History
Last Updated (Thursday, 14 May 2009 02:28) Written by Administrator Friday, 13 March 2009 03:07
SUNSHINE FESTIVAL HISTORY
In 1958, a group called the Geraldton Retail Traders’ Association came up with the idea of holding a tomato festival in Geraldton - perhaps inspired by previous festivals such as the Wonthella Progress Association’s Bazaar days and Spring Festival Parades in the early and mid 1950s.
The Geraldton Guardian took up the idea, publishing an editorial on 30 August 1958 commending these enterprising citizens on the concept. As the group’s plans evolved, the name changed to the Sunshine Festival, no doubt to draw attention to the consistently sunny days in the region, and, on August 21 1959, the longest running regional festival in Western Australia was born.
2009 marks the 51st festival, a major milestone in anyone’s language. Looking back, not much has changed since its inception. It is largely run by a group of volunteers with substantial support from the City, sponsors and businesses and there are events in this year’s festival that have been present right from the start. These include the Festival Queen, the much loved children’s pet parade, the float parade, as well as many other opportunities for the community to gather in key places in town to celebrate all that life has to offer in Geraldton Greenough.
Join us in celebrating the 51st Geraldton Greenough Sunshine Festival from the 9 to 11 October for three days crammed full of fun and entertainment.