Activities to mark WA Week and 'Celebrate the Regions'

28/5/95

Thousands of Western Australians will participate in more than 160 events organised throughout the State to mark WA Week and 'Celebrate the Regions'.

The events, from June 3-10, range from an Ord River Barra Bash barramundi fishing competition and family barbecue/camping weekend held on the banks of the Ord River to 'Celebrate Miling', a dance to celebrate past productivity and a positive future in Miling.

The contribution of regional Western Australia to the State has not been sufficiently recognised, according to Deputy Premier and Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan.

The situation would be changed during WA Week with a program of activities to 'Celebrate the Regions' with the theme of 'Glad all Over', Mr Cowan said today.

'I hope the week will influence Western Australians to look on the regions in a new light, recognising their contribution to the economy and the overall quality of life in the State.

"The regions have been achieving quietly for a long time," Mr Cowan said.

"The week's activities and the accompanying media campaign will give voice to that achievement as well as demonstrating the immense economic, social, lifestyle and development opportunities available in the regions."

A media campaign in print, radio - and from today on television - will focus on successful characters and business people from the regions and will reach all parts of the State.

Perth residents will have the opportunity to 'Celebrate the Regions' with a series of displays at Whitfords City, Galleria and Garden City shopping centres.

The displays will focus on produce from the regions and include information about lifestyle and business opportunities in the regions.

As part of the 1995 WA Week Citizen of the Year Awards, the Governor will present a special award in recognition of the contribution an individual has made to regional development.

"The theme 'Glad all Over' is most appropriate," Mr Cowan said.

"Celebrating and feeling proud about hard work and commitment to keeping our communities prosperous is an important component of this initiative."

Media contact: Peter Jackson 222 9595