Crown Perth marked its 40th anniversary on December 30, 2025, celebrating its transformation from a swampland into a vibrant entertainment hub. Originally opened as Burswood Island Casino in 1985, it has since evolved into a multifaceted destination featuring fine dining, hotels, and a theatre. The venue has undergone several name changes and branding updates, notably adopting the Crown name in 2012 under the ownership of Crown Resorts.
The celebration was highlighted by reflections from long-standing employees, including May Wong, who began her career at Crown just after its opening. Having emigrated from Malaysia, Wong was among the first employees and recalled her journey from working as a cashier to becoming the cage shift manager. “I came in December, and a week later, I saw the opening of the casino,” she shared with The Sunday Times. “That’s how I started as a cashier in the buffet, in the centre of the casino.” Her experiences include encounters with various celebrities, including cricket legend Shane Warne and musician Paul McCartney.
Reflecting on the early days, Ann Joel, who was instrumental in promoting the casino, described the frantic preparations leading up to the launch. “We all had blisters on our feet,” she recalled, noting that staff worked tirelessly to ensure everything was perfect, even polishing the brass railings just minutes before the grand opening. The initial response was overwhelming, with a record turnout that kept the venue’s staff busy around the clock.
The casino quickly became known for its high standards and luxurious atmosphere, a vision spearheaded by then-CEO John Allen and businessman Dallas Dempster. Staff were encouraged to maintain an elegant appearance, reflecting the sophisticated environment. Lorette Spicer, a wardrobe manager and stylist since the early days, explained how her role has evolved. “The idea was that if it was beautiful on the floor, then the patrons would dress up,” she said, highlighting the shift towards a more refined aesthetic.
As current CEO Brian Pereira takes the helm, he reflects on the significance of the casino’s opening as a transformative moment for Perth. Pereira, who joined the company as CFO before being promoted to CEO in May 2023, noted that the venue has become part of the social fabric of the city. “Whether they met their first date here, been proposed to here, or come here to celebrate an anniversary — this is the place people remember,” he stated.
Looking forward, Crown Perth is set to unveil a new Urban Food District in February 2026, marking its largest investment in over a decade. This initiative aims to enhance the dining experience by introducing new concepts, including Side Piece Pizza and Tekka Bar, both of which will open their first Australian locations at Crown. Pereira expressed confidence that this development aligns with his vision of making Crown Perth the ultimate entertainment destination in the city.
Crown Perth plans to commemorate its 40th anniversary with a series of celebrations around the anniversary date, inviting guests to reminisce and relive the excitement of its opening. As the venue enters this new era of growth, it aims to embrace the changing landscape of Perth while continuing to be a cornerstone of entertainment and hospitality in the region.
The journey of Crown Perth over the past four decades is not just a reflection of its growth but also of the community it has built, where countless memories have been made. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier entertainment hub, Crown Perth remains a vital part of Perth’s identity.
