Great things to buy

Aboriginal Artworks

These are in great demand.

Please note that a painting purchased anywhere in the world (including WA) without a certificate of authenticity will probably be hard to resell; even if the painting is said to be by a well-known artist and is expensive. Be cautious if you are paying a substantial price.
 

Please have a look at the Aboriginal Australia site; which covers Aboriginal art, culture and tourism options and allows you to buy art and products online at www.aboriginalaustralia.com.

Australian Artists

We have a considerable number of very talented non-aboriginal artists; living and working in various capital cities, and regional centres within Australia.
 

They produce some magnificent works of art, that reflect upon beautiful places that you may see on your DriveWA adventure; personifying and captivating the Australian way of life.

There are some outstanding galleries to visit whilst you DriveWA. Note that there are more in the South West than in the Northern areas of the country.

Australian Photography

We also have some outstanding Australian photographic artists! You can view these artistic pieces as a lasting memento of your DriveWA escape; or as a decorative piece for your home or office.

Australiana

The term “Australiana” is often used for small gifts one might buy for friends and are much the same as souvenirs. Check them carefully as some are excellent, but some are very poor quality. We recommend as gifts, hand knitted Australian wool products and Emu products; Australian gold; pearls and opals.

Books

There are some wonderful books with images of Australia available as gifts for those poor souls left behind!
 

We recommend that you spend some time in some specialist bookshops whilst you are DrivingWA - you'll find a section devoted to Australiana.One of the great pleasures of many DriveWA adventures are the quiet times beside the pool or the tent, simply reading – something we don’t do often enough at home, to inform and uplift the spirit.

Van Oosterzce & Morrison's The Centre - The Natural History of Australia’s Desert Regions, is one of the more affordable and informative texts. The two-volume Australia’s Wilderness Heritage, published by Angus & Robertson, is quite affordable in the paper back version, and is filled with stunning photographs. At the Wilderness Society Stores, in each capital city, you'll find a good range of wildlife posters, calendars, and books.

Australian Wines

Now these are quite something! Australian wines are becoming incredibly reputable throughout the world; particularly those from the South West region of Western Australia. Some of the better wineries will pack and deliver to your, or your friend’s home; if that is more convenient than carrying bottles of wine with you.

Oz Beer

This is a great present for you, and friends or family. Sample all you want, Australian beers are incredible. They have a very distinctive taste when compared to Belgian and German beers.

Outback Clothing & Surf Wear

Australia’s significant contributions to fashion are the “outback look” and surfing gear.

Surf-wear labels such as Rip Curl, Quicksilver, Mambo and Billabong make good buys. You can pick up printed T-shirts, colourful board-shorts, the latest beach wear, and fashion wear in surf and sports shops all over the country.
 

Akubra hats, moleskin pants and blundstone boots are very typically Australian. RM Williams is a well-known bush-clothing brand. They have fantastic gear, and are appropriate for a variety of ages, sizes and shapes.

Opals & Gemstones

The opal is Australia’s national gemstone, and opal jewellery is popular for a souvenir or gift. It is a beautiful stone, but can be expensive in some stores/cities. It would be wise to shop around for quality at a good price.

Pearls

Broome is famous for its pearls; there are many jewellery shops there and in Perth, where natural or cultured pearls are widely available. Mother of Pearl can be purchased from a variety of markets, including the Canningvale and Subiaco Pavilion Markets.

Gold

The history of WA, and the areas around Kalgoorlie in particular, have been moulded by the discovery of substantial gold deposits. Australian gold coins, jewellery, and nuggets are greatly prized as presents. A visit to the Perth Mint, and to the Kalgoorlie goldfields, is an essential part of a great DriveWA adventure.