Shore Leave festival opens to showcase best of the Mid-West

• Third annual Shore Leave kicks off with spectacular opening night
• Festival highlights the importance of Geraldton and the Mid-West to WA economy
• Supported through Tourism WA's Regional Events Program
  

The third annual Shore Leave festival was launched last night with a spectacular opening ceremony on the Geraldton foreshore.

The four-day festival celebrates the best local seafood, produce, arts and culture in the Mid-West.

Shore Leave is being supported through Tourism Western Australia's Regional Events Program which is funded by Regional Development.

The festival includes a wide range of free and paid events to cater for all ages.

The free events include The Helm festival hub, Matt Moran talking to students at the Central Regional TAFE Geraldton, Ocean Crafts at Fisherman's Wharf, the Mid West Food Marketplace, live music, guided tours of Geraldton Museum and the WA Museum hosting a Shipwreck Hunters Australia session about the Zeewijk shipwreck.

The festival has become known for amazing dining experiences.

This year chef Matt Moran is presenting a special Mid-West Paddock to Plate evening at Yanget Farm, one of the oldest cattle stations in the region.

Former WA Regional Chef of the Year Brendan Pratt will host the Albrolhos Long Table Lunch on East Wallabi Island featuring a wide selection of local seafood.

Dozens of other events include the daily Back of Boat Western Rock Lobster BBQ, Stand Up Paddle Yoga and local tourism experiences.

Find out more about the 2023 Shore Leave festival online at https://shoreleavefestival.com.au

Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Roger Cook:

"I am so excited to be in the Mid-West for Shore Leave again this year.

"The opening celebration last night was an amazing experience.

"Last week the eyes of the world were on Exmouth and the regional towns such as Coral Bay, Onslow and Carnarvon.

"But what we heard time and time again from tourists driving up the coast for the eclipse was how much they enjoyed seeing regional WA along the way.

"This included Geraldton which is now taking its turn to shine in the spotlight with the wonderful Shore Leave festival."

Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:

"Shore Leave is such a great regional celebration.

"It showcases the best of Geraldton and the region to both locals and visitors.

"It also highlights what the regions contribute to the WA economy."

Comments attributed to Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton:

"Festivals like Shore Leave offer a tantalising insight into all the Mid-West has to offer and this year's diverse program includes many local producers, businesses and entertainers.

"I encourage everyone to check out the four day program and get involved in the workshops and tours, and enjoy the incredible entertainment line up and foodie events, including the Live and Local showcase and Mid-West WA marketplace."

Tourism Minister's office - 6552 6500

Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6900