The Australian Dental Congress 2025: An intriguing destination (part 2)

While the Australian Dental Congress 2025 (ADC2025) will attract people because of its superlative learning opportunities, expansive exhibition and networking opportunities, there’s no doubt that the host city of Perth is also a highly compelling reason to attend. In September’s issue of the News Bulletin, we took you on a tour of the outdoor offerings and the culturally rich indoor places to visit but this time, we’re taking in the must-sees of the city and the wider reaches of next year’s host state, Western Australia ... and yes, that does include its famous quokkas!

Fremantle

Commonly known as ‘Perth’s Old Town’ Fremantle, aka Freo, sits just a half-hour ride away from where ADC2025 will be held. Bursting with vibrancy, colour and culture, the city offers a varied range of attractions. If you like watching the world go by while you sip some coffee, then take a wander down Cappuccino Strip; if you want to sample great food, head to the outdoor food markets and trucks or Fishing Boat Harbour. If you’re looking for activity after all that food and coffee, then go for a swim at stunning Bathers Beach or go for a walk and explore the shops, galleries and cafes in the city’s historic West End.

Swan Valley

Just 25 minutes from Perth, the Swan Valley is known for its lush pastures, local gourmet producers and some of Australia’s oldest wineries, including Nikola Estate, founded in the 1830s, and Oliver Farm Wines, which predates Nikola by just a few years. Besides the allure of an impressive number of winemakers, the Swan Valley offers the chance to explore the historic town of Guildford and the quiet natural and manmade beauty of Chittering, with the quaint townships it contains. This is an area where you can take your time and just lose yourself in the grand adventure of exploring a beautiful place.

Wadjemup (Rottnest Island)

One of those places which is close to everything, but which feels like a million miles from care, Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) offers everyone’s favourite little creature, the quokka, but also a dazzling sequence of 20 pristine bays and 63 spectacular beaches. Take the ferry and then bike around or, if you’re so inclined, skydive. Whatever you choose to do, this is a place to escape and be subsumed in the wonder and beauty of the natural world.

Rockingham

Situated within an hour of Perth, Rockingham is the perfect place to head if you’re after water-based activities. You can dive with the dolphins, swim with the seals, scuba dive or go fishing. Whatever your outdoor-loving heart desires, Rockingham has it all – in a mesmerisingly gorgeous setting.

Cottesloe Beach

As photographed in the country’s west as Bondi Beach is in the east, Cottesloe is home to luxurious, cream-coloured sand, towering Norfolk pines and translucent turquoise waters. Go for a swim or a lazy walk, or just take in the huge choice of cafes and restaurants. Want more? Head north to Swanbourne or City Beaches for even more dining, swimming and sunbathing options.

Ningaloo Reef

If you have the time, head north to Cape Range and the exquisitely lovely UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. Swim with the whale sharks, of course, but also spend some time with the manta rays, turtles and humpback whales too.

We would like to acknowledge Business Events Perth and Tourism Western Australia for their assistance in the preparation of this article.