From Day One to Today

After 40 years of dedication, May is living proof of what happens when a workplace becomes more than just a job, but a home. 

It’s a rare thing these days, to find someone who’s dedicated four decades to the same workplace. But for May Wong, walking through the doors of Crown Perth (then known as Burswood Island Casino) in 1985 wasn’t just the beginning of a job — it was the start of a lifelong career. 

In a city still finding its feet in the entertainment industry, Burswood’s grand opening was a total phenomenon. Crowds stretched all the way to the roundabout, with people waiting for hours just to get a glimpse inside the brand-new entertainment complex. 

“Perth had never seen anything like it,” May recals. “There were queues, massive queues outside, for days on end. Everyone wanted to be a part of the action.” 

And May was. Her first role was as a cashier in the casino’s central buffet, the now-iconic buffet right at the heart of the venue. 

“That was the only restaurant at the time,” she laughs. 

What began as a frontline service role quickly evolved. May progressed from restaurant cashier to a change booth role on the gaming floor, then to cashier in the cage (where the casino’s financial transactions take place). 

In 1995, May became a cage supervisor, which led to being promoted to cage shift manager. It’s a role that sees her managing the flow of cash, chips, and accounts across the sprawling entertainment complex. 

“It’s about the people,” she says. “We’re the frontline, supporting every guest and every part of the casino.” 

And that’s exactly what has kept May coming back day after day for four decades. “Every day I come to work is different. I meet new people, and that is such a rewarding experience,” she says. 

As WA’s largest single-site employer, Crown Perth is home to thousands of employees from all walks of life. May believes it’s this dynamic community that makes the workplace so special. 

“I don’t feel like I’ve worked here 40 years,” she laughs. “Time has flown. That’s how you know you enjoy what you do.”  

As a young migrant in the '80s, May found Crown to be more than just an employer. “Crown embraces cultural diversity. They recognised my potential and supported me throughout the years, and it’s that collaboration and teamwork that has brought me to today,” May says. 

“I'm really grateful to work in this diverse and dynamic community.” 

When Lydia Mountford joined Crown Perth in February 2024, she wanted a role that would fuel her creativity and offer variety in her workday. 

“Working in the events space, I was looking for a role that was diverse and gave me an opportunity to be creative,” she says.  

“Crown stood out for its creativity and strong culture. That was really important to me." 

Coming from a corporate background, Lydia has adapted to the unique pace and rhythm of Crown’s integrated resort environment. “It’s been a huge learning curve and one that I have embraced wholeheartedly,” she reflects.  

A standout moment in her Crown journey so far was helping coordinate the high-profile Taste of Nobu event. 

“This was early on in my career at Crown, and I was exposed to the way each department runs to create an elevated guest experience,” she explains. “Meeting Chef Nobu was a great perk too!” 

But it’s not just the exciting events that have made an impact on Lydia, it’s the people. “I consider myself lucky 

to be supported and mentored by a successful and kind leadership team at Crown,” Lydia says.  

“From my amazing colleagues in Events and Entertainment to our interim CEO Brian Pereira, I feel my voice is heard and I always have a seat at the table.” 

“Being part of this workforce offers the opportunity to collaborate with people from various backgrounds, who each bring their own unique perspective and skills,” she says. 

“It’s an environment where creativity can thrive.” 

Her advice to anyone considering a role at Crown?  

“There is more than meets the eye! A career at Crown can look different for everyone. But know that you’ll be surrounded by great colleagues and very interesting work.”