The Perth 2050 report, authored by accredited futurist Dr Ben Hamer, will paint a picture of the potential changes and opportunities for Perth in 25 years and provide the research findings from almost 1,500 Perthites who responded to our survey with Scitech conducted in September. I look forward to sharing the report with you and continuing to activate our collective vision to shape a vibrant Perth for future generations. Spaces are filling up fast so reserve your place today! Since starting as CEO for Committee for Perth I find I travel differently, constantly comparing and looking for ideas for Perth.

In October I spent four weeks in Spain and Dublin and I thought you might be interested in my Top 5 ideas and inspiration highlights from this trip. You can find my TOP 10 list here.

1. Impact of place branding: From Bilbao and Toledo to Seville and Granada, you couldn’t miss how
   these cities promote their ‘brand’ – providing many ‘insta ops’. Like our Yagan Square PERTH sign but
   in more opportune spots. Think Kings Park with the city back drop and our city’s name in lights. A
   drawcard for visitors, who would promote Perth to the world with their selfies.
2. One BIG thing: Bilbao has been transformed by the Guggenheim, Granada has the Ancient Alhambra, will Perth’s ‘one big thing’ be our new Aboriginal Cultural Centre? Major tourist attractions certainly help draw the crowds. Imagine the possibilities for Perth!
3. Apartment living: 65 percent of Spaniards live in apartments, according to Eurostat; one of the
   highest rates in Europe. I think this is why there is more outdoor dining and intergenerational
   community activity long into the night – every night. A definite benefit of higher density living.
4. Active transport: Interestingly I didn’t see any hire scooters on our travels, but electric bikes were
   everywhere. In Dublin, the Irish Government has introduced a cycle to work scheme where anyone
   can get a new bike through their work. The employer pays the cost, and the employee repays in
   instalments and do not get taxed on their payments. Ideas for us!
5. Mobile pets: It became the norm to see cats and dogs in back packs and on trains in special carriers.
   Pets are as mobile as the rest of us.

While holidays are amazing, and I find the wonders of the world fill my soul, I do love coming home to the iridescent blue sky of Perth. And I’ve returned to so many events this month! Until 17 November, visit WA Museum Boola Bardip to see The Lester Prize, one of Australia’s most prestigious portraiture exhibitions. Or be blown away by the work of Stormie Mills at FORM in Claremont. Gallery Central at North Metropolitan TAFE is showing Precursor until 14 November. It’s the West Test Summer Fest from 22 November at Optus Stadium, a free Indian-themed festival outside the stadium while inside its the First Test between Australia and India. This coming weekend, immerse yourself in the Fusion Food and Culture Festival in Gosnells. And PrideFEST is back, with its spectacular Parade through Northbridge culminating with the Parade Party presented by City of Perth, the Pride Luncheon at Crown Perth, or “surrender yourself to a queer wonderland” with The Huxleys at Fremantle Arts Centre from 9 November. Hope to see you out and about in November!

Until next time,
Paula Rogers
Chief Executive Officer
Committee for Perth

P.S. Nominations are open now for the Business News 2025 40 under 40 Awards, celebrating WA’s leading
entrepreneurs and future business leaders under the age of 40. Have a think who you would like to nominate.