Attractions

KINGS PARK

Perth's most iconic visitor attraction, Kings Park offers a truly unique experience with natural bushland, tranquil park areas, native birds and stunning panoramic views of the city and Swan River. Since 1872, when 172 hectares were set aside as a public space to be known as Perth Park, the area has been developed as a scenic recreational and educational facility. It was renamed Kings Park in 1901 and now covers 400 hectares, making it the largest inner city park in the world. (New York's Central Park covers 340 hectares). All routes into the park involve a steep incline but once at the top visitors will be rewarded by panoramic views of the city and the Swan River. The roads and dual use paths, nature trails and other footpaths in the park are tailor made for cycling, running, walking or jogging. There are playgrounds and parkland areas with barbecues and picnic lawns providing ample opportunity for relaxed family outings. Memorials throughout the park commemorate the history and courage of the people of WA as pioneers in peace and in war. The Lotterywest Federation Walkway takes you on a walk through the treetops above the city on a unique glass and steel arched bridge which appears suspended amidst the canopy of tall eucalypts, reaching a maximum height of 16m at its apex.

The park supports 250 species of plants and 100 species of native animals including birds, mammals, reptiles and insects. In spring, wildflowers transform much of the park into a mass of colour and visitors come from all over the world to see this spectacle. Kings Park is also home to the showcase retail space for local contemporary craft and design, Aspects of Kings Park, which offers the savvy consumer an opportunity to purchase a truly exclusive souvenir of any visit to the state. There is ample car parking throughout Kings Park. The free Red CAT bus will take you to within a stroll of the park or catch Transperth bus route 37 from St Georges Terrace in the city. For more information call 9480 3600 Monday-Friday, 9am-4.30pm.

MUST SEE

One of the world’s largest musical instruments, The Bell Tower houses the Swan Bells in a distinctive 82.5 metre high tower located within Barrack Square. There are galleries from which to view the bell ringers in action, and fascinating displays on the history of the bells. “It’s About Time” is a new exhibition featuring a fascinating array of precision timepieces, bells and optical instruments demonstrating how time was kept in the mechanical era before the digital era. The viewing platform provides superb views of the river and city. Open 10am-4.30pm daily (Closed Christmas Day & Good Friday). Barrack Square, intersection of Barrack St. & Riverside Dr, Perth Phone 9218 8183.

A golden opportunity awaits! Multiple award-winner The Perth Mint is one of the world’s oldest mints still operating from its original premises. Founded in 1899 as a branch of the Royal Mint in London to refine gold from the goldfields and strike gold sovereigns for the British Empire, The Perth Mint is a ‘must-see’ for visitors of all ages. Witness a traditional gold pouring performance in the original Melting House, handle more than $250,000 worth of gold, see coins and medallions being manufactured and view Australia’s largest collection of natural gold nuggets including Newmont’s Normandy Nugget – the second largest nugget in the world. It’s also the official location of the world’s greatest collection of gold investment bars and visitors can purchase precious metal coins, natural nuggets, exquisite jewellery and quality souvenirs. Gold pouring performances are held on the hour 9.30am to 3.30pm weekdays, and 9.30 to 11.30am weekends and public holidays. 310 Hay St East Perth Phone 9421 7223.

'Step inside and do time' at Fremantle Prison, WA's premier heritage site. Constructed by convicts between 1851 and 1855, the daunting buildings of Fremantle Prison were in use as a maximum security prison until 1991. Join our experienced tour guides on a journey that takes you from the harsh convict era of the 1850s until the 1990s. It is open from 10am to 6pm every day (last tour at 5) and offers an alternative view to the prevailing vision of Fremantle as a jolly seaside town. Visitors will gain a chilling insight into life in a maximum security in the 1990s. The entry fee of $14.30 adults, $7.15 children (6-15 yrs) includes two fascinating tours of the prison. Why not try out the candlelight tour (although torches are used) which starts around 7.30pm on Wednesday and Friday and takes in the gallows and other macabre attractions. The Terrace, Fremantle Phone 9336 9200.

Scitech is a hands-on science centre with an ever-changing range of over 100 interactive and enlightening exhibitions that appeal to families and people of all ages who love to twist, turn, crank, pull, touch and explore. Current exhibitions include Humanoid Discovery – Wonders of the Human Body where visitors can relax on a painless bed of nails and Climate Change – our future, our choice which reveals how a single piece of fast food lays a big carbon footprint. The space shows at Horizon – the Planetarium will take you out of this world via digital projections onto an 18m domed screen. Little ones can turn on their imagination at the fantastic puppet theatre or play in Discoverland, a purpose-built area exclusively for 3-7 year olds. Take a little bit of science home with you with a unique gift or scientific gadget from the Discovery Shop. Scitech is based at the City West Centre, Sutherland St, West Perth. Ph: 9215 0700

In the heart of Fremantle's working port the Western Australian Maritime Museum explores our connections with the Indian Ocean. Visit the 'most exciting museum afloat', go inside on a submarine, and see the Shipwreck Galleries nearby. Located at the west end of Victoria Quay (follow the signs to the E Shed markets just next door, or catch the Fremantle CAT bus to the door), this is an international landmark showcasing Western Australia’s rich maritime heritage. Its position in the working port makes it the ideal place to tell the stories of Western Australia’s early explorers, trade routes, naval defence, migration and the cultural richness that has resulted. With significant historic objects and boats that highlight WA’s sporting and adventure heritage, the exhibitions tell the stories of human endeavour that bring to life our maritime past. The roof of the Museum towers 30 metres above the boats in a display celebrating the boating history of Western Australians, showcasing the adventures of people challenging nature and themselves as they 'take on the world' on the water. Boats on display include the Parry Endeavour, the yacht that took lone yachtsman Jon Sanders three times around the globe and Australia II, the racing yacht with the winged keel that won the America’s Cup from the United States in 1983. Also on display are the decommissioned submarine HMAS Ovens, located on the historic World War II slipway in Slip Street, and the Shipwreck Galleries, housed in the restored convict-built Commissariat building in Cliff Street five minutes away. Victoria Quay, Fremantle Phone 9431 8444.

Occupying the site of the Upper Darling Range Railway station yard, the Kalamunda History Village illustrates life in the early days, and the domestic and industrial history of the area since the first settlers. The village offers a memorable day of reminiscing; take a step back to the days of times gone by. It is an excellent venue for grandparents to show their grandchildren. Located at 56 Railway Road, the village is open Mon-Thurs 10am-3pm, Sat 9am-12 noon, Sun 1.30-4.30pm. Ph: 9293 1371.

On display at the Western Australian Museum are the artefacts and culture of the Australian Indigenous people, animal and marine life and WA's rich history. See giant meteorites, a dinosaur gallery and Perth's oldest colonial gaol. The complex includes the Old Gaol, a Georgian style stone building built in 1856. This was Perth's original prison until 1888, and an important building during the convict era. James Street Mall, Perth Phone 9427 2700.

The Aviation Heritage Museum has planes, planes and more planes and works hard to promote and preserve our aviation history, both military and civil, for the enjoyment and education of all. Bull Creek Drive, Bull Creek Phone 9311 4470.

Visit Macnuts WA and see for yourself the secrets of a working macadamia nut factory. Take a guided tour, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, relax with a cuppa and sample fresh nuts in assorted flavours, oils, spreads, honey or homemade cookies. A range of body care products is available. 213 Doghill Rd, Baldivis Phone 9524 2223.

SIGHTSEEING TOURS

The sparkling waters of Warnbro and Cockburn Sounds which surround Rockingham are ideal for all sorts of aquatic sports. Fringed with award-winning sandy beaches, these are among the best stretches of coastline in Australia. You can find coral reefs relatively close to shore as well as plentiful marine life and interesting shipwreck sites. The more sheltered northern beaches are usually calm for swimming while the southern beaches offer great sailing and windsurfing. Sea lions, dolphins, penguins and a multitude of bird and marine life abound along the coast and adjacent islands. Rockingham Wild Encounters offers a range of ecotours to see the best of the local wildlife. Tours depart daily from September to May. Phone 9591 1333.

Enjoy the unique and fun experience of a Perth and Kings Park open tour with City Sightseeing. The open top Double Decker bus guarantees a bird’s eye view of the City’s top attractions. Make sure you bring along your camera, there are no glass windows to spoil the view! Listen to the informative commentary on all there is to know about Perth. Your ticket, which may be purchased on the bus, is valid for two consecutive days enabling you to visit all the attractions at your leisure. Upgrade to the ‘Triple Tour’ which includes a return cruise to Fremantle and a day pass on the Fremantle Tram.

Western Travel Bug have been operating day and extended coach tours from Perth for over fifteen years. See Mandurah, Albany, Margaret River, South West, Esperance, Wave Rock, Fremantle, Perth, Pinnacles or Monkey Mia. Tours are suitable for all ages and airconditioned coaches will ensure your journey is both comfortable and relaxing. Experienced driver guides will show you the best of the state and give you a unique and genuine Aussie experience by providing a friendly, fun-filled journey of discovery on every tour.

Fremantle Trams run hop-on-hop-off guided tours 363 days a year from 9.45am. Taking in all of Fremantle’s famous and historic landmarks your driver will entertain you with a live commentary along the way. All Perth ferries met.

For a unique insight into the traditions and spirituality of Aboriginal people, take a journey back thousands of years to a time in the Dreaming with Indigenous Tours WA. Experience Kings Park, Rottnest Island and Fremantle through the ancient Dreamtime stories of the region's earliest and original inhabitants, the Wadjuk people. Wadjuk means 'the guardians of the link between the land and the sea' (this link being the beautiful Swan River). Learn about the Nyoongar people of south western Australia, their bush food and medicines, tools and traditional hunting methods. Ph: 9483 1106

ACTION

One entry fee, then you ride for free! Experience the excitement of Adventure World, Perth’s premier fun park featuring the biggest thrill rides to ever hit WA. Check out the Rampage, the Power Surge, Tunnel of Terror, Turbo Mountain Rollercoaster, Bounty’s Revenge and the Grand Prix Racetrack. For families, check out Kids Cove with some of the best rides for younger children including the Barnacle, Dragon Flyer, Little Leaper and Dragon Express, or why not visit Koala Kingdom. Relax by Perth’s favourite swimming pool or visit the Burger Bar or fully licensed Cafe Caruso. Located in Bibra Lake, just twenty minutes from Perth and only fifteen minutes from Fremantle. 179 Progress Dve Bibra Lake Phone 9417 9666.

The array of aquatic activities at Bayswater Waves will keep you entertained all day long and the aquatic facilities are all heated for comfort. The wave pool offers five different waves ranging in height and power, plus there are indoor and outdoor pools, a dive pool, lazy river, toddlers’ pool, hydrotherapy pool, spa, sauna and steam room. Barbecue facilities and nautical playground are located in the grassed outdoor area. Open Monday-Friday 5.30am-8.30pm and weekends plus public holidays 7.30am-7.00pm. Broun Ave Embleton Phone 9375 8544.

Bonneys Waterski Park has all the water skiing fun you can handle. With five man-made lakes and four slalom courses, tube rides and ski jump plus cafe and barbecues this is a complete leisure destination. 136 St Albans Rd, Baldivis Phone 9524 1401.

See Perth from the air. Heli West combines the stunning vistas of Western Australia with experienced pilots and safe reliable helicopters to provide the highest standards of scenic helicopter flights and helicopter charter. A scenic flight or charter is the perfect way to explore the great diversity that Perth has to offer. You can be certain of a quality experience, and with Heli West you will be delighted time and again. 2 Harvard Rd, Jandakot Airport Phone 9414 1114.

Explore the spectacular oasis that is Wanneroo Botanical Gardens just 25 minutes north of Perth; five acres of stunning botanical gardens complete with ponds, waterfalls and streams as well as Australia's largest mini golf complex. You're sure to have lots of laughs as you attempt to conquer the tricks and traps of the two courses. Leapfrogs Cafe is fully licensed and offers superb alfresco dining and great coffee – the perfect way to relax after your game. 25 Drovers Place, Wanneroo Ph: 9405 1475.

Lose yourself in 32 acres of parklands and discover a unique range of attractions guaranteed to challenge and entertain the whole family at The Maze. Enjoy a range of mazes including the 2,500 square metre timber maze with supa slide and lookout tower, plus mini golf, koalas, kangaroos, emus and a walk in aviary. Cafe Iguana serves alfresco lunches and there are shady picnic areas and BBQ facilities. 1635 Neaves Road, Bullsbrook, Ph: 9571 1375.

Enjoy spectacular views from Peth's newest attraction the Wheel of Perth a giant observation wheel right on the foreshore with spectacular views of Perth's vibrant heart and the Swan River. Open 7 days a week from 10 am to 10 pm, Barrack Square, Riverside Drive, Perth.

Explore 12,000 kilometres of Western Australia’s coastline in just one day at AQWA - the Aquarium of Western Australia. From the icy cold waters of the Great Southern Coast to the tropical wonderland of the Far North, take an underwater journey to discover the incredible and unique marine life of Western Australia. Now open for a limited time, you can meet some of the world’s deadliest marine creatures in AQWA’s newest exhibit, the DANGERZONE! Or join AQWA Adventures for the experience of a lifetime - a snorkel or dive with the Sharks. Snorkellers or qualified SCUBA divers can join the Divemaster to encounter sharks, stingrays, turtles and thousands of fish in the three million litre Shipwreck Coast aquarium. AQWA is Perth’s must-see attraction, located just twenty minutes north of the city at Hillarys Boat Harbour, Sorrento Quay. Open 10am-5pm daily, phone 9447 7500.

Choice Kitesurfing stocks the largest range of kites, boards and harnesses in WA. Their friendly staff can help you build the perfect package to suit your size, ability and budget, whatever your needs from entry level to seasoned professional and you can book lessons with their experienced, certified instructors. Get your ticket to fly today. 54 Rockingham Rd, Hamilton Hill, Ph: 9336 7884 or 0438 382 638.

Lone Ranges Shooting Complex offers you the thrill of learning to shoot a variety of rifles, shotguns, revolvers and semi auto pistols, in the security of our indoor complex. Open Mon-Sat 10am-8pm Sunday & Public Holidays 10am-6pm. 107 Robinson Avenue, Belmont Ph: 9277 9200.

ON THE WATER

The warm waters of the Indian Ocean are home to friendly bottlenose dolphins. As well as occasional sightings in the northern suburbs of Perth, a large number of dolphins frequent the waters around Rockingham, and can often be seen while fishing and boating. Rockingham is WA’s premier destination to experience a wild encounter with marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Rockingham Wild Encounters offers a range of ecotours to see the best of the local wildlife and the spectacular coastal scenery of this special destination. Swim with wild bottlenose dolphins, meet the little penguins at Penguin Island or paddle a sea kayak amongst Australian sea lions. Whether you are looking for adventure or a great wildlife experience for the whole family there will be an option to suit you. Tours depart daily from September to May. Phone 9591 1333.

In Mandurah Bouvard Cruises can take you on a canal or dolphin watching cruise, a leisurely lunch trip or an all day tour. 80 Mandurah Tce, Mandurah Phone 9581 1242.

The Swan River's clean, calm waters makes river cruising a pleasure. Trips are made up-stream to the top of the Swan River with stops for lunch and wine tastings at the wineries located in the Swan Valley. Or how about spending a sultry evening watching the sun set over the city and cruising into the beautiful Perth lights on an evening cruise? Cruises from Perth to Fremantle will take you past 'Millionaires' Row', the affluent riverside suburbs of Perth. Captain Cook Cruises offer a wide selection of cruises on the magnificent waters of Perth's Swan River. Scenic and luncheon cruises depart several times daily from Pier 3 Barrack Square in the heart of the city. Evening dinner cruises depart every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights and hotel coach pick-ups are available. Phone 9325 3341.

At South Perth Parasailing you can take off and land on a custom built parasailing boat without even getting wet. Experience the thrill of parasailing while taking in the sites of Perth, Kings Park and Old Swan Brewery, flying up to 300ft high in the sky above the magnificent Swan River. Choose your ride, a ‘Wet’n’Wild” and be dunked in the water, or stay “High’n’Dry” up in the sky. This exhilarating ride operates 7 days a week weather permitting. Contact us in advance for best times and bookings, or come and see us on the foreshore. Ph: 0408 382 595.

WILDLIFE

Just minutes from the city centre in the riverside suburb of South Perth, set on 19.5 hectares, Perth Zoo is home to over 1500 animals representing 200 species. Naturalistic exhibits closely replicate the animals' native habitats and allow visitors to experience unique animal encounters. The Australian Walkabout features a spectacular array of native wildlife and flora. The Australian Bushwalk lets you wander among Australian animals and an environment that replicates the varied geographical regions found in WA. The bushwalk is home to animals including kangaroos, koalas, numbats and dingoes. Go on safari on the plains of the African Savannah amidst rhinoceros, giraffe, lions, cheetah and baboons; or delve through the thick foliage of the Asian Rainforest and come face to face with elephants, red panda, tigers, and orang-utans. Free keeper presentations and feed times take place daily. Perth Zoo is open every day of the year including Good Friday, Easter and Christmas Day. 20 Labouchere Rd, South Perth Phone 9474 3551

There’s nothing quite like cuddling a little furry animal, and at Caversham Wildlife Park there’s nearly always something to cuddle! Meet and feed the inhabitants of one of the largest private collections of native animals in Australia, with koalas, kangaroos, wombats, quokkas, emus, camels, dingoes, echidnas, farm shows and more. This purpose-built park is located inside Whiteman Park in the Swan Valley; facilities include a souvenir shop and a kiosk. Paved pathways give easy access to wheelchairs and prams. Whiteman Park, Lord St, Whiteman Phone 9248 1984

Now at its new location in Byford, Cohunu Koala Park is brimming with fascinating Australian wildlife in their natural environments. Hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies, talk to the cockatoos and parrots or hold a cuddly koala and have your photo taken for the ultimate souvenir. Cohunu is only one hour from the city, open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Nettleton Road, Byford, phone: 9526 2966.

PARKS + GARDENS

Yours to Enjoy! A multiple winner of state tourism awards, Burswood Park is just three minutes from the centre of Perth and offers a pleasant outdoor environment for walking, picnicking or simply relaxing with friends on a sunny day. There is a free children's playground on the river's edge, conveniently located adjacent to parking areas and free gas barbecues. Fitness enthusiasts, joggers and cyclists enjoy the beautiful views as they exercise along the park's foreshore trail which runs along the banks of the Swan River and around the golf course lakes. The trail measures three and a half kilometres and links in with a network of Perth cycleways. The history of Western Australia is brought to life for visitors who follow the unique Heritage Trail which winds throughout the park. The trail features bronze sculptures of famous Western Australians and the state's pioneers. A highlight is the serene Citizen of the Year lake with its stunning Swan Fountain. Burswood Park conducts free tours of the park and its attractions. Tours take around 40 minutes and leave from the Visitor Information Centre at 11.50am daily. The parks and gardens feature a mix of exotic and native species, including many examples of Western Australia's unique flora. Birdlife and water fowl abound and keen bird watchers will see around 40 species throughout the park. All attractions and facilities are free to visitors. Resort Drive, off Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood. Call the Burswood Park Board on 9361 4475, or for golf bookings call 9362 7576.

One of WA’s most amazing and beautiful botanic parks, just 35km south-east of Perth is Araluen Botanic Park ‘Paradise found!’ Open every day 9am–6pm, modest entry fees apply. Phone 9496 1171. Take one of the walk trails through the park to make the most of your visit. The roses at Araluen are of a world-class standard and their unique setting amongst other exotic and native plant species sets them apart from other rose gardens. Facilities at the park include Chalet Healy restaurant, gift shop, picnic and BBQ areas, train and special needs access. The last Sunday of each month features ‘Art in the Park’, a great opportunity to see exciting displays, demonstrations and sales of wonderful art by some of the state’s finest mixed media artists. Araluen is located in the verdant foothills to the south of Perth and is open every from day 9am–6pm, entry fees apply.

At Whiteman Park you'll find Revolutions WA’s most diverse transport exhibition, the Motor Museum of WA, tram and train rides, a variety of quaint craft shops, a fantastic birds of prey flying display and much more. There is always lots happening, so be sure to allow plenty of time to explore. There are playgrounds and paved cycleways through picnic areas, and multi-sport courts for volleyball, basketball and tennis players, with equipment available for use. Bring a picnic, have a barbecue or purchase a meal from the cafe. There is plenty of free car parking, even on busy days. Best of all, entry to the park is free, and it’s open all year round. Lord St, Whiteman Phone 9209 6000.

John Forrest National Park First established in 1898 to conserve its many natural and cultural features, the area was named in honour of the famous WA explorer and statesman, in 1947. In the 1930s, workers built steps, ornamental gardens, walls, footpaths, picnic shelters and swimming areas. The park soon became a sanctuary for city dwellers and remains so for many people today. Located on the Darling Scarp to the east of Perth, the park provides magnificent vistas of the Swan coastal plain and contains walk trails through rugged wilderness, along the old railway line or to quiet pools and spectacular waterfalls. Park Rd, off Great Eastern Hwy, Hovea. Serpentine National Park is best known for the waterfall that cascades over a sheer granite face, this park south east of Perth abounds with the scenic beauty of ancient landforms and verdant forest. It is also a sanctuary for an array of plants and animals. A 500-metre walktrail along the Serpentine River leads to the magnificent Falls and is accessible by wheelchair. Falls Rd, off South Western Hwy, Serpentine. Lesmurdie Falls National Park surrounds the 50m high Lesmurdie Falls and has an extensive network of walking trails which lead to lookouts and vantage points for viewing the cascade. Falls Rd Lesmuride. Nestled in tuart and banksia woodlands at the northern tip of Perth’s Sunset Coast, Yanchep National Park is abundant with native flora and fauna and rich in Aboriginal and European history. Explore the limestone caves or discover the beautiful freshwater lake. See one of the state’s largest koala colonies or watch free roaming western grey kangaroos grazing. Yanchep is also home to a stunning array of wildflowers in spring as well as the endangered Carnaby’s black cockatoos. The new Wangi Mia (talking place) provides a range of Aboriginal cultural experiences not to be missed. Free gas barbecues and picnic areas are located throughout the park. The Shoalwater Islands Marine Park encompasses an incredibly rich and diverse marine environment and surrounds a chain of unique limestone islands including Penguin Island and Seal Island, home of the protected Australian sea lion. Near Rockingham. For general enquiries about national parks, including entry fees and camping permits, contact the Department of Environment and Conservation, phone 9334 0333.

ROTTNEST ISLAND

A popular destination for local and visitors alike, Rottnest Island is located just 18km off Fremantle. A visit to Rottnest is just a ferry trip away - half an hour from Fremantle, 40 minutes from Hillarys and an hour from Perth. Rottnest feels like another world entirely. Discover its pristine waters, brilliant beaches and hidden bays during a day excursion, or enjoy a longer stay. Accommodation on the island comes in a variety of styles. There are holiday villas, units and bungalows, camping facilities and a youth hostel, and for those wanting something a little more upmarket, the Rottnest Hotel and Rottnest Lodge also offer rooms for holiday guests. The island is very popular, especially during school holidays, so advance bookings are recommended. To find out more about the island or to book accommodation phone 9432 9111.

Local Aborigines knew the island as 'Wadjemup' (place across the water), while Dutch explorers in the 17th century named it 'Rottenest', meaning rat's nest, having mistaken the local marsupials (quokkas) for huge rats. The history of the island provides a fascinating insight into colonial history, having served as an Aboriginal penal settlement, a place for salt gathering and processing, and a World War II military installation. Rottnest is surrounded by some of the world's finest beaches and bays, popular for snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing and swimming. Many of the sheltered bays are calm enough for even the most inexperienced of swimmers. Whale watching and dolphin watching are also popular tourism experiences off the island. Rottnest is home to an array of flora and fauna, influenced by changes in sea level and human impact over long periods of time. Many birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals can be spotted on the island, including of course everyone's favourite friendly (and protected) furry little creature, the quokka. The most popular way to see Rottnest is by bicycle, as the island is almost traffic-free, with no visitors' cars allowed. The lack of motorised traffic on the island enhances its naturally peaceful and relaxed lifestyle.

Rottnest Fast Ferries can take you to Rottnest Island in just 40 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour. They operate a wide array of Rottnest Island day tours and also offer accommodation packages. Alternatively, discover Rottnest at your own leisure; just take the ferry transfer and hire a bicycle and snorkelling gear. Free coach pick-ups are available from hotels, caravan parks and backpackers accommodation. There are also whale watching and twilight cruises in season. Shop 56 Hillarys Boat Harbour Phone 9246 1039.

GOLF

There are few cities in the world where you'll find playing a round or two of golf as pleasant and invigorating as in Perth. Our Mediterranean climate is conducive to playing this popular sport all year round and many courses lie in close proximity to native bushland, which could well mean a close encounter of the Australian kind when an emu or kangaroo decides to share the fairway with you. If you're here during spring, you will also experience the beauty of our wildflowers. There are several golf courses located very close to Perth City.

Burswood Park Public Golf Course is convenient to city golfers, situated alongside the Burswood Entertainment Complex, with easy access from the Graham Farmer Freeway. The course is open 365 days a year. From November to March the course is open to play from 6.00am to sunset and from April to October between 7.00am and sunset. The day/night driving range and practice putting and chipping greens are available up to 8.00pm Monday to Thursday and 7pm Friday. Enjoy a top quality 9 or 18 holes, with the course featuring numerous water courses to challenge your golfing abilities. Take advantage of the golf course Pro Shop, then relax at the 19th hole or continue on for an evening of entertainment at the Casino complex. Roger Mackay Dve, Burswood (Off Graham Farmer Fwy) Phone 9362 7576.

Glen Iris Golf Golf Course is located just 15 minutes south of the city at Jandakot. This magnificent resort-style course was established in 1965 as The Lakes and redesigned in 1995; it features eighteen holes, with motorised carts available and corporate days catered for. After your round, relax in ‘The Iris’ bar and restaurant. Dean Road, Jandakot Phone 9414 1900. The Fremantle Public Golf Course is a bargain, just 2km from the city centre with ocean views, phone 9336 3933. Collier Park Golf Course is located just south of Perth city, carved out of an old pine plantation in Como, opposite Curtin University. Picturesque and challenging, this is a 27 hole international standard course, phone 9450 6488. The Wembley Golf Complex has two 18-hole courses, both of which are challenging yet manageable. The Pro Shop caters for all requirements including motorised buggies, and tuition, phone 9484 2500. The Vines Resort and Country Club, 30 minutes’ drive from Perth in the heart of the Swan Valley, is definitely worth a visit. Incorporating an international class hotel complex, The Vines also offers a range of other sporting facilities and several fine restaurants. Neat casual golf attire is required, phone 9297 0777. Point Walter Public Golf Course on the Fun Coast has a scenic 9-hole golf course with views to the Swan River over the Bicton foreshore. Tee off in the spectacular settings, then take a break with coffee and cake or something more substantial for lunch or dinner in the cafe. Hire equipment and motorised carts are available. Bookings required for weekends and public holidays or large groups, phone 9330 3262. Secret Harbour Golf Links, designed by golf architect and player Graham Marsh, reflects the style of traditional Scottish courses. The beautifully manicured rolling fairways are pitted with well-positioned pot bunkers and coupled with refreshing sea breezes and breathtaking ocean views. Located just half an hour’s drive south of Perth, phone 9524 7133. North of Perth along the Mitchell Freeway you will find the beautiful Joondalup Resort. There are 27 unforgettable holes designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, described by him as ‘unquestionably one of the world’s finest golfing experiences’, phone 9400 8811. Also on the Sunset Coast is the Marangaroo Golf Course, where kangaroos are often seen reclining alongside the shady fairways. This 18-hole course has very few water traps, making it ideal for the less experienced golfer, phone 9247 1733. Golf is very popular in Perth, and bookings are often required, especially on weekends. Most centres have pro shops with helpful staff on hand. For further information about golf contact the WA Golf Association, phone 9367 2490.

SPORT

Football in Australia, really means Aussie Rules. While other codes such as rugby and soccer are played and well-supported across the country, nevertheless, if a local mentions football or footy, you can be sure that they're referring to our unique Australian code (occasionally referred to as aerial ballet or aerial ping pong...). The league contains 16 teams and plays 22 rounds per year, followed by four weeks of finals football in September. The West Coast Eagles joined the league in 1987, and have won two premierships, in 1992 and 1994. The Fremantle Dockers joined the league in 1995 and immediately found a large supporter base. The AFL 2005 season saw the Sydney Swans just beat the Eagles for the premiership trophy; the 2006 grand final was a thrilling rematch which saw the Eagles victorious by one point. Visit AFL Headquarters.

Rugby Union is very popular in Perth; when the Australian national team the Wallabies play at Subiaco Oval, there is never a spare seat. The popular Super 12s tournament, formed by the South African, New Zealand and Australian Rugby Unions, has now become the Super 14s, adding another South African team plus a fourth Australian team, based in Perth - the Western Force. This has caused much excitement in local fans who are staying tuned to Rugby WA for season updates.

Cricket is one of Australia's favourite sports, in both Test and One Day formats. Millions of people around the country follow each game eagerly - it's easy to be patriotic about cricket when you're an Aussie. Local cricket is also extremely active, one of the reasons for the success of the national team. On any weekend in spring or summer, you can be sure to find local clubs playing at dozens of ovals around Perth. In any of the domestic teams, representing our states and territories, you can find highly talented players who have in the past been in the national team, or who have not been able to break into the side. Visit Cricket Australia.

Soccer, one of the world's most popular sports, has taken hold in Perth through our team in the national league, Perth Glory. One of the most popular and successful clubs in the League, Glory finished on top of the ladder in 1999/2000 and 2001/2002, and finished second on the ladder and won the premiership in 2002/2003. We finished on top of the ladder again this year and won our second consecutive championship trophy. Games are usually played under lights at Members Equity Stadium in East Perth, which is only 5 minutes from the city centre, and generally draw crowds of at least 15,000 for home games.

Basketball The National Basketball League of Australia was originally played as a winter sport, but the switch to being a summer sport has given it renewed popularity. WA team the Perth Wildcats has been one of the most successful teams in the league, and as the 1999/2000 season drew to a close, the Wildcats brought home their fourth championship in ten years. Perth home games generally attract good crowds - the last time a grand final was played here, it sold out within an hour of tickets going on sale.