Perth Is Ok

Alright so you’ve booked a trip to Black Diamond Lake down near Collie, but feel like making a weekend of it. Of course, you can’t camp at Black Diamond, but did you know there’s an equally adorable little swimming hole just around the corner, where you can also camp?

No, we’re not talking about Stockton Lake (although we will soon enough), we’re talking about its very romantic little neighbour, Honeymoon Pool. So grab that special someone, and read on below.

What Is It:

Honeymoon Pool is a popular little picnic, camping and swimming spot in the Wellington National Park. It’s one of a few in the area, including Black Diamond Lake and Stockton Lake.

It’s a tranquil, shady little spot just off the beaten track, perfect for a day’s picnicking by the water, or night or two of chilled bush camping.

Where Is It:

The Honeymoon Pool campground is situated on the banks of the Collie River about half-an-hour west of Collie and two hours south of Perth.

If you’re coming from Perth it’s straight down the Forrest Hwy, before a left turn onto Raymon Rd onto Coalfields Hwy. From there head down Welling Dam Rd before veering off onto River Rd and follow the signs!

What To Do:

It’s just close enough for a day trip from Perth, but why not pack the tent and spend the night? It’s a small camp ground (20 spots), so bookings are essential, and the camp grounds are nice and sparse – a couple of gas barbies, picnic tables and toilets and that’s about it.

The tranquil waters at Honeymoon Pool are perfect to cool off in, or you can launch your canoe/kayak and do a bit of exploring under the shady peppermint trees that line the water’s edge.

In the bushland surrounding there are also some great walking and cycling trails, and if you’re a 4WDing fan, there’s a few trails in the surrounding areas you can hit up.

What Not To Do:

Head down expecting to camp without booking first! It can get pretty popular, especially in the warmer months, so make sure you book ahead (It’s $15 per adult per night, although cheaper for concession card holders and kids).

There are fire pits on the camp grounds, but especially during summer make sure you check ahead with regards to fire bans.

As we said, it can get pretty busy and it’s not the biggest swimming hole going around, so make sure you play nice and be mindful of letting everyone enjoy the serenity.

Anything else?

There’s plenty of beautiful inland lakes and walking trails in the area, so don’t be afraid to do a little exploring and see what you can find.

Check in with the rangers with regards to water quality in the area too, as it can get hazardous at different times of the year. Of course you can always just play it safe and keep your head above water.

Not far from one of the emerging trail towns in Western Australia and nestled among the giants of the Karri forest is a world of weird and wonderful fungi mixed in with the relaxing feeling of isolation.

If you’re looking for a country escape to settle down and do nothing but explore, chill out and enjoy the sounds and smells of nature then look no further than the Warren National Park.

What Is It:

At almost 3000ha in size, the Warren National Park is a haven for old growth Karri forest that is being threatened by native logging throughout the South West.

Highlighted by one of the great rivers of the South West, the Warren River, that flows through the park and empties out into the Southern Ocean, the giant Karri trees (some up to 90m tall) thrive here thanks to the river and the large amount of rainfall this area receives each year.

Where Is It:

Located 11km south of Pemberton in the South West (a four hour drive from Perth), the main access area for the park is off Old Vasse Road. Follow the signs from Pemberton-Northcliffe Road as you head south from town and be careful on Old Vasse Road as it turns into a gravel road not long after leaving the main road.

Depending on what you have planned in the park, you can park at the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree (more on that further on) or at one of the campsites located along the Heartbreak Trail (2WD accessible).

What To Do:

With so much of the great outdoors to explore, you’ll be pleased to know that there are a few options to get out and about. The 11km Warren River Loop Trail is a fantastic way to see the park and immerse yourself in the little details that make this place so wonderful. Taking in the hills above the river valley, you’ll get some great views from the lookout while the path along the river connecting the campsites is full of moss covered logs, bridges and interesting fungi.

Speaking of camping, there are two main campsites along the Warren River (Warren and Drafty’s) with some added facilities to get you as close to the river as possible.

Boardwalk platforms over the river complete with wooden benches give you a great spot to sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, listening to the sounds of the birds and gently flowing river.

Canoeing, kayaking and fishing are popular activities along this stretch of the river with plenty of jetties and launching spots for boats. Take care in winter and spring when the water is flowing faster than usual as there are rapids in the area.

What Not To Do:

Being a good human is important so if you plan on camping here then remember your manners and treat the place with respect and be mindful of other campers.

With the threat of dieback a big issue all over Western Australia, make sure you wash your boots/shoes before and after any walks and if possible do the same to your vehicles before and after visiting the park (the pathogen that spreads the fungus is carried in soil and water so is easily spread).

Anything else?

I mentioned the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree before and it’s a great challenge for those that love to brave heights. Standing at 75m tall, a series of metal pegs allows you to climb all the way up to the platform located 65m off the ground.

As one of the two remaining climbing trees near Pemberton (the Diamond Tree closed in 2019), the views you get from the top are stunning and worth the shaky legs if heights aren’t your thing. Make a weekend of it and explore one of the most underrated spots in the South West.

A popular foodie spot at the east end of Freo, The Sunshine Harvester Works, formally the Mantle will this weekend showcase its fresh new offerings featuring a selection of delectable pop-up establishments.

The charming warehouse space has been re-fitted with a heap of new seating areas kitted out with recycled furniture and lush greenery in the kind of laidback setting you can only find down Fremantle way.

Opening to the public this Friday 14 February, it’ll feature permanent establishments and popular pop-ups like like Bumplings, Fish Boss, Short Order, Ray’s Satay, Freo Pizza Factory, Stampede Gelato and more.

And in some especially saucy news for the chilli lovers out there, Dingo Dining, offering a unique selection of food adventures featuring Dingo’s world-renowned artisan chill sauce courtesy of North Freo local Leigh Nash.

The launch party this Friday will also feature a bunch of specials, including

•  Ray’s Satay – $1 Malaysian chicken satay sticks from 5-6pm.
  
   Pantry 92 – $10 bowls of Mauritian fried noodles.
  
   Fish Boss – Valentine’s Day Fremantle seafood platter for two for $40
  
   Devoted Artisan Butter – artisan butters churned on premises, with free tastings in a retail pop-up along with French Lemon butter tarts.
  
   Freo Pizza Factory – Bruschetta, pizza and dessert for two for $50.
  
   GH Produce – Artisan granolas and nuts hand made on premises with free tastings and a retail pop-up.
  
  And more to come!

If you fancy a tipple with your feast, don’t fret – The Sunshine Harvester Works is now home to the Union Brewery & Distillery, offering some top shelf drops courtesy of owner/brewer Steve Ryan. He’ll be bringing a mix of whisky, beer (10 taps), gin and limoncello to help you wash down all the awesome flavours on offer.

The Sunshine Harvester Works officially launches this Friday 14 February (last minute Valentine’s date anyone?) and will be open Thursday-Sunday, 5-10pm.

The sun is shining, you’ve finally got that time off work you’ve been waiting all year for, far flung friends are back in town for the festive season – isn’t it time for a party? You’re a very fancy grown up though, so it’ll be the chicest summer supper. Here’s our hot tips to DIY your next soiree to the next level.

Put together your guest list

The most important step! A great rule of thumb is 50% people you know really well, and 50% people you’d like to know even better. The festive season is a great opportunity to mix newer friends with old friends who are back in town. If you really want to mix it up, give people a plus one to bring a ~mystery guest~! Just make sure you find out everyone’s dietary requirements, and maybe double check how many chairs you actually own, just in case.

Hit up the farmers market for the freshest produce

We’ve already rounded up some of our favourite farmer’s markets, so Saturdays are perfect for your next get-together. You want to have a general idea of what your menu will involve and how it will work with everyone’s dietary requirements – but you also gotta keep on your toes, baby! What if you’re counting on eggplants for your grandmother’s baba ghanoush and when you get there, the eggplants are just a bit, y’know, lacklustre? But those pumpkins look amazing! Let the seasons and what looks great at the market guide you. While you’re there, you can pick up a bunch of flowers or two to jazz up your table.

For the pantry staples you need to stock up on, why not make life easy and have those bits delivered? Tick it off the list! Once everything is delivered, prep as much as you can ahead of time – washing lettuce, de-stemming herbs, marinading meats, filling up ice trays. The goal is to actually hang out with your friends, not spend all night in the kitchen.

Head to the deli for a bang-up cheese board

There’s so many great gourmet delis around, you can take your pick no matter your neighbourhood. We love Black Pig Deli & Co in Inglewood, Smoult’s Larder in Maylands, Re Store in Leederville and Northbridge, Little Sister in Freo and the Black Truffle in North Freo. All of these guys will hook you up with all your cheese and charcuterie needs, and most of them can put a whole grazing platter together for you as well if you really want to put your feet up!

Drop into the bottle shop

If your guest list is the most important thing, surely drinks come up a close second? Drop into one of our favourite boutique bottle shops for a drop of something special. Obviously your friends aren’t monsters, so they’ll definitely bring something… but just in case. This is also a great opportunity to get a bit of a theme going. Mexican? Tecates and margaritas! Italian? Aperol and a noice Campanian Greco! The world is your oyster!

Figure out your decor

I’m sure everyone would be happy if you served them beans on toast on a frisbee, but if you’ve got this far, why not complete the whole vibe? Decor is another great way to tie in your theme: is your menu a bit South American? Maybe bring in a few more plants from the garden for a tropical feel. Italian? Raid your neighbour’s lemon tree and rosemary bush and arrange them artfully along your table with some old tomato cans. If you’re feeling super strapped for time, consider utilising a local floral delivery service, like the Little Posy Co. or the Flower Run – but do it the morning of the day before your party to make sure they don’t arrive at the same time as your guests!

Head to your favourite fabric store for a few metres of a beautiful linen or cotton to make into a raw-edged table cloth, with an extra metre to make matching napkins. Fray the edges for that raw ’n rustic look. Browse your local op shops for platters, vases, water jugs, candle votives, napkin rings and any other trinkets that will complete your table’s aesthetic. If you’re running low on glassware or even chairs, you can pick up some more second hand, too. Mix n match is totally part of your style! I’d recommend not doing this the day of, but rather stopping in whenever an op shop catches your eye in the weeks preceding your party.

If you want to be really extra, hit up the Butcher Shop or Jackson’s for supplies to try your hand at calligraphy for some DIY table settings or a menu! How fancy! If you really, REALLY want to be extra, you can utilise a service like Side Serve, who hire out entire curated (super dreamy) tableware sets. Sure, that’s a bit less DIY and a bit more bougie – but sometimes a special event is worth outsourcing!

If all this sounds like too much of a headache, remember you can always order in pizza. Or check out some of our favourite picks for a raucous dinner with mates.

While summer in Perth obviously means BEACH, it’s also a ripper time of the year to learn to surf. The big winter swells are long gone, and with them the icy cold water – replaced with sun, sand and of course, you!

Summer’s gentle (see: tiny) swells are perfect for beginners to get out there and hang ten. Not surprisingly, Perth has a bunch of a great surf schools around the joint to suit people of all ages and skill sets.

Scarborough Beach Surf School

Self-proclaimed as the oldest surf school on the planet (and who are we to argue?), Scarborough Beach Surf School has been ripping it up since 1986. So it’s fair to say they know their way around a green room. They operate small classes (only 4-6 people/instructor) for longer (2.5 hours instead of 1.5), all at very descent prices. And they offer a heap of different levels depending on where you’re at.

Go Surf Perth

Another company operating down at Scarborough, you’ll find the Go Surf team at Brighton Beach in summer, and Leighton Beach in winter. They also cover all the bases, along with private 1-on-1 lessons, and even corporate or birthday party packages. And if you’re looking to shake the kids off for a few hours over the holidays, they offer multi-day school holiday courses too.

Surfing WA Surf School

Another mainstay of the Perth surf school scene, this one’s an arm of the state’s surfing governing body, so you know it’s legit. Operating off Trigg Beach for over three decades, the organisation has 7 full-time staff and over 20 coaches. Kids, teens and adults are all catered for, with a maximum of 8 students per class. Classes run at 7am and 9am every Saturday/Sunday.

Big Wave Surfing School

Despite their name, Big Wave Surfing School are actually more focused on the little ones, specialising in kids and families. Operating at Secret Harbour, the family owned and operated school is all about getting your kids cool, calm and confident in the ocean. They offer a comprehensive variety of levels to suit groms of all ages, along with courses of different lengths to save $$.

Aloha Surfhouse

And finally, if you’re a little wary of the ocean or cold weather, why not hit up Aloha Surfhouse in Joondalup? Their indoor wave breaks every day of the year, and has a variety of different settings to suit all levels. You can also bodyboard, check out their adventure climbing wall, or organise a little wave party with your friends.

Lord Macbeth was a loyal General who had sworn allegiance to the King of Scotland but when a group of witches reveal a prophecy that he will one day be King, he and Lady Macbeth become consumed by greed.
West Australian Opera will stage Macbeth for the first time in a new co-production with State Opera of South Australia this October!

Sung in Italian with English subtitles.

When: Oct 19, 22, 24 & 26
Where: His Majesty’s Theatre
Time: 7:30pm
Tickets: Available from here!

Verdi’s opera Macbeth brings all the drama, tension and tragedy of Shakespeare’s play to the opera stage; and this World Premiere production, jointly commissioned by West Australian Opera and the State Opera of South Australia.

Shakespeare’s play Macbeth was one of the Bard’s great tragedies. Its themes of loyalty and allegiance corrupted by greed and the lust for power led to lies, betrayals and murder that ultimately consumed the eponymous anti-hero and his wife. Little wonder, then, that these themes inspired Verdi to compose one of his early masterpieces.

This new production has been brilliantly imagined by director, Stuart Maunder, (who recently directed Sweeney Todd for West Australian Opera) working alongside the internationally awarded designer, Roger Kirk, who has both designed the set and created some phenomenal costumes which he describes as “a mix of modern and period, somewhere between Game of Thrones and Braveheart”.

James Clayton will star as the tragically driven Macbeth and Antoinette Halloran, fresh from her acclaimed performance in the role as Mrs Lovett in Sweeney Todd, will feature as the ruthless Lady Macbeth. Jud Arthur will sing the role of Macbeth’s doomed co-conspirator, Banquo, Paul O’Neill the vengeful Macduff, Ashlyn Tymms is Lady Macbeth’s Lady in Waiting, and Matthew Lester takes the role of slain King Duncan’s son, Malcolm. Brad Cohen conducts the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and the West Australian Opera Chorus.

You’re at an Indian restaurant and you can’t decide if you want butter chicken or beef vindaloo. Perhaps you feel like some dahl, too. It’s tricky being indecisive, but don’t worry, because the thali is here to make sure you get a taste of everything. While the word ‘thali’ literally translates to ‘plate’, it also refers to a set meal made up of various scrumptious dishes served on a platter.

Mela Indian Sweets and Eats, Northbridge

Located at 428 William St, Mela Indian Sweets and Eats has been a popular Indian restaurant for years. Their menu boasts an array of Indian curries, snacks and desserts. It can be difficult to narrow it down to just one choice, but luckily, they’ve taken the guess work out for you! Mela has three thalis available: vegetarian, meat or seafood. Each thali comes with a selection of their best curries, rice, raita, naan, pappadum and dessert! Mela is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week.

Thali Contemporary Indian, Perth

It goes without saying that Thali Contemporary Indian of course has a thali on their menu. Conveniently located in the CBD, Thali Contemporary Indian has a mini thali available featuring two curries and basmati rice – perfect to pick up on your lunch break. Or if you were after something with a little more variety, there is also a traditional thali available loaded with three rich curries, basmati rice, fresh naan and a crispy pappadum. There are a wide range of curries to choose from, including flavoursome chicken, fish and paneer varieties.

Curry Affair, Malaga and Joondalup

Curry Affair is a casual dining location in Perth’s north and boasts itself on offering authentic Indian cuisine. Having originally been situated in Subiaco for almost 20 years before moving to Malaga and Joondalup, Curry Affair have built a solid reputation in our city. Their menu offers a beautifully spiced thali to sample their range of tasty curries, which comes in two sizes depending on your level of hunger. The thali can be customised to suit meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

Chutney Mary’s, Subiaco

Located on the corner of Hay Street and Rokeby Road in Subiaco, Chutney Mary’s prides itself on cooking up delectable curries that are packed full of flavour. Each dish is lovingly crafted with fresh herbs and spices and delicious seasonal produce. Chutney Mary’s is conveniently open for lunch to serve up their rich and tasty thali’s, perfect for those on their lunch break or taking a stroll in nearby King’s Park. Each thali is loaded with an array of different curries, soup, rice and dessert to keep your tummy and your tastebuds happy.

Royal India, West Perth

For more than 30 years, Royal India has been somewhat of an institution for Indian cuisine in Perth. Royal India prides itself on its exquisite food and exemplary service, making it one of the most popular Indian restaurants in our city. If you’re stopping by for lunch, be sure to try their Lunch Time Thali. With a choice of seafood, vegetarian or meat, each thali comes bursting with three scrumptious curries, dhal, rice, bread and dessert!

Yep, you read it right.

Put on your Chrismukkah sweater and head on down to The Newport Hotel in Fremantle on June 6th for a completely O.C. themed quiz night!

Doors open from 6pm with the quiz starting from 7.

==> Free Entry

==> Bookings essential. Contact: marketing@thenewport.com

==> Teams of 2-10 people

==> Strictly 18+

Facebook event: here!

Welcome to Fremantle, bitch!

The year is 2019 and dating has never been more…convoluted? And those meticulously-crafted on-line profiles, workshopped opening lines and deciding how long to leave someone left on “seen” all count for nothing if you line up a terrible first date. The old dinner and a movie is so passé – if you want to get ahead in the dating world you gotta think outside the box and veer away from the beaten path. And fortunately for you Perth is home to an influencer’s flooded story bar’s worth of options to impress that special someone, here’s a few of selections:

Whet your whistle at Whipper Snapper Distillery

Located in Bickley just a short 25km out of the city, the Perth Observatory will provide the perfect backdrop for a couple of dreamers to look upwards into the fresh night air and pondering of the universe. There’s plenty of night tour options, and for the more adventurous folks out there you can abseil down the Telescope Dome during the month of June – head to their website for more info.

Double up at the Galaxy Drive-In Cinema

Going to the movies has traditionally been a stock standard dating idea, which is weird when you think about it – why go somewhere with someone to not talk for two hours? At Perth’s only drive-in theatre you can have the best of both worlds as you watch movies while getting to know your date in the intimate surrounds of your (presumably-not-falling-apart) car. Weekends are for double-header showings, or drop by during the week for just a single movie, and establish early your all important film compatibility.

Get spooooky in the Freo Prison

The Fremantle Jail hosts Torchlight Tours every Wednesday and Friday night, providing the perfect opportunity to test your date’s bravery. Plus you’ll get a ghoulish history lesson from one of their experienced guides, and ample opportunity to provide a comforting hug should things get extra haunting down there.

Feast at the brand new food truck park, Perth Mess Hall

The Perth Mess Hall has just opened up, taking over the Heritage-listed Old Swan Barracks in Northbridge with a rotating band of food trucks to choose from every Friday, Saturday and Sunday during winter. There’s over 60 different trucks in the mix, so you’re not short on options and will surely avoid any menu disagreements.

Brunch it up at Casa Bianchi

Casa Bianchi‘s eclectic layout, lush gardens, koi ponds and cane furniture all combine for a splendid late morning date with that potential future significant other. It’s also dog friendly, if you wanna show your puppy pal off early in proceedings, and the casual atmosphere will keep it breezy.

Shoot some hoops and dunk a taco at Donnie Taco

For those more sporting inclined, how could you argue with the combination of some casual hoop-shooting followed by a tasty taco or two at Donnie Taco in West Perth? The perfect spot for a brekky or lunch date, show off your skills (or lack there of) with a few hoops afterwards. They have some great deals during the week as well – just head to the website and make your first date a slam-dunk.

Get cozy by the fire at Mrs Brown Bar

Okay so this might be more of a traditional date night spot, but as we head towards the colder months its hard to go past Mrs Brown Bar’s indoor or outdoor fireplaces for a cosy, get-to-know bottle of vino. Plus it puts you in the centre of the action in North Freo, with some great food options nearby or cop some live music at one of the best, Mojos Bar.

Find love on the fairway at Oasis Supa Golf

If the bright neon lights and pop culture panache of Holy Moly feels like a bit too much, why not head to Oasis Supa Golf in the Swan Valley and upgrade to the (super) big boys league. With oversized clubs and balls along a shorter course it’s a lot easier than normal golf, along with being an excellent chance to get outdoors and get some fresh air.

Send down some sexy strikes at Ten Pin Bowling

Ten Pin Bowling has had a bit of a comeback in recent years, with venues like The Lookout and Amplifier installing them as an added value element to drinking and music, both of which are good options if you want to combine your bowl with a boogie and booze. We also challenge you to take a trip down memory lane and head to the one of the classics – nothing will get your date in the mood like the nostalgic sounds of glam 80s and 90s rock’n’roll, the clanging of pinball machines and the smell of succulent, chicken salt-coated hot chips on offer at old school bowling lanes like Rosemount Bowl in North Perth or Super Bowl in Melville.