Immersive experiences, lighting projections, Elders stories, concerts and more
From Friday 22 through to Tuesday 26 January, the City of Perth will come alive with a festival like we’ve never seen before in Perth.
The launch event – Shining the Light: The Story of Us – will tell the story of the Traditional Owners of the land, the Whadjuk Nyoongar people, in the form of a captivating light and water projection at Elizabeth Quay.
Featuring stories of courage and resilience during the time of colonisation, the City has worked closely with the City of Perth Elders Advisory Group to create the immersive event.
Neighbourhood groups such as the West Perth Local, East Perth Community Group, Northbridge Common, City of Perth Western Residents and Activate Perth have collaborated with the City on a range of inclusive and free events, including a Big Aussie Barbeque, sunset sounds and family concerts over five days.
The Lotterywest Carnival and Water Playground on Langley Park will be a must on Tuesday 26 January as will the Motocross and BMX displays. The traditional Birak Concert at Supreme Court Gardens will round out an amazing five days of celebration.
“While we won’t be able to have Skyworks, this Australia Day we have created an amazing five-day festival that will allow us all to reflect, respect and celebrate our unique country we all call home by staging events, markets, performances, concerts and immersive exhibitions across five full days of fun,” City of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said.
“We will take time to reflect on our nation’s true history and celebrate our place in the world – a proud, ancient, multicultural nation built on shared values.
“We encourage everyone to make their way into the city during the Australia Day Festival to enjoy a diverse range of food, music and cultural experiences. Don’t forget there’s also free three-hour parking on weekends in all CPP carparks.
“I want to congratulate and thank all of the team at the City of Perth for their fast turnaround on this five-day festival program. When we heard from the Premier it would not be possible to hold Skyworks this year, the challenge for our events team was to ensure the City of Perth remained the home of Australia Day celebrations. What they have achieved in a short space of time is a program I am immensely proud of.
“Thank you also to all our partners who have made the Australia Day Festival possible, including Lotterywest, Auspire – The Australia Day Council WA, Mix 94.5 and Channel 9.”
