Tourism

Cruise passengers poured $275 million into the Western Australian economy in 2014-15, with the number of ships visiting WA up nearly 50 per cent on the previous year.

The state government is seeking to extend the weekend, with new legislation to allow Western Australian pubs, taverns and small bars to trade until midnight on Sundays introduced in parliament today.

Mining giant BHP Billiton has contributed about half a million dollars towards the construction of a walk trail on Rottnest Island, making it the largest contribution to the island by a corporate entity.

Tourists may soon get another option for lodging at Rottnest Island, with the state government putting out the call for operators to develop a resort and marina at Thomson Bay.

China has long been identified as one of Western Australia’s most important tourism markets, but the state could be just as important to the People’s Republic as it seeks to establish itself as a premier holiday destination and international travel hub.

The state government has decided to maintain regulation of regional aviation at a higher level than had been recommended in a review last year.

Peter Prendiville and Howard Cearns will continue as Tourism WA chair and deputy chair respectively for another three year term, Tourism Minister Kim Hames announced today.

The third DoubleTree by Hilton hotel announced for Perth will likely be the first to open, with forward works about to start and a ground-breaking ceremony held at the Northbridge site today.

Perth Airport has made progress towards the development of the first of two hotels planned for the airport, putting out the call for an experienced operator.The hotel is planned to be located at the A