Mandurah's popular Crab Fest has received support from the McGowan Government, through Tourism WA's Regional Events Program, for the 2022 festival.
Held on the shore of the Peel-Harvey Estuary, the annual festival is hosted by the City of Mandurah and showcases the Peel region's local music, produce and tourism experiences, alongside the region's famous Blue Manna Crabs.
It is one of the State's largest free festivals, attracting an average audience of more than 100,000 and injecting more than $1.4 million into the Peel region.
In recent years it has expanded to include paid ticketed events that attract visitors to stay longer and spend more money in the Mandurah area to enjoy the local attractions.
Crab Fest was last held in 2019 and featured high-profile local performers and culinary talent including celebrity chef Ben O'Donoghue.
The 2020 and 2021 events were both cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The program funds events in the State that attract people to regional areas to support tourism businesses, create job opportunities and raise the profile of the region through media coverage.
As stated by Tourism Minister David Templeman:
"I'm very pleased to be able to announce State Government support, through Tourism WA, for Crab Fest 2022.
"As a Mandurah local, I'm keenly aware of this event's social and economic value to Mandurah and the wider Peel region.
"It attracts thousands of people to the area to support local businesses and enjoy Crab Fest's famous Blue Manna Crabs, festival atmosphere and family entertainment.
"I know many people look forward to this event and would have been disappointed that COVID-19 has taken it off the calendar in recent times.
"This funding announcement is a great positive step towards getting the event up and running for 2022 and bringing back all the enormous social and economic benefits it provides."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The Crab Fest is a much loved local event that brings significant economic benefits for Peel businesses.
"It will be fantastic to see it return in 2022, showing off the Peel's famous Blue Manna Crabs and delivering a unique experience for the region."
