Locals get welcome distraction

The dragon was woken and with an explosion of colour, movement and joy, Shinju Matsuri began.

Festival president Jillian Philp said after a tumultuous year for the Broome community, as it attempted to deal with division over development of a gas hub, Shinju had been a welcome distraction for many.

“We were proud to see the people of Broome recognise the value of Shinju, regardless of politics,” Mrs Philp said.

“It’s bringing everyone together to celebrate Broome through entertainment and culture.”

Hundreds packed Broome’s Courthouse gardens for the opening ceremony last Saturday and later watched more than 30 floats parade towards the mardi gras on Male Oval.

The Long Table Broome Fusion Lunch at Pearl Luggers and Festival of the Sea at Cable Beach were also great hits.

The fun continues this week and tickets are still available for the Shinju Matsuri Ball at the Shangri-La (Broome Turf Club) on Saturday evening. Visit www.shinjumatsuri.com.au.