Latest news with #OptusStadium
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Revealed: The unique meaning behind two tiny details on footy heartthrob Bailey Smith's uniform
Geelong star Bailey Smith has opened up about the unique messages he writes on his footy boots before games, offering an insight into the Brownlow Medal favourite's mindset. Smith, known for his style on and off the pitch, captured the attention of Channel 7's Brian Taylor before Sunday's match against West Coast. 'This man here, Bailey Smith, he's talking the talk, but he's walking the walk to go with it,' Taylor said as the camera zoomed in to the midfielder's boots. 'Have a look at that: 'spartan' and 'take souls'. 'Take souls' - I've done a bit of investigating - has sort of a loose meaning, but it means you're so incredible at what you do that it forces other people to respect you, that's what 'take souls' means. 'That's a man full of confidence.' Footy legend Nick Riewoldt chimed in: 'Oh yeah, absolutely - and he's backing it up. 'One of the best players in the competition at the moment.' Smith was interviewed after the match and explained that he's been writing on his boots for a while. 'I just write on them every week, so nothing new,' he told Seven. 'Just (to) keep me in the present, keep me in the moment, that's about it.' The star midfielder racked up a season-high 38 disposals and Jeremy Cameron kicked four final-quarter goals as Geelong avoided a major boilover in a 43-point win over West Coast at Optus Stadium. The Cats led by just seven points early in the final quarter of Sunday night's match, and Eagles forward Noah Long had the chance to close the margin to one point with his 35m set shot. But Long's miss proved costly, with Geelong kicking seven of the next eight goals to secure the 17.14 (116) to 11.7 (73) win. Cameron was restricted to one goal across the first three quarters under the tight attention of Reuben Ginbey, but the star forward exploded late to blow out the margin. Smith tallied five clearances, one goal and 834m gained to go with his 38 disposals. He already had 25 disposals to his name by halftime before a tight tag from Brady Hough slowed him somewhat. Max Holmes (27 disposals, seven clearances) was also influential for Geelong, who improved their season record to 8-4. 'He just kept getting the ball early,' Geelong coach Chris Scott said of Smith. 'I thought he and Holmes were really penetrating.'
News.com.au
a day ago
- General
- News.com.au
McQualter pleased with improving Eagles
AFL: Eagles coach Andrew McQualter has addressed the media, following his side's loss to Geelong at Optus Stadium.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Eagles skipper Oscar Allen finds his happy place
West Coast co-captain Oscar Allen has found his mojo - it was hiding in the forward 50m arc all along. Allen produced his best game of the season by kicking 4.0 in Sunday's 43-point loss to Geelong at Optus Stadium. The 26-year-old kicked two goals in the second quarter and handed off another to help his team fight back from 29 points down. West Coast closed to within six points early in the last quarter before Geelong piled on seven of the final eight goals of the match to run away with the 17.14 (116) to 11.7 (73) win. Allen kicked 53 goals in 2023 to announce himself as one of the best key forwards in the competition. But he was so out of form earlier this year that he was moved into West Coast's defence for games against Hawthorn and Melbourne. Allen contributed strongly in those matches, and he expressed his desire to play wherever the team needed him most. But the glint in his eyes was evident when he returned to attack in round 10 against St Kilda. Allen kicked two goals in the upset win over St Kilda and followed it up with two goals against Adelaide. Allen snaps a fourth and the Eagles are sticking with the Cats 👀#AFLEaglesCats — AFL (@AFL) June 1, 2025 Jake Waterman's season-ending shoulder injury meant it was up to Allen to lead the team's attack against Geelong, and he stood up in grand style. "Look, we know how good a forward he is, but like I say always - the team will always come first for all of our players," West Coast coach Andrew McQualter said. "So Oscar having that flexibility is a bonus. We shouldn't look it as a as a negative thing. "It's a good thing for our team that he can play both ends of the ground, but he might have earned himself another week in the forward line." With All-Australian Waterman out of action for the rest of the year, you can bet your bottom dollar Allen will stay in attack to help the likes of Archer Reid and Jack Williams continue their development. "Archer and Jack are young. They're competing really hard, and they're getting some looks, but I think Oscar's experience there makes a big difference," McQualter said. Harley Reid tallied 19 disposals, seven clearances and a goal against Geelong despite being heavily tagged by Oisin Mullin. "I think he really had an impact on the game," McQualter said. "(Under a) heavy tag, from the outset, he worked his way into the game and had some really pivotal moments. "He's not going to have massive amount of touches when you get heavy tag like that, but he had some great moments that helped our team, for sure." West Coast (1-11) will be back in action on Sunday when they take on North Melbourne (2-1-8) in a bottom-of-the-table clash in Bunbury.
The Independent
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Independent
Why Perth has more to offer than just Ashes cricket this winter
'Kaya, nidja Wadjak Boodja' - Welcome to Whadjuk Country. It is a greeting you can expect to hear from the traditional owners of Western Australia when exploring the capital city of Perth and its surrounding areas. Its prevalence in many of Perth's tours, advertisements and institutions reveals a growing desire to respect the culture and traditions of the aboriginal population as part of a greater push to invest, build and reinvigorate the city in new and exciting ways. This is easily epitomised by the Perth Stadium but known as the Optus Stadium for sponsorship reasons. Officially opened in 2018 the stadium sits on the banks of the Swan River, a towering mass of brushed metal designed to emulate the landscape of Western Australia. It's an impressive sight and one that will dazzle English cricket fans when they flock in droves to Perth this November for the Ashes. Spectators will be able to partake in the stadium's Rooftop Climb experience and watch the cricket high in the sky or they can head to the nearby Matagarup Bridge for a more challenging climb and a fun zip line across the river. Perth is a bountiful city full of sights to explore, places to visit, and things to discover. Visitors wanting to branch out from the city's sporting roots will find plenty to satisfy them and below we've outlined some of best offerings Western Australia has in store. What to do King's Park and Botanic Gardens. Situated in the heart of the city and overlooking the mass of skyscrapers, Kings Park ( is one of the world's largest inner-city green spaces. It has incredible views of the Swan River and several walking trails through its botanic gardens. For a more illuminating trip combine with In-Culture Tours ( and learn about the origins of the Whadjuk Noongar, the aboriginal owners of the land Perth sits on and how they used the plants from the gardens in their everyday life. Tour owner and guide, Steven Jacobs, aims to give visitors a quick yet detailed insight into the culture of his Whadjuk ancestors and you will learn about the six seasons of the Noongar calendar, each based on an aspect of the natural world from blooming plants to the hibernation of animals, as well as aboriginal dreamtime and the Waugal – the rainbow serpent who is an embodiment of life and water. Explore the city. In the city, Elizabeth Quay is a central hub with pop up projects, such as aboriginal art installations and music events on display throughout the summer. Close by in Barrack Square is the famous Bell Tower where visitors can take a tour of the distinct building, learn about the English history of its 12 bells from St Martin-in-the-Fields Church and discover how the tower's design was conceived following an architectural competition. Perhaps combine sightseeing with foot tasting and head out on a Foodloose Tour ( an original Perth tour that takes visitors on a journey through the vibrant Northbridge, uncovering hidden gems, culinary must-dos and the latest food and drink hotspots. Visit Freemantle. An absolute must do for any trip to Perth. The City of Freemantle is a 20-minute drive or train journey away from the city centre. Labelled 'Freo' by the locals, Fremantle is a hive of independent businesses from second hand bookstores to markets and various eclectic food and drink establishments. It is a living shine to the European history of the area with museums, tours and a prison that each hold key details and stories about the birth and development of the region. Head out with experienced guides on a tour with Two Feet and a Heartbeat ( to learn about the significance of the limestone buildings and the difference between Convict and Federation era architecture. Stop off for a hot drink on the Cappuccino Strip, named as such for the plethora of coffee shops that populate South Terrace, and call in at the prison for one of the four tours that explain the history and significance of the building from how it was built to the countless escape attempts from famous inmates. As far as shopping goes, the century-old Fremantle markets ( are open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and feature top-notch food stalls, local souvenir and textile shops as well as fresh produce for those who like to sample local delicacies. As a port city, boat trips are also available from Fremantle to the nearby Rottnest Island and there are two museums, the Shipwreck Museum and the WA Maritime Museum, which detail the dangers of exploration and discovery at sea. Go to Rottnest Island As previously mentioned, ferry trips to Rottnest Island ( can be taken from Fremantle or the Perth city centre and cost $85 (£40.50) a return. Sat 18km off shore, it is a half hour boat ride away and is the sun, sea and surf holiday destination for Australians. Resembling a seriously up-market Haven Park, Rottnest is undergoing a $42m redevelopment to create a 109-room, 5-star hotel which hopes to reflect the cultural history of the island. Named The Lodge Wadjemup to honour the aboriginal people's name for the island the hotel has lake view rooms, and a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant called Sunsets which hopes to amaze visitors with its style and class. Other accommodation includes eco discovery tents, cabins and beach-side chalets while Segway Tours WA ( offer a fun, humorous, enjoyable, and knowledgeable way to explore the island. There are plenty of spots to swim, snorkel and enjoy water sports and as the home to Australia's quokka population Rottnest is a protected nature reserve. Head to the beach Cottesloe Beach is accessible by car or train and stretches along the west coast just 20 minutes from the city centre. A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, but not overly crowded, the white sand beach offers sun and sea favoured by holiday goers while British tourists will appreciate Amberjacks - a fish and chip shop right on the promenade. Water activities are in abundance including surfing, windsurfing and bodyboarding. For the sports minded Sea View Golf Club is a little walk down the sea front heading towards Fremantle. See the Swan Valley vineyards and distilleries Another must do. Spend a day or two north of Perth in the Swan Valley ( Over 150 attractions including vineyards and distilleries are open to visit and experience. Old Young's Gin Distillery ( which specialises in award winning gins and vodkas, is an authentic family run business for over 10 years. Owner James Young offers tastings and lunch as well as a brief insight into the history of the region. Just don't ask him his opinion on cricket unless you have a whole afternoon free to chat. No trip to the Swan Valley is complete without a stop off at the impressive Mandoon Estate. Established in 2008 by the Erceg family who purchased the historical 'Roe Family property' in Caversham, the estate focuses on a range of premium wines. It has three dining venues in the Wild Swan, Homestead Brewery and The Lawn and even provides accommodation for lengthier stays in the Swan Valley. Nestled right on the Swan River, the Mandoon Estate can be reached by boat, car or bus and supplies unique and local beers from in its brewery alongside the large variety of homegrown wines. For those looking to enjoy Australia's distinctive wildlife, the Swan Valley is also home to the Caversham Wildlife Park ( Home to over 2000 animals and 200 species, the Wildlife Park hosts animal presentations every day so visitors can get a feel for the Australian wildlife. Special tickets are available to hold koala's, meet wombats and feed kangaroos and a child-friendly farm show explores how local farmers survive and thrive in Western Australia. Check out the WACA redevelopment Cricket fans heading to Perth will want to visit the WACA. It is a ground full of history and tradition most often viewed in the early hours of the morning on television from across the world. The place of Adam Gilchrist's record-breaking test century in 2006 has undergone a major redevelopment since the Perth Stadium was constructed. Two swimming pools, a public gym and a sports museum are in the process of being added for the benefit of the local community while the facilities for athletes are being upgraded to meet ICC standards. Traditionalists fear not though as the ground retains its character and continues to host cricket matches from the Sheffield Shield to Women's Big Bash games. Where to stay Crown Towers For visitors who prioritise proximity to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers is the height of luxury with three expansive lagoon pools, fine dining restaurants and up-market shopping. Built in 2016 in compliment to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers has unparalleled views of the city skyline and the exclusive Crystal Club experience provides personalised service. Located on the 15th floor it offers an open terrace, sparkling champagne, concierge services, complimentary breakfasts and evening canapes. Book here. Hougoumont Hotel Heading to Fremantle? The quaint and quirky Hougoumont Hotel is a stone's throw away from the Cappuccino Strip and has small boutique rooms built using shipping containers. It is themed to suit the nearby surroundings of the port and offers Cabin and State rooms decked out with luxuries such as Nespresso coffee machines and toiletries fom Apelles Apothecary. For a slightly more historically themed place to stay look to Airbnb to hire out former prison warder cottages. Book here. DoubleTree by Hilton If a place in the city centre is desired, the DoubleTree by Hilton is perfectly situated on the Swan River just off Barrack Square. Its quayside location provides easy access to boats that head to the Perth Stadium or Swan Valley and a 10-minute walk will bring you into downtown Perth where you can visit the shopping malls and historic buildings like the Old Court and Royal Perth Mint. Book here. Where to eat Pink Taquito - Yagan Square Stories ( is a five-storey precinct in Yagan Square populated by nine bars, three restaurants, pop-up and rooftop bars and Perth's biggest beer garden. There truly is something for everyone from live music to colourful cocktails. The latest chapter at the prolific Stories establishment is Pink Taquito. A small but fun bar that provides an electric atmosphere with delightful tacos and tequila-favoured cocktails. Authentic Mexican food delivered with a modern and cheeky twist Pink Taquito will delight with its street-style food and bright creations. The Reveley - Elizabeth Quay This three-floor precinct established in 2016 offers different vibes and cuisines depending on where you dine. The ground floor favours family friendly bistro pub food while the first-floor restaurant serves contemporary modern Australian dining and fresh ocean fish including the seasonal barramundi with fennel dressing. The final floor is a rooftop bar complete with live DJs, bar service and cocktails. Il Lido Canteen – Cottesloe Columns of wine decorate the interior of this consistently busy Italian restaurant just off Cottesloe beach. Four long wooden tables encourage a friendly and familial atmosphere in Il Lido ( while large chalkboard menus, dim lighting and whitewashed walls provide a distinctly Italian feel to the Western Australian coastline. Standouts from the menu include Shark Bay scallops and the Italian sausage and datterino gigli. Tonic & Ginger (The Old Synagogue) - Fremantle One of four unique hospitality venues situated in a former Jewish synagogue, Tonic & Ginger is a bright and vibrous venue specialising in Asian cuisine. It's sharing menu encourages conversation between delicate but substantial courses. Try the fire cracker cauliflower with bang bang sauce or the all-encompassing $72 Feed Me course option.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Why Perth has more to offer than just Ashes cricket this winter
'Kaya, nidja Wadjak Boodja' - Welcome to Whadjuk Country. It is a greeting you can expect to hear from the traditional owners of Western Australia when exploring the capital city of Perth and its surrounding areas. Its prevalence in many of Perth's tours, advertisements and institutions reveals a growing desire to respect the culture and traditions of the aboriginal population as part of a greater push to invest, build and reinvigorate the city in new and exciting ways. This is easily epitomised by the Perth Stadium but known as the Optus Stadium for sponsorship reasons. Officially opened in 2018 the stadium sits on the banks of the Swan River, a towering mass of brushed metal designed to emulate the landscape of Western Australia. It's an impressive sight and one that will dazzle English cricket fans when they flock in droves to Perth this November for the Ashes. Spectators will be able to partake in the stadium's Rooftop Climb experience and watch the cricket high in the sky or they can head to the nearby Matagarup Bridge for a more challenging climb and a fun zip line across the river. Perth is a bountiful city full of sights to explore, places to visit, and things to discover. Visitors wanting to branch out from the city's sporting roots will find plenty to satisfy them and below we've outlined some of best offerings Western Australia has in store. King's Park and Botanic Gardens. Situated in the heart of the city and overlooking the mass of skyscrapers, Kings Park ( is one of the world's largest inner-city green spaces. It has incredible views of the Swan River and several walking trails through its botanic gardens. For a more illuminating trip combine with In-Culture Tours ( and learn about the origins of the Whadjuk Noongar, the aboriginal owners of the land Perth sits on and how they used the plants from the gardens in their everyday life. Tour owner and guide, Steven Jacobs, aims to give visitors a quick yet detailed insight into the culture of his Whadjuk ancestors and you will learn about the six seasons of the Noongar calendar, each based on an aspect of the natural world from blooming plants to the hibernation of animals, as well as aboriginal dreamtime and the Waugal – the rainbow serpent who is an embodiment of life and water. Explore the city. In the city, Elizabeth Quay is a central hub with pop up projects, such as aboriginal art installations and music events on display throughout the summer. Close by in Barrack Square is the famous Bell Tower where visitors can take a tour of the distinct building, learn about the English history of its 12 bells from St Martin-in-the-Fields Church and discover how the tower's design was conceived following an architectural competition. Perhaps combine sightseeing with foot tasting and head out on a Foodloose Tour ( an original Perth tour that takes visitors on a journey through the vibrant Northbridge, uncovering hidden gems, culinary must-dos and the latest food and drink hotspots. Visit Freemantle. An absolute must do for any trip to Perth. The City of Freemantle is a 20-minute drive or train journey away from the city centre. Labelled 'Freo' by the locals, Fremantle is a hive of independent businesses from second hand bookstores to markets and various eclectic food and drink establishments. It is a living shine to the European history of the area with museums, tours and a prison that each hold key details and stories about the birth and development of the region. Head out with experienced guides on a tour with Two Feet and a Heartbeat ( to learn about the significance of the limestone buildings and the difference between Convict and Federation era architecture. Stop off for a hot drink on the Cappuccino Strip, named as such for the plethora of coffee shops that populate South Terrace, and call in at the prison for one of the four tours that explain the history and significance of the building from how it was built to the countless escape attempts from famous inmates. As far as shopping goes, the century-old Fremantle markets ( are open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and feature top-notch food stalls, local souvenir and textile shops as well as fresh produce for those who like to sample local delicacies. As a port city, boat trips are also available from Fremantle to the nearby Rottnest Island and there are two museums, the Shipwreck Museum and the WA Maritime Museum, which detail the dangers of exploration and discovery at sea. Go to Rottnest Island As previously mentioned, ferry trips to Rottnest Island ( can be taken from Fremantle or the Perth city centre and cost $85 (£40.50) a return. Sat 18km off shore, it is a half hour boat ride away and is the sun, sea and surf holiday destination for Australians. Resembling a seriously up-market Haven Park, Rottnest is undergoing a $42m redevelopment to create a 109-room, 5-star hotel which hopes to reflect the cultural history of the island. Named The Lodge Wadjemup to honour the aboriginal people's name for the island the hotel has lake view rooms, and a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant called Sunsets which hopes to amaze visitors with its style and class. Other accommodation includes eco discovery tents, cabins and beach-side chalets while Segway Tours WA ( offer a fun, humorous, enjoyable, and knowledgeable way to explore the island. There are plenty of spots to swim, snorkel and enjoy water sports and as the home to Australia's quokka population Rottnest is a protected nature reserve. Head to the beach Cottesloe Beach is accessible by car or train and stretches along the west coast just 20 minutes from the city centre. A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, but not overly crowded, the white sand beach offers sun and sea favoured by holiday goers while British tourists will appreciate Amberjacks - a fish and chip shop right on the promenade. Water activities are in abundance including surfing, windsurfing and bodyboarding. For the sports minded Sea View Golf Club is a little walk down the sea front heading towards Fremantle. See the Swan Valley vineyards and distilleries Another must do. Spend a day or two north of Perth in the Swan Valley ( Over 150 attractions including vineyards and distilleries are open to visit and experience. Old Young's Gin Distillery ( which specialises in award winning gins and vodkas, is an authentic family run business for over 10 years. Owner James Young offers tastings and lunch as well as a brief insight into the history of the region. Just don't ask him his opinion on cricket unless you have a whole afternoon free to chat. No trip to the Swan Valley is complete without a stop off at the impressive Mandoon Estate. Established in 2008 by the Erceg family who purchased the historical 'Roe Family property' in Caversham, the estate focuses on a range of premium wines. It has three dining venues in the Wild Swan, Homestead Brewery and The Lawn and even provides accommodation for lengthier stays in the Swan Valley. Nestled right on the Swan River, the Mandoon Estate can be reached by boat, car or bus and supplies unique and local beers from in its brewery alongside the large variety of homegrown wines. For those looking to enjoy Australia's distinctive wildlife, the Swan Valley is also home to the Caversham Wildlife Park ( Home to over 2000 animals and 200 species, the Wildlife Park hosts animal presentations every day so visitors can get a feel for the Australian wildlife. Special tickets are available to hold koala's, meet wombats and feed kangaroos and a child-friendly farm show explores how local farmers survive and thrive in Western Australia. Check out the WACA redevelopment Cricket fans heading to Perth will want to visit the WACA. It is a ground full of history and tradition most often viewed in the early hours of the morning on television from across the world. The place of Adam Gilchrist's record-breaking test century in 2006 has undergone a major redevelopment since the Perth Stadium was constructed. Two swimming pools, a public gym and a sports museum are in the process of being added for the benefit of the local community while the facilities for athletes are being upgraded to meet ICC standards. Traditionalists fear not though as the ground retains its character and continues to host cricket matches from the Sheffield Shield to Women's Big Bash games. Crown Towers For visitors who prioritise proximity to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers is the height of luxury with three expansive lagoon pools, fine dining restaurants and up-market shopping. Built in 2016 in compliment to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers has unparalleled views of the city skyline and the exclusive Crystal Club experience provides personalised service. Located on the 15th floor it offers an open terrace, sparkling champagne, concierge services, complimentary breakfasts and evening canapes. Book here. Hougoumont Hotel Heading to Fremantle? The quaint and quirky Hougoumont Hotel is a stone's throw away from the Cappuccino Strip and has small boutique rooms built using shipping containers. It is themed to suit the nearby surroundings of the port and offers Cabin and State rooms decked out with luxuries such as Nespresso coffee machines and toiletries fom Apelles Apothecary. For a slightly more historically themed place to stay look to Airbnb to hire out former prison warder cottages. Book here. DoubleTree by Hilton If a place in the city centre is desired, the DoubleTree by Hilton is perfectly situated on the Swan River just off Barrack Square. Its quayside location provides easy access to boats that head to the Perth Stadium or Swan Valley and a 10-minute walk will bring you into downtown Perth where you can visit the shopping malls and historic buildings like the Old Court and Royal Perth Mint. Book here. Pink Taquito - Yagan Square Stories ( is a five-storey precinct in Yagan Square populated by nine bars, three restaurants, pop-up and rooftop bars and Perth's biggest beer garden. There truly is something for everyone from live music to colourful cocktails. The latest chapter at the prolific Stories establishment is Pink Taquito. A small but fun bar that provides an electric atmosphere with delightful tacos and tequila-favoured cocktails. Authentic Mexican food delivered with a modern and cheeky twist Pink Taquito will delight with its street-style food and bright creations. The Reveley - Elizabeth Quay This three-floor precinct established in 2016 offers different vibes and cuisines depending on where you dine. The ground floor favours family friendly bistro pub food while the first-floor restaurant serves contemporary modern Australian dining and fresh ocean fish including the seasonal barramundi with fennel dressing. The final floor is a rooftop bar complete with live DJs, bar service and cocktails. Il Lido Canteen – Cottesloe Columns of wine decorate the interior of this consistently busy Italian restaurant just off Cottesloe beach. Four long wooden tables encourage a friendly and familial atmosphere in Il Lido ( while large chalkboard menus, dim lighting and whitewashed walls provide a distinctly Italian feel to the Western Australian coastline. Standouts from the menu include Shark Bay scallops and the Italian sausage and datterino gigli. Tonic & Ginger (The Old Synagogue) - Fremantle One of four unique hospitality venues situated in a former Jewish synagogue, Tonic & Ginger is a bright and vibrous venue specialising in Asian cuisine. It's sharing menu encourages conversation between delicate but substantial courses. Try the fire cracker cauliflower with bang bang sauce or the all-encompassing $72 Feed Me course option. Perth package holiday deal Six nights accommodation and tickets to all 5 days of the first NRMA Insurance Ashes Test in Perth plus a six day Margaret River and Albany Self drive trip including accommodation and all inclusive car hire with international flights from London Heathrow. From £2470 per person:
