As one of Western Australia’s largest free events, it’s exciting to have the Channel 7 Crab Fest back in Mandurah with more than 100,000 people expected to attend over this weekend.
The event celebrates the rich history of crabbing and fishing in the Peel Harvey Estuary – Binjareb Djilba, which is a diverse and significant wetland of international importance covering 134 square kilometres – making it even larger than Sydney Harbour.
Crab Fest’s setting in the heart of Mandurah on the edge of the city’s magnificent waterway, coupled with warm autumn weather and coastal breezes, makes it the perfect spot to enjoy everything the festival has to offer.
The blue swimmer crab fishery in the Peel Harvey Estuary has the gold standard in sustainability certification through the Marine Stewardship Council and the tasty crabs on offer at Crab Fest are primarily supplied by local commercial fishers, who’ve operated out of the estuary for generations.
You can also taste other local seafood and great regional produce across the different event stages and areas.
The Community Education Team with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) will be there to share important information about fishing rules, sustainability and stewardship of the State’s aquatic resources.
DPIRD Community Education Coordinator Joshua Brown said the Ed team was focussed on helping people learn more about the sustainable management of WA’s fisheries to ensure fish for the future.
“For crab fishers that means carrying a measuring gauge when you go crabbing, so each crab can be measured as soon as its caught and any undersize crabs can be returned immediately to the water,” Mr Brown said.
“By following the rules and catch care principles, we can all play our part to ensure we have healthy crab stocks for future generations.
“Events like Crab Fest are a great opportunity for our DPIRD Education staff to talk about WA’s fisheries – both recreational and commercial – and how those fisheries benefit the community.”
Crab Fest is back after a three-year break putting the blue swimmer crab back on centre stage, so enjoy all the tastes and fun of the festival and find out more about this weekend’s event at https://www.crabfest.com.au/ ”
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