Celebrating seaside delights

The much-anticipated Beachport Crayfish Festival is making a glorious return for the second time, promising an unforgettable day of community spirit, coastal delights, and family-friendly fun.

The Beachport Crayfish Festival celebrates the town of Beachport and its most important crustacean, the Southern Rock Lobster.

Celebrating all things Beachport, the event will include entertainment, crayfish cooking demonstrations, children activities and will host local food, wineries, breweries and business vendors displaying the best the region has to offer.

With Beachport’s crayfishing industry at its heart, the festival also offers the unique opportunity to witness the skills needed to be a great deckhand in a scheduled ‘deckie’ competition. Entrants from the local industry will showcase their coordination and speed in the Cray Pot Build Race, where they race to build a cray pot ready for throwing overboard and teams of deckhands will test their muscle and rope grip with the Deckhand Tug-O-War!

Nathan Kimber, Executive Officer of the South Eastern Professional Fisherman’s Association, proud major sponsors of the event, said they looked forward to showcasing what is one of the Limestone Coast’s most important industries as well as giving participants the opportunity to sample the best crayfish in the world washed down by some of the region’s top drops.

The Beachport Crayfish Festival is a community-run and led event, embodying the collective spirit of the charming township of Beachport and the wider Limestone Coast community. As a celebration that is deeply rooted in community values, this event reflects the dedication and collaboration of residents who’ve come together to create a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Margie Bowman of the Beachport District Development Association said the event would be improving on the successful event last held in 2022.

“As we return for the second time, we are excited to showcase the unique charm and offerings of Beachport and the Limestone Coast,” Margie said. “It’s a celebration of our people, our traditions, and the wonderful crayfishing industry that defines our coastal town.

“This festival is truly by the community, for the community. From young families to seasoned locals, there’s something for everyone – a true reflection of our diverse and close-knit community.”

South Australian Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said she’s delighted to see the Beachport Crayfish Festival back this year.

“The crowds really embraced this fantastic regional event when it first ran in 2022, drawing attendees to the stunning Limestone Coast and selling so much crayfish they’ve doubled for this year’s event,” Minister Bettison said.

“The State Government is proud to support this new event through the South Australian Tourism Commission’s Regional Event Fund, which is set to build on the momentum of its previous success and contribute to tourism in the Limestone Coast which is currently worth $558 million.

“Regional events such as these are great for the local community. Not only will this event showcase the very best that Beachport has to offer, but it also gives eventgoers a reason to stay and see more of the Limestone Coast, which has flow on benefits to other local businesses including accommodation providers, pubs, cafes, even the local service station.”

Geared towards attendees of all ages, the Beachport Crayfish Festival offers a day filled with activities catering to the whole family. From engaging games to musical entertainment, the festival is designed to create lasting memories for families and provide a welcoming environment where all members of the community can come together to celebrate the spirit of Beachport.

Musical guests will include Victoria Meyer, The Christy Wallace Trio, JB (Jason Baker), Leah Briggs with Andrew Clermont’s Supper Club and Suburban Henry.

Entertainment coordinator Mel Snook said everyone should get ready for a day filled with laughter, music, and entertainment.

“We’ve lined up an incredible array of performers and activities that will keep everyone, from the little ones to the young at heart, thoroughly entertained,” Mel said.

“Beyond the festivities, the Beachport Crayfish Festival serves a vital role in supporting our local community and the hardworking crayfishers. Your participation directly contributes to the well-being of Beachport, and we’re grateful for the community’s ongoing support in making this event a success.”

Festival information and tickets can be found at www.crayfishfestival.com.au

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