Community Development

8 Unmissable WA Road Trips That Support Local Businesses Along the Way

8 Unmissable WA Road Trips That Support Local Businesses Along the Way 640 427 James Turner

With COVID-19 now presenting a new version of normal where international flights are at a standstill and the thought of even jumping on a plane to see friends on the east coast of Australia are a distant dream, our own backyard is now our new playground. Not only does WA offer up arguably some of the best road trips in the country, but now more than ever, it is so important to support local tourism while they grapple with their new realities. So, to help you plan your next WA road trip, we’ve put together our take on the top routes across WA including a raft of local businesses worth a visit. We’re talking everything from a simple Sunday-whip-around down West Coast Highway to the almighty Gibb River Road. 

West Coast Highway

If you are like us and in need of a quick hour break from your working-from-home zoom calls and meetings, West Coast Highway is a quick and efficient road trip set to provide that space away from your home office. We recommend starting off near Hillarys Boat Harbour before making your way all the way past Scarborough to City Beach. Our favourite spot has to be the hill just before Scarborough we view across Trigg Point can be seen. Supporting local business is easy here with heaps to pick from, including, Yelo coffee or Little Bay for a fancy lunch.

The Perth Hills

If you have a full day up your sleeves, we recommend the Perth Hills for a road trip through some of our states best vineyards and local communities including the Bickley-Carmel Valley and Kallumunda. If you are lucky enough to be a passenger for the day, we recommend a pit-stop into Core Cider House for a few brews of the best local cider on offer. Wine tours and day trips to the Swan Valley and Perth Hills regions are our bread and butter if you are chasing a full itinerary of what to do, head to our Ultimate Guide to the Swan Valley Region. 

Denmark / Albany

Ok, now we’re moving on to some big hitters for those with at least a few days. The drive from Denmark to Albany including the return trip via Pemberton offers you with the best of both worlds. You’ll get to see some pretty phenomenal coastlines plus winding roads lined with tall Karri trees. We recommend dropping past the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk to really get a sense of the size of these trees exceeding 50m in height. While down in Denmark local is key and a trip to Boston Brewing Co will mean you’ll be supporting a local brewery continue to produce top-notch ales.

Hopetoun to Esperance

If you are on the road and chose to visit Denmark and Albany and time is on your side, we recommend taking it one step further and visiting Hopetoun and Esperance. While taking the scenic route passing some of our states whites beaches, be sure to drop off at the UNESCO listed Fitzgerald River National Park to get those legs moving. Explore a variety of walking trails and keep an eye out for whales breaching in the distance at Point Ann once you reach the summit.

Coral Coast Highway

This one in our opinion is the best on offer but does require a level of dedication and time to complete! The coral coast highway is a 1,250km road that for the most part, hugs the Indian Ocean coast as it travels from Perth all the way up to Exmouth. We really recommend splitting this drive across a few days stopping at Geraldton and Kalbarri to also support a variety of businesses in desperate need, too. No-brainer stops along this journey include Ningaloo Reef to swim with the whale sharks, Monkey Mia for a dolphin feeding experience (perfect for the little ones) and humpback whale spotting around the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse in Exmouth.

Quintessential Caves Road

This little road trip is a must-do for a jammed packed weekend down south. Caves Road stretches between two main capes – Naturaliste in the north and Leeuwin to the south. It is extra special because it is situated amongst huge jarrah trees and wineries but still only about 2kms from the coast making it a perfect route to duck in and out of beaches along the way. You can’t really go past a visit to Voyager Estate for a long lunch or for a quick bite at the White Elephant Cafe

Karijini Round Trip

Tom Price is the closest towns to Karijini National Park and takes a sizable 19-hour commitment from Perth, via the Great Northern Highway. However, once here, you can use Tom Price as a base while you venture in to witness some of the world’s most incredible natural pools and gorges. Don’t miss Dales George for some pretty out-of-this-world views and moon-scape style rock formations. You can also swim in Circular Pool just above the lookout on the George Rim Walk. We love Karrinjini and entry to the national park supports a variety of local communities!

Gibb River Road

Ok, now we are hitting some pretty crazy territory. The Gibb River Road, only accessible using a 4WD is the crème de la crème of Western Australian road trips. Situated in the far north of our state, to truly hit all the spots and experience all that the Kimberley has to offer, we recommend a good 12 days for this one. Derby will most likely be your first stop when leaving Broome where you can check out the huge Boab trees and the cultural significance of this location to Australia’s first owners – the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Following Derby, the real fun begins as you hit the unmarked road and travel to Winjana, Bell and Manning Gorges before circling around to see the Bungle Bungles. This one takes some planning but is highly rewarding! 

And there we have it, 8 unmissable road trips across our great state. With COVID-19 presenting some pretty uncertain and unsettling times for local businesses, now really is the perfect time to get out there and support them while seeing some pretty phenomenal natural landscapes along the way. 

elizabeth quay

Your Complete Guide To Visiting Elizabeth Quay

Your Complete Guide To Visiting Elizabeth Quay 640 360 James Turner

Located right on the banks of the Swan River, the latest addition to Perth’s neverending list of attractions is our crown and glory – Elizabeth Quay. Officially cutting the red ribbon on January 2016, this entertainment precinct has hosted some top events such as the Perth International Arts Festival, Fringe Festival and bands from around the globe. Perfect for sunset drinks, a day out with the family or catching up with mates for Friday night drinks, Elizabeth Quay really has something for everyone. 

BHP Water Park

Located right next to Elizabeth Quay train station, the BHP Water Park is a kids paradise and is one not to be missed especially on a scorching Perth summers day. You’ll have to get down early as it is pretty busy in the summer months. Expect exploding water spouts, 450 square metres of winding water stations and a lot of energy. The colourful Pinjah mosaic that forms the backdrop for this space represents the local Dreamtime story and the creation of the Milky Way. There are heaps of grassed spaces available around the water park for you to drop your rugs and enjoy the Swan River while the kids run wild. 

Perth Bell Tower

The longest-standing addition to Elizabeth Quay is the Perth Bell Tower. This impressive structure rises 82 metres in the air and offers visitors with an impressive and cultural bell ceremony, where you’ll learn all about the ground on which the tower was built and how to ring the bells themselves. If you want to catch the bells in action, get down any day between 12-1 pm to listen in (trust us, you’ll hear them before you see them) or you can visit the observation deck to witness them first hand over a backdrop of the Swan River. 

Barrack Street Jetty & Trip To the South Side

The newly renovated Barrack Street Jetty is your spot to experience the Swan River onboard a local TransPerth ferry or private charter. This is the place where you will most likely depart or arrive at Elizabeth Quay. If you are heading down for the day, we recommend jumping onboard the ferry and taking a trip across the Swan for a quick coffee in South Perth before returning. Its the perfect way to hit two birds with one stone and the kids will love getting on the water, too. If you have a bit more extra cash to splash, there are some phenomenal charter boats on offer that up the anty with drinks, lunch and nibbles. Check out the long list down at the jetty.

The Island Connection Bridge & Promenade

The new connection bridge links the Barrack Street Jetty area to the Island and is our pick for photos of both the Perth skyline and the Swan River. We recommend taking an easy stroll across the bridge for photo opportunities before perching yourself at a table at the Island Brew House for a much-deserved beverage! The best bit is while you are there, the kids can make their way to the giant sandpit or try their luck at ping-pong in eyeshot of the restaurant. 

Icecream at Gusto Gelato

No trip to Elizabeth Quay is complete without overdoing it at Gusto for their famous gelato. With over 45 flavours on offer, these guys know a thing or two about ice cream. We recommend two scoops of the salted caramel before sitting back on the steps and watching the world go by.

Drinks at Songbird Bar Ritz Carlton

The Ritz Hotel in all its class and elegance has recently opened at Elizabeth Quay and costs a pretty penny for a nights stay. However, if you are chasing a slightly-more-affordable version of luxury, be sure to make a reservation at Songbird Bar & Lounge for uninterrupted views of the Swan River, Elizabeth Quay and South Perth. We always recommend smart casual for this venue as it does have a dress code. Be sure to also get your hands on the Bottlebrush Gin cocktail which pays hommage to true Australian native flavours all wrapped up in a delicious drink. 

Night Noodle Markets

For those who work in Perth CBD, heading down to Elizabeth Quay on a Friday to catch the Night Noodle Markets is the best way to start the weekend. Held in the summer months, the markets move between Elizabeth Quay and Yagan Square and offers a bucket load of top Asian food trucks. For a complete list head here. Top tip: make sure you go to Bao Brothers for their pork bao buns. Just wow. 

Fringe Festival

Ok, and now for the grand finale. The Perth Fringe Festival is possibly the State’s biggest event and you guessed it, a huge amount of performances are located at Elizabeth Quay. Held between January and February each year, artists, comedians and the like put on a serious show and Elizabeth Quay transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour and festivities with arcades, food and shows spilling out onto the streets! Keep an eye out for next years program.

Getting to Elizabeth Quay

If we’ve convinced you that Elizabeth Quay is worth its weight in gold, transport is the next thing to think about. The best bit is Elizabeth Quay is located right next to both the Elizabeth Quay Train and Bus Stations and the Barrack Street Jetty. If you are a big group who want to add Elizabeth Quay into a Perth day trip, that’s where we can help. We have a fleet of buses on hand and drivers who can help create a personalised itinerary for the day. Let’s chat today!

swan valley wine tour

6 Things To Think About When Planning Your Next Swan Valley Wine Tour

6 Things To Think About When Planning Your Next Swan Valley Wine Tour 640 427 James Turner

Whether you are arriving on the new direct flight from the UK and chasing a unique wine experience or you are a local that has lived in town their whole life, the Swan Valley Wine region really has something for everyone. It is a special place in the hearts of WA locals. A region where we can proudly showcase WA’s best wine, cheese, beer, gin, chocolate and honey. Often overlooked by the more popular sibling – the Margaret River Wine Region, The Swan Valley might be smaller in stature but it sure packs a punch. It really is the perfect day trip and one to definitely add to the itinerary.

If you are planning to visit the Swan Valley soon, we’ve put together a list of things to think about when planning your next trip so you can get the most out of your day. 

What Swan Valley Wineries should we attend?

There are virtually hundreds of wineries in the Swan Valley region to pick from. From the larger institutions like Sandalford Wines to the more relaxed, boutique types the list can actually become quickly overwhelming. Regardless of your intention for the day, having a strong list of wineries to hit is a good idea so you have structure and can let your driver know where you want to head on the day. For a complete list of our favourites, check out our take on the Ultimate List of Swan Valley Wineries.

Where should we stop for lunch in the Swan Valley?

Another pertinent question. We always promote responsible drinking and with that means a solid lunch when undertaking a day-long wine tasting expedition. In light of this, we recommend the following list of places to stop along the way:

  • Relaxed atmosphere | Oakover Grounds
  • Contemporary, Modern Australian | Wild Swan, Mandoon Estate
  • Family-friendly | Homestead Brewery
  • Large Groups | Feral Brewery Co.
  • Late-night burger (on the way home) | Alfred’s Kitchen

What Swan Valley bus hire do I need?

Now, the thing about the Swan Valley Wine Region is most of the wineries, breweries, distilleries and restaurants and spread out. This means that having a driver on hand is essential to make sure you can get from one spot to the next. This is where we can help. We can work with you to design a custom route where our driver will be your right-hand man for the day. When considering transport, it’s important to think about:

  • How many people do I have coming? 
  • What sort of bus would I need? Head to our fleet page for a breakdown on what we have to offer.
  • Are we all getting picked up from the same spot? Or is the bus doing multiple pickups?
  • Where are we getting dropped off?
  • Music. Who’s in charge? What Spotify playlists do I need? 

What should our Swan Valley bus route be? 

Planning a route is super important for the success of the day. The guys at the Swan Valley Tourism Centre have taken the hard work out of this one by putting together suggested itineraries depending on your interests. We really recommend heading to their site to get some inspiration.

We’ve also included a map here to help you map out your individualised journey.

Is this Swan Valley trip just about wine? Or should we include some other activities?

When most people beeline to the Swan Valley they are generally on the hunt for Western Australia’s best drop of vino. But, there is actually so much more to do in this great region such as grass-root distilleries, craft cider houses, bee farms and wildlife experiences. Some of our favourites are below:

  • Yahava Coffee Works: These guys have you covered when it comes to coffee. The team at Yahava offer tours that can bring you up to speed on what goes into making a perfect brew. It’s also a smart starting point so you can get nice and caffeinated before the long day ahead.
  • Cheese Barrel: You guessed it. Cheese. And lots of it. The Cheese Barrel has a variety from both the Swan Valley area and internationally recognised delicacies. Tasting boards are our pick for this one!
  • House of Honey: Bees literally make the world go round. That’s why it’s great to visit House of Honey to get a true appreciation for how hard these little guys work. Tours will focus mainly on the importance of bees and how the honey is produced. Make sure you take some home with you. 
  • Swan Valley Gin Company: Gin has recently hit the scene in the Swan Valley and for good reason! Move over Margaret River Gin Company as these guys have the goods. Offering a variety of botanical and traditionally dry gins, take the time to select your preferred tonic and get cracking. This is our pick of the bunch!
  • Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm: this one is not only perfect for the kids, but we regularly see adults having even more fun. Simply visit the Cuddly Animal Farm to feed and pat a variety of farm animals from goats to geese. You can also take advantage of the massive undercover bouncy castle and picnic area!

Do we want to throw a Swan Valley adventure activity into the mix?

As we mentioned above, the Swan Valley wine region is FULL of more activities other than just wineries. If you are keen to get active, we recommend a pit stop into the following places:

  • Supa Golf: this golfing institution has been around for years and is the most fun you’ll have playing golf. Supa is the operative word here guys. It’s basically regular golf supersized with larger balls. 
  • Swan Valley Adventure Centre: another perfect option for kids. They’ll be kept occupied with a climbing ropes course and large open spaces to explore.

With so much more than meets the eye, a typical Swan Valley Wine Tour can be seriously elevated with some of the activities mentioned above. Not only can you leave full and merry, but you might even walk away with new knowledge of local produce or even a few very tired children. Whatever your adventure, we can help organise your transport for the day. Get in touch below. 

sculptures by the sea at cottesloe

Everything You Need To Know About Sculptures By The Sea 2020

Everything You Need To Know About Sculptures By The Sea 2020 640 479 James Turner

What is Sculptures By The Sea?

Sculptures by the Sea is back in 2020 for yet another year of incredible outdoor art installations. For those that have been living under a rock, Sculptures by the Sea is an unmissable Perth event that offers visitors the chance to witness established national and international artists showcase their work on the shores of Cottesloe beach.

This year, the predictors are forecasting that over 240,000 people will visit the exhibition, so we wanted to put together a guide on what to expect and how to get down to the beach with as least fuss as possible. Because let’s be honest, we all know how hard it is to park around Cottesloe beach at the best of times. 

Where are Sculptures by the Sea?

Sculptures by the Sea 2020 will be held in Cottesloe along both the shores of the ocean and on the grassy area close to Marine Parade. Exhibitions will be installed along the entire area giving you and the family the perfect opportunity to explore without too many crowds. Use the map below to help you create your own route.

Sculptures by the sea map

What dates are Sculptures by the Sea?

The 16th annual Sculptures By The Sea will be held between the 16-23 March 2020. 

How can I get to and from Sculptures By the Sea?

Driving

You and the family can opt to drive to this year’s Sculptures by the Sea, but as parking is notorious for being very difficult close to the event we recommend the public transport option. 

Public Transport

We’ve teamed up with the Town of Cottesloe to offer you a free shuttle bus. The shuttle will meet every train from Cottesloe train station on the Perth to Fremantle line between 10.30 am to 5.00 pm daily for the duration of the exhibition and will return to the station from Cottesloe beachfront. There will be 4 stops along the way:

  1. Cottesloe Train Station (along Curtin Avenue)
  2. North Cottesloe (along Marine Parade)
  3. Cottesloe Main Beach (along Marine Parade)
  4. Jarrad Street

This will mean that you won’t have to organise a connecting Transperth bus from the train station and best of all it’s free! The map below also outlines the bus route. Simply head to the stops on the map below, look out for the Horizons West bus, hail it down and jump on board. It’s as easy as that!

The Horizons West Bus route in Cottesloe for sculptures by the sea

We’d also love your help! The team at Horizons West are keen to start offering a shuttle bus for all the summer months (not just during the Sculptures by the Sea Festival). Do you think this would be a service that you would use? Help us generate the buzz we need to make this a reality next year by filling in the form below.

How often does the Horizons West Shuttle Bus run?

There is no set time that the bus will arrive at each stop as it is running on a continuous loop. For the most part, a complete circuit takes about 15 minutes which means that will be about the most you’ll wait before getting picked up. 

Where can I eat at Sculptures by the Sea?

There are so many options close to the installations! Below is a list of our favourite restaurants and cafes.

Cottesloe Beach Hotel

  • PERFECT FOR: larger groups, cold beers at the end of the day, alfresco dining.
  • ADDRESS: 104 Marine Parade, Cottesloe Beach WA 6011
  • Click here for the menu.

Il Lido Canteen

Beaches Cafe

  • PERFECT FOR: a quick bite, great coffee and snacks.
  • ADDRESS: 122 Marine Parade Cottesloe Beach WA 6011
  • Click here for the menu.

Where can I stay at Sculptures by the Sea?

If you are keen to make a night of it so you can witness the epic Western Australian sunset, there are a few hotels we would recommend.

Cottesloe Beach Hotel

Perched in the perfect spot with panoramic views, the recently refurbished Cottesloe Beach Hotel is our pick for the best sunset spot going around.

Executive Escapes

If you are thinking of staying in Cottesloe for a few nights, then this might be your calling. The team at Executive Escapes offer self-contained rooms and short stay properties all at reasonable prices.

What artists are showcasing their sculptures this year?

With over 120 artists locked away for this year’s Sculptures by the Sea, we’ll leave the list to the experts. Head to the Official website for the most up to date list of new and returning artists. 

Are there any competitions for visitors in 2020?

For everyone visiting, there is a competition running this year to determine the best photo of the event. Tag your favourite Sculpture by the Sea photos with #sxsmoments (Instagram or Facebook) for the chance to win a Sculpture by the Sea gift pack. The best part is that the winning photo will become the official photograph for next year’s exhibition (a pretty prestigious award if you ask us). Check out last year’s winner below. 

Are Sculptures by the sea accessible for people with disabilities?

Absolutely! Each area of the exhibition is complete with ramps and handrails. This year also marks the exciting launch of the very first Tactile Tour. This new initiative, thanks to Lotterywest supports the Access & Inclusion Program. 

Visitors with a disability and their friends can sign up to experience each installation up close allowing more time to touch, feel, hear and see the exhibition. The tour is led by experienced DADAA guides! There are already spots filling up quickly so we are recommending booking in so you don’t miss out!

DATES & TIMES:

  • Weekdays Monday 9 – Friday 20 March at 10.15 am and 11.30 am
  • Auslan interpreted tours on Thursday 19 March
  • Evening tours on Thursday 12 and Thursday 19 March at 6 pm
  • Saturday 14 March at 10.15 am and 11.30 am

Please contact jacqueline@dadaa.org.au for a booking request form or call on (08) 9430 6616.

Are there any sculpture workshops for school kids and teachers?

YES! Another new initiative launching this year is The Education Program offering unique ‘out of classroom’ learning and sculpture-making workshops. Each program aligns nicely with the school curriculum and they’ve even included professional development events for the teachers so they can learn new skills and apply it in their classrooms. Each program will walk through different materials and processes involved in making sculptures such as clay, wire, plaster, recycled material, paper, and natural materials. For more information and brochures – head here.

And there we have it – everything you need to know about Sculptures by the Sea 2020. We hope you get down to Cottesloe beach to experience one of Perth’s top events for the year. Remember, if you think you’d use a shuttle bus all summer long from Cottesloe Train Station, help us by filling out the form. We appreciate your help and support!

Man playing a trumpet at a jazz festival

Event Guide: 8 Events In Perth Not To Miss in 2019

Event Guide: 8 Events In Perth Not To Miss in 2019 600 450 James Turner

Keeping up with all the top events each month in Perth is hard work.

It’s a luxury these days to have the time to fully plan out your weekend before it comes around.

But neverfail, if you’re strapped for time running the kids to sport while juggling an overflowing email inbox, we’ve come to the rescue with a list of our top events not to miss in 2019. We’ve covered everything from jazz to comedy and even a festival dedicated purely to one of Australia’s favourites – the pinot grape.

2019 Perth Event Guide: Month By Month

May: Markets In The Valley

Before the cold really sets in, now is the perfect excuse to spend a Sunday in the sun at the Ugly Duckling Winery for the annual Markets in the Valley. With a vino in hand, spend your day perusing artisan stalls selling everything from fresh produce to necklaces. We recommend a visit to the Bindoon Bakehaus stall to score yourself a mouth-watering gourmet pie straight from their oven.

DATE: 26 May

ADDRESS: Ugly Duckling Wines, 7790 West Swan Road, West Swan, WA 6055.

June: WA Day Festival

A fantastic option for the whole family and a great opportunity to check out the newly finished Elizabeth Quay – the WA Day Festival is a free event and is a must visit this June. We’re talking street parades, a carpark full of incredible food vans celebrating our diverse state and not to mention plenty of fun activities for the little ones. Check out what happened in 2018 below:

DATE: 3 June

ADDRESS: Elizabeth Quay, Perth, WA, 6000.

July: Banana Social at Rosemount Hotel & Embargo Bar

Showcasing local DJ’s and up and coming talent for another year of winter warmers – the guys at Banana Social are sure to show you and your friends an epic night. With live sets and scrumptious food options to match – we couldn’t think of a better way to make the most of winter. Make sure you don’t miss out on a range of cocktails from West Winds Gin who will be on board to keep the party nice and warm.

DATE:

13 July: Embargo Bar

20 July: Rosemount Hotel

ADDRESS:

Embargo Bar: 306 Riverside Dr, Perth WA 6004.

Rosemount Hotel: 459 Fitzgerald St, North Perth WA 6006.

August: Pinot Palooza

If Pinot is your tipple of choice, you really can’t go past Pinot Palooza held at the Claremont Showgrounds this August! Last years turnout was awarded the largest pinot festival in the WORLD so this year is sure to be as big with new up and coming wineries joining the lineup. Make sure you get around to all the tables for tastings and exclusive discounts on a range of pinot!

DATE: 3 August

ADDRESS: 1 Graylands Road, Claremont, WA, 6010.

group of friends enjoying a wine together at a festival

September: WA Beer and Beef Festival

Celebrating two of the best combinations – the WA Beer and Beef Festival will be showcasing all things beer and beef. Expect to leave in a tipsy food-coma this September with the endless array of beer and beef-related activities such as tasting masterclasses, cooking and meat smoking lessons plus a list of beer stalls as long as our arm! This is our top pick for the year.

DATE: 22 September

ADDRESS: Elizabeth Quay, Perth, WA, 6000.

Group of people drinking beer at a festival

October: Side Splitter Comedy Festival

Returning to Hamilton Hill for the 4th year running – the Side Splitter Comedy Festival is your answer for a night of full-belly laughs and down to Earth fun. This year will see Rhys Nicholson – Winner of the 2018 New Zealand Comedy Festival Best International Act take to the stage supported by Ben Darsow, Brett Blake, Gran In A Van and more!

DATE: 26-27 October

ADDRESS: 435 Carrington Street, Hamilton Hill, WA 6163.

November: Perth International Jazz Festival

Bringing to life the Perth Cultural Centre and its surroundings – this years International Jazz Festival is a perfect way to spend a balmy evening exploring local performances, open rehearsals and community conversations about all things jazz. There is an endless list of ticketed and free events over the whole festival period so we recommend heading to their site to select your favourites in preparation to a full weekend of jazzy goodness.

DATE: 8-10 November

ADDRESS: Various venues across Perth.

Man playing a trumpet at a jazz festival

December: Christmas Light Show

Rounding out the list (and just in time for Christmas) the Perth Christmas Light Show is great for a family night out under the stars. Details of the events have not yet been finalised but stay up to date on the Destination Perth website for further information as they are released!

DATE: Various Dates in December

ADDRESS: Various venues across Perth.

And there we have it! From comedy and jazz to beer and everything in between, you can use this list as a guide to plan all the Perth events you want to attend in 2019!

If you are planning on heading to any of the events above such as the Beer and Beef Festival and don’t want to be the designated driver – we can help with our charter bus services.

Request a Quote
TOC Summer Free Shuttle Bus

Town of Cambridge Shuttle Bus: How To Get To The Beach For Free

Town of Cambridge Shuttle Bus: How To Get To The Beach For Free 2048 1536 James Turner

Summer is just around the corner which means that it’s time to get the family together, pack your sandals and surfboards and head to the coast. To help you get to the beach and shops this summer, we have teamed up once again with our good friends at the Town of Cambridge to bring you the TOC Summer Bus.

The Town of Cambridge Summer Shuttle Bus is designed for the whole community! Whether you are heading to Floreat Library for some much deserved R&R or hitting the skate park with the kids, there is a stop for everyone!

What You Need To Know

When will the Bus Run?

The TOC Bus service will run from 9 am to 4 pm, seven days a week (except Christmas Day) from 14 December 2018 to 26 January 2019 and best of all its free!

What’s the Bus Route?

You can find a map of the bus route on the image below. Alternatively, we have made a custom Google Map too which you can use at any time to help you find the closest bus stop to you.

>>>See Google Map<<<

The bus will navigate its way through the Town stopping off at various locations and any Transperth bus stops.

Key destinations and stops include:

  • Cambridge Street ( almost opposite No. 86 Youth Centre on the southern side of the street)
  • Floreat Forum/ Cambridge Library
  • Perry Lakes Skate Park
  • Bold Park Aquatic Centre
  • Ocean Gardens Retirement Village
  • City Beach
  • Floreat Beach
  • Empire Village
  • Wembley Golf Course
  • Lake Monger

Cambridge Free Summer Shuttle Bus Service Map

How Do I Track The Bus?

To make sure you don’t have to wait at the bus stop for too long, you can keep track of the location of the TOC Summer Bus using the Where My Bus App.

STEPS:

Simply download the App below. We’ve included both Apple and Android, depending on your device.

Use our custom logins:

  • Username: summerbus@toc.com
  • Password: bus

apple wheres my bus app icon

google play wheres my bus app icon

How Often Does The Service Run?

You can download the timetable here.

Some Important notes about the timetable:

  • As this is a hail and ride service, times are approximate and may differ slightly depending on how many people board the bus.
  • There are 5 minutes stopping times at Floreat Beach each loop of the service to ensure it starts at the beginning on the hour (and can collect all the returning beachgoers).
  • The 12 pm service will stop at Floreat Beach for 30 minutes and commence again at 1.07pm (just so our driver can have a quick break).

Is it free?

Absolutely! You can take your friends and family on board for free.

What Do I Need To Look Out For?

The bus to look out for will be a Horizon’s West vehicle wrapped with the Town of Cambridge branding. You won’t be able to miss its bright colours. Our bus drivers will do their best to spot you along the journey. Just make sure you hail the bus so they know to stop 🙂

Ohh, and finally, if you take the TOC Summer Bus to be sure to enter the Selfie competition.

SNAP
Hop on the TOC Summer Bus and take a fun selfie.

SHARE
Share your selfie on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtags #TOCSummerBus and #TownofCambridge.

Prizes will be determined closer to the date!

We are really excited to bring this initiative back to the community for the second year. We hope you take advantage of the service. See you at the beach!

If you are a local council or company interested in using Horizons West for your next event, you can contact us and we’ll be happy to arrange a chat about how we can help you!

mark mcgowan at the new perth stadium with indigenous performers

Case Study: How We Supported The 2018 Australian Primary Principals Conference

Case Study: How We Supported The 2018 Australian Primary Principals Conference 1000 667 James Turner

Horizons West is always proud of the work we do with the local Perth school community. Helping our local schools is a key area of focus for our brand. This means making sure our Perth school students arrive at their excursions, swimming lessons and athletics carnivals both safely and on time.

This month saw us take a slightly different approach by lending a helping hand to the principals that support our state’s students and lead our education system. We worked closely with The Western Australian Primary Principals’ Association (WAPPA) to help transport their delegates and principals all across Perth.

Who Are The Western Australian Primary Principals’ Association (WAPPA)?

The Western Australian Primary Principals’ Association (WAPPA) is a member-based, not-for-profit Incorporated Association. WAPPA holds over 1,100 members which include principals from all facets of the Western Australian education community. Each year these delegates come together to listen to guest speakers, visit schools and participate in interactive workshops over a 3 day period.

What Was The Purpose of The 2018 Conference?

This year marked an important launch of a new campaign, Thrive With 5, that is intended to filter down into Perth schools in the near future. This campaign aims at improving the readiness of children for learning every day. The speeches from various delegates focused on five key ways that give children a great opportunity to do well in learning; Play, Talk, Read, Eat Well and Sleep. The conference was an introduction to how implementing and promoting these integral five ways can greatly improve students’ learning and well-being in the education setting. This is an initiative the team at Horizons West think would really benefit the students of Perth.

How did Horizons West Help?

This year saw over 750 Primary School leaders attend. This was a huge undertaking for our team who were both a sponsor of the event but also the main transport providers. Over the 3 day period we were responsible for all transport to the following locations:

  1. Metro School Visits: multiple half day visits for a variety of principals. This gave them the opportunity to meet other teachers and learn how other schools were undertaking their learning.
  2. Optus Stadium: welcome reception and opening evening with special guest Mark McGowan – Premier of Western Australia.
  3. Networking/ Post Event: St Mary Cathedral for a service followed and bars/ restaurants within the Perth CBD.

We received some great feedback after the event from the APPA Events team:

“We would like to thank Horizon West for their professionalism and efficiency of all of your staff, the friendliness of all the drivers, perfect punctuality and quality standards of the coaches made the event run super smoothly.”

We were really proud of our work, especially the drivers who were on hand over the 3 day period.

If you are an association or group looking to organise transport for your attendees, let’s chat. Our fleet ranges in size and can cater for any number of passengers.

Presenter talking about the thrive with 5 initiative

female guest speaker at the Australian Primary Principals Conference

male guest speaker at the Australian Primary Principals Conference

Horizons West Helps Bring Higer H7 & After Sales Support to WA

Horizons West Helps Bring Higer H7 & After Sales Support to WA 1000 667 James Turner

The team at Horizons West are proud to announce the further expansion of our growing industry alliances. We have recently teamed up with Bus Corp Oceania (BCO) to assist distributing their bus line models and provide new customers on the west coast with a dedicated sales and support team for everything from maintenance and warranty management to sales support and repairs.

As the first dealer and service agent to form an alliance with Bus Corp Oceania in Western Australia we are excited with where the future can take us.

What can the new Higer H7 Model Offer?

With its powerful and economical Cummins engine paired with the Allison automatic transmission and sturdy design, the Higer H7 has been a popular addition to the Australian market.

BCO General Manager Jason Pecotic said in a recent press release that the “return of the Higer brand is the answer to a strong market demand for a well priced and economical 28 +1 seat bus with a proven driveline and credentials for a range of operations”.

What Does This Partnership Mean For Customers?

A Locally Based Repairs & Maintenance Workshop

As a bus company that includes a huge fleet of vehicles of all shapes and sizes, we know the difficulties in sourcing, maintaining and replacing parts.

If you are a current customer of ours you can now use us as your dedicated maintenance agent. This means you can now significantly lower turnaround times for repairs and searching for parts – keeping your vehicle out on the road for longer. Say goodbye to ordering your parts from overseas and waiting for weeks for the part to arrive. You can simply talk to us who can slot you into our workshop where we’ll take care of the rest.

When it’s time for your vehicle to have a break in our workshop, our team or mechanics know how to return it to tip-top shape. We can help with the following:

  • Diagnostics:
    • Overall vehicle performance
    • ABS breaks
    • Engine performance
    • Alignment
    • Tyres and wheels
    • Exhaust
    • Steering and suspension
    • Drive systems
  • Accidental repairs – we can turn an unfortunate incident back into an operational asset in no time.
  • Ordering and installing new parts.

A Sales Team To Help You Make The Right Choice

If you are a new customer considering purchasing a new Higer H7, Optare or other models, we can also help you compare the market. Here are just a few things that need to be considered when assessing your needs for a new vehicle.

  • Chassis requirements – axle, transmission, suspension, clutch and steering systems.
  • Body – Interior and exterior design, seating configuration, passenger doors, entertainment.
  • Performance specifications – engine
  • Warranties and insurances
  • Finances – purchasing a bus is a huge investment. Will this be funded with a loan or paid upfront? Also, you’ll need to consider depreciation.
  • Dimensions
  • Weight
  • Maintenance and service documents – who will keep a record of these?
  • Range – how many KM’s can you get out of a single tank of fuel?
  • Extra bells and whistles – wifi on board, footrests, overhead storage, lap trays, drink holders and toilets.

The list is pretty extensive, we know. That’s where we come in to help you with all of the above and ensure that the vehicle you pick really matches your needs.

Whether you are on the hunt for a new vehicle and need help with selecting the best one or you currently own a vehicle that needs some solid TLC, our Welshpool premises can provide a locally based solution.

We are excited to see where this new partnership with Bus Corp Oceania takes us.

See you in the workshop soon!

Community Collaborations: How Our CAB Buses Help Transport Students & Staff From Curtin University

Community Collaborations: How Our CAB Buses Help Transport Students & Staff From Curtin University 2000 1333 James Turner

Connecting the community is a strong focus at Horizons West.

We know the costs of buying and running a vehicle is generally out of reach for those studying. That’s why we teamed up with Curtin University three years ago to offer the Curtin University CAB Service. A free shuttle service that connects the community between the Bentley Campus, Technology Park and surrounding suburbs – Bentley, Waterford, Victoria Park and South Perth. A service that allows staff, students and the general public access to free transport.

Curtin CABS Service – What You Need To Know

The Curtin Access Bus Service (CABS) is a free shuttle bus which operates Monday to Friday during normal Semester weeks only. Buses can be hailed at any point along their designated route. For those using the Bentley CABS route, there are also additional services that operate during peak hours.

What are the bus routes and timetables?

There are three bus routes with the earliest service commencing at 7am and the last run departing at 10.30pm (perfect for those late night study owls and evening tutorials).

You can find each timetable and bus route below. Simply download the timetables to your device for later and you’re ready to go.

Bentley and Waterford

Technology Park

South Perth & Victoria Park

Can I Track the Location of the bus?

Absolutely, we know how precious your time is as a student and the last thing we want is for you to be standing out in the rain waiting for the bus. Simply download the app from the Google or iTunes store, plug in your campus and you’re on your way.

google play wheres my bus app icon

apple wheres my bus app icon

With a commitment to continue to build relationships with institutions such as Curtin University, the team at Horizons West are excited to see what the future holds and how we can connect the community further across other regions of Perth.

Our Focus on Fundraising: How We Contributed to the Community in 2018

Our Focus on Fundraising: How We Contributed to the Community in 2018 700 467 James Turner

At Horizons West, we support grassroots campaigns and help support local schools fundraise vital funds for their programs. Why do we do this? Because each and every day our drivers are on the road meeting people from all walks of life. From schools to age care, our team have really got to know the community around Perth and what it needs to continue to grow.

Every year, we focus our attention on an area of fundraising to help different members of the community. This year saw our schools receive donations from our owners. We are proud to have helped a student from St Norbert College travel to the Kimberley to assist the local community and also prizes that were auctioned at the Methodist Ladies College Annual Gala Fundraising Evening

Details are below!

St Norbert College Kununurra Community Fundraising

For the past 17 years, St Norbert College has offered their students the chance to actively service rural Western Australia through assisting local primary schools, working in elderly hostels or volunteering in the community art centre. Following their return, each participant spends time reflecting on their experiences and documenting their observations that are then passed onto the student cohort for discussion.

In order to make this initiative a reality, St Norbert College requires fundraising assistance. Being a valued transport provider to the school for years, we thought it would be a great opportunity to donate $2,700 to the school which will mean that one of the six nominated year 11 students can travel to Kununurra in our State’s Kimberley region this September. We are looking forward to hearing all about their experience later in the year when the group returns!

Methodist Ladies College Gala Fundraising Night

Having provided transport solutions to Methodist Ladies College for a number of years now has meant that we have really got to know the extra-curricular programs this school offers their students. However, with anything extra-curricular, money is needed to fund the programs.

So to help these programs along, Methodist Ladies College has been running the Annual Gala Fundraising Night for a number of years now. The night offers members of the community a chance to gather, where items and experiences are auctioned to the highest bidder, with all proceeds going back into the school. This year the team at Horizons West contributed four (4) x tickets in the exclusive Bank West Club at Optus Stadium to the Fremantle Dockers versus Port Adelaide game on Sunday 15th July 2018.

On top of access to the game and seats with an exceptional view-point, the winning bidder also received four (4) x Bankwest Club cards each with $75.00 to spend on food and/or drinks.

After the night finished up, we touched base with the admin team at Methodist Ladies College who reported that their preliminary calculations showed a fundraising figure in excess of $170,000. An amazing result that we were chuffed to be a part of!

We are always open to finding more ways that we can help the community and school kids around the Perth Region. Feel free to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to chat about your initiatives.

Request a Quote