needs no introduction! 14 years since their initial single ‘Not If You Were The Last Junkie On Earth’ excited music lovers, the Dandy Warhols will be here in Perth! Mark it in your calender as it is a show not be missed. www.moshtix.com.au

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British India Sat 28 May 2011 Rosemount Hotel, Perth Cost: $29.50 Folliwing their success in the UK, Australian favourites British India will rock the Rosemount Hotel. www.moshtix.com.au

The Chase Tour Sat 28 May 2011 Amplifier Bar, Perth Cost: $23.80 Hip Hop fan? M-Phrases and Illy are Australia’s biggest up and coming hip hop acts and are guranteed to get you jumping! They will be touring across regional WA including Bunbury, Fremantle, Mandurah and Albany, Check out the website below for dates. www.moshtix.com.au

june Blue King Brown Thu 2 June 2011 Metropolis, Fremantle Cost: $28 + booking fee There is no one genre to decribe this group. Unique and an Australian favourite, Blue King Brown incorperate hip hop, dub, reggae, blues, rock and a philosophy guaranteed to get your body moving. www.bluekingbrown.com

magnificant creatures. The town is abuzz with market stalls, art displays and street performances. Take a whale watching charter or walk to the top of mainland Australia’s tallest Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, it is the perfect vantage point for land-based whale watching! www.margaretriver.com

York Gourmet Food and Wine Festival Sat 25 - Sun 26 June 2011 York Cost: Free The York Gourmet Food and Wine Festival returns in 2011 at the historic 1831 York Town Hall. With over 40 stalls, the festival showcases a huge range of food and wine from all over Western Australia including cheese, olives, wine, nuts, chocolate and much more... yum! www.avonvalleywa.com.au Supanova Pop Culture Expo Fri 24 - Sun 26 June 2011 Claremont Showgrounds, Perth Cost: From $20 day pass The expo celebrates the wonderful worlds of sciencefiction, pulp TV/movies, toys, console gaming, trading cards, animation/cartoons, fantasy, comic books, entertainment technology, books, internet sites and fan-clubs. www.supanova.com.au

july Whale Song Augusta Festival Fri 3 - Sun 5 June 2011 Augusta Cost: Free Each year the coastal town of Augusta welcomes the return of the Humpback and Southern Right Whales. Make your way south to celebrate these

Revelation Perth International Film Festival 14 - 24 July 2011 The Astor Theatre, Mt Lawley Perth Cost: TBA Films from across the globe will be featured at the festival, along with live music and exhibitions. Check out the website for screenings. www.revelationfilmfest.org

Cabaret Soiree Carnival 1 July - 18 Sep 2011 His Majesty’s Theatre, Perth Cost: TBA Check out the hottest local, interstate and international cabaret acts over this 12 week, raunchy carnival. The cabaret showcase is just one event held over Perth’s Winter Arts Season that begins mid June. Log onto the website below for theatre, dance, music and event listings that are guaranteed to warm you up this winter. www.perthwinterarts.com.au

AFL Premiership Season 26 Mar - 26 Aug 2011 Patersons Stadium, Subiaco Cost: $15 Any Australian experience is incomplete without attending an Australian Football match. Support the local West Coast Eagles or Fremantle Dockers at Paterson’s Stadium in Subiaco. Games are usually featured once a week and the stadium is easy to get to... catch the Fremantle train to West Leederville... you won’t miss the stadium! www.afl.com.au Katie Tobias

GO WEST events & festivals

2011

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Go Perth City

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Go Perth City Perth epitomizes the modern urban scene. It’s definitely isolated. But with its contemporary architecture, vibrant art scene, and countless restaurants capped off with funky bars and swish nightclubs, you won’t feel like you’ve staggered onto the scene of an old Western flick. And the locals here are a very nice complement with their friendliness, youthfulness and diversity. Perth’s CBD is all glass towers and wind tunnels, like any city. But graciously absent is the cold-blooded corporate culture that so permeates Sydney and Melbourne. While you’re in Perth, check out the Perth Mint, on the corner of Hay and Hill Streets. It boasts the world’s largest collection of gold nuggets. Take a walk along the Swan River on Riverside Drive, head up to the Hay and Murray Street Malls, amble over to Northbridge for lunch and walk back down to Barrack St Jetty in time for one of the afternoon ferries from Barrack St Jetty to South Perth. On the south side of the Swan River you’ll find Perth Zoo. The Perth Zoo has over 1500 animals comprising 200 different species. Local animal celebrities to be found here include kangaroos, koalas, numbats, emus, and dingoes.

Perth fast facts Population: About 1.8 million Climate: Summers are generally hot and dry, lasting from December to late March, with February generally being the hottest month of the year. On most summer afternoons a refreshing sea breeze, known as “The Fremantle Doctor”, blows from the south-west. Winters are relatively mild. Attractions: Perth is best known for its pristine beaches, clear waters and great surfing and swimming conditions. Rottnest Island, the Swan River, Kings Park, Yanchep National Park, the Swan Valley and colourful Fremantle are key attractions. Cultural attractions include The Art Gallery of Western Australia and museums throughout Perth and Fremantle. Nightlife: Northbridge, located next to Perth’s CBD, is home to most of the city’s bars, pubs, restaurants, cafes and clubs. Fremantle – a half hour train ride south of Perth – offers an alternative mix of markets, street performers, festivals, pubs and entertainment. Accommodation: There are over 30 hostels around the Perth and Northbridge area, including Scarborough and Cottesloe beaches and Fremantle. There are two caravan parks near Fremantle and several around Perth and its suburbs. Budget hotels and motels are rife, along with B&B’s and more upmarket hotels. Perth Visitor Centre: Forrest Place, Corner of Wellington Street and Forrest Place, Perth, 6000. Tel: 08 9483 1111. See www.westernaustralia.com.au

Go out Life on the road is great isn’t it? Not only is every day a holiday, but everyone is competing to get you in through their doors. Young travellers are the celebrities on week nights, when all the locals are sensibly tucked up in bed, and with celebrity comes free and cheap stuff. Here’s the good guide to backpacker pubs in Perth, most of which will come with entertainment, a free drink and/or BBQ, or some sort of reduced price bargain if you go on the right nights:

Best Budget nights out •

Mustang Bar - 46 Lake Street, Northbridge

•

Rosie O’Grady’s - cnr James and Milligan St, Northbridge

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Black Betty’s - 133 Aberdeen Street, Northbridge

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Elephant and Wheelbarrow - 53 Lake St, Northbridge

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Hip E Club - cnr Oxford and Newcastle St, Leederville

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Newport Hotel - 2 South Terrace, Fremantle

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Monkey Bar - 393 Murray St, Northbridge

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Paddy Maguires – 328 Barker Rd, Subiaco

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Rosie O’Grady’s - 23 William St, Fremantle

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The Deen - 84 Aberdeen St, Northbridge

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The Lucky Shag - Barrack St Jetty, Perth

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The Euro Bar - 108-114 Aberdeen St, Northbridge

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Metro City - 146 Roe St, Northbridge

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Barracks Bar - 2 Francis St, Northbridge

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Northbridge Friday and Saturday nights come alive in Northbridge. Perth’s cultural and entertainment centre, Northbridge is just a few minutes walk north of Perth’s CBD. The area is home to a number of pubs, nightclubs, bars, cafes, shops, galleries and one of the biggest concentrations of restaurants in Australia. Perth’s ethnic diversity is represented in an assortment of restaurants and cafes, especially around Lake and James Streets. There are literally hundreds to choose from, all within about four blocks of each other. Enjoy a Thai, Chinese, Indian, Greek, Egyptian or Italian meal before heading out to one of the premier nightspots. William Street is the centre for all your budget travel and touring booking agents, with an array to chose from. The Western Australian Art Gallery houses a great collection of state, national and international art and the Alexander Library is excellent. In Arts House The Photography Gallery of Western Australia displays creative images from leading artists that change each month. The Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA), near the Art Gallery and Library, houses a diverse range of contemporary art and performances in a grand old heritage building. The Perth Cultural Centre is located in the State Library, Art Gallery, Blue Room Theatre and PICA area near Perth Train Station. There is ample budget accommodation in the Northbridge area, a district favoured by young international visitors to Perth. 20

Things to do - Take a stroll around Kings Park, and snap some first class photos of the city from up above. Experience the heady heights of the eucalypt canopy by embarking on the Federation Walkway. - Do the hip, urban Aboriginal day trip with www.urbanindigenoustours.com - Hire a treadly from the Cycle Centre at 313 Hay Street, East Perth, 08 9325 1176 and check out Perth at its pristine and cycle friendly best. - Watch a cricket match at the WACA, the fastest strip on earth. Try WACA 08 9265 7222.9265 - Try and work out what the ‘rules’ part of Aussie Rules Football consists of at the Subiaco Oval. - Hop on the CAT bus for a free day of touring the city’s highlights. Call Transperth on 13 62 13. - Hit the clubs on a Northbridge drink-up. - Take a cruise on the Swan River towards Fremantle. - Treat yourself to a generous helping of Hindu hospitality, not to mention a 360º panorama of the Perth city skyline: Annalakshmi, 2nd Floor, 12 The Esplanade, Perth, 08 9221 3003. Delicious wholesome vegetarian food with no set prices i.e. you ‘eat as you like and pay as you feel’. Booking will guarantee you a berth. - Explore the city in a fun and relaxed environment while uncovering lost heritage and history along with its best kept secrets. See www.twofeet.com.au

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Go Perth Zoo Just a short bus journey from Perth CBD is Western Australia’s largest zoo. Nestled on the Swan River, the zoo is a botanical paradise boasting lush greenery, shaded walkways and vast picnic areas. Perth Zoo offers a range of exhibits allowing you to get up close and personal to over 1200 animals; from the Lions and Giraffes of Africa, to the Monkeys and Elephants of Asia and over 80 Australian species. Give yourself a whole day to experience the zoo and the wonders of the vast Australian terrain. Take a bushwalk alongside Kangaroos, Koalas, Wombats and Dingoes. Check out the Nocturnal House, home to Bats, Possums, Cane Toads and the infamous Redback Spider. Experience Australia’s Wetlands at the Crocodile Exhibit before visiting the coastline as you take the Penguin Plunge. There are loads of activities, exhibits and summer events to keep you entertained for the entire day. Perth Zoo is open daily 9am – 5pm. How much is it? $21 for adults non concession How do I get there? Catch Bus 30 or 31 from the Esplanade Busport, or Bus 34 from Wellington Street Busport. For more info and to check out the Zoo’s Events Calender: www.perthzoo.wa.gov.au Katie Tobias

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Cnr William & Wellington Sts Perth

PH: (08) 9338 5100

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Go Burbs Subiaco With beautiful public and private gardens, Subiaco is known as the ‘leafy city.’ Despite this nickname, Subiaco probably resonates more with the passionate shopper than the tree-hugging hippie. Fashion followers should check out the variety of boutique and designer stores. If you are a sporty type of person duck into the Nike seconds store for bargains, and make sure you take in a game of Aussie Rules Football at the Subiaco Oval. The choice of restaurants and pubs here is also good – albiet generally more upmarket than Northbridge and Fremantle.

Claremont Claremont’s Bayview Terrace is located directly across from the Claremont train station and the surrounding streets are the focal point of Perth’s yuppie fashion mecca. It’s a classy place and the Lake Claremont Golf Course is stunning. Not to be outdone, the Lake Claremont Golf Course has floodlights so you can even golf after the sun has set. Looking for a little activity on the cheap? Hop over to Mrs. Herbert’s Park, overlooking the Swan River, where free BBQs are well placed for all to enjoy.

Leederville With its blend of cafes and funky fashion outlets, Leederville has a slightly alternative feel and is a great coffee quaffing, people-watching hangout. Home to the Hip E Club (famous for its Backpacker/Student Tuesdays) and Luna Cinemas (offering cheap Wed and Mon double deals). Leederville is close to the city and easy to get to on the Perth - Joondalup train line.

Mount Lawley Up Beaufort Street from Northbridge is the shopping, café and restaurant precinct of Mount Lawley. A huge variety of delicatessens, grocers, small local parks and casual and café style dining establishments can be found here – as well as pubs. The Queens and Flying Scotsman are both popular watering holes and many students and backpackers set up their homes around here because of its close proximity to Perth and availability of rental bargains.

Cottesloe Cottesloe is Perth’s playground for the rich and beautiful. Cott Beach is adorned with Norfolk pine trees, cafes, pubs, cycle paths and picnic/BBQ facilities. At Cables Station an artificial reef has been constructed to generate some waves during flat spells. The Sunday Sessions go off at the Cottesloe and Ocean Beach Hotels, where surfers and beach babes squeeze every last drop out of the glorious Perth summer weekends. Stay at the Ocean Beach Backpackers: www.oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au

Go Beaches • Check out all the hot bods gravitating towards the Indian Ocean on a sunny day. • Learn to surf, kitesurf, or windsurf like a pro. • Have a cold beer at Scarborough’s Stamford Arms pub and be thankful that you’re not at home. • Experience a legendary ‘Cott’ (Cottesloe Hotel) Sunday Session.

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Scarborough A casual beachside community north west of Perth, Scarborough has a laid back identity all of its very own. The beach itself has some of the finest white sand around. For any traveller Scarborough provides the perfect base from which to explore the coastal fringes of Perth, as it is home to a number of hostels and hotels. Great backpacker accommodation can be â&#x20AC;&#x153;The beach itself has some of the finest found at the Western white sand... â&#x20AC;? Beach Lodge. The Western Beach Lodge is an intimate and friendly place teaming with travellers and surfers. Guests can borrow body boards and take full advantage of the laid back check-in and out times. Call 08 9245 1624 or go to www.westernbeach. com. Other beaches within walking distance include Brighton and Floreat Beach to the south of Scarborough, and Trigg Beach, just 1.4km to its north. Trigg Beach is popular for snorkelling with its many island and rock pools and the surf breaks are said to be amongst the best. Water conditions here are usually best in the morning. If you are into windsurfing or kite-surfing then Perthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beachside suburbs are the place for you, Fremantle and Rockingham especially. The breeze here is very consistent and kite-surfing is hugely popular.

Hillarys (AQWA)

Swan Valley

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Go Hil arys A treasure sometimes missed by visitors to Perth, Hillarys Boat Harbour offers a great day and/or evening out. A premier recreational destination for Perth locals and visitors, the Harbour offers a wide range of restaurants, attractions, activities, shops, and services catering to fishermen, boaties, beach goers, scuba divers, tourists and locals. Set on walk ways over the Indian Ocean, Hillarys Boat Harbour is twenty minutes drive north of Perth and is open seven days a week. The sheltered beach there is ideal for those non big wave surfers, and the supreme AQWA aquarium lets you explore over 12,000kms of Western Australia’s coastline in just one day. Visitors will go on an underwater journey along the amazing coastline of Western Australia. Over 9 months in the making AQWA’s 400,000 litre living coral reef exhibit is now open to the public. Fascinate the senses with a living coral reef then travel from the shore to the bottom of the sea in AQWA’s Underwater Gallery. Discover the jewel of the ocean and be amazed as you experience its kaleidoscope of colours.

it Co OP ral EN Ree NO f E W! xhi b

Check out www.hillarysboatharbour.com.au, www.sorrentoquay.com.au and www.aqwa.com.au

To get to Hillarys from Perth city (weekdays), catch the Joondalup Line train and alight at the Warwick station. Transfer to the 423 bus which will take you to Hillarys Boat Harbour. On weekends, catch the Joondalup Line train and alight at the Greenwood Train Station. Transfer to the 456 bus which will take you to Hillarys.

Grey Nurse Shark AQWA’s shipwreck coast

Other attractions include the Great Escape Water Park (with dj’s after dark over summer months) and the Naturaliste Marine Discovery Centre. Ferries also depart from Hillarys Boat Harbour for Rottnest Island. Twilight Rottnest cruises and whale watching cruises (mid September to late December) are also available. The Harbour boasts a tavern, night club and pool hall. A range of cafes, restaurants and specialty stores will keep you busy during the day.

Explore over 12,000 kms of Western Australia’s coastline in just one day From the icy-cold waters of the Southern Ocean to the tropical wonderland of coral reefs in the Far North, AQWA takes you on an underwater journey to discover the fascinating and unique marine life of Western Australia.

Hillarys Boat Harbour Open 10am -5pm Tel: 08 9447 7500 www.aqwa.com.au

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Go Fremantle

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ENJOY THE SHOPPING & RELAXATION OPE

FRI D SU AY TO & PUNDAY HO BLIC & ALLIDAYS THE L OVER E WEE ASTER KEND !

MORE INTERESTING & MORE TO SEE WITH LARGE VARIETY MARKET STALLS

FREE WIRELESS INTERNET ACCESS WITHIN ESHED RANGE VICTORIA QUAY, FREMANTLE www.eshedmarkets.com.au

Celebrate with a

FREE COFFEE Must present coupon to redem offer.

GO E

SHED

Markets FREMANTLE

The E Shed Markets are located at the E Shed cargo store, which has been a part of Victoria Quay for almost 100 years. The markets have a large variety of stalls offering souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, local artwork, crafts, coffee shops, confectioneries and fresh organic fruit and vegetable stalls. The E Shed market includes a massage centre, photography services and a well priced hair and beauty salon. The food court at the market has a variety of local and international food including South East Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern and European foods. There is a bar and live entertainment is provided on Saturdays between 2 - 5 pm and on Sundays and bank holidays between 1 - 4 pm. Fridays are a very special night with Darrell Silvester, who entertains young customers with special needs. Important dates: Easter holiday – the E Shed is open from the 22nd of April to 26th of April. Mothers’ Day – Sunday the 8th of May is a special Elvis Day at the E Shed. Elvis Mothers’ Day is the brain child of Robert Remigio of the Quay Inn at the E Shed. Robert is offering this great day out to celebrate Elvis who dearly loved his Mum - so come along and show your Mum how much you appreciate her. General Market is open from Friday to Sunday and Public holidays from 9am - 5pm, the food court is open until 8pm.

Things to do • Listen to the free live music in the Fremantle Arts Centre’s beautiful courtyard (2pm -4pm every Sun) • Enjoy a coffee or two on the lazy cappuccino strip. • Do a little time at the Fremantle Prison. www.fremantleprison.com.au • Indulge yourself in some of the many boutique beers in the pubs. • Check out the live music and street performances on offer. • Eat ‘world’s best’ fish and chips at Fishing Boat Harbour • Amble through the historic Fremantle Markets (Fri – Sun) • Laze by the sea at South Beach, Bather’s Bay or Leighton. • Check out water front E-Shed Markets (Fri – Sun). • Go wharf fishing in the evening. • Watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean while enjoying the Fremantle Doctor (afternoon sea breeze) from Monument Hill.

See http://www.eshedmarkets.com.au/ 27

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Fremantle Fremantle is Perth’s old port town and is much loved for its festive atmosphere. Fremantle was the final destination for so many European migrants and its unique street café culture bears evidence to this. Freo, as it’s endearingly called by locals, is fun and happening, but also laid back and easy. This mix is nicely complemented by backpackers who have come to establish a base here, and there are five well equipped hostels which are all centrally located. One of Freo’s most famous attractions are its markets. Both the E-Shed and Fremantle Markets offer numerous variety and craft stalls, quality food courts and bars. The E-Shed’s habourside location makes it ideal for sunny afternoon supping and it often has live outdoor entertainment to boot. Markets are open Friday-Sunday.

A pivotal attraction is Freo’s integrated waterfront location. Fremantle Harbour is a delight on a summer’s day. Nearby is Esplanade Park which is a shady expanse of green that plays host to many festivals throughout the summer. A somewhat eerie attraction is the Fremantle Prison. No longer operating as a gaol, the prison has been converted into a tourist attraction and hosts one of Western Australia’s most exciting adventures: The Tunnels Tour. The Tunnels are a maze of daunting dark catacombs 20 meters underneath the prison. Well worth a look-see. Check out www.fremantleprison.com.au Another great place to check out is the Roundhouse Gaol. This is where the first convicts were placed in holding cells when they got off the boat. The place is heritage listed, and like many heritage buildings in Fremantle, it is reputed to be haunted.

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Go out of Perth Yanchep What: Yanchep National Park and beaches. Where: Not far out of the big smoke, just 3/4 hour drive north of Perth along Wannaroo Road or along the coast up Marmion Avenue. Why: Here you can experience a taste of Aboriginal culture, including tool making demonstrations, and get a glimpse of the koalas and kangaroos which roam the area. Wagardu Lake, in the park, is extremely significant to the local Aboriginal people of the area; according to tradition the lake is inhabited by a Waugal (rainbow serpent), whose activities ensure that the springs that feed the lake continue to flow. The Park also has magnificent limestone caves and a stunning array of wildflowers. Tudor-style buildings add some olde-world charm, which sits comfortably with the BBQ and picnic facilities, boats for hire and bushland to explore. Confirm the current viewing and performance times on 9561 1004. Admission is $7, go to www.dec.wa.gov.au for more info. Horse and camel riding are popular pursuits in the Yanchep area, as are bike riding, bush-walking and surfing. The ‘Spot’ is a favoured haunt for keen surfers and is situated close to the township on a well maintained track. See http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/ Image of Two Rocks, Yanchep thanks to Mariska Van de Cappelle.

If you get lucky you might see kangaroos, bandicoot, or even echidna, there is plenty of bird life making Kalamunda National park a must visit attraction for bird watchers. When taking bush walks please ensure you have a compass, good walking shoes, a first aid kit and plenty of water. The park is a half hour drive from Perth, or you can catch a bus from the Esplanade Busport to the Kalamunda Bus Station. The trip takes approximately 45 minutes. See http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/

The Bibbulmun Track If you thought it was a long way to Tipperary, try walking from Perth’s Kalamunda Hills to Albany. This epic southwest bushwalk is not for the fainthearted, but experienced hikers will love it. Try tackling one section: you can walk the track for a few hours, a few days, or a few weeks, with most walkers averaging 1520kms per day. The path passes through many towns, although you can walk for more than 160km without encountering any civilisation. Follow the yellow, triangular Waugal signs - showing a local Aboriginal mythological rainbow snake - regularly placed on trees and posts; the head of the Waugal points in the direction of travel. The best time to walk the track is the mild late-autumn (June) and spring/ early summer (Sept-Nov) is the best time for wildflowers. Heat and lack of water can make summer hiking dangerous. The track passes through an array of landscapes, mostly jarrah or karri forest, and along the way are many threesided shelters with fresh water for campers. The Bibbulmun takes its name from a distinct southwestern Aboriginal language group who travelled long distances for tribal meetings. See http://www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au or call (08) 9481 0551.

Munda Biddi Bike Trail The Munda Biddi Trail (which means path through the forest in the Nyoongar Aboriginal language) is a new, world-class, nature-based, off-road cycling experience.

Kalamunda National Park If you want a nature based adventure then Kalamunda National park is certainly worth a visit. The Bibbulmun Track starts here and continues for 1000 kilometers to Albany in the South. Hiking along this trail will take you along the Peisse Brook and through forests with marri, wandoo, butter gum, and jarrah. The scenery is made even more spectacular by the common outcrops of granite boulders. 30

Starting in Mundaring the trail meanders through scenic river valleys and the magnificent eucalypt forests of the State’s South West. It utilises a network of bush tracks, firebreaks and disused railway formations and is suitable for cyclists of all ages and experience levels. Situated a comfortable day’s ride apart are purpose-built Munda Biddi campsites with roomy Camp Huts and tent sites. Stage 1 of the trail, from Mundaring to Collie (332km) is currently open, with the first half of stage 2, Collie to Nannup, due to be opened to the public soon. See http://mundabiddi.org.au/

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Swan Valley Drive just 20 minutes north east of Perth city along Great Eastern Highway, and you’ll find yourself in the picturesque Swan Valley - Western Australia’s oldest wine growing region. Make Guildford the first stop with its enchanting antique furniture stores. Then take a leisurely stroll through town for a look at some of Western Australia’s oldest buildings - much of the original town plan is still intact and many fine civic, commercial and private buildings dating from the 1840s can still be seen. For those keen on sampling local wines, boutique beers and gourmet food, day trip bus tours are available from the city and there are public bus connections throughout the region. You can hire a vehicle from Perth and explore the Swan Valley at your own pace, or take one the wine cruises from the centre of Perth along the Swan River. See www.swanvalley.com.au and www.tastebudtours.com.au

Whitman Park Whiteman Park covers 3935 hectares or 9725 acres. A large part of the park is a dedicated conservation area. The recreation areas cover a 150 acres, the park takes it name from Lew Whiteman, 1903 – 1994, a well known local personality who owned much of the land on which the park now stands. The Park is only 25 minutes from the Perth CBD. It’s located close to the Swan Valley.There is a public bus service that stops at the Lord Street entrance. For more information please see www.transperth.wa.gov.au or call 13 62 13. Take the 956 or the 955 bus to Ellenbrook. There are plenty of Kangaroos however these are wild and it’s unlikely you will get close to them; there is also a lot of spectacular fauna within the park. Whiteman Park is also the home to Caversham Wild Life Park, where you can see most of Australia’s Iconic animals including, wombats and koalas. These animals are native to the Eastern States of Australia and as such are not present in the wild in WA. Entry fees, Adult $22, Child $9.50, Aged Pensioners $17, Students $15 as at 11 March 2011. Entry to Whiteman Park is free and the entrance to the park is off Lord Street or Beechboro Road, Whiteman. Open 8.30am – 6.00pm everyday of the year* 9.00am – 5.00pm *Christmas Day (picnic areas only, no attractions) See http://www.whitemanpark.com.au/

Vineyards in Swan Valley. Image thanks to Tourism Western Australia.

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Go Rottnest Island A living reef encircles Rottnest and supports nearly 100 species of tropical fish. There are several sunken ship wrecks within swimming distance from the beach.

conditions, bountiful fishing (any mug can throw their line off the jetty and end up with something on the end of it!) and fantastic marine life. Penguin Island is one great day out. Grab a frequent ferry from Mersey Point. Remember to take a picnic with you, as only fresh drinking water is available on the Island. Ideal for swimming and relaxing, Penguin Island is covered with a myriad of birdlife, including of course, the native penguins. The island even boasts a pelican flying school for ‘tweeny’ birds. Part of the Shoalwater Island Marine Park, Penguin Island neighbours Seal island – where the obvious reside.

The island itself has had several incarnations, known as Wadgemup (meaning place across the water) by local Aboriginal people, it was sadly used as a prison many years ago. And it was later an internment camp for German and Austrian citizens during World War II.

Other attractions in the area are The Spectacles Yargon Tours escorted by local Indigenous guides, top class snorkelling and scuba diving in the West Coast Dive Park. The Dive Park is rich in dive wrecks, including The Saxon Ranger, as well as a wonder-world of fish.

The Rottnest of today is upbeat and chilled. Cars are not permitted so everyone rides bicycles. As you pedal your way around the island, keep your eyes peeled for Rotto’s most famous inhabitants, the quokkas. Quokkas are small marsupials who earned the island its name Rottnest: Dutch for ‘rat’s nest’. A Dutch mariner, Willem de Vlamingh, passed by in 1696 and mistook the cute marsupials for rats.

Boating, fishing, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and the Baldivis Karnup Wine Trail are amongst the most popular activities on offer. Or you may be up for just chilling on the shady grassed lawns of the Rockingham Foreshore. Take advantage of the free BBQ facilities or try some very tasty local fish and chips.

This gorgeous little island 2km from the mainland is an annual ritual for many Perth locals. Rottnest is unique. It has the southern-most coral reef system, a population of rare marsupials and some of the best off-beach snorkelling found in the world.

If you don’t fancy cycling, the Bayseeker bus service runs a regular 50 minute route around the island, stopping on request. The all day ticket is great value at $7.90 allowing you to check out all the beautiful little bays and linger at your leisure. There is great accommodation, from camping, cabins and backpacker/budget through to resorts. Make sure you book ahead, particularly over busy times such as the summer months and the school holidays. You can do this by going to http:// www.rottnestisland.com or ringing 9432 9111. Facilities on the island include a supermarket, dive and fishing shop, newsagent, bakery, hairdresser, surf shop, fast food outlets, Post Office and ATM. Older buildings to look out for are the white Salt House, and the present day Rottnest Hotel, which in the 1860s was the Governor’s Residence. To reach the island jump on a ferry either from Perth, or the 20 minute direct route from Fremantle, call (08) 9421 5888 or (08) 9335 6406.

Go Rockingham Location: 47kms South of Perth by road Population: 62,000 Climate: Summers are generally hot and dry, lasting from December to late March, with February generally being the hottest month of the year. Mild wet winters. Attractions: Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, dolphins, seals, Penguin Island and beautiful foreshore Accommodation: Self contained units and houses. There are also hotels, motels, caravan parks and B&Bs. Visitor Centre: 19 Kent Street Rockingham. Tel: (08) 9592 3464 www.rockinghamvisitorcentre.com.au Chances are, if you are visiting from overseas and have relatives in Perth, they’ll be living somewhere around Rockingham. If you’re local, then you’ve probably heard how far Rockingham has come from being a sleepy little fishing getaway – but have you visited the area lately? These days Rocky (as the locals call it) offers cosmopolitan cafes and dining, pubs, clubbing, shopping, every imaginable aquatic activity above and below the sea, many great accommodation options, Sunday markets and an array of festivals and events – most of which are free. The stunning foreshore and esplanade provide the perfect backdrop for various music and cultural events, usually culminating with an impressive firework display once the sun has quietly dipped below the Indian Ocean. Rockingham’s main attraction is its pristine beaches, sheltered swimming

The area and conditions are also perfect for learning to kitesurf and standup paddleboarding. See the guys at West Oz Boardsports for great deals and info www. westozkiteboarding.com.au Contact the Rockingham Visitor Centre on (08) 9592 3464, drop in and see them at the Garry Holland Community Centre, 19 Kent Street Rockingham or go to www. rockinghamvisitorcentre.com.au for more info about what’s on offer in the region.

Swim With Dolphins Rockingham is one of the only places in Australia where you can swim with wild dolphins. Feeding a dolphin alongside 100 other tourists or watching the amazing creatures perform tricks at Sea World is joyful - but to actually swim alongside them in their natural habitat is an experience above the rest. The day tour begins early with a 45 minute coach ride from Perth to Rockingham. After boarding the boat, zipping up your wet suits and preparing your snorkel and mask, you can then cruise through the bays of Rockingham searching for the friendly fins. Over 180 dolphins reside in the area. The crew have dedicated over 20 years to building a relationship with the dolphins so as to interact with them in their natural environment. Upon the first sighting and bubbling with excitement, you are beckoned into the bay. Each fellow snorkeller is guided through the clear blue waters by a crew member controlling a propeller designed to whisk you through the waters (comforting for weary swimmers). The first sound to meet your ears as you delve into the ocean is the unique call of the dolphin. You watch as they play just metres from your reach, curiously and excitedly before you. The day trip allows you to spend at least 1 - 2 hours with the amazing creatures, leaving you content, satisfied and more knowledgable of the dolphin and it’s beautiful nature. Lunch is included and the crew boast a 99% success rate. If snorkelling makes your stomach churn, Wild Encounters also provide a Dolphin Watching tour. This truly is an experience not to be missed! www.dolphins.com.au Katie Tobias

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Get Soaked

Indian Ocean

Explore the beautiful South West with Saturation Safaris. Activities include surf lessons, mountain biking, caving, abseiling, rock climbing, beer and wine tours, canoeing, stand up paddle, snorkelling, swimming, tennis, golf and guided nature walks. They will even pick you up from Perth! See http://www.saturationsurfaris.com.au/

Go Climbing

Margaret River Climbing Co are a new, dynamic and exciting adventure tourism and guiding business based in the heart of the Margaret River wine region of South-West, Western Australia. See http://www.margaretriverclimbingco.com.au/

Go Mountain Biking

Dirty Detours provides mountain bike tours through the most scenic locations Margaret River has to offer. So take a dirty detour from that well worn tourist route and see the bits the mainstream miss. It´s a whole new view. See http://dirtydetours.com/

Go Skydiving

Experience Western Australia’s premier dropzone! Tandem Skydive from 14,000ft over the spectacular Busselton and Margaret River Regions. http://www.southernskydivers.com.au/

Southern Ocean

Go Diving

Dive the Busselton Jetty day or night and explore the Swan Wreck - home to a myriad of different species of marine life and corals. http://www.diveshed.com.au/

Mandurah Location: 72 km south of Perth. By train, 48 mins from Perth, 1hour by car. Population: 61,000 Climate: Summers are generally hot and dry, lasting from December to late March, with February generally being the hottest month of the year. Attractions: Foreshore esplanade, Peel Zoo, water sports, crabbing, fishing, scenic cruises, markets, pubs and cafes. Accommodation: Camping and cottages, caravan parks, B&Bs, chalets, motels, hotels and resorts. Visitor Centre: Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah. Tel: 08 9550 3999 www.visitmandurah.com Mandurah is ideal if you fancy a cruise capturing a glimpse of some of the many bottlenose dolphins that live in the waterways. You can catch a feed of succulent blue swimmer crabs yourself, or wet a line for some exciting river, estuary or ocean fishing. There’s also house-boating and cruising quiet rivers and waterways to be had, plus dining, theatre-going and art exhibitions on the Mandurah waterfront. Try your hand at white water rafting, visit a feature garden or just relax as you enjoy the extensive network of inland waterways, rivers, wetlands, lakes, forests, National Parks and beaches. Less than sixty minutes drive south from Perth, the Peel Region covers an area of 5,500 square kilometers and includes five sub-regions: Serpentine-Jarrahdale, Murray (including Pinjarra and Dwellingup), Boddington, Waroona and Mandurah.

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Busselton Location: 230 km south of Perth. Population: 18,000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 22°C. Minimum average temperature 14°C. Yearly rainfall 825mm. Attractions: Saturday markets, Busseleton Jetty and Underwater Observatory, scuba diving, wineries, Ludlow Tuart Forest, art/craft galleries. Accommodation: A great variety of resorts, hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and caravan park accommodation is available plus one hostel. Advanced bookings are preferred particularly for school holidays and long weekends. Visitor Centre: 38 Peel Terrace, Busselton Tel: 08 9752 1288 www. geographebay.com The seaside town of Busselton lies sheltered on the shores of Geographe Bay and offers something for everyone – from adventure seekers to those just wanting to relax. The tropical waters of Geographe Bay make for great swimming and sunbathing. Boasting 30 kilometers of pristine, white sandy beaches, you are sure to find a secluded spot perfect for a dip. Dive beneath the surface and discover a whole other world of stunning marine life. The Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory provide a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with over 100 fish species. See http://www.busseltonjetty.com.au/ Back on terra firma, the Ludlow Tuart Forest is the only natural stand of Tuart left in the world. Pack a picnic and take in the rare beauty of these awesome giants of the forest. Experience the native flora and fauna on walk trails throughout Ambergate Reserve or bird life at the internationally recognised Vasse-Wonnerup Wetlands. Aside from these attractions, Busselton offers numerous job opportunities and has a number of cosy backpacker’s hostels. For further details on where to stay and what to do contact the Busselton Visitor Centre on (08) 9752 1288.

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Bunbury Location: 130 km south of Perth. Population: 31,865 Climate: Maximum average temperature 21.8° C. Minimum average temperature 11.6° C. Yearly rainfall 871mm. Attractions: Cappuccino Strip, regional art/craft galleries, wineries, Dolphin Discovery Centre. Accommodation: An excellent range of motels, hotels, B&Bs, apartments, backpackers, chalets and cabins located within caravan parks. Visitor Centre: Old railway station, Carmody place Tel: (08) 9792 7205 www.visitbunbury.com.au WA’s second largest city, Bunbury is located two hours from Perth. Harmonious with nature and the surrounding ocean, Bunbury is southwest’s dolphin capital. This title is due entirely to the friendly flip-flopping ocean creatures that frequent Koombana Bay. See info about the Dolphin Discovery Centre at http://dolphins. mysouthwest.com.au or call (08) 9791 3088. Aside from swimming in the ocean with dolphins there is loads more fun to be had in the sea. The Lena Dive wreck is home to a sunken ship that now provides a refuge for marine life thereby making it a great site for snorkelling and diving. At the far end of Ocean Beach is the 150 million-year-old basaltic rock. If these natural attractions have you feeling bored don’t forget about the Hay Park Sporting Complex; Australia’s second largest sporting venue. While in the town also make your way towards Boulters Heights, which provides splendid views overlooking the city, harbour, coast, and neighbouring Darling Range.

Pristine forests, wineries, caves and surf breaks can all be found along the coast west of Dunsborough. Meelup, Eagle Bay, and Bunker Hill are all sheltered bays providing excellent swimming conditions. The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse provides panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. For $11 tour guides will show you around the place and tell some great ghost stories. You’ll find great waves at Rocky Point, Bunkers Bay and The Farm. Chock full of surfers, the town definately has its fair share of good lookin’ guys and gals who are up for a good time. Check out the ice creamery, breweries and camel and horse riding.

Yallingup For thousands of years prior to European settlement Yallingup was the primary ‘honeymoon’ destination for many Aboriginal people. Yallingup literally translates into “place of love.” The Wardan Aboriginal Cultural Centre covers the rich Aboriginal history in the region. The Centre offers a traditional Aboriginal tool making workshop along with lessons on art, music, and Aboriginal dance. See http://www.wardan. com.au or phone (08) 9756 6566. The coastal part of town is blessed with a terrific reef break. Naturally the surf culture reigns supreme but it does blend nicely with both the country and urban vibes that make this town so very unique. Aside from surfing these waves, check out Canal Rocks - an unusual rock formation that can be traversed by narrow bridges.

There is plenty of accommodation, including caravan parks for camping and two backpacker hostels.

Dunsborough Location: 256 km south of Perth. Population: 4,000 Attractions: Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, whale and dolphin watching, Swan Dive Wreck, surfing, wineries, wine bars, Geographe Bay, caves. Accommodation: A wide variety of resorts, hotels, motels, B&Bs, guest houses, self contained units and caravan parks. Visitor Centre: Dunsborough Park Shopping Centre, Seymour Boulevarde. Tel: (08) 9752 1288 www. geographebay.com With its translucent and calm waters Dunsborough is a great stop for anyone who does any type of water sport, especially sailing and diving. Geographe Bay is the home of the Swan Wreck. A former anti-submarine ship the Swan was scuttled offshore in 1997 and has since become the home to over 500 species of fish.

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Get Soaked To get into the fun and action of the Southwest, there’s a new adventure company out there. Saturation Surfaris and Eco Adventures says it all – and does it all! Based in the spectacular Margaret River region, these guys have got the area covered. A range of fully catered adventure tours is available – for all ages and abilities - and time frames of one to four days. They will even organise customised corporate, family, just the gals and luxury adventures to suit. If it’s an adrenalin buzz, they’ll bring it on. Not quite so adventurous? No worries – these locals know all the fun ways to relax in magic surroundings. Activities include surf lessons, mountain biking, caving, abseiling, rock climbing, beer and wine tours, canoeing, stand up paddle, snorkelling, swimming, tennis, golf and guided nature walks. Expert guidance is provided by friendly specialists who will ensure an unforgettable experience. Saturation even offers transport from Perth. A three hour drive south will take you to your accommodation only minutes from the ocean. Saturation’s adventures operate year round and are run on a weekly basis. Early bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment. Numbers are limited. The message is ‘GET SOAKED’! All details on the website http://www.saturationsurfaris.com.au/

This place offers everything underneath the hot Western Australia sun: surf, ancient forests, world-class wineries, caving, canoeing, abseiling, bush tucker tours, and a thriving arts community, to put names to just a smattering. Locals here are still mellow and kind to everyone, despite the place having grown up just a little bit in recent years. Perhaps this preservation of spirit is due to the 20 odd something surf breaks and 50 wineries, all within a half hours drive. Famous waves here include the Margaret River ‘Main Break,’ one of 75 surf breaks in the area. Several surf competitions are held here every year. The Margaret River “Drug Aware” Pro and has a five star rating and is held in April. Come November the Margaret River Masters, a predominantly a local contest, is held.

Margaret River Location: 277 km south of Perth. Population: 10,000 Attractions: Lake and Mammoth caves, surfing, 100 wine cellar doors, 6 breweries beaches, forests, cuisine, galleries and wine bars. Accommodation: A range of farmstays, hostels, chalets, lodges, guest houses, caravan parks, hotels and motels. Visitor Centre: 100 Bussell Highway, Margaret River. Tel: (08) 9780 5911. www.margaretriver.com Situated where lush forest meets the headwinds coming off the ocean, Margaret River, or Marg’s as it’s affectionately called, has a huge variety of things to do and see.

If you find yourself driving around aimlessly do hit up Caves Road. Caves Road is very scenic and there are countless scenic caves you can check out; including Calgardup and Giant’s Cave. Both of these are still in their natural state and those annoying electrical lights are nowhere to be found. Graciously, both helmets and torches are provided. In the event money is a little bit tight consider stopping overnight at one of the many campgrounds that pepper the region. Conto Campground is right off Caves Road on Conto Road. In the event you want to beach camp it, continue on down Conto Road and you will soon find yourself at Point Road Campground. On the coast be sure to cast a fishing line. The entire Margaret River area abounds with Bream, Herring, and Yellow Fin Whiting fish. Or if none of the above strikes your fancy go for a leisurely bike ride on the Rails to Trails: a bike track stretching from Margaret River to Cowaramup. There are three hostels in town with a multitude of alternative accommodation options available in and around Margaret River. Images this page and opposite thanks to Saturation Surfaris. www.saturationsurfaris.com.au

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Donnybrook

Augusta

Location: 206 km south of Perth. Population: Around 2500. Attractions: Wineries, berry farm, The Old Goldfields Orchard, massive play park and Cider factory. Accommodation: Hotel, motel, backpackers, B&Bs, chalets, farmstay and caravan park. Visitor Centre: Old Railway Station, South West Highway. Tel: (08) 9731 1720 www.donnybrookwa.com.au

Location: 321 km south of Perth. Population: 1000 Attractions: Swimming, fishing, diving, wineries, galleries, Blackwood River, whale watching (June to September). Accommodation: A wide variety of accommodation is available. Visitor Centre: Blackwood Avenue, Augusta.Tel: (08) 9758 0166. www.margaretriver.com.au

A rural community just 30-minutes drive from Bunbury, this is where you can go to replenish some funds before heading off for more hedonistic living. There’s plenty of fruit picking work to be found. Apples, pears, stone fruit and tomatoes are just some of the local produce in this rich agricultural belt. Although the majority of work in these orchards is seasonal, orchards on the fruit processing farms have to be thinned, pruned and spread so there is work to be had for 52 weeks-a-year. Oddly enough, Donnybrook is home to the biggest free-entry Fun Park in Australia. The Park has play equipment for all ages - from toddlers to adults.

Located at the mouth of the Blackwood River, Augusta has some of the most pristine beaches in the world. From here also, you can visit world-class wineries, Jewel Cave (one of the most iconic attractions in the South West and has just undergone a $3million redevelopment) and majestic karri forests. The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is the tallest on mainland Australia and is situated at the most south west point of the continent where 2 oceans meet – it is a great land-based vantage point for sighting whales (June to September). Whale watching charters are available, providing those who partake with truly memorable encounters.

Nannup Location: 290 km south of Perth. Population: 1,200 Attractions: Lavender farm, galleries and surrounding wineries. Accommodation: B&Bs, chalets, spa retreats, guest houses, hotel and motel. Visitor Centre: 4 Brockman Street, Tel: (08) 9756 1211 www.nannupwa.com.au

Stingrays swim up and down Augusta’s Blackwood River daily and very often come right into the shallows. There are several bush walks around Augusta on offer, as well as great fishing, surfing, windsurfing, diving, sailing and canoeing. Augusta provides some great accommodation for budget travellers and the Augusta Bakery really does make the yummiest bread you’ll have tasted.

Nannup is a small village nestled amongst thick forest in the Blackwood River valley. It is only 45 mins journey from Margaret River and Busselton. This is a true nature lover’s paradise with great walking tracks, canoeing, delicious food and world-class wine. Nannup also hosts several festivals throughout the year. Neighbouring town, Balingup, is located in lush, hilly terrain and is home to an assortment of herbalists and craftspeople.

Manjimup

Walpole

Location: 306 km south of Perth. Population: 5,000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 20.3°C. Minimum average temperature 9.6°C. Yearly rainfall 1,023mm. Attractions: Forest, galleries, vineyards, wineries, cafes, camping, bushwalking. Accommodation: Motels, caravan parks, cottages and chalets. Visitor Centre: Giblett Street, Manjimup. Tel: (08) 9771 1831 www.manjimupwa.com

Location: 423 km south of Perth. Population: Around 500 Attractions: Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, Conspicuous Beach, Knoll Drive, Fernhook Falls. Accommodation: Hotels, motels, caravan parks, chalets, hostels and B&Bs. Visitor Centre: Pioneer Park, South Coast Hwy, Walpole Tel: (08) 9840 1111 www.walpole.com.au

This timber town has tree-lined approaches from all directions. The Age of Steam Museum has an impressive display of vintage machinery and the Forest Industries Federation runs guided tours of the surrounding forests. One of the principle forests is the Perup Forest. This is located 56km northeast of Majimump. It is considered to be one of the best places to see Australia’s rarest mammals. These include tammar wallabies, chuditch, southern brown bandicoots, and western ringtail possums. Manjimump also plays host to many small but sweet attractions. These include the King Jarrah Tree, The Timber Park, The Four Acres and One Tree Bridge.

Walpole and its surrounding areas are much loved for their beautiful tingle and karri forests, wildflowers, animals, waterfalls, and glorious coastline. The Valley of Giants Treetop Walk is an experience not to be missed. Another must see is Hilltop Giant Tingle which has the largest girth of any eucalypt in the world. Mount Frankland National Park is located nearby and has stunning panoramic views of all the karri, tingle, and jarrah forests that surround Walpole. On the coast there are many gorgeous beaches such as Conspicuous Beach, Peaceful Bay, and Mandalay Beach. In town there are several hostel options complete with a fun, olde world village atmosphere.

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www.southwesttriplexxxtreme.com.au Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk For under $10 explore the magical tingle forests at a different level from the Tree Top Walk, a masterfully suspended steel construction which weaves through the treetops, giving visitors a birds-eye view. The swaying factor can make for an exhilirating 600-metre walk, particularly along the uppermost path, which is 40-metres high. The Ancient Empire walk runs on ground level, gazing up at the tingle wood forest. The bases of these trees are enormous, up to 20-metres in circumference, and they come in all sorts of weird shapes. You can even walk through the hollowedout butt of one tree. Entry to the Ancient Empire walk is included with Tree Top Walk admission. Visit www.valleyofthegiants.com.au

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There are several lookout spots on the coast that offer splendid ocean views. Conspicuous Cliff is one of these and the only one with car access. Down the way lies William Bay which has colossal granite slabs resembling giant hills that were tossed into the sea. Greens Pool is another cool place to check out. If you are seeking something out of the ordinary check out Pentland Alpaca Stud. This is an animal farm with animals from the world over including native kangaroos and emus, in addition to American Bison. There is a backpacker hostel in town so call the Denmark Visitor Centre on (08) 9848 2055.

Denmark Location: 491 km south of Perth. Population: 4,600 Attractions: Bibbulmun Track, wineries, Lights Beach, Greenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pool, art and craft. Accommodation: Bungalows, B&Bs, chalets, caravan parks, holiday units. Visitor Centre: 73 South Coast Hwy, Denmark Tel: (08) 9848 2055 www.denmark.com.au With alternative vibes and a country ambience those seeking true tranquility and a peaceful forest lifestyle base themselves in this area. One of the prettiest towns in Western Australia, Denmark is set on the Denmark River. Nearby lies the Indian Ocean.

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Porongurups and Stirling Ranges Western Australia is not known for its gigantic mountains, nevertheless be sure to check them out at Porongurup National Park and Stirling Ranges National Park. Bluff Knoll in Stirling Ranges National Park is the highest point in Western Australia; also it is the only place out west where snow occasionally falls. Snow in Western Australia is unexpected and sounds crazy. Well to a greater or lesser extent the same is largely true for the Stirling Ranges. In the Stirling Ranges the weather changes at the drop of a penny. Consequently this results in wacky and crazy cloud formations fit for an Alice in Wonderland movie. Bluff Knoll for instance was originally called Pualaar Miial by the Aboriginals. The name means ‘great – many faced hill’ and is fitting as it’s said many faces can be seen in the knoll. Make sure you notify someone of your itinerary if planning to climb Bluff Knoll as several travellers in recent years have been caught out with sudden changes in weather conditions requiring emergency search and rescues! Contact the Mount Barker Visitor Centre on (08) 9851 1163 for advice and info.

Pemberton Location: 388 km south of Perth. Population: 920 Climate: Maximum average temperature 19.8°C. Minimum average temperature 9.7°C. Yearly rainfall 1,245mm. Attractions: Beedelup Falls, Warren National Park, Gloucester Tree, galleries, and cafes. Accommodation: Farmstays, resorts, backpackers and caravan park, guest houses and cottages. Visitor Centre: Brockman Street, Pemberton. Tel: (08) 9776 1133 www.pembertontourist.com.au Pemberton is where the forest meets the desert and it’s a blend that’s full of fun for everyone. Home of the largest land locked sand dunes in the southern hemisphere – the Yeagarup Dunes – you are sure to find ample opportunities to put the foot down in that 4WD or dune buggy. Needless to say there are also several other wicked-cool things to check out. A recent increase in nature-based tourism has resulted in an explosion of well equipped tourist facilities complete with various accommodation options. The surrounding forests abound with karri and marri trees. Take advantage of the Pemberton Tramway to check these out. The Tramway meanders in and out through the trees, only to venture out further over trestle bridges spanning rivers and streams.

Pemberton is located near five national parks: Gloucester, Warren, D’Entrecasteaux, Beedlelup, and Brockman National Park. Warren National Park is home to some of the largest karri trees.

Albany Location: 408 km south east of Perth Population: 30,000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 19.5°C. Minimum average temperature 11.6°C. Yearly rainfall 934mm. Attractions: King George Sound, Middleton Beach, Emu Point, Whale World, The Gap, Natural Bridge and Blow Holes. Accommodation: A selection of hotels, motels, guest houses, cottages, caravan and camping parks and two hostels. Visitor Centre: Old railway Station, Proudlove Parade, Albany. Tel: (08) 9841 9290. www.albanytourist.com.au Western Australia’s first town, Albany was settled in 1826. Albany is rich with an atmosphere of olde world charm and very friendly locals. Best known for its amazing coastline and natural features, Albany offers many activities for the adventurous. Playing host to many water adventure excursions Albany is the perfect place for those looking for a little outdoor excitement. Excitement aside, there remains plenty for those looking for a little rest and relaxation. Mount Clarence is located within city limits and provides commanding views of the ocean and surrounding town. Nearby Two People’s Bay Reserve has many species of exotic and rare animals. If you are in search of some history check out the Albany Residency Museum. The museum has exhibits showcasing the social and natural history of Albany. The surrounding land boasts great wineries and clear pristine beaches to sprawl out on. Seven national parks are also found nearby, the most popular being Torrindup. Some spectacular granite formations close by are the Natural Bridge and the Gap. On the way to these is Whaleworld – a decommissioned whaling station that is now a museum showcasing the area’s fascinating whaling history. From July onwards Albany is visited by humpback and southern right whales. These awe inspiring behemoths can easily be spotted from the shore. If you want to get up close and personal, hop onto a whale watching tour. Albany is one of the best places in the world for paragliding from the cliffs straight out over the ocean. Spectacular scenery and qualified instructors to guide you through. Whether you are after an easy beginner’s tandem jump through to lessons or becoming a paragliding fanatic, Albany is Western Australia’s paragliding capital.

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Esperance Location: 725 km south east of Perth. Population: Town: 10,500 Rural: 3,500 Climate: Maximum average temperature 22°C. Minimum average temperature 12°C. Yearly rainfall 619mm. Attractions: National Parks, Great Ocean Drive, Pink Lake, Bay of Isles, Woody Island, beaches and wineries. Accommodation: Hostels, caravan and camping grounds, hotels, motels, B&Bs and self catering chalets/apartments. Visitor Centre: Museum Village, Dempster Street, Esperance. Tel: (08) 9071 2330 www.visitesperance.com East of Bremer Bay and the Fitzgerald River National Park Esperance is a very unique Western Australia destination. Located in an area surrounded by the islands of the Recherche Archipelago you can spot amazing sea life such as penguins, humpback whales, seals and sea lions. The coastal region around Esperance is somewhat isolated. You can visit or stay on Woody Island, the only island of the Archipelago that is open to the public and offers camping and safari tent accommodation. As with the rest of Australia, most of the action in Western Australia takes place along the coast. Bearing this in mind, most campsites are free and there are many scattered along the coast. Several backpacker accommodation options are available. Despite being best known for its coast, Esperance does also have great inland attractions. Pink Lake is one such place. Pink Lake owes its name to the amazing colours its water takes on as a result of salt tolerant algae. Monjingup Lake Reserve provides its visitors with a breathtaking experience of WA’s ancient landscape. Monjingup has fossilized zamia plant fossils that are believed to be 1,000 years old. After Esperance, the towns are spread out even farther apart, as you head out across the Nullarbor Plain.

G o In l an d Toodyay Location: 85 km north east of Perth. Population: Town: 800 Shire: 3,700 Attractions: Old Gaol Museum, Historic Town Walk, Avon Valley National Park, Julimar State Forest and Moondyne Festival (first Sunday in May). Accommodation: B &Bs, camping, chalets, caravan parks, homesteads. Visitor Centre: 7 Piesse Street Toodyay. Tel: (08) 9574 2435 www.toodyay. com Situated in the picturesque Avon Valley, about an hour’s drive away from the city via Midland, Toodyay makes for an excellent day excursion from Perth. Toodyay is a former timber milling town surrounded by the Avon Valley National Park. With its rustic composition the town plays host to a great pioneer history. This history can be explored by making use of the town’s historic walk.

fun. If you are here in winter the rapids of Avon Descent are regarded as some of the premier winter rapids in the world. Nicely complementing Avon Valley National Park is Julimar State Forest which covers 28,600 hectares and is home to beautiful jarrah, marri, and wandoo woodlands.

York Location: 96 km east of Perth. Population: 3,200 Climate: Maximum average temperature 24.8°C. Minimum average temperature 10.5°C. Yearly rainfall 450 mm. Attractions: Festivals including Jazz Festival (September), Garden Festival (October), suspension bridge, Victorian and Federation buildings, the old gaol and courthouse, York Residency Museum. Accommodation: Farm stays, self contained cottages, hotels/motels, hostel and caravan park. Visitor Centre: York Town Hall, 81 Avon Terrace York. Tel: 08 9641 1301 www.yorkwa.org York was Western Australia’s first inland colonial town. The buildings here are very intricate, and will make you feel like you have stepped onto the set of an American western movie. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, the most popular being the York Jazz weekend in September and the Olive Festival in June. Outside of town is Gwambygine Park. Gwambygine plays host to some of the last remaining natural water pools, which are critical for wildlife during the hot dry summer. Gwambygine has free gas BBQ racks alongside tables and benches so it is perfect for a picnic. The greater Avon Valley – of which York is a part – is quickly becoming the Recreational Aviation Centre of Western Australia. York hosts world class sky diving facilities. A 20 minutes drive to the south brings you to Beverly which is also rapidly developing into an aviation hotspot.

New Norcia North east of Perth, by 130km, is New Norcia and it is just like a slice of Spain down under. New Norcia was founded by Benedictine monks in 1846. In fact New Norcia is home to one of six Benedictine missionairies in Australia. To this day the main inhabitants of the town are still monks and, in fact, they remain the primary attraction in the town. Nevertheless, if you don’t fancy a monk, then you can still check out the New Norcia Museum which explores the town’s theocratic origins – and the pub does a good lunch. There is a hotel and B&B within the town. See www.yorkwa.org

Wave Rock The Wave on Hyden Rock is one of Australia’s most famous landforms, which looks like a giant surf wave of multicoloured granite about to crash onto the bush below. Stand under it and feel rock power from over 2,700 million years ago. Its a long trip from Perth (339km). Hyden town is an authentic Aussie experience with a pub offering accommodation and a caravan park. See www. waverock.com.au for more info and check out the “Wave Rock Weekender” festival at www.soulhighway.com.au which will be held in October.

Once you have had enough of the town take advantage of Toodyay’s river based sports activities. The white water rafting and canoeing conditions are wicked 41

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NEWMAN Mt Augustus

CARNARVON

Wiluna Meekatharra

Murchison Cue

Mt Magnet

Leinster

Yalgoo

Laverton

GERALDTON Morawa

Leonora

Paynes Find Menzies

Go Kalgoorlie

Wubin

INDIAN New Norcia

Coolgardie

KALGOORLIE

Kambalda OCEAN Toodyay Southern Cross Kellerberrin Location: 595 km east of Perth. NULLARBOR Merredin Northam Population: 30,000 Narambeen York PERTH Norseman Corrigin Climate: Maximum average temperature 25.1°C. MANDURAH Minimum average temperature 11.5°C. Yearly rainfall Narrogin 270 mm. Lake Grace Ravensthorpe Wagin Attractions: Mining Hall of Fame, Super Pit, historical BUSSELTON hotels and pubs, bush 2-up, brothel tours. Hopetown ESPERANCE Accommodation: Hotels, motels, caravan parks, hostel and heritage hotels. Visitor Centre: Corner of Hannan and Wilson Street Kalgoorlie. ALBANY Tel: (08) 9021 1966 www.kalgoorlietourism.com

PLA

Face yourself north towards Kalgoorlie and Boulder and you will find yourself staring at The Real West. There is gold in the hills up there and this is truly the epicentre of Western Australia’s mining boom. While Kalgoorlie is a thriving and prosperous family town today, it still manages to retain some elements of its rough and tough early years. The place has the highest concentration of lingerie barmaids- euphemistically known as ‘skimpies’ – that you will ever find in one place. The discovery of gold was what initially placed Western Australia and Perth on the map. A one mile-long gold vein running through hard rock prompted a frenzy of British, Chinese, and European migration. The Golden Mile as it has come to be called is still producing a significant amount of gold today. While in Kalgoorlie check out the Mining Hall of Fame which pays homage to ‘Kal’s’ early set of shady characters. Also in Kalgoorlie is Hannan’s North Tourist Mine. Hannan’s was once an active mine that has since been converted for tourists. Kalgoorlie is also home to WA’s only Flow Rider wave pool – a stationary wave that is the hottest new thing in extreme sports and ready to ride at the Goldfields Oasis Recreation Centre. The Oasis Centre also boasts a 10 metre water slide and a Rapid River Ride. Check out www.kalbould.wa.gov.au Also while you’re here step off the beaten path and check out surrounding towns like Coolgardie, a surreal kind of ghost town. Coolgardie rapidly expanded during the gold rush yet predictably, once that was over the town kind of shrunk as well. While here definitely check out the cemetery where each headstone describes the (often tragic) ways people died. 42

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AIN

Things to do • Take a drive up the coast on the new Indian Ocean Drive taking in all the good spots between Perth and Geraldton. • Pull up a sail at the windsurfer’s paradise of Lancelin. • Bomb round Lancelin’s massive sand dunes in a monster truck or on a quad bike. • Transport yourself to an alien planet by walking through the bizarre pointy rocks of the Pinnacles. • Clamber through the rugged gorges of the Kalbarri National Park. • Learn to abseil at Kalbarri. • Feed the dolphins by the beach at Monkey Mia. • See the oldest living things in the world – the stromatolites of Hamelin Pool in Shark Bay. • Go on a turtle, dugong and dolphin spotting cruise at Monkey Mia. Eucla • Dive with whale sharks off Exmouth (April - June). • Snorkel and dive the Ningaloo Reef.

NINGAL

Go Coral Coast

EF E R North West Cape Exmouth

Pt Cloates

Coral Bay Pt Farquhar Pt Cuvier Pt Quobba

CARNARVON Cape Inscription Monkey Mia

Gascoyne Junction

Denham Useless Loop

Kalbarri

Port Gregory Northampton

Lancelin

GERALDTON

INDIAN

Greenough Dongara

Mullewa Mingenew Morawa Three Springs

Eneabba Location: 127 km north of Perth. OCEAN Coorow Population: Nearly 800 Jurien Bay Climate: Maximum average temperature 19-30°C. Minimum average temperature 10-18°C. Moora Cervantes Yearly rainfall 619.8 mm. PINNACLES DESERT Lancelin Attractions: Sandboarding, kitesurfing, windsurfing, snorkelling, quad and trail biking, dune tours, sunsets, beaches, fishing, two pubs, Lancelin Ocean Classic windsurfing event (January). Accommodation: Offers hotel, motel, apartments, hostel and caravan park. PERTH Visitor Centre: 102 Gingin Road Lancelin. Tel: (08) 9655 1100 www.gingin.wa.gov.au

Situated close to the Pinnacles, Yanchep National Park and New Norcia, Lancelin makes for a great base from which to wander out. Located on the edge of Turquoise Bay, Lancelin offers both water and land based action. The town has a supermarket, bakeries, a surf shop, and pubs to cater to all your needs. Surfers can escape the crowds and kick it with great rides on a reef break at ‘Eddies’ or the beach break at ‘Back Break.’ A new kite surf school has opened in Lancelin providing beginner through to advanced lessons, plus kite and paddleboard hire. This makes Lancelin a one stop place to learn windsurfing, kite surfing, surfing plus sandboarding. Lancelin Lodge is highly regarded when it comes to accommodation. It offers clean and prompt services and also has a 15m pool. Lancelin Lodge YHA won the best YHA hostel in WA award in 2009 based on YHA website guest comments survey with 94% guest satisfaction. They were also rated #4 in all Australian YHA hostels 2009. Call (08) 9655 2020 or visit www.lancelinlodge.com.au Greyhound Buses service the Indian Ocean Road and Lancelin Lodge is the official Lancelin stop. There is a weekly 3 day service North from Perth and 3 day service South from Broome with a Broome to Darwin connection. Lancelin Lodge can also do Greyhound ticketing. Lancelin is now more easily accessible with the opening of the new Indian Ocean Drive. The Lancelin Lodge YHA has a bus service three days a week during summer and can arrange all your transport needs. The YHA provides service to Pinncales tours, and Perth, in addition to destinations further up north. 43

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Australia’s Most Beautiful Beach Skydive 2 hours from Perth, 20 mins from The Pinnacles

Skydive plus Pinnnacles Tours from Perth also available

Cervantes/Pinnacles Desert Location: 147 km north of Perth. Attractions: Namburg National Park (Pinnacles Desert), Lake Thetis, Hangover Bay, wildflowers. Accommodation: Motel, caravan park, hostel and holiday homes. Visitor Centre: Cadiz Street Cervantes/Pinnacles Desert. Tel: (08) 9652 7700 www.visitpinnaclescountry.com.au Less than two hours drive from Perth is Cervantes: home of the Pinnacles Desert or Nambung National Park. The Pinnacles Desert is a forest of petrified limestone pillars. Against the sky they look more like sentinels standing guard. These natural sculptors can officially be found within the Nambung National Park which is a 20 minute drive from Cervantes; entry is $10. Aside from the lonely, awesome limestone sentinels there are loads of other things to see. At Kangaroo Point you will by greeted by stunning views of Cervantes and Cervantes Island. You will find barbeque grills and picnic tables at the Point. Cervantes also has reliable wind thereby making the place a decent spot to try windsurfing. Another sea-side stopover is Hangover Bay. Hangover has a boat launch and the water nearby is great for diving and snorkelling. Don’t be too surprised if you come across bottlenose dolphins or the occasional sea lion.

Turquoise Coast North of Perth, at about 250km is an area collectively known as the Turquoise Coast. A surf-side road now runs from Cerventes through the towns of Jurien, Greenhead, and Leeman. Jurien Bay Marine Park is a sanctuary for all marine life including the sea lions that characterize the place. The area has many attractions including farm stays, wild flowers, caves, rugged coastline and secluded beaches. 44

p:08 9652 1320

www.skydivejurienbay.com

Jurien Location: 275 km north of Perth. Population: 2000 Attractions: Skydiving, fishing, scenic drives, beaches, wildflowers, Jurien Bay Marine Park, cray fish. Accommodation: A range of hotel, motel, caravan parks and cottages. Visitor Centre: 36B Bashford Street Jurien Bay. Tel: 0438 441 239 www.visitpinnaclescountry.com.au Jurien is situated 266km north of Perth. Jurien marks the beginning of the coastal road to Geraldton. This all-weather track weaves through sand dunes and connects to another road that hugs the coast from Green Head to Dongara. Throughout the drive you will pass by many reefs and islands that provide great shelter for fishing and water sports. Skydive Jurien Bay is Australia’s most beautiful beach skydive. They offer tandem skydiving from a choice of altitudes up to 14,000 feet plus photos and computer edited DVD movies of your jump. A tandem skydive requires only a few minutes training because your tandem instructor does all the work, and the whole thing takes a bit less than an hour. You will always land on the actual beach and it will be an experience you will remember your entire life. With more than 30 years experience, and an immaculate safety record, you can be confident that your first skydive will be everything you have ever dreamed about and more. The exhiliration of freefall and the silence under parachute is the ultimate way to experience the spectacular Australian Turquoise Coast. Book now on 0438 44 1239.

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Dongara-Port Dennison Location: 351 km north-northwest of Perth Population: 2,700 Attractions: Fishermans Lookout, Dongara Cemetery, Live Lobster Facility, wildflowers, beaches, bird watching. Accommodation: Hotels, motels, B&Bs, cottages, caravan and camping parks. Visitor Centre: 9 Waldeck Street Dongara. Tel: (08) 9927 1404. www.irwin.wa.gov.au The sister towns of Dongara and Port Denison are well distinguished due to their fig tree-lined streets, old buildings and charm. The area is renowned for fishing and has great beaches that can be seen from Fisherman’s Lookout at Port Denison. While here take advantage of the Dongara Heritage Trail that takes you to each of the seventeen points of interest in Dongara.

Geraldton Location: 420 km North of Perth. Population: 33,000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 18-30°C. Minimum average temperature 9-19°C. Yearly rainfall 541.2 mm. Attractions: WA Museum Geraldton, wineries, Abrolhos Islands, Geraldton Regional Art Gallery, wildflowers, windsurfing, scuba diving, fishing. Accommodation: A large selection of hotels, motels, guest houses, cottages, chalets, units, two hostels and caravan parks. Visitor Centre: Chapman Road Geraldton. Tel: (08) 9921 3999 www.geraldtontourist.com.au Known as ‘sun city’ with its regular eight hours of sun per day and year-round high temperatures, Geraldton has fabulous surrounding beaches and activities. The weather conditions are ideal and the wind very reliable, to the extent that it is regarded as one of the top windsurfing spots in the world. Offshore is the hidden archipelago known as the Houtman Abrolhos Islands that are a mere 60km off Geraldton. The islands are a diver’s paradise. With warm tropical waters year round and visibility levels up to 30 metres they are destined to become nearly as popular as the Great Barrier Reef. The area is home to an abundance of wildlife including sea lions, dolphins, migratory whales and sea birds. The extensive coral reef system stretches for a hundred kilometres and is home to many species, some as yet to be named. The unique wildlife and pristine beaches make for excellent swimming, snorkelling and beach walking. In 1970, on a farm about the size of Hong Kong, the Casley family seceded from the Commonwealth, citing a dispute over taxation. Consequently the family formed their own independent nation, the Hutt River Province. Make sure you stop in here and get your passport stamped. From Geraldton there are a number of trips into the surrounding areas such as the Greenough River, with its leaping fish and glorious abundance of birds. Also within driving distance you’ll find awesome coastal cliffs. Within Geraldton are museums and the immaculate St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. If history is not your thing, fear not, the nightlife here is nothing to complain about. With Western Australia’s third largest population, the atmosphere is always chilled yet it has the festive undertones of a major city.

Kalbarri Location: 592 km North of Perth. Population: 2000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 21-34°C. Minimum average temperature 10-21°C. Yearly rainfall 371.2 mm. Attractions: Kalbarri National Park, fishing, abseiling, sandboarding, horse riding, canoeing, cruises, Red Bluff Beach, wildlife and wildflowers. Accommodation: Hostel, hotels/motels, self contained apartments, caravan parks, B&Bs. Visitor Centre: Allen Community Centre, on the foreshore, Kalbarri. Tel: (08) 9937 1104 www.kalbarriwa.info Split left at Northhampton and follow the wild-flower rimmed road to the ocean. Fairly quickly you will find yourself at Kalbarri, an adventurer’s dream. Check out the rugged, red-cliffed coastline from viewpoints at Natural Bridge, Eagle Gorge, and Red Bluff. This area is a sensory overload, with views of the 500 million-year old Murchison River and the stunning gorges of Kalbarri National Park. Rising to a daunting 900 feet are the cliffs of Womerangee Hill and the Zuytdorp Cliffs. The inland roads of Kalbarri National Park are only accessible by 4WD. Nevertheless, day trips are possible with activities including hiking, canoeing, and abseiling. On the coastal fringes of Kalbarri National Park fishing is a very popular pastime with stocks of snapper, dhufish, and red emperor all anxiously waiting to bite your hook. Another coastal attraction here is surfing. Jacque’s Point is a legendary surf spot and holds the former title of ‘heaviest, meanest’ left breaking wave in Australia. There is a backpacker hostel in town and several caravan parks with nearby restaurants, takeaways, and bottle shops/pubs.

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Go Shark Bay Shark Bay is one of only a small number of places in the world with a World Heritage Listing, which was granted in 1991. World Heritage Areas must meet the following four criteria: • have major stages of the world’s evolutionary history • have geological and biological processes • have great natural beauty • be home to threatened species A main attraction in Shark Bay is Monkey Mia, where friendly, punctual dolphins come to shore every day. See the stromatolites (world’s oldest living fossils) at Hamelin Pool, at play against the magnificent, sweeping landscape of pure white shells and stunning turquoise waters of Shell Beach and explore the incredible Francois Peron National Park. Marine life including turtles, dolphins, manta rays, whales and dugongs are all commonplace in the area. Ample accommodation can be found at the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, which caters for all budgets including campers and backpackers. Denham also has several caravan/campgrounds and a YHA hostel.

Denham Location: 834 km North of Perth. Population: 1,200 Climate: Maximum average temperature 21-32°C. Minimum average temperature 12-22°C. Yearly rainfall 226 mm. Attractions: Boating, diving, snorkelling, watching marine life, fishing (outside sanctuary zones), windsurfing and swimming. Accommodation: Resort, hotel, caravan parks, self-contained villas and hostel. Visitor Centre: 53 Knight Tce Denham. Tel: (08) 9948 1590 www.sharkbayvisit.com Only 25km from Monkey Mia is the small holiday resort/prawning town of Denham, which serves as a great base for your Shark Bay experience. En route to Denham be sure to check out Hamelin Pool. With a salination content twice as high as the ocean nothing survives except for our ancient ancestors: cyanbacteria. The cyans have created vast swaths of stromatolites on the water’s edge. The formations are regarded as living fossils and they are believed to be as old as the first life on earth. Eagle’s Bluff is another place worth checking out with its fantastic views. You can even see the sharks patrolling the waters. Outside of Denham is Francois Peron National Park, which is only accessible by 4WD. Nevertheless it has great camping, a historical homestead, and a natural spa. Another gem is Shell Beach, off Shark Bay Road. Composed of billions and trillions of tiny shells the seabed looks like the bottom of an ornate swimming pool. Shark Bay has the largest recorded number of different marine and wildlife ever recorded in one place. Thankfully it is listed as a World Heritage Site thus the natural beauty will always be there regardless of when you come to visit. 46

Monkey Mia With a dolphin research centre on its doorstep, it comes as no shocker that Monkey Mia is renowned worldwide for its dolphins. Monkey Mia is located smack dab in the middle of one of the most pristine marine environments worldwide. The dolphins are completely wild yet they have learned to trust humans, to the extent that they will take food from your hands in knee deep water. Local vessels offer wildlife spotting cruises in impressive catamarans, where dolphins, rays, turtles, sharks, and dugongs can be found. The Monkey Mia Resort caters for all from upmarket to backpackers, caravaners and campers. Exceptional facilities are available to all guests including two restaurants, a cafe, two bars, swimming pool, hot tub and tennis court. Additional facilities include internet café, wireless, digital photo lab, BBQs, mini-mart and laundries. See www.monkeymia.com.au

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Things to do • Get in the sea with punctual, friendly dolphins @ Monkey Mia. • Go on a day sail aboard one of several local yachts, Monkey Mia. • Check out the stromatolites - world’s oldest living fossils - at Hamelin Pool. • Get crunching in the snow white shells of Shell Beach. • Get cultured with Wula Guda Aboriginal Eco Adventures and enjoy a Saltwater Dreaming Kayak Tour (fully catered), Sundays 9am - approx 3 hours. www. wulaguda.com.au • Tour a working pearl farm (and meet farmer Jamie) near Monkey Mia, ph: (08) 9948 1325 • Hire a cheeky little glass bottom boat, pedal boat or kayak from Monkey Mia Boat Hire, ph: 0428 175 643 • Check out the sharks and other marine life at Ocean Park. www.oceanpark.com.au

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE

OCEAN PARK AQUARIUM AND LICENSED CAFÉ OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK · 9AM-5PM AQUARIUM

4WD TOURS

OCEAN PARK LICENSED CAFÉ

Open air interactive aquarium is home to some of the region’s most diverse and dangerous residents.

Our experienced tour guides will show you the raw beauty and pristine coastline of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.

Relax with a refreshing beverage whilst soaking up the warm glow of the setting sun.

Moray Eels, Logger head Turtles, Sea Snakes, Clownfish Rays, Pink Snapper, Red Emperor, Coral Trout, Rankin Cod, Golden Trevally, Tailor, Mulloway, Barramundi, Samson Fish, Cray Fish, Lemon Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, Reef Sharks, Lion Fish, Squid and many more.

PER CHILD

• Francois Peron National Park - Includes Ocean Park Aquarium tour & Snorkeling tour. • Steep Point - Includes the famous Zuytdorp Cliffs, Blowholes, South Passage, Thunder Bay, False Entrance & Bush Walk/Wild Flower tour.

Internet connection available, the café is the ideal spot to stay in touch with family or make some new friends.

PER ADULT

08 9948 1765 info@oceanpark.com.au oceanpark.com.au * Conditions apply. Prices subject to change throughout the year.

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Carnarvon Location: 904 km North of Perth. Population: 9,046 Climate: Maximum average temperature 22-32°C. Minimum average temperature 1123°C. Yearly rainfall 229.6mm. Attractions: Blow Holes, kite surfing, Quobba Station, Lake Macleod, fishing, Carnarvon OTC Dish, One Mile Jetty and the Small Boat Harbour. Accommodation: Carnarvon is well served with caravan parks, hotels, motels and holiday flats. Visitor Centre: Civic Centre, 11 Robinson Street Carnarvon. Tel: (08) 9941 1146 www.carnarvon.org.au The mouth of the Gascoyne River Carnarvon serves as a terra firma land base for some of the best fishing in Western Australia. Thriving prawning and scallop industries operate here and the Lake Macleod Salt Mine produces as much as 1.5m tones of salt per year. Marlin, sailfish and pink snapper can be found out at sea. The town’s 1593m – long jetty off Baggage Island is popular for mulloway, tailor, bream, mackerel, and blue swimmer crab, to name but a few. There are also some great beaches. Additionally Carnarvon is a proclaimed whale watching spot as the sea giants can easily be watched from the cliffs along the Quobba coast. If you have a little spare time be sure to get out to Bernier and Dorre Islands. These islands are not usually a part of regular tours yet they abound with animals that are not found on the mainland. These include Banded-hare Wallaby, Lesueur’s Rat Kangaroo, Little Barred – Bandicoot, and the Shark Bay Mouse. With a huge marine and fruit growing industry, seasonal work is widely available all year. See www. jobsearch.gov.au

Located in the centre of town and within walking distance to the shopping centre & speciality stores, restaurants, cafes, hotels, banks, cinema, fascine, town beach and post oﬃce. Just 100m to bus terminal and many other essential services.

Backpacker & Flashpacker Accommodation • • • • •

Motel units with air conditioning, ensuite, fridge, TV, tea & coﬀee Single, double & triple rooms with shared bathroom facilities No bunks Spacious common areas - including games room Guest kitchen

Other Features • • • • •

Guest Internet - 24 hour access including wireless hotspot Work Opportunities Transport to work available Guest laundry (coin operated) Oﬀ street parking

Phone: 08 9941 1704 Fax: 08 9941 1835 Email: stay@ﬁshandwhistle.com.au Web: www.ﬁshandwhistle.com.au 35 Robinson Street (Corner of Alexandra St) Carnarvon WA 6701

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Swim with Whale Sharks @ Ningaloo Reef

Giant, harmless whale sharks visit Ningaloo Reef from April through to July each year. This is one of the few places in the world where whale sharks appear regularly in numbers. They are the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest fish measuring up to 18m in length. Those encountered on the Ningaloo Reef are most commonly between 4-12m long. Tours depart from both Coral Bay and Exmouth. See www.exmouthwa.com.au for more information. Image: Divers with whale shark thanks to Tourism Western Australia

10% Discount Mention The Go West Magazine when booking a tour Bookings April - July 2011. Offer valid until 31st July 2011 MUST BOOK VIA EMAIL OR PHONE

T: 08 9949 1764 M: 0457 932217 info@kingsningalooreeftours.com.au www.kingsningalooreeftours.com.au 49

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Go Ningaloo Reef Ningaloo Reef starts just north of Carnarvon. Stop off at the Blowholes where you can prise top class oysters off low-lying rocks while eyeing crayfish swimming below. Another catch of the sea here are the delicious North West Snappers. Nearby is Red Bluff which is world famous for its left-hand surfing break. Three Mile Camp, just below Gnarloo, is a windsurfer’s heaven. Red Bluff also hosts classic do-it-yourself camping. For something uniquely West Australian, make your way out to Quobba Station or Red Bluff and camp in thatched shacks on the beach.

Coral Bay Location: 1132 km North of Perth. Population: Around 1100 Climate: Maximum average temperature 22-32°C. Minimum average Attractions: Ningaloo Marine Park, humpback whales, turtles, fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, whale sharks, swimming, quad biking. Accommodation: Hotel, motel, holiday resort, caravan parks and hostel. Visitor Centre: See www.coralbayecotours.com.au or www.exmouthwa.com.au Welcome to paradise. Situated 1132km north of Perth and bathed in tropical sun all year round, Coral Bay is a tiny, unique settlement on the Coral Coast. Perched right on a gorgeous beach and sweeping bay, this is the place, unlike any other, where you can experience the fantastic Ningaloo Reef close up. The Reef here is a mere 50 metres from the shore, so you can literally just amble out from the beach with your mask and fins and have a world-class snorkelling experience. Coral Bay is the year round home to an array of majestic manta rays, dolphins, turtles, coral, colourful fish and other marine life. Seasonal attractions include giant, harmless Whale Sharks which may frequent the area from April through til June and Humpback Whales are usually around from August to November. Activities on offer include quad biking, coral viewing, snorkelling and breathtaking eco-tours. Local operators Coral Bay Eco Tours are Coral Bay’s ecotourism specialists so check out www.coralbayecotours.com.au – they will have you getting the most out of your Ningaloo experience in, on and/or under the beautiful turquoise waters.

It’s mega chilled-out here so just laying on the beach is also an acceptable option. The town is small, has a pub, the locals are friendly and everything is within walking or swimming distance. Coral Bay is fast becoming a must-stop for independent travellers. The simple outdoor lifestyle, set against the stunning backdrop of Ningaloo Reef and surrounding waters is highly appealing. There is a range of budget accommodation on offer however, be sure to do your research and book in advance. High seasons (school holidays in particular) can see you without a campsite or bed if you turn up unannounced.

Exmouth Location: 1259 km north of Perth Population: About 2000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 22-32°C. Minimum average temperature 11-23°C. Attractions: Cape Range National Park, snorkelling, boating, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, whale sharks, wildlife. Accommodation: Hotels, motels, self contained, caravan/camping, hostels. Visitor Centre: Murat Road Exmouth. Tel: (08) 9949 1176. www.exmouthwa.com.au Exmouth is the gateway to Cape Range National Park and Ningaloo Reef. Ningaloo Reef stretches 260km along the Western Australian coast. This thereby makes it one of the longest fringing coral reef systems in the world. In contrast to its east coast counterpart (The Great Barrier Reef) Ningaloo Reef is much less developed for tourism, in turn rendering it far less crowded. Exmouth is situated directly on the coast and it offers a huge variety of water based activities. By the time you leave you will be sun kissed and well spoiled after hours of surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, or just relaxing on the beach. Exmouth is where you can get on a whale shark tour from April through to July, with numerous local operators offering the option. There are also opportunities to see Humpback and Southern Rights cavorting in Exmouth Gulf with their calves, or migrating along the coast. When it comes to accommodation Exmouth has several hostels and caravan parks. Blue Reef Backpackers is the Gold Winner 2010 WA Tourism Awards, Backpacker Accommodation Category and Exmouth Cape Holiday Park is the Gold Winner in the Tourist and Caravan Parks Category. These accommodation options are nicely complemented by a selection of restaurants, shops, cafes, and two pubs plus the nightclub. After you get bored with the beach and have done your fair share of partying in town, head on over to Cape Range National Park just a short drive away. At Cape Range National Park you will find spectacular rocky gorges, carved out by ancient rivers and rugged natural scenery. Book a boat trip along Yardie Creek and look out for wallabies, euro kangaroos, and birds of prey. Great surf breaks can also be found in the region. Rays and dolphins have been known to join surfers as they ride the waves. A popular reef break just off-shore is located by the Vlamingh Lighthouse which is situated right before the Mildura Wreck on the Mildura Wreck Road. Snorkelling at Turquoise Bay. Image thanks to Tourism Western Australia.

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Exmouth Cape Holiday Park

Cabin Accommodation/Camp Kitchen/Outdoor Cinema/Beach Volleyball Court/Ablution Block

As the gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth offers visitors a once in a lifetime holiday experience!

t Grea Dormitory e u l a V Accommodation

Caravan & Camping Sites Cabins/Backpackers Dorms/Motel Rooms Offering a range of affordable accommodation options to make your holiday experience truly memorable. 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth WA 6707 Freecall: 1800 621 101 Tel: 08 99491101 Email: exmouth@aspenparks.com

3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth WA 6707 Freecall: 1800 621 101 Tel: 08 9949 1101 Email: exmouth@aspenparks.com.au

Something for everyone!

For great value accommodation specials and on-line bookings please visit

aspenparks.com.au

1241

For great value accommodation specials and on-line bookings please visit

aspenparks.com.au

1241

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Karijini National Park Karjini National Park is a little ways down the road from Millstream. The park is the traditional home of the Banjima, Kuruma, and Innawonga people. Evidence of their earliest occupation dates back more than 20,000 years. Animal life in the Park is amazingly diverse. Aside from your typical Australian mammals and marsupials, there is an abundance of reptiles. Commonly spotted species include geckos, goannas, dragons, legless lizards, pythons and other snakes. There are numerous swimming pools and well marked trails within the Karijini National Park. The unique Karijini Eco Retreat is located in the depths of the breathtaking Karijini National Park. It is the only permanent accommodation in the Park and it offers camping facilities, tours and authentic bush kitchens for self-caterers. Check out www. karijiniecoretreat.com.au Karijini Visitor Centre is an impressive architectural masterpiece in an astonishing location. Here you will get an introduction to the rich Aboriginal history of the area as well as the natural features of the park. Call (08) 9189 8121. You can also contact Tom Price Visitor Centre on (08) 9188 1112 for information in relation to Karijini National Park, tours and accommodation in the area. The mining industry thrives in North Western Australia and employment is still widely available for those willing to work in isolated areas. Accommodation can be hard to come by so make sure you book in advance before arriving.

Port Hedland Location: 1710 km north of Perth. Population: 15,000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 26-35°C. Minimum average temperature 14-27°C. Yearly rainfall 327 mm. Attractions: The port area, courthouse arts and gallery centre, cultural and heritage trail, BHP Iron Ore & Port Operations, Royal Flying Doctor, School of the Air & Rio Tinto Dampier Salt tours, Staircase to the Moon. Accommodation: Hotel, motel, self contained cabins, caravan and holiday parks Accommodation can be difficult to find if you arrive unannounced - so make sure you book ahead. Visitor Centre: 13 Wedge Street Port Hedland. Tel: (08) 9173 1711 www.phvc.com.au

Population: 12, 756 Climate: Maximum average temperature 26-36°C. Minimum average temperature 14-27°C. Yearly rainfall 248.3 mm. Attractions: Fishing, Aboriginal rock engraving sites (be aware that these are sacred sites, some of which are not open to the public) and Rio Tinto tours. Accommodation: Hotel, motel, caravan parks and backpacker accommodation are available. Best to pre book! Visitor Centre: Lot 4548 Karratha Road Karratha. Tel: (08) 9144 4600 www.pilbaracoast.com At the heart of the West Pilbara Coast lies Karratha, one of the largest and fastest growing towns in Western Australia’s Pilbara mining region. Venture beyond this bustling modern hub and you’ll discover the charming port of Dampier and some of the State’s most fascinating historic pioneering towns, including Point Samson, Cossack (population = 2), Roebourne and Wickham.

Port Hedland is an interesting stop-over and certainly surreal looking. The iron rich red earth of the town is set against the backdrop of the stunning blue waters of the colossal port. This is the largest bulk tonnage port in Australia and the second largest in the world. The surrounding coastal region is great for fishing and watching sea turtles making their nests.

The most glorious of attractions in the Pilbara region are all nature’s doing. Standouts include Mount Augustus National Park, home of the world’s largest free standing rock. Mount Augustus, near the Aboriginal community of Burringurrah, is twice the size of Uluru and estimated to be one billion years older.

Karratha

The inland region of the Pilbara has the Millstream and Karijini National Parks. Millstream National Park is an oasis. It contains the last remaining vegetation from a formerly vast northern rainforest which now survives around isolated pools and streams.

Location: 1537 km north of Perth.

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Things to do • Swim in Fortescue Falls, Karijini, where two waterfalls plunge spectacularly into the pool. • Marvel at the deep red gorges of the Karijini National Park. • See the world’s biggest monolith (rock). And, no, it’s not Uluru – it’s Mount Augustus in the Gascoyne region, just south of the Pilbara. • See the staircase to the moon, as the full moon rises over tidal flats at Port Hedland or Broome. • Take a camel ride across the world class Cable Beach at sunset. • Discover thousands of rock carvings near Dampier (but be sure to pay respect and check with the local Indigenous communities - and never touch the paintings). • See where the Outback meets the ocean with the red cliffs and white sand of Cape Leveque. • Visit the Boab Prison Tree – 7km south of Derby.

Kimberley Region One of Australia’s most precious jewels is the Kimberley Region. It is huge and spans an area that is over a million square kilometres in size. Currently only 26,000 people call the region home, thus making it one of the most uninhabited regions on the planet.

Broome Location: 2275 km north of Perth. Population: 13, 717 Climate: Maximum average temperature 26-34°C. Minimum average temperature 14-26°C. Yearly rainfall 575.6 mm. Attractions: Cable Beach, China Town, Staircase to the Moon, Shinju Matsuri Pearl Festival, pearl showrooms, Pearl Luggers, Indigenous art, Sun Pictures Outdoor Cinema, markets, Chinese and Japanese cemeteries, Anastasia’s Pool and dinosaur footprints. Accommodation: A choice of accommodation is available from luxury to backpackers, self-contained to caravan parks, but always pre-book to avoid disappointment. Visitor Centre: 18 Broome Road Broome. Tel: (08) 9192 2222 www.broomevisitorcentre.com.au

• Go for a boat ride up Chamberlain Gorge in the million acre El Questro Wilderness Park. • Take a scenic flight over the very stripey Bungle Bungles. • See Australia’s biggest meteorite crater at Wolfe’s Creek. It’s nearly a kilometer wide and 50m deep. • Hike to the stunning, multi-layered Mitchell Falls. • Stay a safe distance from big teeth at the Wyndham Crocodile Farm. • Walk through the narrow Tunnel Creek, surrounded by huge rock walls. • Get on your walking boots, and take on Windjana Gorge. Spot wallabies, dingos, echidnas and snakes in Mirima National Park. • Canoe down the Ord River from Kununurra. • Check out the thousand islands and massive whirlpools of the Buccaneer Archipelago. • Cruise on Lake Argyle, the picturesque man-made reservoir with 12 times the capacity of Sydney Harbour.

Some attractions here include Crocodile Park and the town’s original open air cinema, Sun Theatre. There are four backpacker hostels and a number of caravan parks in and around the town. Adventure tours are available here from bushtucker walks to three-day tours that take in Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge National Parks. A definite must-do is an Aboriginal cultural tour to Cape Leveque to visit the Bardi people – a small coastal community 220km north of Broome. The annual Shinju Matsuri Pearl Festival takes place from late August to early September, when Broome is decked out in colour while the town celebrates its pearling and cultural history. See www.shinjumatsuri.com.au The Staircase to the Moon phenomenon is another must see. This happens on two days either side of a full moon when the tides are super low. The rising moon is reflected off the rippled tidal mudflats, creating the illusion of a brightly lit staircase rising up to the moon. At dusk go on a camel tour along the beach. At the southern tip of Cable Beach is Gantheaume Point. At low tide you can spot the tracks left by a dinosaur 130 million years ago.

The most visited town in this expansive hood is Broome. Broome is a modern oasis for travellers negotiating the WA coast. Despite its sophisticated modernity, it has managed to retain the characteristics of its original cultural influence. Indigenous Australian and the early Asian pearl fisherman whose cultural influences added to the rich tapestry of Broome society creating a unique cultural blend of all things Indigenous, tropical and oriental. The climate varies from very hot and humid in the summer time (known as the ‘wet season’) to comfortably warm in the dry winter. The biggest appeal of this place, aside from its people, is the beach and a relaxed ambience. It is quite common for visitors to fall into a cycle of relaxation, known here as ‘Broome time’, where things happen very slowly (if at all). Cable Beach is postcard perfect and rated as one of the top three beaches in the world. The beach is framed by deep red rocks with translucent water and gloriously fine white sand stretching for miles.

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Derby Location: 2495 km north of Perth. Population: 5,000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 29-35°C. Minimum average temperature 15-26°C. Yearly rainfall 622.4 mm. Attractions: Boab tree, Gibb River Road, Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek, Horizontal Falls, mud crabs, fishing, Derby Wharf, crocodiles. Accommodation: Station stays, hotel/motel, self contained, wilderness camps and caravan parks. Visitor Centre: 2 Clarendon Street Derby. Tel: (08) 9191 1426. www.derbytourism.com.au The oldest town in the Kimberley, Derby was one of the original port towns in the region and the town’s streets pay homage to this. The Boab tree lined streets are very wide in order to permit teams of mules and horses to do complete turn arounds after dropping off their loads.

farms arrange transport or accommodation, so it’s a good place to stock up on cash for your next adventure. There are three well equipped backpacker hostels in town and several caravan parks.

Nestled alongside the Indian Ocean, Derby is home to the second highest tidal range in the world. It’s the principle jump off point for Buccaneer Archipelago. A must see in this region is Horizontal Falls which unleashes an enormous volume of water between two sunken mountain ranges.

The spectacular, savannah like Lake Argyle was artificially created by the Ord River Dam scheme in 1963. The lake is the second largest in Australia and so large, some would argue that, it deserves the title of an inland sea. To the south is Argyle Diamond mine which is amongst the largest diamond mines in the world.

Land based attractions include Tunnel Creek National Park, which is a two and a half hour drive from Derby. Located here is the famed cave that was the hideout for Aboriginal hero Jandamarra, who was tragically tracked down nearby and killed in 1897.

Not to be shorthanded is Wolf Creek Meteorite Crater. The crater is 835m wide and 50m deep making it the second largest impact crater in the world. If you’ve seen the movie, you might want to give it a miss.

Kununurra

Make sure you get to El Questro - WA’s million acre wilderness park (formerly a working cattle station). Gorgeous gorges (we couldn’t resist!) offer a true station atmosphere, bush entertainment and accommodation from camping through to 5-star. Good value day tours are available ex-Kununurra.

Location: 3280 km north of Perth. Population: Approx: 6,000 Climate: Maximum average temperature 30-39°C. Minimum average temperature 15-25°C. Yearly rainfall 790.7 mm. Attractions: Barramundi fishing, crocodiles, Lake Argyle, Argyle Diamond Mine, El Questro Station, Ord Valley, Kelly’s Knob, markets, Ivanhoe Crossing, birdlife. Accommodation: A complete range of accommodation is available within 1km radius of town centre. Visitor Centre: 75 Coolibah Drive Kununurra. Tel: (08) 9168 1177 www.kununurratourism.com The last sizeable stop off before reaching the Western Australia/Northern Territory border is Kununurra or “The Meeting Of The Big Waters” in local Aboriginal dialect. This is Australia’s youngest town, put on the map in the 1960s to support the massive Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Do a three-day canoeing trip down the Ord River from Lake Argyle back to Kununurra, with fantastic scenery, cute little freshwater crocs (harmless ‘freshies’), waterholes and Aboriginal rock art. There are several waterholes that are safe for swimming and close to town, but ask the locals or the Visitor Centre first because you are right in the middle of croc country (there is always the super safe, shady town pool). Also check with the Indigenous communities before approaching the rock art as many of these areas are sacred sites. There’s lots of fruit picking work in Kununurra, with the season running from May-November. The produce is mainly mangoes and melons, and many of the 54

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Go Get a Job At some point during everyone’s big travel adventure there comes a sickening moment when you peer at your bank balance and realise that it is smaller than a pygmy’s pecker in icy water. This is generally when you have to start using the ‘work’ part of your workingholiday visa. As horrible as it sounds, working can actually be quite a laugh when you’re in a new country, giving you the chance to either further your career in a new exciting environment, or to try something refreshingly different. Working is a top way to meet new people - fellow travellers and locals alike. Before you can get started it is important to get yourself an Australian Tax File Number (TFN): for any job in Australia, you will need one of these. While taxes vary due to personal pay arrangements, it’s essential you supply your TFN, otherwise you’re automatically taxed the highest rate, which is a very high 45 cents in the dollar. Grab one from the Australian Taxation Office via their website www.ato.gov.au . Also, if you are visiting Australia and want to work, you’ll need a current and appropriate Working Visa. Get some advice from the Department of Immigration & Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs. For online service, visit the website www.immi.gov.au.

Go Vocational Vacation If you are a trained professional, such as a registered nurse or qualified accountant, you should have little difficulty in finding decent work in WA. Search newspapers and the internet for positions and use the Yellow Pages to look for specialist employment agencies that deal with your trade. For online options, try www.seek.com.au or www. jobs.wa.gov.au. General office work will also be available, although at certain times competition will be fierce. Opportunities for blue collar work and manual labour definitely exist in WA, especially if you are fully qualified. You can search for yourself or contact relevant agencies.

social workers. The trades that remain on the list are telecommunications, mechanics, welders, fabricators, aircraft trades, bricklayers, stonemasons, carpenters, joiners, glaziers, painters, gas fitters, plumbers, plasterers, sheet metal workers, panel beaters, electricians, tilers, instrument trades and more - please check the link above.

Another interesting way to earn your supper and see an alternative corner of Oz, is to get a job in a real Aussie outback pub - an experience which we’re pretty sure will leave you with some great friendships – not to mention some entertaining material for emails home.

If you work in one of the above occupations and qualify to migrate, this is the ideal time to start your migration application as the list will be updated annually and will remain steady.

When looking for work beware of ads promising mega bucks on 100% commission, and make sure you’re aware of what you are being asked to do and how many hours you are expected to work. If you come across a dodgy employer who is breaking the law, report them to www.workplace.gov.au

Go immigration & visas NEW SKILLED OCCUPATION LIST (SOL)

DIAC has announced the new Skilled Occupation List (SOL) - link here: http://www.immi. gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/new-list-of-occupations.pdf As expected, the number of occupations in the list has been reduced by over half, to ensure people with the most critical skills are able to migrate.

WHAT NEW JOBS HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THE SOL? Special needs teachers are now on the SOL.

WHAT IF MY OCCUPATION IS NO LONGER ON THE SOL?

If your job was on the existing SOL but is not on the new SOL, there may still be a skilled pathway for you, once each state announces the occupations on its shortage list. We will update you with the states lists as soon as they are announced. Some of the jobs removed from the SOL are chefs, cooks, hairdressers, primary school teachers, marketers, HR, general managers and pharmacists. Please check the full list for specific information. For further information see Interstaff.com 695 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005 Phone: +61 8 9221 3388 Email: visas@interstaff.com

WHAT OCCUPATIONS HAVE STAYED ON THE LIST?

The jobs that remain in highest demand, and therefore on the SOL, are accountants, auditors, IT professionals, construction professionals, nurses, engineers, childcare managers, secondary school teachers, urban planners, medical professionals and

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Go General Info

Interstate buses Greyhound - 132 030

TRANSPERTH = BUSES • TRAINS • FERRIES Ph: 13 62 13 or use their great website where you just type in your location, destination and what time you want to be there. www. transperth.wa.gov.au will tell you where to catch your bus or train, where and when to change over (if you need to) and when to get off.

Metropolitan trains Transperth trains operate from the William Street station and cover the suburbs between Midland, Fremantle, Armadale, Joondalup and Mandurah on 5 consecutive lines. Call 136 213 for info.

Fares Fares range from $1.70 - $10.20 for metropolitan transit, depending on whether you buy a one-off ticket or purchase a SmartRider card. This enables you to have multiple trips at a lesser cost. Student concessions are valid but you must bring your card. A DayRider ticket entitles you to unlimited all day travel on all Transperth services after 9.00am on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays. It is available as a standard or concession ticket. Concession tickets may be used before 7.15am and after 9.00am on weekdays except in zones 5-8 where they can be purchased before 7.15am and after 8.30am. DayRiders cost $9.00 for standard users and $3.60 for concession users. Special assistance at stations 1800 800 022 Translation and interpreting services 13 14 50 Buses Tickets from Perth to suburbs are valid for 2 hours and can be used on all Transperth buses, trains and ferries. The main Perth city terminals are the bus station on Wellington Street and the Perth underground train station nearby on William Street. Free buses Travel is free on any Transperth buses within the Perth and Fremantle centres. CAT (Central Area Transport Service) buses are also free and encircle the city centre. Look out for the cat on the back and sides of the bus. Domestic airport services Bus 37 runs weekday and weekend return services from Kings Park to the Perth Domestic Airport via Perth city. The service also connects with the Victoria Park Transfer Station and Belmont Forum Shopping Centre, allowing connections with other Transperth services. International airport services Transperth does not operate services to the Perth International Airport. For all enquiries relating to services to the International Airport, please call 1300 666 806. However you can transfer from the domestic airport to the international airport for $8. Rural WA buses Transwa coaches service rural WA and depart from the East Perth Terminal Transwa - 1300 662 205 for reservations. Greyhound - 132 030

Transwa rural trains Indian Pacific (interstate) runs between Perth and Sydney (72 hrs) - Airport shuttles Fremantle Airport Shuttle - Urgent bookings Perth Airport Shuttle -

1300 662 205 13 2147 08 9457 7150 0437 197 240 1300 666 806

Taxis Taxis (or cabs) from the city to the airport will take about 25 minutes and cost $34-$44. Swan taxis - 131 330 Taxi’s Australia - 13 2227 Black and White - 9333 3333 Yellow - 131 924 Main airlines operating out of WA are: Qantas - 13 13 13 Jetstar - 1300 304 553 Qantas International - 9225 8282 Skywest - 1300 66 0088 Skippers - 1300 729 924 Rottnest Airlines - 9478 1322 Garuda - 13 00 365 331 Virgin - 13 6789 Emirates - 1300 303 777 British Airways 1300 767 177 Immigration Department of Immigration and Muticultural Affairs - Visa Information - Commercial enquiries - Registered migration agent For advise and help call Interstaff international visas@interstaff.com Interpreting services Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm -

131 881 1902 262 682 9231 9411 08 9221 3388

1300 308 983

For more information about Western Australia visit

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Go Caravan parks & camping PERTH & SURROUNDS BIG 4 PERTH INTERNATIONAL TOURIST PARK 186 Hale Rd Forrestfield Ph 08 9453 6677 CENTRAL CARAVAN PARK 34 Central Ave, Ascot Ph 08 9277 1704 KARRINYUP WATERS RESERVE 467 North Beach Rd, Gwelup Ph 08 9447 6665 COOGEE BEACH HOLIDAY PARK Cockburn Rd, Coogee Ph 08 9418 1810 GUILDERTON/MOORE RIVER GUILDERTON CARAVAN PARK 2 Dewar St, Guilderton Ph 08 9577 1021 MANDURAH MANDURAH CARAVAN & TOURIST PARK 522 Pinjarra Rd, Mandurah Ph 089535 1171 PRESTON BEACH CARAVAN PARK Ph 08 9739 1111 ROCKINGHAM ROCKINGHAM HOLIDAY VILLAGE 147 Dixon Rd, Rockingham Ph 08 9527 4240 SWAN VALLEY SWAN VALLEY TOURIST PARK 6581 West Swan Rd West Swan Ph 08 9274 2828

NORTH WEST CORAL COAST

CERVANTES CERVANTES PINNACLES CARAVAN PARK 35 Aragon St, Cervantes Ph 08 9652 LEEMAN LEEMAN CARAVAN PARK 43 Thomas St, Leeman Ph 08 9953 1080 PORT GREGORY PORT GREGORY CARAVAN PARK 13 Sanford Street Port Gregory, Western Australia Tel : (08) 9935 1052 Fax : (08) 9935 10 E-mail : bookings@portgregory.com Web : www.portgregory.com BADGINGARRA WADDI BUSH RESORT Konah Rd (off Brand H’way) PO Box 5 6521 Ph 08 9652 9071 DONGARA-PORT DENISON SEASPRAY CARAVAN PARK 81 Church St, Dongara Ph 08 9927 1165

GERALDTON BATAVIA COAST CARAVAN PARK Lot 3 Hall Rd, Geraldton Ph 08 9938 1222 KALBARRI MURCHISON CARAVAN PARK KALBARRI 29 Grey St, Kalbarri Ph 08 9937 1005

BROOME BROOME VACATION VILLAGE lot 1783 Port Drive Broome Ph 08 9192 1057 Ph 08 9192 3336 ROEBUCK BAY CARAVAN PARK 91 Walcott St Broome Ph 08 9192 1336

SHARK BAY MONKEY MIA DOLPHIN RESORT Monkey Mia Dolphin Lodge Monkey Mia Western Australia 6537 FREECALL: 1800 653 611 Ph: +61 8 9948 1320 Fax: +61 8 9948 1034 Callers from the United Kingdom: 0871 711 9836 enquiry@monkeymia.com.au

FITZROY CROSSING FITZROY CROSSING LODGE CARAVAN PARK GREAT Northern Rd Fitzroy Crossing Ph 08 9191 5141

CARNARVON CORAL COAST TOURIST PARK 108 Robinson St, Carnarvon Ph 08 9941 1438

SOUTH WEST

EXMOUTH EXMOUTH CAPE HOLIDAY PARK 3 Truscott Crescent Exmouth Western Australia 6707 Freecall: 1800 621 101 Ph: (08) 9949 1101 Email: Exmouth@aspenparks.com.au www.aspenparks.com.au Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent Exmouth WA 6707 Freecall: 1800 621 101 Tel: 08 9949 1101 Email: exmouth@aspenparks.com.au CORAL BAY PEOPLE’S PARK CARAVAN VILLAGE Robinson Rd, Coral Bay Ph 08 9942 5933 KARIJINI KARIJINI ECO RETREAT Karijini National Park Perth office: 206 Adelaide Tce Perth + 61 8 9425 5591 Karijini Eco Retreat on site: + 61 8 9189 8013 For directions see: www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au PORT HEDLAND COOKE POINT HOLIDAY PARK crn Athol & Taylor St, Port Hedland Ph 089173 1271 PORT HEDLAND CARAVAN PARK 77-95 Hamilton Rd,South Hedland Ph 089172 1197 KARRATHA Karratha Caravan park Mooligunn Rd 08 9185 1012 NEWMAN CARAVAN PARK Kalgan Dr Newman Ph 08 9175 1428

KUNUNURRA Discovery Holiday Park Lakeview Drive 08 9168 1031

ALBANY

ALBANY HOLIDAY PARK 550 Albany H’way, Albany Ph 08 9841 7800 AUGUSTA DOONBANKS CHALETS & CARAVAN PARK Lot 1 Blackwood Ave Ph 08 9758 1517 PORONGURUPS PORONGURUP NATIONAL PARK Mount Barker Porongurup Road A variety of Camping, Caravan and backpacker accommodation. BREMER BAY FISHERY BEACH TOURIST PARK crn Wellstead & Point Henry Peninsula Rd, Bremer Bay 6338 Ph 08 9837 4290 BRIDGETOWN BRIDGETOWN CARAVAN PARK South West HWY South of the CBD 08 9761 1900 ESPERANCE CROCKERS PARK TOURIST RESORT 817 Harbour Rd, Esperance Ph 08 9071 4100

AMBLIN CARAVAN PARK 583 Bussell H’way, Busselton Ph 08 9755 4079 MANDALAY HOLIDAY RESORT 652 Geographe Bay Rd, Busselton Ph 08 9752 1328 DENMARK KARRI MIA RESORT Mt Shadforth Rd, Denmark Ph 08 9848 2233 DUNSBOROUGH FOUR SEASONS HOLIDAY RESORT lot 33 Caves Rd, Busselton Ph 08 9755 4082 HAMELIN BAY HAMELIN BAY CARAVAN PARK Hamelin Bay Rd, Karridale Ph 08 9758 5540 MARGARET RIVER TAUNTON FARM HOLIDAY PARK Bussell H’way Cowaramup Ph 08 9755 5334 MOUNT BARKER MOUNT BARKER CARAVAN PARK & CABIN ACCOMMODATION Lot 584 Albany Highway Mount Barker Ph 08 9851 1691 PEMBERTON PEMBERTON CARAVAN PARK 1 Pump Hill Rd, Pemberton Ph 08 9776 1300 www.pembertonpark.com.au WALPOLE COALMINE BEACH HOLIDAY PARK Coalmine Beach Rd Walpole Ph 08 9840 1026 WILLIAM BAY NATIONAL PARK Light Rd, Denmark Ph 08 9848 2055 YALLINGUP YALLINGUP BEACH HOLIDAY PARK Yallingup Beach Rd Ph 08 9755 2164

OUTBACK

ESPERANCE SEAFRONT CARAVAN PARK Goldfields Rd Ph 08 9071 1251

KALGOORLIE-BOULDER GOLDMINER CARAVAN PARK cnr Great Eastern H’way & Atbara St Kalgoorlie Ph 08 9021 3713

BUNBURY BUNBURY VILLAGE PARK Crn Bussell H’way & Washington Ave, Bunbury Ph 08 9795 7100

LEONORA LAVERTON CARAVAN PARK Weld Drive Laverton PH 08 9031 1072

RIVERSIDE CARAVAN & CABIN PARK 5 Pratt Rd, Eaton Ph 08 9725 1234

MERREDIN MERREDIN CARAVAN PARK Cnr Great Eastern H’way & Oats St Merrendin Ph 08 9041 1535

BUSSELTON ACACIA CARAVAN PARK 603 Bussell H’way, Busselton Ph 08 9755 4034

NORSEMAN FRASER RANGER SHEEP STATION 100km east of Norseman Eyre H’way Norseman Ph 08 9039 3210

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Go accommodation listings PERTH

Rainbow Lodge 133 Summers Street Perth Western Australia Tel: +61 8 92271818 or 0417 927 529 www.rainbowlodge.com.au Mad Cat Backpackers 55-63 Stirling Street Perth Western Australia Tel:+61 (0)8 9228 4966 www.madcatbackpackers.com.au 12:01 East Backpackers 195 Hay Street WA 6004 East Perth Tel: 1800 00 1201 (free within Australia) www.1201east.com.au Beatty Lodge 235 Vincent Street, West Perth Western Australia Tel : +6 18 9227 1521 www.beattylodge.com.au HAY STREET BACKPACKERS 266/268 Hay Street East Perth Western Australia Tel:+61 8 9221 9880 www.haystbackpackers.com Billabong Resort 381 Beaufort Street Northbridge Western Australia Tel:+61 8 9328 7720 www.billabongresort.com.au One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St Northbridge WA 6003 + 61 8 9228 8206 www.oneworldbackpackers.com.au Spinners backpackers 342 Newcastle Street Perth Western Australia + 61 8 9328 9468 www.spinnersbackpackers.com.au Britannia on William 253 William Street Northbridge Western Australia Tel: +61 8 9227 6000 www.perthbritannia.com Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St Perth Western Australia Tel: +6 18 9328 9958 www.coolibahlodge.com.au Easy Perth Backpackers 46 Francis Street Northbridge Western Australia Tel: +61 8 6161 0971 www.easyperthbackpackers.com.au

The Old Swan Barracks 6 Francis Street Perth Western Australia + 61 8 9428 0000 www.theoldswanbarracks.com UNDERGROUND BACKPACKERS 268 Newcastle Street Northbridge Western Australia + 61 8 9228 3755 undergroundbackpackers.com.au YMCA Jewell House 180 Goderich Street Perth Western Australia + 61 8 9325 8488 www.ymcajewellhouse.com.au

Perth Beaches

Scarborough Beach Western Beach Lodge 6 Westborough St Scarborough WA 6019 + 61 8 9245 1624 westernbeach@iprimus.com.au www.westernbeach.com Cottesloe Beach Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St Cottesloe WA 6011 + 61 8 9384 5111 backpackers@obh.com.au www.oceanbeachbackpackers.com Fremantle Backpackers Inn Freo 11 Pakenham St Fremantle WA 6160 + 61 8 9431 7065 reception@backpackersinnfreo. com.au www.backpackersinnfreo.com.au

SOUTHWEST

Busselton Phat Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Busselton Backpackers 14 Peel Terrace, Busselton Western Australia 6280 Tel: +61 8 9754 2763 Mob: +61 0415 243 058 E: bsnbpk@westnet.com.au www.phatsams.com.au PARADISE MOTOR INN 6 Pries Ave Busselton Western Australia 6280 Tel: +61 8 9752 1200 www.paradisemotorinn.com.au E: paradisemotorinn@bigpond.com Bunbury Wander inn Bunbury Backpackers 16 Clifton Stree Bunbury Western Australia 6230 Freecall: 1800 039 032 www.bunburybackpackers.com.au

Dolphin Retreat YHA 14 Wellington Street Bunbury Western Australia 6230 + 61 8 9792 4690 info@dolphinretreatbunbury.com.au www.dolphinretreatbunbury.com.au Margaret River Inne Town Backpackers 93 Bussell Highway Margaret River 6285 + 61 8 9757 3698 Freecall: 1800 244 115 innetown@westnet.com.au Augusta Baywatch Manor YHA 9 Heppingstone View Augusta 6290 +61 8 9758 1290 enquiries@baywatchmanor.com.au www.baywatchmanor.com.au Walpole Walpole Lodge Cnr Pier St & Park Avenue Walpole Western Australia 6398 +61 8 9840 1244 walpolelodge@westnet.com.au www.walpolelodge.com.au TINGLE ALL OVER YHA 60 Nockolds Street Walpole Western Australia 6398 +61 8 9840 1041 E: tingleallover2000@yahoo.com.au www.yha.com.au/hostels Albany ALBANY Backpackers Cnr Stirling Tce & Spencer St Albany, Western Australia 6330 Freeecall - 1800 260130 abp@albanybackpackers.com www.albanybackpackers.com Discovery Inn 9 Middleton Road Albany Western Australia 6330 Tel: +61 8 9842 5535 discovery@westnet.com.au www.discoveryinn.com.au Esperance Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Road Esperance Western Australia 6450 +61 8 9071 1040 yhaesperance@hotmail.com www.yha.com.au

INLAND

Goldfields - Kalgoorlie PALACE HOTEL 137 Hannan Street Kalgoorlie Western Australia 6430 +61 8 9021 2788

NORTHWEST

Lancelin Lancelin Lodge 10 Hopkins Street Lancelin Western Australia 6044 Phone +61 8 96 55 2020 accom@lancelinlodge.com.au www.lancelinlodge.com.au CERVANTES PINNACLES BEACH Backpackers 91 Seville Street Cervantes Western Australia 6511 Freecall 1800 245 232 + 61 8 9652 7377 E: pbb@wn.com.au www.cervanteslodge.com.au Kalbarri Kalbarri Backpackers YHA 51 Mortimer Street Kalbarri Western Australia 6536 + 61 8 9937 1430 kalbarribackpackers@wn.com.au www.yha.com.au Carnarvon Fish & Whistle Backpacker & Flashpacker 35 Robinson Street Carnarvon Western Australia 6701 + 61 8 9441 1704 stay@fishandwhistle.com.au Denham Bay Lodge YHA 113 Knight Terrace Denham Western Australia 6537 +61 8 9948 1278 baylodge@wn.com.au www.yha.com.au Monkey Mia Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort Monkey Mia Dolphin Lodge Monkey Mia western Australia 6537 Freecall: 1800 653 611 +61 8 9948 1320 Callers from the UK: 0871 711 9836 www.monkeymia.com.au Exmouth Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscot Cresent Exmouth Western Australia 6707 Freecall: 1800 621 101 + 61 8 9949 1101 exmouth@aspenparks.com.au www.aspenparks.com.au

KARIJINI KARIJINI ECO RETREAT Karijini National Park Perth office: 206 Adelaide Tce Perth, Western Australia 6000 + 61 8 9425 5591 Karijini Eco Retreat on site: + 61 8 9189 8013 For directions see: w: www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au BROOME Beaches of Broome 4 Sanctuary Road Cable Beach Western Australia 6726 + 61 8 9192 6665 www.beachesofbroome.com.au Kununurra Kununurra Backpackers 22 Nutwood Cresent Kununurra Western Australia 6743 Freecall: 1800 641 998 info@kununurrabackpackers.com.au www.kununurrabackpackers.com.au www.kununurrabackpackers.com.au

APARTMENTS & HOTELS

Perth Mountway Holiday Apartments 36 Mount Street Perth Western Australia 6000 info@mountwayapartments.com.au www.mountwayapartments.com.au Royal Hotel Cnr Wellington & William Sts Perth Western Australia 6000 www.royalhotelperth.com.au Regal Apartments 11 Regal Place East Perth 6004 Freecall: 1800 778 614 info@regalapartments.com.au www.regalapartments.com.au Verandah Apartments Freecall: 1300 762 216 stay@verandahapartments.com.au www.verandahapartments.com.au FREMANTLE Callan Apartments Fremantle www.callanapartments.com.au 08 9336 2522 0407 948 537 Busselton PARADISE MOTOR INN 6 Pries Ave Busselton Western Australia 6280 Tel: +61 8 9752 1200 www.paradisemotorinn.com.au E: paradisemotorinn@bigpond.com

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FROM THE STRANGLERS THE FORMER MAIN MAN THE LEGEND

and his band 2 SHOW SET INCLUDING HITS FROM THE STRANGLERS AND CLASSIC SOLO MATERIAL PLUS THE SEMINAL DEBUT ALBUM RATTUS NORVEGICUS IV PLAYED IN ITS ENTIRITY

28TH APRIL - ANU BAR, CANBERRA 29TH APRIL - THE HI-FI, BRISBANE 30TH APRIL - KINGS BEACH TAVERN, CALOUNDRA 1ST MAY - CAXTON STREET FESTIVAL, BRISBANE (EARLY) 1ST MAY - COOLANGATTA HOTEL, COOLANGATTA (LATE) 3RD MAY - SAWTELL RSL CLUB, SAWTELL 4TH MAY - CAMBRIDGE HOTEL, NEWCASTLE 5TH MAY - MANNING BAR, SYDNEY UNI 6TH MAY - FERNTREE GULLY HOTEL 7TH MAY - THE HI-FI, MELBOURNE 8TH MAY - CHARLES HOTEL, PERTH

SPECIAL GUEST www.rocksoup.com.au

Latest Studio album ‘Hooverdam’ free to download @ www.hughcornwell.com

www.thedarkshadows.com.au 63

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