TOURS, ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMODATION IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA AUGUST 2016

Mackerel Islands open for business

Following a partial closure, the Mackerel Islands are now in full operation for business. Visitors to the islands will enjoy new and improved features, including refurbished beachfront cabins, daily ferry services to and from the islands, world class fishing and diving and a range of family friendly activities. The Mackerel Islands have been operating since the 1970s and are committed to providing an unforgettable and unique island experience. The region is made up of 10 islands, located 22 kilometres off the coast of Onslow in the State's Pilbara region. Two of the 10 islands, Thevenard Island and Direction Island, offer accommodation and easy access to exciting holiday experiences.

Reef construction begins for dive trail

Construction has begun on an artificial reef for a dive trail showcasing the Omeo shipwreck at Port Coogee, located in Perth's southern suburb of Cockburn. Situated just 25 metres from the shore, the Coogee Maritime Trail will consist of 33 reef modules ranging in height from one to five metres. The trail will feature land-based and underwater attractions including reefs, underwater sculptures and educational signage. The project is scheduled to open to the public in January 2017.

New Aboriginal cultural experience opens in the Kimberley

Recently opened wilderness camp, Imintji Campground and Art Centre, invites guests to experience the magic of the Kimberley from a local's perspective. Located close to Bell Gorge, the new, pet friendly campground features plenty of facilities, including flushing toilets, hot showers, barbecue area, local art sales, store and fuel. The site is the first Camping with Custodians development, which aims to create a network of campgrounds on Aboriginal land. Once an important rest point for bullock drivers on the Gibb River Road, Imintji is a welcome stop-over for Kimberley travellers.

Perth to welcome new era of luxury

Opening in December 2016, Crown Towers will bring a new era of luxury to Perth, boasting exciting new restaurants and unique event spaces. Epicurean, stylish cocktail bar The Waiting Room will be a welcome addition to the hotel, while Crown Spa will transport guests to another world with its aqua-hued treatment rooms and luxurious product. The Crystal Club will be located on level 15 of the hotel and provides an exclusive space for club guests, featuring a private reception and concierge area, cocktail bar and outdoor terrace. The multi-tiered pool area will offer a true resort experience including the Enclave, a secluded poolside retreat with cabanas and cocktail bar surrounding a circular infinity pool. Guests have the luxury of choice with the renowned fine dining restaurants located across the complex, including Silks, Nobu, Bistro Guillaume and Rockpool. The highly anticipated Crown Towers will bring Crown Perth's total capacity to 1,200 rooms, making it the largest hotel complex in Perth city.

National Anzac Centre recognised for Superior Service

The National Anzac Centre has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for Superior Service. The Certificate of Excellence is based on the quality, quantity and timeframe of reviews submitted by travellers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall rating of at least four out of five, and the National Anzac Centre has a rating of five out of five. The Certificate adds to the myriad awards won by the commemorative centre, since opening in November 2014. The National Anzac Centre is Australia's foremost museum honouring the Anzac legend. Set within Albany Heritage Park, it offers visitors a deeply personal connection with the Anzac experience.

Accommodation updates for the South West

Two new purpose built holiday houses have opened in Denmark at Parry Beach Houses. The guest houses, Kudeta and Shangri-La, are fully self-contained and exclusive to guests for the duration of their stay. They offer sweeping ocean views from living areas, the main bedroom and outdoor areas and have been designed with unique character and style, whilst being luxuriously appointed with the very best in furnishings, bedding, fabrics, kitchenware and amenities.

A new glamping experience is available in Margaret River at Mile End Glamping. The newly opened, luxury glamping domes are centred between Busselton and Margaret River. The perfect escape for those wanting to be at one with nature with access to the tent's creature comforts.

Upgrades to Margaret River's iconic lighthouses

Margaret River's iconic Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouses will receive an upgrade, with works scheduled to start immediately following a major funding boost. The developments will include interactive interpretive centres and multi-purpose classrooms at both sites, while Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse will receive a new café, audio tours, timber-based playground and ocean viewing platform. The project is expected to be complete in time for the whale watching season at Augusta in June 2017.

Cruiseco's exclusive charter of Ponant's L'Austral visiting WA in 2018

Cruiseco has announced the exclusive charter of Ponant's L'Austral for a unique 40 night Australian circumnavigation voyage in 2018, taking in some of WA's extraordinary destinations. The exciting news follows on from the cruise liner's inaugural Kimberley season scheduled for 2017. L'Austral will arrive at Esperance on February 5, 2018 and cruise north along the WA coastline visiting Albany, Busselton, Fremantle, Geraldton, Broome, and Wyndham.

A new way to see Perth

Explore Tours Perth have launched a new day tour which takes in some of the city's most exquisite sites. Those who sign-up to the Explore Perth and Swan River tour will enjoy a morning at Kings Park, followed by a journey on the Swan River with Little Ferry Co, and then either a walking tour with Oh Hey WA or an exciting Segway riverside tour. Following a lunch at Matilda Bay's Bayside Kitchen, the tour takes guests on a guided coach tour of Mosman Bay, Freshwater Bay and Claremont, finishing at Cottesloe Beach to take in an iconic Indian Ocean sunset. The Explore Perth and Swan River tour costs $159 and departs at 8am, returning at 6pm.

Troy Casser Daley live at Home Valley Station

For one night only, multi-award winner Troy Cassar Daley will perform live in concert, under the stars at Home Valley Station in the Kimberley on August 7, 2016. Tickets start from $99, including the concert, dinner, and a campground site. Alternatively, guests can stay in a Guest House Room from $227 per person twin share, including the concert and dinner. For bookings, call 08 9161 4322 or email info@hvstation.com.au.

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