International pop star Troye Sivan chose a familiar and cherished corner of Western Australia for his start to 2026, trading global stages for the serene beaches of Yallingup.
A Low-Key Homecoming in the South West
The Grammy-nominated singer, who grew up in Perth's northern suburbs, returned to his home state over the festive period for a relaxed getaway with friends. During the New Year's break, observant visitors along Yallingup's coastline might have spotted the global music icon soaking up the sun just metres away.
Sharing snapshots of his 'hot boy summer' on social media, the 30-year-old reflected on his deep connection to the region. "Yallingup, Western Australia. I came here all the time as a kid," Sivan wrote in a heartfelt post on January 16, 2026. "I really think it's the most beautiful place on Earth."
He explained the trip was partly to celebrate a friend's milestone, adding, "This year we spent new years here because my friend Kayla is having a kid of her own. Happy 2026 everyone."
Sun, Surf and Sunset Dining
Sivan's holiday album featured classic South West experiences. The photos showed him enjoying sunny days on the sand, dining at the stylish Ilma Beach House in Bunker Bay, and admiring the area's famous pastel sunsets. The 'Rush' hitmaker also gave a shout-out to Airbnb for helping make the stay feel like home.
Born in South Africa but raised primarily in Perth, Sivan attended school in WA before relocating to Melbourne with his family. His last performance in Western Australia was a notable homecoming, headlining the Spilt Milk Festival at Kings Park over two nights in November 2024.
"I've partied all around the world but this is where I learned to party," he told the ecstatic crowd at the time. "I have home videos of me as a three-year-old singing in Kings Park. It's very cool to be doing this right now, thank you."
Tourism Boom in WA's Coastal Hotspots
Sivan's serene getaway coincides with a significant and ongoing surge in visitors to Western Australia's southern coastal regions. This tourism influx adds to the rapidly expanding permanent populations in these areas, changing their character and feel.
City of Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin commented that while this summer's crowds met expectations, the perception of increased busyness is linked directly to substantial growth. "We were at 30,000 people in 2011 and we're now 45,000, so you've got another 15,000 people on top," Mayor Cronin stated. "That growth alone changes how busy the place feels."
Beyond his music career, which includes collaborations with artists like Charli XCX and Ariana Grande, Sivan is also the Creative Director of lifestyle brand Tsu Lange Yor, which he co-founded with his eldest brother Steele Mellett. His brief retreat to Yallingup served as a poignant reminder of his West Australian roots amidst a thriving global career.
