Mandurah Crab Fest receives funding from the State Government

Friday, 23 July 2021 09:42

By Marion Print

Mandurah's popular Crab Fest has received support from the State Government Government, through Tourism WA's Regional Events Program, for the 2022 festival.

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.

Tourism Minster and MLA for Mandurah David Templeman said as a Mandurah local, he's 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," he said.

"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."

In recent years the Festival 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 2020 and 2021 events were both cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The total amount given to the City of Mandurah on this occasion is not able to be disclosed.