Broome’s Shinju Matsuri festival celebrates 50th anniversary

July 5, 2020

Broome’s Shinju Matsuri festival celebrates 50th anniversary

Following the recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions in Western Australia, the 50th edition of Broome's hugely popular Shinju Matsuri festival has been reinstated after it was called off earlier in the year.

Shinju Matsuri's vibrant program is a wonderful representation of Broome's strong and diverse community, and the striking landscapes of the Kimberley coast.

With the lifting of all gathering limits with Phase 5 expected to commence on 18th July, the cultural festival is now able to go ahead.

Taking place from 29^th August to 2^nd September 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.

WA Tourism Minister Paul Papalia notes "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."

WA Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan added "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."

For more information about the event visit https://www.shinjumatsuri.com.au

29th April 2019 - Shire of Broome and St John Ambulance partner to provide sporting club volunteers with first aid training

19th July 2018 - Broome to benefit from $3.3 million Western Australian Government investment in sport and recreation

2nd July 2018 - Tourism WA looks to promote visitation to Broome and Perth Hills

17th October 2016 - Work underway on upgrade to Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre

25th June 2020 - New study highlights the value of arts festivals in reviving South Australia’s post COVID-19 tourism

2nd June 2020 - Eastern Riverina Arts launches PLATFORM for improved accessibility at festivals and events

11th March 2020 - Coronavirus fears impacting music festivals around the world with Coachella postponed and Tasmania’s Dark Mofo cancelled

14th November 2019 - Live music industry welcomes amendments to NSW Music Festivals Bill

2nd October 2019 - Federal Government flags importance of festivals to communities

25th September 2019 - Live Performance Australia advises that collaboration is key to safer music festivals

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