WWE returning to Perth this December

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For those playing at home in our Fremantle Dockers poll last week, it looks like after just over 1,200 responses, two-thirds of you are all aboard the purple express (with a fair whack feeling just a little nervous about it). Indeed, big few weeks lie ahead, starting at home on Thursday night!

Until then, I hope you enjoy the beginning of a two-part series looking back at one of Western Australia’s — if not the country’s — best music festivals. We also got news last week that the WWE’s presence in Perth is locked in for a few more years, while Serpentine-Jarrahdale continues its push to become a bona fide horse trails town — giddy up.

^{Troy Mutton, Editor-In-Chief, Perth is OK!}

There are music festivals you attend for the lineup, some you attend because your friends are going, and others you attend because somewhere along the way they started to become your personality a little bit…

Wave Rock Weekender has long belonged firmly in the latter category – just ask anyone who’s had to unfortunate pleasure of listening to this writer bang on about it in the days/weeks/months after attending each year.

For three days each spring, 800ish people make the long drive east to Hyden, squeeze tents into a colourful, chaotic campsite and give themselves over to a strange little world built at the foot of one of Western Australia’s most recognisable natural landmarks.

There is one intimate main stage, a pair of late-night dance floors, a salt pond, bush walks, morning Bloody Marys, sunset applauses and – a major part of the festival’s success – no phone reception.

There is silliness and stillness. Wonder, whimsy and wild nights. And, after 20 editions, Wave Rock Weekender returns for its 21st – and final – dance this year.

They’re right on the city’s doorstep, but when was the last time you took a leisurely drive into the hills?

Don’t worry, we’re overdue, too – which is why we’ve rounded up just some of the best eating, drinking and exploring the area has to offer!