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airplane in perth
  • James Turner

How to Get To and From Perth Airport Once You Touchdown

How to Get To and From Perth Airport Once You Touchdown 640 425 James Turner

We know that after a long flight it’s important to make your transition into your new city as streamlined as possible. Having your transport organised ahead of time will ensure you can exit customs and into your chosen mode of transport in the nick of time. With the variety of transfer options now on offer at Perth Airport, you can say goodbye to the long taxi queues and hello to ride share companies, car hire options and not to mention a brand-new train line. Below is an easy reference guide to help you when you next arrive in Perth.

Perth Airport Rideshare Transfers

Perfect for: 4 passengers or fewer

Perth Airport has recently included a dedicated rideshare pickup location just outside of both Terminals. With Ola, DiDi and Uber now in full operation, this is a perfect option if you are arriving in small numbers. Just so you are aware, a $3 loading is added for Airport Pickup, which will be added to your ride cost. From our experiences, DiDi being the new kid on the block is offering a variety of specials with discounts for your first few rides (highly recommended if you are on a budget). The two images below, clearly outline exactly where you need to head once leaving the Perth terminal arrivals hall.

T1 & T2 rideshare pick-up bays

perth airport rideshare pickup t1 and t2

T3 & T4 rideshare pick-up bays

drop off locations perth airport t4 and t5

Perth Airport Bus Transfers

Perfect for: a larger group (13+ people)

If you are a large group, we can help transport you from Perth Airport to the CBD and surrounding suburbs with ease. We have extra-large coaches, minibuses or commuter buses that can accommodate groups from 13 passengers all the way up to 70. We also have a variety of options on offer which can include air conditioning, wheelchair access and luggage storage compartments. If you are organising a large group we highly recommend this option as we know it can get confusing if the group your organising suddenly all starts taking taxis and rideshares across the countryside. You can also email us over a list of arriving passengers ahead of time so we can check this off for you to make sure we don’t leave anyone behind. Check out our full fleet of buses.

Public Transport 

Perfect for: small groups, individual passengers and budget-conscious travellers

Transperth operates regular bus services from Perth Airport to Perth City and other locations. You can check out your route using the journey planner on Transperth. The most popular buses that will take you directly to Perth CBD is fittingly named 380 (named after the first Airbus A380 to land at the Perth Airport). This bus is also fitted with bigger luggage racks and runs daily between Perth Airport Terminals 1 and 2 to Elizabeth Quay Bus Station. Sometimes, they also stop off at the following locations just in case you are commuting to other locations around Perth:

  • Victoria Park Transfer Station 
  • Burswood Train Station 
  • Belmont Forum Shopping Centre

Perth Airport Car Hire

Perfect for: small groups and individual passengers

As Perth is the perfect gateway to other destinations in Western Australia such as the Margaret River Region or the Swan Valley, hiring a car is the perfect option to do it on your terms. There are a variety of companies located in the arrival hall of both the domestic and international Perth terminals. We recommend booking ahead of time though as during busy periods like Easter of the Christmas break, cars go quick!

If you are also looking for an itinerary on what to do in the Swan Valley, check out ours here.

Perth Airport Train Transfer

In exciting news, the Western Australian government is proud to announce that in 2021 the Perth Airport Forrestfield Train link will be completed, making it super simple for passengers to get to the CBD in record time. The new development includes a walkway directly from the terminal and frequent trains connecting passengers from Terminal 2 straight to Elizabeth Quay. If you want to stay up to date on final completion dates, head to the official Metronet website.

Pick and Drop Off Spots

Last but not least, if you are lucky enough to have a mate from Perth be there at the airport to pick you up, they also have a few options. If they can grab you quickly, there is a 30-minute free parking ticket that can be used on the way in. Otherwise, there is ample paid parking and a kiss and ride drop off zone. 

And there we have it. Our list on how to sort your Perth airport transport for your next arrival. If you want to get your hands on a full breakdown of all the Perth airport terminals, you can view the map here.

  • James Turner

7 Corporate Team Building Activities In Perth To Supercharge Your Employees

7 Corporate Team Building Activities In Perth To Supercharge Your Employees 700 464 James Turner

Let’s be honest, sometimes team building activities in the workplace can be slightly uncomfortable. If you don’t have all team players invested in the activity, you’ve more than likely lost them before your event even gets started. We all know those awkward moments where the instructor has asked for each team member to lean back and fall into a trust hug with other employees like below.

It’s so important to not choose activities that might violate people’s dignity, privacy, or personal space (like the outdated trust hug). Something you might enjoy with close friends isn’t always appropriate for the workplace. 

So, we thought it was time to get a list together of the top corporate team building activities in Perth that are set to energise your workforce, promote teamwork and above all – allow your employees to let their hair down and have some fun. Because after all, the best business is done outside the office! 

City Based Amazing Race

Perfect for: adventurous, hyper-competitive.

Just like the hit TV series Amazing Race, your employees can experience a variety of Perth sites, while they collect clues to lead them to each checkpoint. Challenges can include taking photos at various landmarks, trying local cuisine and finishing puzzles. The team at Beyond The Boardroom are the perfect guys to help you organise an amazing race that will certainly ignite your employee’s competitive streak while providing an enjoyable day out in the sun.

At Horizons West, we know how intricate an Amazing Race competition can be to organise, that’s why we are on board to help plan the transport. Contact us to arrange a time to chat.

Survivor

Perfect for: the negotiators, teamwork.

Continuing with the hit TV vibe, a Survivor team building activity is based on your employees breaking into teams and adopting the Outwit, Outlast and Outplay strategies to complete a series of challenges and activities. Tribes are generally split into groups where each team will choose their team name and develop their own bandannas and chants.

With the ultimate goal to discover team immunity items and convince other members to join alliances, teams will build rafts, shelters and undertake puzzles to be crowned the winning team. A survivor challenge works best when you make the most of the Perth natural landscape, such as the beach or Swan River area.

Masterchef Challenges

Perfect for: the at-home chef and foodie aficionado.

If your team are legendary home cooks, then a Masterchef challenge is an eggcellent option for your next team building activity. Promoting serious teamwork, creativity, taste and presentation, each team will be tasked with a variety of challenges to complete. Teams will ultimately present a tasting board of the food they have cooked together to the judges. Some challenges can include:

  1. The 5 ingredients challenge – where each team is only given 5 ingredients to create a masterpiece in under 1 hour. 
  2. 30-minute dessert challenge – where each team is only given 30 minutes to complete a dessert (we’ve seen some teams get super creative with lava cakes made straight from the microwave).
  3. Mystery box challenge – this is where the judges will reveal what the teams will construct. 

The best part? You can even build your company values, team goals or conference theme into the judging criteria to ensure you can link the activities to the organisation (and get your budget approved)!

The team at Cheeky Food Events can help organise the kitchen space and ingredients.

Perth Hills Abseiling

Perfect for: adrenaline junkies and the great outdoors.

Nothing says ‘trust’ more than supporting your team members descent an overly large cliff face. Abseiling in the Perth hills will provide the perfect opportunity for employees to team up with someone they wouldn’t typically work with to encourage them to conquer their fears together. The team at Space Chameleon Adventures are your go-to guys, who have all the equipment and offer corporate team building packages that include:

  1. 15m Introduction to abseiling wall 
  2. 60m big wall at sunset with views of the city 
  3. 40m overhang in the dark with head torches for night city views.

Ohh, and they also have a great range of food that will be offered throughout the tour:

  1. Fresh hot gourmet pizza delivered 
  2. Freshly ground fair-trade french press coffee
  3. Raw homemade bliss balls
  4. A selection of juice and teas

Mini Olympics

Perfect for: competitive, team-based fun. 

Our personal favourite – the mini Olympics is an opportunity for your employees to work as a team as they compete in a variety of events. Each team will select a country to represent and will dress in their colours! Some events include:

  1. Tug of war
  2. Balloon volleyball
  3. Leederball and pass-ball (aiming to bring back some serious primary school athletics carnival nostalgia)
  4. Egg and spoon races
  5. Balloon between the knees race

You could even add in a Zorb Ball Soccer Competition for good measure!

Escape Rooms

Perfect for: lateral thinkers and escape artists. 

If you haven’t heard of the escape room yet, it’s basically voluntarily getting locked in a small room with others, with the mission to escape. Your employees will be allocated teams and given a bunch of clues to help them break free! Escape Rooms are scattered all around the Perth area but the team at Escape Hunt offer the best corporate team building packages going around town. Packages include: 

  1. 60-minute escape room experience (can upgrade to 2 games per person). You can also run multiple escape rooms to encourage friendly competition!
  2. Complimentary refreshments
  3. Winning team certificate
  4. A dress-up photoshoot

This is an epic team-building activity in Perth if you are strapped for time as it’s a simple 90 minutes!

Creative Art Classes

Perfect for: budding artists and creative industries. 

For the artistic types, another avenue of attack for team building is to all take a breather, sit back with a drink and mindfully take part in a painting class. The team at Cabernet & Canvas offer ‘Paint and Sip’ evenings where guests can learn a new painting technique with the help of some of Western Australia’s best vino. Letting your imagination flow might be the perfect injection of creativity that your business is hanging out for!

And there we have it. A seriously good list of options for your next team building activities. Say goodbye to the trust hugs and awkward team building activities in 2020. If you need help organising any transport to and from locations, drop us a line! We’ll be happy to help! 

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Kids playing tug of war at a school camp near perth
  • James Turner

Top Perth School Excursions & Holiday Camps for 2020

Top Perth School Excursions & Holiday Camps for 2020 700 500 James Turner

We know being a teacher is hard work. We also know that organising and running a year group excursion or holiday camp for half the school while trying to manage your own classroom, mark assignments, sleep, eat and keep your own life in check is a serious balancing act. So, to make your lives easier, we wanted to give you a head start for 2020 with our take on the top Perth school excursions and holiday camps. We’ve got something for all kids – from adrenaline-filled zip lines to historical recounts at Fremantle Prison. We hope these give you some ideas for next year to help you mark one thing off that never-ending list of to-dos.

Forest Edge Recreation Centre & Camp

Location | 133 Weller Rd, Waroona WA 6215

Located 90 minutes from the Perth CBD, the Forest Edge Recreation Camp in Waroona is the perfect spot if you need to keep those kids active for the entire day. The team here are fantastic at managing large cohorts of kids and have activities for days. We’re talking abseiling across two-staged heights of 8m and 20m and the largest flying fox in the southern hemisphere standing at a sizey 200m. Other activities include the raft building centre where kids can work in teams to build their own rafts out of poles and barrels and race other teams to the middle of the dam and back. 

Swan Valley Adventure Centre

Location | 58 Yule Ave, Middle Swan WA 6056

A great option for the day is the Swan Valley Adventure Centre located on the fringes of Perth. The team here pride themselves on customising group programs to suit each school and the curriculum. A typical day here can look like:

  • Welcome briefing and introductions
  • Team building exercises such as the mohawk walk, wire courses, island swings, Tarzan tyres and more
  • Canoeing
  • Lunch breaks for the kids to enjoy the surrounds
  • Rock climbing and abseiling

The array of activities on offer here will make sure your school cohort is kept busy and will be no doubt asleep on the way home. 

Fremantle Prison

Location | 133 Weller Rd, Waroona WA 6215

If you are a primary school teacher hoping to blend the perfect outing with the curriculum, you’ve found your answer. The guys at the Fremantle Prison pride themselves on offering tours that connect directly with the Humanities and Social Studies learning area. The convict history tour will open your student’s eyes to prison life and will guarantee thrilling stories about high profile inmates, their crimes and escape attempts.

Spare Parts Puppet Theatre 

Location | 1 Short St, Fremantle WA 6160

Step inside the weird and wonderful Spare Parts Puppet Theatre for a day that the kids will never forget. Showcasing elaborate costumes and incredible stages, the very talented puppeteers are back in 2020 with their latest show – Miss Lily’s Fabulous Feather Boa. This performance is a joyous celebration of courage, honesty and pride with a central dilemma relevant to the social development of students. The best part? If you are a teacher, you can also download a huge list of resources to help prep the kids before the big day.

A dog puppet

Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

Location | 120 Gilchrist Rd, Lesmurdie WA 6076

If your kids have been working on endangered species and the ecosystem – then a trip out to Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a must-do. This not-for-profit venture aims to collect endangered, orphaned or sick animals, before rehabilitating them and reintroducing them back into the wild. Housing furry friends such as the Short Beaked Echidna and the Tawny Frogmouth, the volunteers can take your class through how they rescue these animals and what’s involved in keeping the species alive. You can even get the kids involved in the nocturnal tour for a different perspective where they will learn firsthand about native Australian nocturnal animals. 

A koala at the Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

Parliament of Western Australia

Location | 11 Harvest Terrace, West Perth, WA, 6000

If your kids are learning about Australian politics and how democratic governments function, then a trip to Parliament House is the perfect addition to your 2020 school excursion list. The best part? A visit is free and includes an interactive tour with an informative guide who can tailor the trip depending on your curriculum requirements. The tours are 75 minutes long and may be arranged for any weekday. However, the format will vary depending on whether Parliament is sitting at the time of the tour. If you time your run right, students can tour Parliament House and may have the opportunity to undertake a role-play in the Legislative Council or Legislative Assembly Chamber. Keep an eye out on their website for up to date information on when parliament is in action to avoid missing out.

Scitech

Location | 1City West centre, Sutherland St, West Perth WA 6005

If you are a science teacher on the hunt for an interactive experience, then this one is for you. Scitech is the perfect spot to ignite your cohort’s curiosity and interest in science. With some of Perth’s best displays and exhibitions, Scitech welcomes groups of all sizes. You can find the pricing list and what to expect here. 

Kings Park

Location | Fraser Ave, Perth WA 6005

Last but not least, we couldn’t keep Kings Park out of this list as it has so many options for all school groups. The team at Kings Park offer so much such as:

  1. Bush camping survival skills: work in a team to address survival scenarios. 
  2. Child v.s. wild challenges: this includes bush skills and includes activities such as shelter building, finding drinking water, making damper and delivering simple first aid. Perfect for kids studying Health and Humanities. 
  3. Examining ecosystems: taking a close look at local fauna and flora.
  4. Bazaar botanicals: a deep dive into the weird and wonderful world of botanicals. 

And there we have it! A list of the top School Excursions & Holiday Camps for 2020. We can also help organise your school transport with buses to suit all school cohorts. Touch base with our team today for a customised quote.

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old people on bench
  • James Turner

Top 8 Activities for Seniors Around Perth

Top 8 Activities for Seniors Around Perth 700 467 James Turner

From phenomenal botanical gardens to exclusive high teas and some of the best bowling greens going around – Perth really has something for everyone when it comes to activities. If you are on the older and wiser side of 50, there is still so much going on that you can get involved in. After all, age is just a number right? Here is our take on the top 8 activities for Seniors in Perth.

Roll Out Your Mats at Mosman Park Bowls Club

Location | 39 Bay View Terrace, Mosman Park WA 6012

Coined as the club with the million-dollar view, Mosman Park Bowls Club is perched on top of Bayview Terrace and has the best view going around town. Roll out your mats for a Sunday afternoon bowl with your mates and take advantage of those unbeatable happy hours and RSL drink prices. With floodlights across all greens, why not take advantage of the incredible sunset before taking things into the evening with a few extra games?  

Experience Kings Park

Location | Fraser Ave, Perth WA 6005

Well known amongst all Perthians – Kings Park really is a flora and fauna institution showcasing the best of the best. From light trails to longer walks, we always recommend Kings Park as a location for you and your friend’s thanks to its well-shaded areas, incredible views across the Swan River and not to mention great coffee from the baristas at the Botanical Cafe. Stay up to date with all the latest exhibitions here.

Get Fancy With High Tea At The Westin

Location | 480 Hay St, Perth WA 6000

With the latest restaurants setting up shop in the brand new Westin Hotel, why not make a day of it with a lunchtime high tea at the High Tea Society savouring some of the finest cakes, sandwiches and tea. You could even back this up with a slow Aromatherapy massage at Bodhi J just for good measure. You’ll even get to sit back with your friends after your treatment on your very own balcony overlooking Perth with a glass of champagne. Perfect!

Spot Dolphins | Mandurah and Peel Inlet

Location | 115 Breakwater Parade, Mandurah WA 6210

Located just an hour from Perth – Mandurah and the Peel inlet is the perfect day trip to get out of town and onto the water. With over 32 canals, take the opportunity to head down to the Mandurah Offshore Fishing & Sailing Club, get on board a scenic boat tour and go dolphin watching. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed as most tours see schools of dolphins hanging out in the pristine waters just off the coast. Finish your day strong with dinner at Sharky’s Fish and Chips!

Catch a Show At The State Theatre Centre of WA

Location | 174-176 William St, Perth WA 6000

The State Theatre Centre of WA has really taken off over the past few years with national acts such as Tom Gleeson joining the bill. This venue really has something for everyone – from poetry readings, comedy, ballet and even Fantastic Mr Fox making an appearance, we highly recommend checking out a show and making a day of it with some coffee and cake to close at one of Northbridge top cafes.

Try Your Hand At Chair Yoga

Location | Margaret St, Ashfield WA 6054

For those that look at yoga as only for the young and fit, think again! Chair yoga has been taking off across Perth and is catering for all abilities. Connect your breath and body amongst friends while you use a chair as support to complete each flow. Perfect for the senior crowd – chair yoga is run across a variety of locations across Perth each week. Check out one of our favourites here.

Take to the Swan for Some Afternoon Sailing

Location | 6 Australia II Dr, Crawley WA 6009

Nothing says Perth more than getting your friends together and sitting back while you sail along the waters of the Swan River. This activity is best done when the Freo Doctor isn’t in for the day making for a relaxing and calming trip. The guys down at the Royal Perth Yaught Club are your answers if you are wanting to hire a skipper, boat or both! You can even get your hands on one of their memberships which will give you access to a raft of social events throughout the calendar year plus exclusive events on the water on board some of the best yachts in Perth!

sailing in mandurah

Sunset Stroll at Cottesloe

Location | 104 Marine Parade, Cottesloe WA 6011

With the heat of summer in full force, it’s always best to keep out of the sun during the middle of the day. We recommend heading down for a coastal sunset stroll at the famous Collesloe beach. Time your run right, and you can also witness some of the best local artists in town for the annual Sculptures by the Sea event. 

And there we have it! Our take on the top 8 destinations around Perth that are perfect for our oldies out there. As always, we are here to help sort your transport to and from the event with air-conditioned coaches fitted with ramps on and off the bus. Let us help you plan your next outing.

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Green grapes in a vineyard
  • James Turner

Your Ultimate Guide To The Swan Valley Wine Region

Your Ultimate Guide To The Swan Valley Wine Region 600 399 James Turner

The people of Perth like nothing more than a good old fashioned Perth wine crawl. Getting your friends together and visiting some local wineries is almost a right of passage for us. That’s why any trip to Perth is really not complete unless you tour the Swan Valley region taking in all the best in food (and of course a few bottles of your favourite vino). 

Oakover Grounds

Our top pick of the bunch (and for good reason) Oakover Grounds offers its visitors a look into some of the Swan Valley’s best wine. Recently going through a makeover, the new bar and restaurant have capitalised on the incredible view of the lake and the surrounding grassland. The best part is that you can now hire a paddle boat for you and your pals. Oakover Grounds is also close to our hearts as they have hosted Hot Dub Wine Machine in the past. So time your run right and you can also get amongst this incredible event that showcases top, up and coming artists, food trucks and fancy food hampers. What’s not to like about that?

Sandleford Winery

One of the most long-standing and reputable vineyards in the Swan Valley region – Sandleford offers up tasty vino, a top-notch fine dining restaurant and our favourite addition – a wine cruise! If you are chasing something really special, the wine cruise is a perfect way to experience the Swan River followed by a 2-course lunch with paired wine and an exclusive behind the scenes tour!

A group of friends clinking their white wine glasses

Coward and Black

Coward and Black pride themselves on growing their grapes in dry soil. Dry soil you might be thinking? It basically means that the vines are so established that their roots travel far beneath the soil to hit a natural water source. In other words, the wine is great and full of interesting notes! Coward and Black are perfect if you also want to sit back and taste a selection of chocolate liqueurs with the help of their friends from the Margaret River Chocolate Company.

Tyler’s Vineyard

Tylers Vineyard chose to take a narrow approach to winemaking and focus on some of the best grenache our state has to offer. Any trip to the Swan Valley is not complete without a visit to Tylers Vineyard. While you’re there you can try your hand at personalising your very own wine label. A perfect activity for a first date!

A person holding grapes ready to turn into wine

Harris Organic Wines

Scoring the award of the only winery in the Perth region with a certified organic stamp – Harris Organic Wines offers small group tastings from its very long range of high-quality organic wines. Knowing that the drop you drink is free from pesticides and fertilisers makes a visit to Harris a must do along the Swan Valley winery trail and is perfect for a long lunch.

Ugly Duckling Winery

For those that want to take along their favourite pooch to lunch – Ugly Duckling Winery has made this possible by allowing your dogs to accompany you in the outdoor seating area. Apart from being able to drink wine with your dog, this cellar door produces a great local drop coupled with old fashioned service in a low-key setting!

Darlington Estate Winery

Very popular for those looking to tie-the-knot, Darlington Estate Winery offers our pick of the bunch for the most beautifully rustic winery on the list. Offering a floor to ceiling glass dining room and rustic timber beams throughout, the team at Darlington have a great handle on all things wine and bring this expertise into their wine tasting sessions. A must do for a very special experience!

And there we have it. Your answer to the ultimate Perth wineries in the Swan Valley. If you are thinking of visiting a few on the list above, we can help transport you and your friends. Our team can customise an itinerary to suit your wine stops and our driver will be there waiting to take you to the next vineyard. Happy wine-ing!

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marty starts his run in kalgoolie
  • James Turner

Local Heroes: Help Marty Conquer Mental Health While He Runs A 600KM Ultramarathon

Local Heroes: Help Marty Conquer Mental Health While He Runs A 600KM Ultramarathon 1440 1080 James Turner

For those who are unaware of what an ultramarathon requires, strap yourself in. The official definition is anyone who runs longer than the traditional 42.5km marathon distance.

The ultimate test in body and mind perseverance – those who are game enough to take part in an ultramarathon usually double the length bringing the total distance to a casual 85km. 

But for superhumans like our good friend Marty, he’s planning to blow the standard ultramarathon out of the water by completing a mind boggling 120km per day for 5 days straight! 

That’s over 600km!

To top it off he’ll be also running this epic distance under the Western Australian desert sun. 

You might be thinking at this point, ‘how can someone possibly achieve that’? 

His motivation, that’s what. 

His motivation is going to be the driving forces while he conquers the gruelling journey. He’s doing it for all those out there who suffer day in and day out with mental health problems. Marty is planning on raising over $25,000 while he runs from Kalgoorlie to Perth to support Headspace! 100% of every tax-deductible donation will go to supporting the amazing efforts the ‘angels’ at Headspace provide the Australian youth and their families, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How You Can Help

Donate! Donate! Donate!

Marty has already managed to secure $2,500 and is looking to hit a target of $25,000 during his run. We would love it if you could donate to support his cause. Simply head to the link below, select your amount and you’re good to go. We are encouraging everyone to share the message to help him reach this incredible milestone. 

Donate here -> https://chuffed.org/project/miles-for-mental-health-ultramarathon

Visit The Finish Line

Another great way to support his efforts is to head down to Langley Park on Sunday 15 September to watch Marty cross the finish line. We’re sure by that point he’ll be needing some solid words of encouragement as he approaches the finish!

Watch His Journey Across W.A

For those that can’t make it down to the finish line, you can always watch his journey by following his stories on Facebook and Instagram. If you are also in the area along his chosen route, drop by to say hi, show support and even a solid high five. He’s helped us all out by including a list of distances and map so you can see if any of them are close to your home or local community.

Download Distance Chart

Listen to the Pre-Race Hype

If you want to know more about Marty’s motivations and his passion for helping those in need, you can also listen to his feature on the Nathan, Nat & Shaun show!

Good luck Marty, we can’t wait to see how you go! First-round is on us.

Who are Headspace?

For those that don’t know, headspace supports the Australian community by providing support and mental health counselling to young Australian’s. If you are currently in need or would like a friendly face to chat to, drop them a line on or visit your local centre.

If you need to speak to someone urgently, please call:

Lifeline

13 11 14

Kids Helpline

1800 55 1800

Guests arriving at the wedding venue by bus
  • James Turner

Top Wedding Venues In Perth To Tie-The-Knot in 2019

Top Wedding Venues In Perth To Tie-The-Knot in 2019 600 400 James Turner

Finding the perfect venue to tie-the-knot is an important piece of the wedding puzzle. Getting this right makes other decisions such as decorations, flowers and seating arrangements just that little bit easier. If you and your loved one are recently engaged (a huge congrats!) or are daydreaming of your special day – our list of the top wedding venues in Perth for 2019 will help you along your journey. 

The Flour Factory

For a unique experience, the Flour Factory offers couples the chance to get married in an old flour mill. Tucked down the inconspicuous Queens Street – the Flour Factory specialises in all things gin where the talented bartenders love to weave their favourite recipes into almost every wedding menu. The team in the kitchen can also completely customise tasting menus to suit all those gluten-free, nut-free or dairy-free groups. They have two options on offer including the Factory room downstairs which sits 80 people or the entire top floor which can cater for up to 250 people. 

ADDRESS: 16 Queen St, Perth WA 6000

The Raw Kitchen

Another one of our absolute favs – The Raw Kitchen brings style and a sense of uniqueness to every wedding celebration they hold. For those on the hunt for a Perth wedding venue, the Raw Kitchen offer two areas for hire – The top studio or the entire lower restaurant.  If you are a raw food sceptic, we really think finding a time to do a pre-wedding tasting will change your mind completely!

ADDRESS: 181A High St, Fremantle WA 6160

Perth City Farm

Great for the budget conscious wedding-planners (and let’s be honest, who isn’t these days) the guys at Perth City Farm will let you build your wedding from the ground up. Complete with DIY options including fairy lights, flower walls and classy tableware, the open barn is an incredible backdrop to say ‘I-do’. The best part of the deal is you also get to use the venue for 3 full days so you can set up and set down with enough time to actually enjoy your wedding night.

ADDRESS: 1 City Farm Pl, Perth WA 6004

Somerville Auditorium

Set amongst the lush greenery of the iconic University of Western Australia – Somerville Auditorium is an intimate venue which is super popular for those wanting to deliver their nuptials in a forest. The brand new historical tree cathedral is their latest venture where wedding parties can celebrate their night-of-nights in a clear roof structure complete with soaring pine trees in the distance. 

ADDRESS: 35, The University of Western Australia, Stirling Hwy, Crawley WA 6009

Kidogo Arthouse

Right on the shores of the Indian Ocean – Kidogo Arthouse is a superbly quaint option for your next wedding venue! We love this place for it’s sandscape limestone walls, rustic interior and location at Bathers Beach. The team at Kidogo are super flexible and offer wedding planners heaps of options when it comes to food and drink and can also provide access to other suppliers such as florists, decorators and celebrants on request. 

ADDRESS: Bathers Beach, Fremantle WA 6160

Guildford Hotel

Located on the cusp of the Swan Valley, The Guildford Hotel is an old favourite for those looking to get married. It’s charming heritage vibe plus affordable prices on drinks and food packages makes this one a very popular location. This may be your calling if you are looking to get your wedding photos taken in closeby paddocks and farmland. 

ADDRESS: 159 James St, Guildford WA 6055

Quarry Amphitheatre

Nestled away in the tall trees of Bold Park – Quarry Amphitheatre on a normal night features some of Perth’s best operas, performances and concerts. If you can time your run right, you can actually hire this venue for your special wedding day! Expect manicured lawn, towering walls and the best natural acoustics in Perth. No need for microphones people! The team at Quarry Amphitheatre are also super flexible and can offer wedding parties the space for the reception, ceremony of both.

ADDRESS: 1 Waldron Dr, City Beach WA 6015

Matilda Bay

Perth’s waterfront wedding beauty – Matilda Bay is by far one of the most popular venues on the list. Expect a long wait if you are looking at tying the knot on a weekend at this special spot! They offer two options for your day, The Roe Room with a capacity of 140 people and the small and intimate Catalina Room with a maximum guest limit of 50. 

ADDRESS: 3 Hackett Dr, Crawley WA 6009

And there we have it. Our list of the top wedding venues in Perth to tie-the-knot this year. We hope this list has your answers to securing the perfect venue! If you are getting married this year, we wish you all the best of luck on your big day. 

Did you know we also specialise in wedding transfers here at Horizons West? We can take care of the transport to get you and your wedding party to and from the ceremony or reception in style. Check out how we helped a recent wedding party below!

Guests on the Horizons West Wedding bus on their way to the reception

The interior of the horizons west wedding bus

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A paddle board of various beers at a brewery
  • James Turner

Top 10 Perth Breweries You Should Visit in 2019

Top 10 Perth Breweries You Should Visit in 2019 600 450 James Turner

As Australians, we’ve always had a love affair with beer. But in the last few years, the Perth beer scene has seriously upped its game with a bunch of new breweries opening specialising in their very own version of liquid gold. Now, it’s not uncommon to see craft breweries offering a variety of flavours including strawberries, liquorice or even cranberries. Whether you and your friends are looking for a Friday night after work treat or a long Sunday lunch in the sun, our top 10 Perth breweries to visit in 2019 should be a great start to help you find your version of the perfect brew!

The Island Brew House

Location: Perth (Elizabeth Quay)

Bringing to the table a relaxed alfresco vibe, incredible views of Elizabeth Quay and the CBD, plus 6 craft beers on tap (brewed in-house may we add), the Island Brew House is our pick of Perth breweries to visit in 2019. We say this because not only is the food great, but the team offer a happy hour EVERY Friday to help you bring in the weekend. Don’t go past the Little Island Pale Ale, perfect for a scorching Perth’s summer day!

ADDRESS: Florence Hummerston Building, Elizabeth Quay, Perth WA 6000

Northbridge Brewing Co.

Location: Northbridge

An established institution in the heart of Northbridge – Northbridge Brewing Co. offers its visitors a huge choice of craft beers on tap, $4 pizza every day with any drink purchase AND an invitation to the Beer Club. We love the Beer Club, and we recommend you sign up, too! You’ll get to experience blind tastings and a beer quiz for good measure. Head to their Facebook page to check it out and buy your tickets. 

ADDRESS: 44 Lake Street, Northbridge, Perth WA 6000

Two men making beer in a brewery

Nowhereman

Location: Leederville

Tucked away in a leafy Leederville street – Nowhereman is a must visit for those chasing fresh flavours. We loved the Gin & Juicy craft beer – a bold, tropical brew with delicate spice and citrus notes. Apart from the main attraction (the beer), Nowhereman’s kitchen also produces some great seasonal dishes including pizza. Pizza and beer, now that’s a match made in heaven.

ADDRESS: 25 Harrogate St, West Leederville, WA 6007

Little Creatures

Location: Fremantle

The creme de la creme of beer halls – Little Creatures in Fremantle is perched on the waterfront and is a huge warehouse-style venue which is extremely popular on Sunday afternoons. Everyone is Perth knows these guys! With an endless array of brews, great food and a relaxed vibe – It’s no wonder that this brewery always tops the list of the top things to do in Perth!

ADDRESS: 40 Mews Road, Fremantle, WA 6160

Monk Craft Brewery & Kitchen

Location: Fremantle

With an open plan design that cascades onto the famous Fremantle cafe strip – Monk Craft Brewery prides themselves on their small-batch craft beer. Each month the team at Monk work hard and unleash their creative flair to design a limited edition signature recipe. Previous releases include hearty IPA’s and aromatic light blonde ales. Be sure to check these guys out on your way to Little Creatures next time you’re in Fremantle. 

ADDRESS: 33 South Terrace, Fremantle, WA 6160

A local brewery with lots of taps

Feral Brewing Company

Location: Swan Valley

At Feral Brewing you’ll be spoilt for choice with over 16 craft beers on tap. They also have a rolling batch brew release! Be sure to check out ‘The Boris’ a strong Russian imperial stout. Apart from the top-notch selection of beers the restaurant at Feral Brewery delivers modern Australian sharing plates set amongst old vineyards, rusted utes and their barrel aging shed in the distance.

ADDRESS: 152 Haddrill Road, Baskerville, WA 6056

The Camfield

Location: Burswood

Perfect for a pre-game beer, the Camfield is located on the fringe of the brand new Optus Stadium in Burswood. Beware – this place is the new kid on the block and can get seriously busy before a match. In saying this, the 2000 capacity gastropub is now Australia’s largest pub offering 175 beers on tap. Yes, you heard right – 175 beers! We recommend definitely checking our the container bar and dine in the restaurant, too. 

ADDRESS: 1 Roger Mackay Drive, Burswood, WA 6100

The Old Brewery

Location: Perth

The oldest brewery on the list, the team at The Old Brewery produce some of our state’s most iconic and recognisable beers. Launching their microbrewery – Riverside Brewhouse in recent years, this new addition has revolutionised the way these guys make and sell beer. Be sure to check out the Heritage Wheat Beer – the perfect cloudy take on the classic German Hefeweizen. 

ADDRESS: The Old Brewery 173 Mounts Bay Road, Perth, WA, 6000

Mash Brewery

Location: Henley Brook

Mash Brewery now has two locations for you to taste their beer, one in Henley Brook and one in Bunbury. These guys are known in the industry for producing unusual mixes of flavours. We recommend you try the Dark and Stormy – a perfect autumn beverage brewed using ginger, lime and a hint of oaked rum. Pairing that with some BBQ ribs straight from their kitchen, there really is no excuse not to pay them a visit.

ADDRESS: 10250 West Swan Road, Henley Brook, WA, 6055

Homestead Brewery

Location: Caversham

If you are touring the Swan Valley on route to some of the other breweries in the area, we also recommend you pay the little-known Homestead Brewery a visit. Situated on Mandoon Estate, Homestead Brewery prides themselves in big, bold beers and a family-friendly relaxed dining experience. Ohh and they also offer a breakfast service on the weekend. Breakfast beer, anyone?

ADDRESS: 10 Harris Road, Caversham, WA, 6055

If you and your friends are interested in visiting some of the above (if not the whole list), we can help transport you there. Our driver will be on hand to get you from A to B safely, so you don’t have to worry about a dedicated driver. Check out our fleet today!

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  • James Turner

Change Is In The Air: Horizons West Merge With Westwide Bus Company

Change Is In The Air: Horizons West Merge With Westwide Bus Company 1024 576 James Turner

2019 has been a big year for Horizons West with the successful launch of our first app in partnership with Curtin University. We’ve also been working hard on getting new bus decals across our fleet but the biggest news so far is the announcement of our merger with Westwide Bus and Coach Charter. We formally joined forces with this iconic brand on Monday 8 July 2019! This will increase our number of vehicles on the road, giving you more availability when making your next booking with us. Read on so you’re up to date on what to expect.

What This Merger Means For Westwide

After 30 years of solid commitment in building the Westwide brand into what it is today – the Owner and Director – Joe Guippa is taking a step back to enjoy the fruits of his hard labour. This means that from 8 July 2019, the keys will be handed over to the team at Horizons West. We’ll be taking good care of the reputation our close friend Joe has built over his tenure in the passenger transport industry.

What This Merger Means For Horizons West

At Horizons West we are really looking forward to this new opportunity. As a result of this merger, our fleet will increase in numbers with an additional 40 buses and coaches joining the lineup. This will include the following:

  • Seat belted air-conditioned coaches that can seat from 45 to 61 people
  • Articulated buses seating from 66 to 81 people
  • Large standard rigid buses seating from 31 to 51 people
  • Air conditioned coaster buses seating 24 people

Each bus will be adequately insured, too. Including:

  •  Critical Incident Management Procedures
  •  Public Liability Insurance Cover
  •  Workers’ Compensation Insurance Cover
  •  Motor Vehicle Fleet Insurance Cover

We’ll also be welcoming in the Westwide sales and service teams with open arms and working together closely under the one roof in our Welshpool head office. More people on the ground will mean we can continue to remain as Perth’s leader in bus and coach transportation services.

What This Means For You

The Horizons West and Westwide businesses are almost identical, in the sense that we share core company values and service culture that has seen both businesses flourish over 30 plus years. We commit to maintaining, if not improving, the service quality from both Horizons West and Westwide. When the keys are handed over on July 8th 2019 you can expect to see the following small changes:

  • QUOTING: if you request a quote online using the Westwide website or call the Westwide contact number, your query will be handled by the same customer services personnel that you’ve always spoken to. Whether you’re a Horizons West or Westwide customer, you’ll receive the same friendly and flexible service you always have.
  • BRANDING: Westwide has a brand new website! This much-deserved website refresh will make it easier for you to request an online reservation or apply for a job if you are a driver. Head to the new website here.
  • AVAILABILITY: this partnership will mean there is more buses on the road and even more availability for you to pick from. It’s now easier than ever to secure your transport for your next event.

From all of the team at Horizons West we would like to wish Joe Guippa good luck with his future ventures. We are committed to promoting the reputation that Westwide has built over the past 30 year and will continue to catapult the brand into a successful future. 

Stay tuned. 

A person holding grapes ready to turn into wine
  • James Turner

8 Perth Getaways to Cure The Winter Blues

8 Perth Getaways to Cure The Winter Blues 600 400 James Turner

It’s that time of year. The days are getting shorter and you’re leaving the office in the dark. Although winter generally calls for a Netflix binge-session and takeaway in bed, getting out of Perth may just be your perfect adventure to cure those winter blues. From some of the most prestigious wineries in Margaret River to scoring a beautiful winters day at Rottnest, our take on the top 10 Perth getaways has something for everyone. The best part? We can help get you and your group there.

Dunsborough / Margaret River Region

Margaret River is generally at the top of the list for most weekenders and for good reason. Our state treasure showcases some of the very best in local produce, beaches, forests and wine. Even if the weather can turn relatively quickly, it’s best to pack for any temperature. For a totally unique experience, we recommend a lunch degustation at Rustico before heading back to the iconic Pullman Resort Bunker Bay to catch the sunset over one of the most picturesque beaches on the cape.

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

3-4 hours from Perth

The sun rising over a winery in Margaret River

Lancelin/ Ledge Point

A combination of long stretches of coastline and epic sand dunes, Lancelin is perfect for the adrenaline-fueled family trip. If you can get your hands on a 4W drive, take to the back beach and experience sand boarding or try your hands at windsurfing. Ohh and the bakery. We can’t forget this not so hidden gem. Make sure you get a chance to savour pastries made by the locals over a coffee or choc milk for the kids. If you are looking to get a large group of friends and family up to Lancelin, our transport options are a great place to start!

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

1.5 hours from Perth

Jurien Bay

If you are on route to visit the lunar-like Pinnacles – Jurien Bay and Cervantes are a logical next stop. While in town, a visit to the marina will provide an opportunity for you and the family or special someone to get up close and personal with Australian sea lions. In the afternoon we recommend a fish from the beach or jump on board a large number of crayfish boats to see how the pros do it.

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

2 hours from Perth

Swan Valley

On the outskirts of Perth – the Swan Valley region is perfect for either a Perth getaway for the weekend or day trip. For those looking for a boozy lunch with top beer and wine, look no further than Elmars. If you manage to time your run right, you may even catch the Hot Dub Wine Machine festival. Check out last year’s wrap up and how we helped transport hundreds of festival-goers on the day. Non-alcohol related activities include walking the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, KEP Track or Bibbulmun Track while dropping into one of the region’s many art centres.

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

45 minutes from Perth

Rottnest

Only a short 45-minute ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island has it all. From the white sand that sweeps Parakeet Bay to the snorkelling and surfing on offer at the Basin, this bite-sized island is a perfect getaway to escape the winter grind. If you manage to forecast a great sunny weekend the team at Discovery Parks have just launched the first low-impact glamping experience.

HOT TIP: book early. These tents are in super high demand almost all year-round and waitlists can be long.

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

45 minutes from Perth

Rottnest Island beach shot from above

Bridgetown

Bridgetown has always been labelled a winter getaway destination mainly because of its green bush walks and cozy vibe. Offering a huge array of homestays, this region hosts the remarkable 3 day Bridgetown Blues Festival. Previous years saw the likes of Kingswood, Beautiful Girls and Ash Grunwald and is an event with a strong focus on sustainability and local produce, too. As with all festivals in-and-around Perth, we can help get you and your friends down to Bridgetown for the event with our festival transport options.

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

3 hours from Perth

Augusta

Augusta is a quaint town and is the start and finish of the almighty Cape to Cape walk. For those dedicated walkers, Augusta is the perfect spot to either pack your backpacks and get prepared or rest those weary legs for a few days after completing the hike. Things not to miss include whale watching in Flinders Bay from June to August, exploring Boranup Forest and a walk along the iconic Hamelin Bay.

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

3 hours from Perth

Esperance

A hefty, yet rewarding weekend trip – Esperance is that little bit further than the rest on the list but is perfect if you manage to wrangle Friday off from the office. Boasting some of the best beaches in the state coupled with amazing coffee from the local brew-bar at Downtown, this is our personal favourite because of the lack of crowds and the friendly locals.

HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE?

7 hours from Perth

A weekend Perth getaway is perfect not only to recharge but see more of what our amazing state has to offer. If you need help planning group transport to any of the destinations above, our team at Horizons West is happy to help. Let’s chat today!

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