Published on Tuesday, 8 August 2023 at 8:48:28 AM
This weekend’s Avon Descent is set to be a thriller with paddlers and power boats taking to the water for the 50th year – with the series of riverside Festivals adding more excitement to the weekend.
Kicking off the Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals on Friday, 11 August is the Shire of Northam’s Bilya Festival, with a winter wonderland edition and their ever-popular street parade. Followed by the Shire of Toodyay’s International Food Fest, which will keep visitors fed and entertained on Saturday, 12 August.
The City of Swan’s Avon Descent Festival and the City of Bayswater Finish Line Festival bring the program to a rousing finish on Sunday, 13 August. Each of the Festival events provide a perfect opportunity to enjoy family-friendly activities and sample great cuisine while cheering on the Avon Descent participants.
The Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC), on behalf of the participating Councils; Shires of Toodyay, Northam and Cities of Swan and Bayswater, received $141,000 in Lotterywest grant support for the 2023 Avon Descent Festivals. The Minister for Culture and the Arts; Sport and Recreation; International Education; Heritage, Hon. David Templeman MLA presented the grant on behalf of Lotterywest.
“Lotterywest is proud to once again support the EMRC and participating Councils in delivering an exciting series of Festivals,” Lotterywest and Healthway CEO Ralph Addis said.
“These events have become foundational to the Avon Descent weekend, connecting the local communities along the Avon and Swan Rivers with some family-friendly fun.”
The WA Government, through Lotterywest, supports community projects and events like this one, to enhance the quality of life and wellbeing for all West Australians through funding and support, helping to build a better WA together.
The Festivals enhance the community experience of the Avon Descent through improved access and viewing opportunities, commentary, big screens and seating. The Festivals are shaped to highlight and unite cultural significance and communities along the Avon and Swan Rivers. They also create opportunities for local businesses, active lifestyles and appreciation for Perth’s surrounding natural environment.
The EMRC Chief Sustainability Officer Wendy Harris said, ‘The EMRC year after year demonstrates a successful model of collaboration and a regional approach to deliver real benefits to the Eastern Region and its community. The Lotterywest grant support will go a long way to improve infrastructure, free entertainment, and event safety services, and it will be great to see community benefits in action.’
Lotterywest’s grant will enable communities in the Cities and Shires to come together for connection, recreation and to enjoy free and low-cost activities, entertainment and food at the Lotterywest Descent Festivals. The Festivals are developed with sustainable activities and ecofriendly principals.
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