Crown Perth marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its 40th anniversary, reflecting on its evolution from a swampland into a premier entertainment and hospitality hub. Officially opened on December 30, 1985, the venue has transformed over the decades, becoming a cornerstone of both local and tourist experiences in Perth.
The history of Crown Perth is rich with memorable moments. From the inaugural concert featuring Mick Jagger at the Burswood Dome in 1988 to hosting former US President Bill Clinton in 2002, countless stories have emerged from this vibrant space. The casino was originally known as Burswood Island Casino, which was, at its inception, the third largest of its kind globally.
CEO Brian Pereira, who grew up in Perth, recently reminisced with employees who were present on opening day. Among them is May Wong, who emigrated from Malaysia just weeks before the launch. “I came in December, and a week later, I saw the opening of the casino, so I straight away applied for a job, any job,” she shared with The Sunday Times. Starting as a cashier, Wong has progressed to the role of cage shift manager, where she oversees operations in the casino’s money centre.
The early days were marked by hard work and dedication. Ann Joel, who played a crucial role in promoting the casino, recalls the frantic preparations leading up to the launch. “We all had blisters on our feet, we were just here 18 hours a day getting it ready,” she said. The excitement of the opening day was palpable, with staff working tirelessly to ensure a smooth experience for casino guests.
The venue has seen numerous transformations, including the introduction of fine dining options and hotels. The culinary scene initially faced challenges, with chefs cooking in makeshift facilities. Today, it boasts a variety of high-quality dining experiences. Pereira emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere, stating, “Whether they met their first date here on the dance floor, been proposed to here, had a wedding night here, or come here to celebrate an anniversary — this is the place people remember.”
Looking to the future, Crown Perth is set to launch the new Urban Food District in February 2024, marking its largest investment in over a decade. This initiative aims to diversify its offerings with more accessible dining options, including Side Piece Pizza, Tekka Bar, and Burgers by ES (Eggslut), all making their Australian debuts as founding tenants. Pereira believes this development will place Crown Perth at the forefront of the city’s next phase of growth.
“We want to play our part in the next 40 years and reinvent what Perth could be,” Pereira remarked. His vision aligns with a broader optimism about the city’s trajectory, suggesting that Crown Perth will continue to be an integral part of local culture and entertainment.
As the celebrations for the 40th anniversary approach, Crown Perth plans several events around the December 30 date, inviting guests to relive the nostalgia of its storied past. With a commitment to innovation and community engagement, Crown Perth aims to maintain its status as a leading entertainment destination in Australia.
