The milestone 50th edition of Broome's hugely popular Shinju Matsuri festival has been reinstated after it was called off earlier in the year due to the threat of COVID-19.
Thanks to the State's hard border, the recent easing of restrictions and the lifting of all gathering limits with Phase 5 expected to commence July 18, the iconic cultural festival is now able to go ahead.
Taking place from August 29 to September 2, 2020, the popular West Kimberley festival will be the first large-scale event to be held in Western Australia's North West since Phase 1 COVID restrictions came in to place in April.
Shinju Matsuri showcases the Kimberley region's rich cultural diversity, unique pearling history, vibrant community and extraordinary natural landscapes.
As it marks its 50th anniversary, this year's event will feature former MasterChef favourite Derek Lau, foodie Anna Gare, and MasterChef Back to Win contestant Brendan Pang - the 'Dumpling King'.
Broome's revitalised Town Beach precinct will play host to a new Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub, with live music, food and market stalls, and a series of free workshops.
The nine-day festival is a favourite on WA's event calendar, drawing thousands of visitors to Broome each year.
The festival is supported by the State Government through Tourism Western Australia's Regional Events Program until 2021.
For more information about the event, visit http://www.shinjumatsuri.com.au
As stated by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia:
"The McGowan Government is delighted about the reinstatement of this year's Shinju Matsuri, which was initially postponed due to COVID restrictions.
"The event's reinstatement demonstrates the benefits of our hard border and shows just how well Western Australians are handling the COVID crisis. I expect it will be an extra special celebration for West Kimberley locals and visitors this year.
"Shinju Matsuri has been a highlight on Broome's event calendar for the past 50 years, showcasing the region's wonderful beaches, people, cuisine and culture.
"The event attracts high-profile chefs, helps to fill Broome's hotel rooms, increases exposure of local producers, and brings thousands of visitors to Broome every year.
"Supporting unique events that attract visitors to WA's regions is a key focus of the State Government, now more than ever as we head down the road to recovery."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Shinju Matsuri's vibrant program is a wonderful representation of Broome's strong and diverse community, and the striking landscapes of the Kimberley coast.
"Continuing to attract visitors to our regions through events like Shinju Matsuri will bring wider business and job opportunities to local communities, and greater prosperity to the regional economy, which is desperately needed right now."
