Town gets set for big celebration

The 25th annual Augusta River Festival kicks off this Sunday, celebrating the long weekend on the Blackwood River foreshore.

A full day of entertainment for a $5 entry fee is on offer for those who attend.

Co-ordinator Carolyn Tenardi said this year’s festival included educational stalls as well as waste-reduction initiatives.

“We are (also) introducing a new stage with a focus on youth and developing our local talent,” she said.

“We intend on making the Rivermouth Stage a permanent fixture in the program.”

Among numerous live acts on the day, keep an eye out for talented junior musicians from the Margaret River Senior High School’s rock band program.

Rosa Brook artist Rebecca Cool will oversee a painting project on the day, which will include activities in the kids’ zone.

“Rebecca will facilitate children’s art that will later make up illustrations for a book on water,” Ms Tenardi said.

Other stalls at the weekend will put a focus on learning about the region’s land and marine habitats, including a Discover Deadly reptile display and “an idyllic bush classroom” run by the Undalup Association.

Bands headlining the festival include indie surf rockers Caravana Sun and Bobby Alu, serial South West visitor Matt Gresham, and Jack Davies and the Bush Chooks.

The festival opens on Sunday at 9am.

Visit augustariverfestival.com.au for more information, and for the music program, head to augustariverfestival.com.au/entertainment.