My town: The natural beauty and fabulous lifestyle of Mandurah

Peter Keogh is in his mid-70s. He has worked in the theatre industry all around the world. Among his many theatre friends was the late Debbie Reynolds. Peter currently works at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre. He married his partner of 30 years, Sacha, in March. Peter and Sacha have lived in Mandurah, Western Australia for 10 years. Here, he shares some great tips for any fellow Travel at 60 Travel Lovers who might be interested in having a look around…

About your town

Describe your town in a couple of sentences:

“Mandurah is an exciting, growing and friendly town where every day is like being on holiday. It has almost everything offered by the larger cities, but with much less stress.

An interesting thing people might not know about your town is…

“It’s a thriving city on the south coast of Western Australia, approximately 71 kilometres from Perth. Mandurah is one of the fastest-growing cities in Australia – its current population of almost 88,000 is expected to grow to almost 120,000 by 2036.

What are the best events that take place in your town throughout the year that you’d really recommend to visitors?

“The Mandurah Crab Festival (held in March every year) is the largest free community event in WA.

“The Stretch Arts Festival, a two-day festival in which participants experience and enjoy performance, dance, music, visual arts, theatre and outdoor activities, attracts renowned and up-and-coming local artists, as well as Australian and international companies and artists.

“Once a month, the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre presents ‘Morning Melodies’, which is particularly suited to over-60s and is becoming one of the most popular events on the centre’s calendar.”

Why do you love your town so much? 

“Because despite its rapidly growing population, it maintains the charm of a seaside holiday city, with all the amenities of any big city. The people are friendly, relaxed and welcoming. Our mayor, Rhys Williams, is also very progressive and has his finger on the pulse of the needs of the city and its population.”

The best list

Best thing for every first-time visitor to do in your town? 

“Take a canal cruise, especially during the Christmas period when canal homes are decorated and awarded prizes for their efforts.”

Best place for a coffee?

“Dome Halls Head – they do an excellent latte and you can sit facing the bay.”

Best place for a walk?

“Along the beaches and around the restaurants on the canals.”

Best place to look out over an amazing view? 

“The top rooms at the Seashells Resort.”

Best thing to do at night? 

“Get along to an event at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre.”

Best thing to do in town for free?

“Easily it is going for a walk around the bay and checking out the beaches.”

Best thing to do for under $20? 

“Visit the Mandurah Forum Food Court.”

Best thing to do if money is no object? 

“Spend a week in a villa at the Seashells Mandurah Resort with a view that faces out towards the ocean.”

Best souvenir to take home from your town?

“Crabs, during the season.”

Best thing to do on a hot day?

“You can’t beat a visit to the many beaches we have in the area. You could also go to the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre.”

Best place to warm up on a winter’s day? 

“In front of the log fire at The Bridge Restaurant.”

Best restaurant with a view? 

“Red Manna Waterfront Restaurant.”

Best cheap-and-cheerful restaurant?

“The Oyster Bar, which is the friendliest restaurant in Mandurah. It has excellent food, including the state’s best oysters. The menu changes monthly and they have regular specials and ‘Happy Hour’. There’s live music there during the week, and it also has a delightful view overlooking the bay and the family beach. The staff are exceptional and make every effort to please the patrons. It’s a great place for families too!”

Best place for a top-notch meal?

“The Peninsular Restaurant.”

Best place in town for breakfast?

“I’d head to the Stage Door Restaurant.”

Best place for visitors to pick up something special?

“Mandjar Markets on the foreshore every Sunday from 9am from October to May.”

Best place to go if you want to learn more about your town?

“The Mandurah Community Museum and/or the Mandurah Visitor Centre.”

Do you love where you live? Do you have some great tips to share with any Travel at 60 visitors who might be visiting? Let us know at [email protected].