Acting Premier announces funding boost for community events

21/7/06
Acting Premier Eric Ripper today announced a funding boost for six community events being held as part of the 2006 Northam Avon Descent.
Mr Ripper presented the $160,000 Lotterywest grant to the Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC).
"These community events offer something for everyone, including live bands and race commentary, carnival rides, roving entertainers, activities for children, a float parade and spectacular fireworks display, and an international food festival," he said.
"Best of all, most of the entertainment is free, with large marquees to keep everyone warm."
This is the second year that the EMRC has worked in partnership with the organisers of the Avon Descent by co-ordinating the activities of the local governments which stage activities on the shores of the river race route.
In 2005, the event (the race itself and the various community activities) included more than 800 competitors, involved almost 3,000 volunteers and attracted over 35,000 spectators.
The six community events are:

• Town of Northam - Avon River Festival, Bernard Park Northam Friday 5th August 4pm till 11pm.
• Shire of Toodyay's International Food Festival, Duidgee Park, Toodyay, Saturday, August 5, 10am - 4pm;
• City of Swan's Picnic in the Park, Sandalford Winery, Caversham, Sunday, August 6, 11am - 2pm;
• Town of Bassendean Avon Descent 2006, various locations along the river foreshore, Sunday, August 6, 10.30am - 4pm;
• City of Belmont's Avon Descent Community Fun Day, Garvey Park, Ascot, Sunday, August 6, 11.30 am - 3.30 pm; and
• City of Bayswater's Avon Descent Finish Line Event, Riverside Gardens, Bayswater, Sunday, August 6, 11am - 6pm.