Preparations begin to wake popular dragon

Surrounded by traditional red and gold lanterns, Asian style patterns and decorated walls, the season of the dragon was keenly felt among local business representatives last week at the Broome Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event, held by Shinju Matsuri Festival committee.

This year will mark the 42nd anniversary of the festival – a premier event in Broome’s calendar, which showcases the town’s community spirit, local talent and unique culture.

Coinciding with the launch of the event, the new Shinju Matsuri office was officially opened at Broome by Shinju president Jillian Philp.

Ms Philp said the committee had been preparing for the event, which celebrates the town’s rich pearling history, cultural diversity and community spirit.

“Shinju Matsuri has become a premier event and a Broome icon that embodies everything we love about this great town as well as a desirable and exciting tourist destination,” she said.

This year, the event will be held from Friday, August 31, to Sunday, September 9.

Some of the highlights on the calendar include an inaugural sponsor’s dinner at Roebuck Bay Hotel, the Long Table Lunch and the Cable Beach food event.

Once again, the festival’s iconic Sammy the Dragon will awaken from his slumber and burst into life with full colour and vigour around town in front of delighted crowds.

The Broome community can now keep up to date with the latest news and event information on Shinju Matsuri through the Broome Advertiser, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.