Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti and Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob believe Joondalup can play a pivotal role in Western Australia's tourism strategy through its world-class marinas, natural attractions and homegrown events.
Those were the key take aways from the City’s recent Destination Joondalup business forum, where the Deputy Premier addressed about 180 members of the Joondalup business community, tourism professionals and key stakeholders at Joondalup Resort.
Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob at the Destination Joondalup Business Forum
Deputy Premier Saffioti, who is also the WA Tourism Minister, spoke about the growing excitement throughout the northern corridor and beyond about the decades-in-the-making Ocean Reef Marina development as it continues to take shape at a great pace.
The project recently reached a significant milestone after the completion of the marina’s two breakwaters.
“A new marina, a new experience and, coupled with residents, Ocean Reef Marina will create a new iconic site for tourists in WA, a great generator of jobs for local people and an incredible place to promote and to support day trippers and visitors to Western Australia,” the Deputy Premier said.
Mayor Jacob said the City’s second world-class marina would only further Joondalup’s reputation as one of WA’s best coastal destinations.
“Our 17km of coastline is already home to Perth’s best beaches and Hillarys Boat Harbour, our gateway to beautiful Rottnest Island, is going through something of a renaissance with new eateries, attractions and events.” he said.
“The implementation of the WA Government Masterplan will bring even more attractions, accommodation and businesses to Hillarys.”
Ms Saffioti also spoke about the WA Government’s investment in Yellagonga Regional Park, which she referred to as the ‘Kings Park of the North.’
The WA Government is investing millions of dollars to support development of new nature playgrounds, picnic tables, shelters and of course, the Luisini Winery, itself a major tourism product here in the northern suburbs,” she said.
Joondalup Festival 2023 - Boola Djarat Wardan Light Show
The Deputy Premier said like the City of Joondalup, the WA Government had a focus on delivering popular homegrown events to attract visitation across the state. She praised the Joondalup Festival, winner of the 2023 Australian Event Award for Best Cultural, Arts or Music Event, for its phenomenal success in bringing a quarter of a million people to Hillarys Boat Harbour. Many visiting the northern corridor for the first time.
In this exciting journey toward a tourism-centric future, Joondalup invites residents, businesses, and visitors alike to be part of the unfolding narrative.
Together, they will shape Joondalup into a destination that not only captivates the imagination but also leaves an enduring legacy as a hub of innovation, culture, and natural beauty on the Western Australian tourism map.
To find out more about tourism and investment opportunities within the City of Joondalup visit joondalup.wa.gov.au/invest
