
What makes Mindeerup so special is its unique blend of art, culture, history and progress. Mindeerup is the traditional Noongar name meaning “place of the shore” and here are 10 reasons why it’s a sure thing for your next catch up.
1. Gateway to South Perth
Mindeerup connects the Perth CBD with South Perth and Perth Zoo in one bold statement. Jump on the ferry at Elizabeth Quay and watch the giant numbat and frilled neck lizard canopies come into view and warmly welcome as you approach.
2. Meet the Mends Street Mob
Meet a mob of meerkats at the piazza and along Mends Street as you make your way to Perth Zoo. The Mends Street Mob are adorably realistic and made with love by artist Mikaela Castledine using crocheted polypropylene. The perfect selfie opportunity – don’t forget to #Mindeerup.
3. See eye to eye with an emu… or three!
A family of life size emus have claimed Mindeerup as home. You can touch them, hug them and even climb on them... the true meaning of interactive art! They’re a fun way for children to learn about these unique Australian birds and artist Russell Sheridan has done a great job in bringing them to life.
4. Rock the wall
The art theme continues from the piazza up Mends Street with two colourful botanical murals. Think kangaroo paw, wattle and banksia in vibrant technicolour. Painted by Joanna Brown of Laeline Design, you’ll find them near the Mill Point Road end of Mends Street near The Windsor Hotel and BP service station. Yet another chance to get your cameras out and poses at the ready while you take a pit stop!
5. Say hello to history
Not only is the piazza culturally rich, it’s also rich in history too. The area is significant in Noongar culture and heritage and so many elements purposely and respectfully pay homage to its history.
Look out for the sand sculpture references in the paving near the grass area at the piazza. Intricate patterns reference storm clouds, emu feathers, rock formations, waterholes and song lines, all inspired by artist Yondee Shane Hansen.
6. Pack a picnic
Mindeerup is a great spot for a picnic and there are plenty of shops along Mends Street to pick up provisions. Because the area lights up when the sun goes down, you can make a night of it - watch the sun set over the CBD and then stay on for the light show courtesy of the piazza’s spectacular chandelier which changes colour throughout the evening.
Mends Street is home to fabulous cafes, eateries and bars. Round up your tribe and head to The Windsor Hotel, Automatic, Atomic Espresso or Health Freak Café. Mister Walker, Coco’s, Rambla on Swan and Miss Chow’s offer uninterrupted views of the piazza and Swan River. Kids will love the ice creams and waffles from Gelare or the hand-crafted pastries from La Patisserie.
8. Shopping and services
South Shore and the new Mends Street Arcade are home to great shops including homewares and gifts from Merchants on Mends St and clothing by Sportscraft, Blue Illusion, Decjuba, Mariko and Motion Lifestyle. Beauty on Mends, House of Haylo hairdressing, Cinderella’s and Pretty Polish Nails have your beauty needs catered for and The Good Grocer and Wine Box have your dinner (or picnic) options covered!
The piazza has a great kids’ playground and accessible public toilets. Grab a takeaway coffee from the Mister Walker window, pull up a seat on the limestone wall and watch the little ones actively play.
Mindeerup is all about celebrating community spirit. It’s been named as one of Perth’s 20 most Instagrammable places for 2020! So be social and put some local glam in your ‘gram!
When you visit, be sure to tag @cityofsouthperth, #discoversouthperth and #mindeerup.
- 28 Feb '20