22 September 2026 | The Australian Hotels Association (WA) says WA’s hospitality industry is set for a bumper long weekend, with Fremantle’s AFL Grand Final appearance, the Wallabies’ Test against South Africa, and the King’s Birthday public holiday leading into the school holidays expected to drive strong trade across the State.
Fremantle’s AFL Grand Final appearance will generate significant demand, with many pubs and venues already booked out for Saturday as fans prepare to watch the Dockers play for the premiership for the first time in 13 years.
The Wallabies’ clash with South Africa at Optus Stadium on Sunday will bring an international sporting event to Perth, while the public holiday on Monday gives visitors and locals another day to enjoy the State’s pubs, bars and other hospitality venues.
AHA(WA) CEO Bradley Woods AM said the weekend was shaping up to be a fantastic one for WA hospitality.
“If the energy across WA’s pubs during Friday night’s Preliminary Final with Fremantle was anything to go by, your local is set to be the best seat in the house for this weekend,” Mr Woods said.
“Many pubs and venues are already booked out for Saturday, while the Wallabies will bring another major sporting crowd to Perth on Sunday.
“The public holiday gives people an extra day to stay in Perth, get out and enjoy our hospitality venues and spend locally.”
The AFL Grand Final will be played on Saturday 26 September, followed by the Wallabies’ Test against South Africa at Optus Stadium on Sunday 27 September. The King’s Birthday public holiday will be observed across most of WA on Monday 28 September.
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For more info, contact Kim Forrester, media & communications executive on 0411 777 593 or mecom@ahawa.asn.au
