Western Australia’s rescheduled Crab Fest receives funding support

Following Mandurah’s Crab Fest having been cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the ongoing COIVD-19 pandemic, the event has received support from the Western Australian Government through Tourism WA's Regional Events Program, for the festival to run from 19th to 20th March 2022.

Held on the shore of the Peel-Harvey Estuary, the annual festival is hosted by the City of Mandurah and showcases the Peel region's local music, produce and tourism experiences, alongside the region's famous Blue Manna Crabs.

It is one of the State's largest free festivals, attracting an average audience of more than 100,000 and injecting more than $1.4 million into the Peel region.

In recent years it has expanded to include paid ticketed events that attract visitors to stay longer and spend more money in the Mandurah area to enjoy the local attractions.

Crab Fest was last held in 2019 and featured high-profile local performers and culinary talent including celebrity chef Ben O'Donoghue.

The program funds events in the State that attract people to regional areas to support tourism businesses, create job opportunities and raise the profile of the region through media coverage.

Western Australian Tourism Minister David Templeman notes "I'm very pleased to be able to announce State Government support, through Tourism WA, for Crab Fest 2022.

"As a Mandurah local, I'm keenly aware of this event's social and economic value to Mandurah and the wider Peel region.

"It attracts thousands of people to the area to support local businesses and enjoy Crab Fest's famous Blue Manna Crabs, festival atmosphere and family entertainment.

"I know many people look forward to this event and would have been disappointed that COVID-19 has taken it off the calendar in recent times.

"This funding announcement is a great positive step towards getting the event up and running for 2022 and bringing back all the enormous social and economic benefits it provides."

Image courtesy of crabfest.com.au/