Shinju Matsuri festival of the pearl to get ‘refresh’ after Broome’s Lynne Bunney steps up as president

A stronger emphasis on Broome’s multicultural community, the return of fan-favourite events of the past, and an extended two-week schedule are just part of the vision of the new leader of the biggest cultural festival in the North. Local woman Lynne Bunney, pictured, will use her many years and vast knowledge in her new role as Shinju Matsuri president and is looking to lock down exciting plans to develop the popular “Festival of the Pearl”. The major event has been held annually in Broome for the past 50 years to celebrate the town’s melting pot of cultures stemming from its unique pearling history, with highlights including a long table dinner on Cable Beach, a pearl meat cook-off, a fireworks spectacle, and a community float parade. Ms Bunney, who was first involved with Shinju Matsuri in 1979 and has been on its committee for the past seven years, is looking to bring back all that and a whole lot more as she leads the festival into its 51st year in 2021, with plans to make its schedule even bigger and better. “I think Shinju is ready for a little bit of a refresh,” she said. “I have new members on the board that will hopefully support me in what we are looking at for its future. “Next year we are looking at spreading the events over two weeks instead of one and putting on other events to fill the schedule. “One thing I want to bring back is the Carnival of Nations, which involved local cultural groups, performers and food for a fun, entertaining night that encompasses everyone. “It hasn’t been held in years.” Ms Bunney said her No.1 priority was getting the Broome community involved in the festival as much as possible. “I love being involved with the festival and seeing all its fantastic events,” she said.