Thinking of a career in tourism and hospitality? Smart move. The opportunities in the industry are as varied as the dreamy destinations you can work in across Western Australia. But don’t take our word for it. Listen to the locals who are living the dream, from flying helicopters to leading hikes through beautiful bush, creating culinary sensations to running tourist centres. As Esperance (Kepa Kurl) tour operator Jaimen says: “The tourism business enables me to do what others would pay to do for my career and if that isn’t living the dream, I don’t know what is.”
Not sure where to start? Watch the below career videos to see where working in tourism and hospitality can take you.
Volunteer and help create memorable experiences for visitors like Alan
When Alan retired he wanted to give back to his community. In volunteering at the Fremantle Visitor Centre, he can share his love of Fremantle with cruise ship visitors to help create memorable experiences for them – all while being part of a fun team.
“You get to meet such a great mix of people, and find out where they come from, what they do, what they enjoy, and you can explore that with them – so it’s really great fun and very rewarding” – Alan Hindes, Cruise Volunteer, Fremantle Visitor Centre
Be part of amazing events in a fun stadium role like Alex
Working in stadiums allows you to be a part of large and exciting events such as Coldplay, as Alex describes. Having a disability didn’t stop Alex from securing a rewarding food and beverage role at Optus Stadium and he encourages others to do the same!
“It’s impacted my life very positively, I can go to the events and see stuff, I can meet new people, build on my skills for future jobs…give it a go, it doesn’t hurt to try” – Alex McDonagh, Hospitality team member, Optus Stadium
Work your way around WA in regional paradise like Jean and Iian
Step outside into your office! As a supervisor, manager, receptionist or grounds person of a holiday or caravan park, glamping resort or eco retreat, every day could be spent working in one of WA’s most iconic locations.
“We plan on making our way down the coastline because there are a lot opportunities here and we are just really enjoying what Western Australia has to offer.” – Jean Willmot & Iian Stimson, Receptionist & Groundskeeper at RAC Cable Beach Holiday Park
Drive adventure seekers around town like Michael
There are endless opportunities waiting for you in Western Australia. You’ll find the change of pace a refreshing contrast to what you’re used to. Plus you can’t beat our weather, it’s always summer somewhere.
“I never thought I’d be able to do the commentary… its been really good getting to meet all the people. They’re always on holiday and always happy.” – Mick Smith, Coach Driver for Willie Creek Pearl Farm
Meet people who are living the dream
From Nursing to Nature: Elise Parker’s inspiring Transition to Tour Guiding
Ten years ago Elise took a career break from being a Registered Nurse and reinvented herself as a tour guide. It has been a transformative experience, offering physical and mental health benefits, opportunities for learning and growth, and the chance to engage with and care for others.
From retirement to an endless road trip – Meet the WA couple doing things right!
Did someone say work-life balance? Meet RAC Cable Beach Holiday Park receptionist and groundskeeper, Jean and Iian. Jean and Iian have been living the good life on the road for three years since taking their hard earned long-service leave.
Meet Outback Flavour Creator, Toby Fisher
Meet Toby – the travelling chef from South London, who’s made his mark working in Michelin restaurants across Europe, and now calls Western Australia’s Coral Coast home.
SPOTLIGHT ON: ERIC CORRIGAN
Tell us how you spend your days. What do you do?
I’m a meeter and greeter, I used to guide the tours now does the meet and greet as people come in down at the Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum (the Forts). I used to volunteer 7 days a week, I then moved to a couple of days a week, now I only do four hours a week on a Sunday morning.
SPOTLIGHT ON: SUE O’CONNOR
What do you love most about the industry?
When I discovered tourism and found out I could actually get paid to travel, my Dad’s words rang in my ears. He said to me once a long time ago “Sue, the luckiest people in the world are those that find something they’re passionate about and then find someone to pay them to do it”. It took me a long time, but I’m finally there Dad!
SPOTLIGHT ON: ANDRE BURFORD
Tell us how you spend your days. What do you do?
Each day brings different situations and challenges; but typically, my day commences with reviewing and preparing for our VIP arrivals and departures, our scheduled functions and the general ins and outs of the day. Once all my admin duties are completed, I work with my team on the floor to review all guests’ requests and transport requirements. Our goal is to meet and farewell all guests and assist them to the extent possible while they’re with us.