Polo action enthralls

The 2014 Pinctada Cable Beach Polo festival ended on a spectacular high on Sunday after a glittering weekend showcasing top sporting action, high-end entertainment and fabulous fashion.

Thousands turned out to watch a host of Australian and international polo stars battle it out on the pristine Cable Beach sands.

Competition was fierce during the two-day tournament as leading polo players gave spectators a riveting performance, but it was the GPG Group that clinched the Paspaley Cup, beating Nexus with a 7-6 win.

This year's participants included Columbian player Esteban Uribe, Kiwi star Sam Hopkinson and Australian contender Jack Archibald.

Local Aboriginal stockmen also thrilled spectators as they participated in the Kimberley Challenge.

Australian model Samantha Harris and X-Factor finalist Barry Southgate were among the notable guests to enjoy this year's event in the VIP marquee.

Acting Tourism Minister John Day, Regional Development Minister Terry Redman and Tourism WA chairman Peter Prendiville were also on the guest list.

Elegantly dressed patrons sipped champagne and dined on canapés as they soaked up the unique atmosphere.

On Saturday night, guests enjoyed the sell-out Dinner Under the Stars event, featuring fine cuisine from international celebrity chef Barclay Dodge.

While polo players kept crowds captivated throughout the tournament, all eyes were on the Kimberley Girls during the Sunday event when they took part in a special beach fashion parade, sporting hot ensembles by Le Louvre.

Director Marilynne Paspaley said it had been an "absolute delight" to host the players at the various polo functions at Pinctada over the weekend.

She said the highlight was the way the Broome community, tourists and players united to celebrate the unique event.

"Next year it will be even bigger and better as we work towards a week-long beach polo festival that showcases Broome's extraordinary landscape, culture, heritage and spirit."