Western Australia is the largest, most sparsely populated and most isolated state in Australia. Perth, the largest city in WA, with a population of 1.4 million, houses 80% of the state's population. This may explain why the rock around Perth is the most developed and easily accessible in the state. 

Within a 100km radius of the city there are some 700 routes offering a great variety of climbing from delicate slabs to cracks and steep walls. There are more than a dozen crags (some of the quarries sound a bit chossy) and about half a dozen bouldering areas scattered throughout the Perth hills. The Perth region offers a lot of traditional climbing, so take a rack! And on a rainy day, three or four indoor climbing gyms can be found in the suburbs. 

ROCK: Most of the crags are granite but dolerite is also present.

LOCATION: Western Australia! It's not possible to describe the multitude of Perth crags here. It's best to buy the guide book or ask a local.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: There are several different climatic zones in WA. In the south-west, around Perth, could be described as mild 'Mediterranean'. In the summer there is very little rain and the temperatures are not extreme. The winter can be cold and wet. September to May are best.

CAMPING: As in most large cities there is a vast array of accommodation possibilities. As with most large cities the camp sites are not that close to the city centre. The closest to the centre is Central Caravan Park (Ph: 277 1704) 38 Central Ave, Redcliffe. Tent sites cost $14. One of best hostels is Hay St Backpackers (No 286) Ph: 221 9880.

RECOMMENDED READING: Perth Rock: A topo guide to rock climbing around Perth. Published by: Stone Publications, PO Box 1355 Subiaco WA 6008 Australia.

Perth Rock Climbing Guide (2002). Published by the Climbers Association of Western Australia, www.climberswa.asn.au: