Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals
The Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals, are a series of spectacular events held annually on the second weekend in August alongside the Avon Descent. They are a perfect opportunity for family and friends to get outdoors and experience the gathering of local community and the excitement of the events.
First held in 1973, the Avon Descent is Western Australia's unique paddle and powerboat sporting event. Avon Descent competitors challenge the Avon and Swan Rivers in a variety of paddle and power craft in an exciting two-day challenge over 124 gruelling kilometres.
The Northam Bilya Festival
Date & Time: Friday, 8 August, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Bernard Park, Minson Ave, Northam
Click here for the FESTIVAL MAP
Join the biggest street party in Northam at the Bilya Festival! Experience the Avon Descent Minijets and speedboats on
Friday afternoon followed by our spectacular community street parade you’re sure to enjoy. Explore this year’s Carnival, with
free rides, roving entertainment, music, food and a fireworks finale to kick off the start of the Avon Descent weekend. Come
and celebrate the evening in style with the Shire of Northam.
Check out the @shireofnortham on socials
Photo by Angie Roe Photography
City of Swan Avon Descent Festival
Date & Time: Sunday, 10 August.10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Lilac Hill Park, Caversham
Click here for the FESTIVAL MAP
This year’s City of Swan Avon Descent Festival is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and experience the excitement of the
race, which passes through the Swan Valley vineyard region, Upper Swan Bridge and Bells Rapids. At the Festival, spectators
can adventure through the City’s winter wonderland, delight in the snow arena, and even try their hand at ice skating! You can
also sample delicious gourmet food and wine from local growers as you wander through pop-up artisan markets and stalls.
Check out the @cityofswan on socials
Photo by Angie Roe Photography
City of Bayswater Finish Line Festival
Date & Time: Sunday, 10 August.11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Riverside Gardens, Milne Street, Bayswater
Click here for the FESTIVAL MAP
Join support crews and spectators in welcoming competitors over the finish line of the Avon Descent! Find the best viewing points
along the river to catch all the action as paddlers and mini jets all race towards the finish line. Enjoy a sensational day of free
entertainment, children’s face painting, roving performers while enjoying food trucks and market stalls. This exciting finish line
event offers something for all ages, making it a perfect outing for everyone.
Check the @bayswatercity on socials
Photo by 7to1 Photography
Together the Shire Northam, Shire of Toodyay and the City of Bayswater aim to create a family-friendly atmosphere to connect the local communities along the Avon and Swan Rivers.
Lotterywest has been a major community supporter of the Avon Descent Festivals since 2004.
Find out more about the race, including details on how to compete, by visiting www.avondescent.com.au/.