It may be the most isolated city in the world, but patriotism in Perth was strong Monday as tens of thousands of people gathered to celebrate WA Day.
The public holiday and annual festival held at Burswood Park recognizes all West Aussies, including First Nations people, early European settlers, and anyone who calls the great state home.
The free carnival started at noon in ideal weather conditions and hosted various activities for children, adults, and everyone.
PerthNow’s carnival zone was buzzing with youngsters enjoying the bumper cars and teapot rides—which didn’t cost their parents a dime.
Camera icon Photos of people at the WA Day event in Burswood, Perth. Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West AustralianCamera IconPhotos of Kieran, Sam, Jayden, and Anna Parker with their dog Isky. Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian
COVID-19 restrictions have put a dent in the social calendars of many over the past two years, so it was one of the first major family-friendly festivals since the opening of WA’s borders.
Nine-year-old Philip Manurung said he loved WA because it was Australia’s largest state.
“It’s a pretty happy state,” Philip told The West as he watched a magician perform magic tricks on stage.
“I also like to swim at City Beach.”
Jonah Emmerton-Smith, 9, who donned purple after Fremantle’s win over the weekend, said his favorite thing about WA was the Dockers.
“My favorite players are Michael Walters and Nat Fyfe,” said Jonah.
Camera icon Jonah (9) and Hermione (8) Emerson-Smith. Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian Camera icon Julie Emerson with Hermione (8), Jonah (9), Kasharla (13), and Ellie Scoulidis (13). Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian
And seven-year-old Sky Perdido said she was hanging out for the drone show.
People also brought their pets to the big day out, with dogs and a caged bird spotted among the crowd.
Paying tribute to traditional landowners, the festival also brought an immersive Whadjuk Dreaming experience to the BHP family zone.
There were also big screens, food trucks, and a licensed zone for the over-18s.
Four WA Chairman Michael Anghie said the event was very important as WA emerged from COVID-19.
“There are a lot of people who have been through tough times and a lot of salespeople here, the people who set up the stages, the bands – all those people have been through tough times,” Mr. Anghie said.
“So it’s a real chance to celebrate. We want to make it accessible to everyone. We create work, and hopefully, we support the economy.”
Camera Icon Chloe (4), Alex (3), and Isabel (7) with their mother, Rachael Neelemaut. Credits: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian Camera Icon Swandi, Lince Manurung with Lionel (12), Philip (9), and Lily (6). Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian
Mr. Anghie said he was delighted with the “perfect weather”.
WA’s largest drone light show starts at 6:45 am and lasts for half an hour.
There is live music throughout the day, including Jedediah, Eskimo Joe, and Birds of Tokyo.
People are encouraged to use public transportation and plan their journey, as parking is limited.