HALO Rooftop Climb at Optus Stadium

Optus Stadium opened in Burswood, across the Swan River from East Perth, in January 2018. It holds more than 61,000 spectators and is home ground for the West Coast Eagles and Fremantle in Australian rules football, as well as hosting cricket, including the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League, and rugby. Since February 2021 visitors have also been able to climb onto its roof on the HALO experience.

HALO is a guided 360-degree walk around the stadium's roof, rising 42 metres above the ground. The climb lasts about 90 minutes and starts with a safety briefing, after which a tour leader guides the group around the roof. Along the way the guide covers how the stadium was built and how it operates on game days, and the route gives views of the Derbarl Yerrigan, as the Swan River is also known, and of the city skyline. The tour includes time on the Western Viewing Deck, digital images of your climb to share afterwards, a branded hat and a discount at the stadium's merchandise store.

There are firm requirements. Climbers must be over eight years old, at least 1.2 metres tall and weigh between 30 and 134 kilograms, and children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Guests aged 75 and over need to provide a signed medical certificate. You need to wear enclosed, flat shoes and light, comfortable clothing suited to the weather, such as activewear, and bring sunglasses and sunscreen, as the roof is exposed. Book online in advance through the stadium's booking page and check all of the conditions before you go.

The climb suits active couples, groups of friends and families with older children who want a different view of Perth. Because of the height, it is best avoided by anyone uncomfortable with exposed places.

Getting there is easy. Perth Stadium station, on the Armadale and Thornlie line, serves the venue, and on a fine day you can walk over the Matagarup Bridge from East Perth and the city side of the river. The Matagarup Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the river that links the stadium precinct directly with East Perth.