Why Western Australia Should Be Your Next Year-End Destination – A Guide for Malaysians
As the year draws to a close, discover the ideal getaway in Western Australia, where vibrant summer festivities await Malaysian travellers. With an array of exciting events and breathtaking landscapes, Western Australia offers both energetic celebrations and serene retreats. Embrace a unique holiday experience that beautifully blends adventure and relaxation, making it the perfect destination to bid farewell to 2024 and welcome the New Year in style.
Here are some highlights of what you can expect:
Festive Markets and Events
Discover the local charm at Western Australia’s festive markets and regional events, celebrating local produce and culture:
Markets by The Sea: Drop by the charming Markets by The Sea where Sunday chills meet seaside vibes. Explore more than 100 stalls of artisanal crafts, chic clothing and mouthwatering bites while enjoying the coastal backdrop.
Twilight Food Market: For foodies, the Twilight Food Market is a not-to-miss. As Perth’s largest street food market, you can discover the city’s dynamic culinary scene through its lineup of food trucks, offering everything from light bites to gourmet delights.
Scarbough Sunset Market: Head to Scarbough Sunset Market, held every Thursday night, for a magical evening. The market showcases local artisan retailers alongside a vibrant community spirit, complete with unbeatable live music and delicious eats that you will truly enjoy.
Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival: This iconic cherry-filled festival is a celebration of local food, wine and crafts promising fun and entertainment for the whole family. Held in the town of Manjimup on December 14, indulge in fresh and juicy cherries while enjoying the welcoming atmosphere. Reserve a spot at the exclusive Long Table Dinner, a multi course feast crafted with premium Southern Forests produce by local food heroes, chefs Raj Tyagarajan and Joe Ditri.
Christmas in Western Australia
Experience the magic of Christmas with dazzling light displays and festive activities across the region:
Mandurah Christmas Lights Cruise: Board the Mandurah Christmas Lights Cruise, where you can set sail on a two-hour festive journey through Mandurah’s sparkling canals. Marvel at luxury homes adorned with dazzling Christmas lights, featuring themed displays, carollers, and special appearances by Santa. This magical experience is perfect for families and those looking for festive cheer with a local twist on a two-hour festive cruise through Mandurah’s sparkling canals.
Mandurah Christmas Lights Trail: Stroll through the Christmas Lights Trail from 29 November 2024 to 5 January 2025, featuring 30 extraordinary light installations with a magical twist of virtual reality experiences around the City Centre and Mandurah Ocean Marina. This enchanting trail sets to transform the area into a festive wonderland.
Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail: Experience the magic of the dazzling Christmas celebration that transforms Perth CBD into a light fantasy for all ages. Explore 20 amazing light installations paired with the familiar tunes of Christmas. Also, look out for Santa Claus during his weekly visits and get your chance to snap a memorable photo to take home.
Festive Cruises
Celebrate the season on the water with unique and unforgettable festive cruises.
Rottnest Cruises Luxe Island Seafood Cruise: Immerse in an exciting dining concept with Rottnest Cruises Luxe Island Seafood Cruise and expand your senses through fresh, delicious seafood such as freshly caught lobster prepared by private chef and crews on board.
Epic Marine Charters: Based in Busselton, Epic Marine Charters invites you for an intimate adventure along Geographe Bay, where you can bring your own food and drinks for a personalised festive celebration in Western Australia.
Eclipse Expeditions South West Safari: For an otherworldly experience to ring in the new year, dive into crystal-clear waters or hike through the ever-changing scenery with Eclipse Expeditions South West Safari, from Geographe Bay moving towards Eagle Bay and Bunker Bay.
Pirate Ship Mandurah: Embark on a fun-filled adventure aboard the custom-built Pirate Ship, exploring Mandurah’s inland waterways. Enjoy light-hearted pirate entertainment, stunning views of luxury homes, and spot local wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins.
Wildlife Encounters
Embrace Western Australia’s unique wildlife through incredible adventures and encounters with native species:
Whale Watching in the South West Region: Encounter majestic humpback, southern right, and blue whales during their annual migration along the south-western coast, or spot the Southern Hemisphere’s largest pod of killer whales at Bremer Bay Canyon. Join a whale-watching tour for an up-close experience or catch a glimpse from the coast.
Swimming with Sea Lions: Swim alongside playful sea lions in their natural habitat, with tours available in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park in Rockingham and Jurien Bay. View cavorting colonies of sea lions or marvel at the rare Australian sea lion.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Ring in the New Year with spectacular fireworks and vibrant celebrations across Western Australia:
New Year’s Eve Family Fireworks: Hop on a ferry and escape to Rottnest Island, a paradise to create unforgettable memories with your family, friends, and even the quokkas! Spend the day exploring the island’s pristine landscapes and bask in an afternoon of entertainment that is enjoyed by kids and adults alike. As night falls, gather at Thompson Bay for a magical celebration with spectacular fireworks that light up the sky, creating a perfect scenery to usher the new year ahead.
Elizabeth Quay New Year’s Eve Celebration: Experience the iconic Elizabeth Quay as it comes alive with excitement and anticipation for the New Year. Enjoy live entertainment, thrilling amusement rides, and the lively atmosphere of the bustling sideshow alley, all leading up to a spectacular fireworks display over the Swan River. It’s the perfect way to celebrate and welcome 2025 in one of Perth’s most iconic waterfront locations!
Escape to Western Australia this Festive Season
Escape to Western Australia this festive season and experience unforgettable holiday adventures. With direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, it’s the perfect destination for Malaysian travellers seeking vibrant celebrations or peaceful retreats. Whether you’re after lively events or serene getaways, Western Australia has something for everyone, making it easier than ever to explore all that this incredible destination has to offer. Plan your year-end holiday today by visiting www.westernaustralia.com.
Background
Tourism WA is the WA Government agency responsible for promoting Western Australia as an incredible holiday and events destination. Our role is to inspire more people to visit WA from Australia and around the world.
We do this by marketing the state to the world through innovative campaigns; developing, attracting and promoting major sporting, arts, cultural and business events; working with government and the tourism industry to improve access, accommodation and tourism experiences for our visitors; and by informing and empowering the WA tourism industry through sharing key insights and global trends, building stakeholder relationships and providing leadership to the sector.
For more information visit tourism.wa.gov.au.
-AsiaNewsToday / Tourism Western Australia
