- Shinju Matsuri to return for extra three years after new deal signed
- Festival celebrating Kimberley culture and pearling history awarded funding until 2027
- Inaugural MasterChef winner Julie Goodwin to be celebrity guest for 2025
- Supported by Western Australian Government, through Tourism WA
The Western Australian Government has renewed its sponsorship of the West Kimberley's premier cultural celebration, Shinju Matsuri - Festival of the Pearl, for an additional three years.
The 16-day annual festival highlights the region's rich cultural diversity, unique pearling history, and extraordinary natural landscapes, with the 2025 event taking place from 23 August - 7 September.
Celebrity food personality and winner of Australia's inaugural MasterChef competition, Julie Goodwin, is set to dazzle attendees at this year's Sunset Long Table Dinner - one of WA's most renowned dining events, which offers a night of dining under the stars on the iconic Cable Beach.
Shinju Matsuri is one of the longest running events in the State with a 55-year history and is proudly supported by the WA Government through Tourism WA's Regional Events Program, with funding now secured until 2027.
The festival attracts close to 2,000 visitors to Broome each year, generating approximately $6.5 million annually for the local economy.
This year's program includes a range of events and activities, such as the Shinju Float Parade, Carnival of Nations, Chinatown Feast, Floating Lanterns Matsuri, and Sand 'n Sounds.
Australian Idol 2024 top three finalist Amy Reeves is also performing at the Sunset Long Table Dinner, in addition to the Festival Finale.
Shinju Matsuri has rich cultural roots, with the event program inspired by the many Japanese, Malaysian and Chinese fortune-seekers who travelled to Broome for the pearling industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing their own cultural traditions to the North West that are still celebrated today.
For more information visit www.shinjumatsuri.com.au
As stated by Tourism Minister Reece Whitby:
"Extending support of the Shinju Matsuri Festival through the Regional Events Program is a testament to the WA Government's commitment to growing tourism, celebrating culture, and to growing the economy of the North West region.
"The festival is an annual highlight for many, offering a unique blend of tradition, entertainment, and community spirit that enriches Broome year after year.
"Welcoming this event back to Broome for 16 days is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience the wonderful culture the Kimberley has to offer.
"For 55 years, this iconic festival has infused the town with energy and excitement, drawing more and more visitors to the region, boosting local tourism and stimulating the economy."
