Skyfest Bunbury set to go off with a bang

The biggest fireworks show outside of Perth will not be the only attraction when Bunbury turns green and gold this month for the Skyfest Australia Day celebrations.

Organisers of the city’s annual event say there will be something for everyone during the January 26 celebrations with a jam-packed day of activities.

Nationally recognised South West band Great Gable has been announced as one of the headline acts for the Family Concert, kicking off ahead of the Fireworks Spectacular.

Senior events officer Juaini Taylor said the event would stick to its traditional format, but some additions would make it bigger and better than ever.

“We’re keeping with the same theme – what’s great about being Australian,” Ms Taylor said.

“We’ve had a focus on a large amount of Bunbury and South West-based entertainers.

“We’ve really catered for a lot of different interests and backgrounds.”

She said the newly-erected shade structures at Bicentennial Square would make a “huge” difference and encouraged people to make a day of it.

For the first year, the Rally 4 Respect march will coincide with Australia Day celebrations, starting at 4pm from the Stirling Street Arts Centre to the Graham Bricknell Memorial Music Shell.

Bunbury City Council is expecting a crowd of 40,000 people for the free event.

Ms Taylor said Sprinkler City was predicted to be a “huge hit” with a number of water slides included for a quick cool down.

Celebrations will kick off with the traditional “Aussie” breakfast, organised by the Bunbury Silver Chain fundraising committee, followed by the Bunbury Runners Club Fun Run at 7am.

Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre will also open its Sky Bar doors for an “unbeatable” view worth $10 per person while the Fireworks Spectacular will light up the sky from 8.30pm.

Stallholders, food vans and a selection of other workshops and activities will run throughout the day.

Ms Taylor said it was a fun and affordable day for the whole family.