Western Australia: A destination in need of regional events to rival overseas travel trends
With Western Australians heading overseas in record numbers, it's critical for WA to develop a calendar of regional events
Western Australians are heading overseas in record numbers, presenting a significant challenge for local tourism.
With international travel booming, the onus is on Western Australia (WA) to develop a vibrant calendar of regional events to encourage locals to explore their own backyard and entice interstate and international visitors.
The return of the Shore Leave Festival in 2025, announced by the State Government and warmly welcomed by Tourism Council WA, is a step in the right direction. This premier event, hosted in Geraldton, showcases the region’s unique offerings and promises to boost overnight visitor numbers, local spending, and job creation. According to Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall, such events provide compelling reasons for visitors to choose WA as their destination, particularly at specific times of the year.
“It’s important that we maintain a regular calendar of recurring events so that visitors return to WA for their favourite event and there is something ‘always on’ for locals and our out-of-state guests,” said Mr Hall.
The Shore Leave Festival, featuring experiences such as dining under the stars at Yanget Farm and indulging in a Western Rock Lobster lunch on East Wallabi Island, exemplifies how WA can leverage its unique regional assets. Geraldton, with its pristine landscapes and iconic seafood, serves as a perfect backdrop for celebrating the region’s cultural and culinary heritage, making it a drawcard for both domestic and international audiences.
WA’s potential as a premier travel destination has also been recognised globally. The state was recently featured in BBC Travel’s inaugural list of ‘The 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025.’
Highlighted for its breathtaking attractions, such as the bubble gum-coloured lakes, WA earned a spot among destinations praised for sustainable tourism practices that support local communities, protect the environment, and preserve cultural heritage.
The BBC’s recognition highlights WA’s position as a destination that offers incredible experiences, from the coastlines of Geraldton to the unique landscapes and ecosystems across the state. However, to maximise this global attention, WA must cultivate a year-round schedule of regional events that not only highlight its natural beauty but also create consistent, engaging reasons for travellers to visit.
As Western Australians increasingly look beyond their borders for travel adventures, events like the Shore Leave Festival demonstrate how local tourism can capture the imagination of both locals and visitors. By building a robust calendar of unique and recurring events, WA can ensure that its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and culinary delights remain at the forefront of travel decisions, fostering a thriving tourism industry that benefits the state for years to come.
Western Australia features in the ‘The 25 best places to travel in 2025’ HERE
The list was compiled with input from BBC Travel journalists and some of the world’s leading sustainable travel authorities, such as the United Nations World Travel Organization, Sustainable Travel International and the World Travel & Tourism Council.
