In this month's edition of This is WA, read about new updates made to popular tourist destination Torndirrup National Park, the Great Walks of Australia adding a Cape to Cape tour experience to its list of 'great walks', a new eco-friendly resort for Rottnest Island and the world's top surfers competing for Margaret River's best waves at the Drug Aware Margaret River Pro. There's also all the latest news on WA tours, accommodation, food, wine and events.

WHAT'S HOT

Torndirrup National Park undergoes transformation
One of WA's tourist hotspots, the Gap and Natural Bridge in Albany, has recently reopened after a $6.1 million redevelopment. Located in Torndirrup National Park in the State's South West, the Gap and Natural Bridge now features a new world-class lookout structure that extends 10 metres off the cliff face and almost 40 metres above the Southern Ocean, well as connecting paths, picnic areas and interpretive facilities. The steel platform is see-through making it easy for visitors to feel the ocean's salty spray as the waves rush through the Gap. Torndirrup National Park is surrounded by windswept coastal heaths giving way to massive granite outcrops, sheer cliffs and steep sandy slopes and dunes. The Southern Ocean has sculpted a Natural Bridge in the coastal granites and formed The Gap, where waves rush in and out.
https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/torndirrup

Cape to Cape experience joins Great Walks of Australia list
Walk into Luxury has been accepted as WA's first Great Walks of Australia member, with its four-day Margaret River Cape to Cape Walk being selected as a 'great walk'. The guided, small group walk combines the best walking on the Cape to Cape Track with incredible food and wine experiences and deluxe accommodation at exclusive beachfront property, Injidup Spa Retreat. Packed with highlights, this premier walk features lunch with matched wines at an award-winning winery, private chef's dinner showcasing local produce with a local winemaker presenting their wines, sunset cliff-top drinks and a special private didgeridoo performance with one of the region's Traditional Owners.
www.walkintoluxury.com.au

Rottnest to welcome eco-friendly resort
An ecologically sensitive, world-class eco-retreat is on its way to Rottnest Island following a partnership between Rottnest Express, The Billi Resort in Broome and State Government. The resort will be located at Pinkys Beach and will comprise 29, four and five-star eco-tents, each with their own ensuite and a high level of comfort, 10 affordable two bedroom 'family' tents, and 35 backpacker or budget tents – providing an additional 200 beds on the island. All the tents will be elevated and made with state-of-the-art canvas. The accommodation will be supported by a Beach Club which will house a licensed bar, café, restaurant and function area, built atop an elevated deck with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Stage One of the development is expected to be open for business in time for the 2016 summer.
www.rottnestexpress.com.au

World's best surfers descend on Margaret River
The Drug Aware Margaret River Pro is currently underway at one of Margaret River's most popular surf spots, Main Break. The world's best surfers, including Kelly Slater, Joel Parkinson, Stephanie Gilmore, Carissa Moore and Courtney Conlogue, have descended on the South West town to challenge its world-class waves. Local hero Taj Burrow recently announced his retirement at the event, following 19 years on tour. The 37-year-old, Yallingup surfer has 11 event wins under his belt and will walk away from the Championship Tour as one of the best surfers of all time.
http://www.worldsurfleague.com/events/2014/mct/649/drug-aware-margaret-river-pro

The Honey Badger leaves his mark on the Kimberley
Australian sporting legend and Tourism WA 'WAmbassador', Nick Cummins (aka The Honey Badger) travelled to the East Kimberley with his father and brothers on an 'Ultimate Bucket List' adventure in March. During their time in the Kimberley, Nick and his family enjoyed a range of outback experiences, including fishing, swimming in natural pools, chopper rides over the region's magnificent gorges, a cruise on the Ord River and a stay at Berkeley River Lodge and Lake Argyle Resort. The visit was joined by a crew from Channel 7's Sunday Night program, who documented the men on their Kimberley adventure for a profile story which can be viewed at this link - https://au.news.yahoo.com/sunday-night/video/#page1.

LIFESTYLE & CULTURE

Shinju Fringe celebrates Broome's multicultural history and talent
A new three-day festival, Shinju Fringe, will bring together a collection of vibrant community entertainment, food, art and film experiences into Broome from May 13 to 15. The events in the festival program acknowledge and celebrate Broome's unique multicultural tapestry that has been influenced by Aboriginal, Chinese, Japanese, Malay and European cultures. The event will open on Friday, May 13 with a special performance by Sammy the Dragon and the Wasamba Drummers at the Mangrove Hotel. On Saturday, May 14, Broome's iconic Carnarvon Street in Chinatown will host an all-you-can-eat Shinju Fringe Yum Cha, while local artists will open their studios and homes to the public for the Artist Open House Trail all weekend. A Willie Creek Fringe Short Film Fest will screen a selection of international, award winning comedies at Short Laughs Comedy 2016, and festival goers are invited to local brewery, Matsos, on Sunday, May 15 to try their range of specialised beers and to toast the closing of Shinju Fringe.
www.shinjumatsuri.com.au

FORM announce 12 WA artists for PUBLIC 2016
Perth's vibrant public art scene continues to grow with new works created by WA street artists as part of PUBLIC 2016 – an annual festival of art, urban activation and creative conversation. An initiative of FORM – a not for profit cultural organisation – PUBLIC 2016 features artists Stormie Mills, Anya Brock, Kyle Hughes Odgers, Amok Island, Chris Nixon and six other local artists transforming Claremont's Bayview Terrrace, Curtin University's Bentley Campus and Albany's York Street, with urban art of murals, site specific installations and exhibitions. PUBLIC 2016 runs until April 17 however many of the works will be on display for years to come.
http://www.form.net.au/2016

Literature lovers - the Big Sky Readers and Writers festival is back
The Big Sky Readers and Writers festival is back in Geraldton from May 20 to 22, 2016. Comprising more than 22 events over three days, fans of storytelling will be enthralled by discussions, debates, masterclasses and presentations on a range of styles and genres. With an eclectic mix of Australian talent involved in the Festival, headlined by much-loved Aussie actor and now author Steve Bisley, there will be something for everyone. The event has been held for more than a decade and this year's highlights include Steve Bisley's Festival opening address, Poetry in the Pub at the charming Bootenal Family Tavern; A Literary Lunch at Bentwood Olive Grove; and a raft of free sessions where guests can get up close and personal with writers and illustrators throughout the weekend.
http://library.cgg.wa.gov.au/big-sky-2016.aspx

A festival of State Makers in Perth's CBD
During the month of April, locals and visitors to Perth can discover the recently revamped State Buildings and the people at its heart. State Makers is a festival of tastes, experiences and ideas which serve as an introduction to the talents at play at the historic precinct. A range of activities will be available to the public including food and drink celebrations, health and fitness workshops, kids school holiday activities, markets and live music. View the full program here - http://statebuildings.com/flipbook/.

FOOD AND WINE

Morries changes the pace with new updates
Margaret River eatery Morries is changing things up and raising the bar. Think cocktails on tap, an updated fit out, dining at the bar, tasty tapas, pop-up oyster bar, as well as Executive Chef Tony Howell's creative dishes using the best seasonal produce in the South West. The venue's updated fit out will create two distinct areas, a cocktail bar and a restaurant. In charge of cocktails and drinks is 'WA Barman of the Year' Billy Phillips and at the helm of the kitchen is one of Australia's best chefs, Tony Howell.
www.morries.com.au

New hospitality venue opens at Elizabeth Quay
Elizabeth Quay's newest hospitality venue Reveley will open its doors for business this week. The three level venue is the latest venture from the team at highly acclaimed The Stables Bar. Sophisticated yet relaxed gastronomic dining is on offer including breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night drinks. Rooftop diners can enjoy bespoke cocktails and dishes designed to share while the first floor restaurant will serve a menu specialising in WA produce and premium local seafood.
https://www.facebook.com/TheReveley/

Riverside restaurant adds to Perth's growing hospitality scene
A new riverside restaurant has opened in South Perth, Rambla on Swan. Overlooking the beautiful Swan River, across to Perth city, the new restaurant features locally sourced produce and highlights the best of modern Australian cuisine, while quality service, sensational décor, personality and ambience leaves guests with a truly memorable experience. The venue is open from Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Private dining and function rooms are also available for hire.
www.ramblaonswan.com.au

Restaurant favourites return to Taste 2016
With just a couple of weeks to go until Perth's latest, greatest and hottest restaurants descend on Langley Park, Taste of Perth has announced its initial restaurant line-up. Crown's Nobu, Silks, and Bistro Guillaume; Perth's Print Hall; North Fremantle's Bib & Tucker; and Claremont's Asado will all return, joined by newcomer, Manuka Wood Fire. Now in its third year and with more restaurants to be announced, Taste of Perth (April 29 to May 1) promises to deliver an eclectic mix of cuisines from around the globe, from Honey Lime Prawns to Yellowtail Sashimi. Each restaurant will create 3-4 exquisite signature dishes in 'taste' sized portions starting at just $6 per dish, allowing you to create your dream tasting menu at the ultimate restaurant festival. Tickets are available via http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=TASTEPER16.

TOURS, ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMODATION

Sal Salis makes updates to eco property
Located within Cape Range National Park near Exmouth, and part of the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage area, Sal Salis has lots to celebrate in 2016. Sitting just 50 metres back from Ningaloo Reef among low lying coastal dunes, the prestigious property has expanded its accommodation offering from nine to 16 en-suited tents. Additionally, there will be one honeymoon suite, complete with en-suited tent and a private dining/relaxation deck. Sal Salis has also introduced a brand new Lodge, where communal dining, star-gazing and quiet reflection can be had in the company of others. Sal Salis is the newest operator to offer whale shark and humpback interaction tours, on board a 40-foot boat. The vessel comfortably caters up to 10 guests along with an expert guide, delicious lunch, drinks and snorkelling equipment.
www.salsalis.com.au

South West addition for RAC
RAC's Parks and Resorts division has added a fifth WA property to its portfolio with the acquisition of the RAC Busselton Holiday Park (formerly BIG4 Peppermint Park). The award-winning park, located in eight hectares of bushland close to Geographe Bay, has camping, caravan and cabin accommodation. It joins RAC-branded sites in Monkey Mia and Exmouth, and properties in Cervantes and Coral Bay that will be rebranded when redevelopment planning has progressed.
https://parksandresorts.rac.com.au/

New product offering in Dwellingup
Trees Adventure officially opened it fourth tree ropes park at Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup this month. The platforms are built around jarrah trees to allow for their continual growth. Hundreds of metres of cable spanning between the platforms to create a maze of more than 70 challenges from two metres to twenty-two metres up into the canopy. The course will consist of varying challenge levels and are designed for the whole family to enjoy.
http://treesadventure.com.au/lane-poole-park/

Ferry service launches in Perth
The Little Ferry Company is Perth's latest attraction, embracing the city's most famous natural tourist attraction, the Swan River. The business has launched a new Swan River Ferry Service, departing daily between 8:30am to 4:30pm, as well as evening cruises, connecting Elizabeth Quay, Lucky Shag Bar and Restaurant and Claisebrook Cove.
www.littleferryco.com.au

New tours exploring Perth and surrounds
Explore Tours Perth have started day tours to a range of WA's most visited sights including the Pinnacles, Bickley Valley, Penguin Island, Wave Rock and Margaret River. The local business operates seven days a week with a 12 seater and 25 seater coach. Guests will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and knowledgeable commentary on their WA adventure. Explore Tours Perth also provide private tours and airport transfers, suiting the needs of each and every customer.
http://www.exploretoursperth.com.au/

FEATURE

A few words from our friends of Western Australia…

The diverse and extraordinary nature of Western Australia attracts an eclectic mix of high-profile visitors to experience its wonder. From athletes and actors, musicians and culinary masters – our #WAmbassadors help to spread the word about what they love about Western Australia.
Here's some of what they've had to say:

“Margaret River is wonderful. The beauty of the place and the wonderful produce is what I like. Yesterday I went abalone fishing and I was very impressed with the quality of abalone. The clean air is incredible. It's a wonderful part of the world.”
Antonio Carluccio, cook, restaurateur, writer

“Western Australia is rugged and extraordinary – with beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear ocean.”
Layne Beachley, surfer

“I absolutely love the Kimberley. It's such beautiful country. I was fortunate enough to visit the Bungle Bungles which were simply spectacular in asymmetrical ways.”
Sir Bob Geldof, musician & philanthropist

“The world is a very beautiful jigsaw, made up of lots of little, beautiful pieces. But without question, Margaret River Western Australia is one of the most beautiful pieces within that jigsaw.”
Marco Pierre White, chef, restauranteur, writer

“The wineries, my girl has a great time when we go to Margaret River. And the food, we've had great food there – the venison, we went to that venison farm, wow – I really like it there.”
Kelly Slater, surfer

“What's so exciting about the Kimberley landscape which is on the one hand, harsh, brutal and unforgiving - but at any given moment can become the most awesome, majestic, inspiring, poetic and lyrical place to be.”
Baz Luhrmann, director

“It's indescribable. Words don't do it justice, pictures don't do it justice. The only way to properly appreciate what's on offer in WA is to see it for yourself. It's got all of the best parts from all around the world in one place…”
Lincoln Lewis, actor

EVENTS

APRIL

York Motorcycle Festival
April 16 to 17, 2016
York, Experience Perth
York Motorcycle Festival is held on Avon Terrace, York, which is around a 90 minute drive from Perth. Market and trade stalls will be set up along the street displaying a range of products and services. Entertainment will be scheduled throughout the family-friendly festival and highlights will include freestyle motocross demonstrations, live music, junior moto gymkhana, custom bike displays, raffles and children's activities. Local businesses will be open for the day with plenty of food and drink available to purchase.
www.yorkmotorcyclefestival.com.au

Drug Aware Margaret River Pro
April 8 to 19, 2016
Margaret River, Australia's South West
The 2016 Drug Aware Margaret River Pro will see the top 36 ranked male and top 18 ranked female surfers in the world descend upon the Margaret River Region to surf its world-class waves in April. The event sees thousands of spectators flock to Surfers Point in Prevelly to watch the world's best surfers take on the famous Margaret River Mainbreak and the fearsome Box.
www.worldsurfleague.com

Quit Forest Rally
April 22 to 24, 2016
Busselton, Australia's South West
Western Australia's round of the Australian Rally Championship attracts Australia's best cars and drivers, including the best classic cars. The rally also incorporates motor bikes, and with more than 200 cars and bikes expected to compete across the weekend the Quit Forest Rally is a motorsport extravaganza you don't want to miss.
www.rallywa.com/rallyevents/quit-forest-rally

MAY

Moondyne Festival
May 1, 2016
Toodyay, Experience Perth
Once again the town of Toodyay steps back in time to celebrate the annual Moondyne Festival, bringing infamous Moondyne Joe and his various escapades back to life. The Moondyne Festival is a display of life during the pioneer years from the re-enactment of the 1860 Rifle Regiment to the grace and favour of the enchanting Clydesdale horses. With a variety of stalls, exhibitions, games and rides there is something for everyone at this family fun day.
http://www.moondynefestival.com.au/

First National Kimberley Lake Argyle Swim
May 7, 2016
Kununurra, Australia's North West
The Lake Argyle Swim is a 10km and 20km open water swim which offers solo, duo and teams of four categories. The event takes place in the East Kimberley in the fresh water lake. Lake Argyle is Australia's second largest manmade lake, holding a staggering 32 million cubic metres of water – more than 20 times the size of Sydney Harbour. Long since recognised as one of the most spectacular places to visit in Australia, the Lake Argyle Swim provides experienced swimmers with an unsurpassed outback adventure.
http://www.lakeargyleswim.com/

Ningaloo Whale Shark Festival
May 25 to 29
Exmouth, Australia's Coral Coast
The Ningaloo Whaleshark Festival is an annual event held in and around the town of Exmouth. The festival celebrates the annual migration of the whale shark, its conservation and the tourism industry it supports. It also provides an opportunity for Exmouth to showcase its talents and raise awareness of its various organisations and sporting clubs.
http://www.ningaloowhalesharkfestival.com/

JUNE

Denmark Festival of Voice
June 3 to 5
Denmark, Australia's South West
Celebrating the human voice, the Denmark Festival of Voice features free community concerts and workshops, bringing together local, national and international artists performing a cappella and accompanies by choirs, ensembles and groups.
http://denmarkfestivalofvoice.com.au/

Jazz by the Bay
June 3 to 5
Dunsborough, Australia's South West
Jazz by the Bay delivers a smorgasbord of talent - from trad and gypsy, to fusion and syncopated rhythm artists. Free and ticketed community events will be held in the heart of Dunsborough in WA's Margaret River region. Visitors are urged to book their accommodation in advance so they don't miss out on this fun and exciting weekend, featuring entertainers fresh from the Perth International Jazz Festival.
http://www.jazzbythebay.com.au/

Truffle Kerfuffle
June 24 to 26
Manjimup, Australia's South West
The Truffle Kerfuffle is an annual event highlighting regional food and wine. It's a celebration of the range of cultures which brought about the ability to produce the foods grown in the Southern Forests, the range of foods themselves, as well as a focus on the black truffle. WA produces more black truffle than the rest of Australia combined.
http://www.trufflekerfuffle.com.au/