PRESS RELEASE: Where Adventure Met Celebration: Highlights for the Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals
The Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals made a vibrant return this August, bringing together communities along the Avon and Swan Rivers for a weekend of celebration, entertainment, and the iconic Avon Descent Race.
From Friday, 8 August to Sunday, 10 August 2025, festival-goers enjoyed a diverse lineup of free and low-cost activities, including live music, food vendors, market stalls, kids’ entertainment, and thrilling on the water action featuring a variety of craft, paddlers and powerboats.
Supporting Community Connection
The Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC), the Shire of Northam and the Cities of Swan and Bayswater, received Lotterywest grants totalling $107,400 to support the 2025 Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals.
Lotterywest CEO Colin Smith said Lotterywest is proud to support the Avon Descent Festivals once again.
“Lotterywest’s support has made it possible for the whole community to get involved and enjoy the Avon Descent Festival weekend, whether it be enjoying activities on the riverbank or cheering for participants,” Mr Smith said.
“The Festivals are the heartbeat of the Avon Descent weekend, bringing communities together through vibrant, family-friendly celebrations.”
The Festivals are designed to enhance spectator experiences with big screens, seating, and live commentary, while promoting community connection, local businesses, active lifestyles, and appreciation for Perth’s natural environment.
EMRC CEO Matthew MacPherson stated, “Our collaborative model delivered tangible benefits to the community. Thanks to Lotterywest’s generous support, this year’s Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals boasted family friendly activities, event safety, and access to the Avon Descent experience.”
Festival Highlights
Friday, 8 August – Bilya Festival (Shire of Northam)
The weekend kicked off with Northam’s Bilya Festival, featuring a carnival atmosphere, fireworks and the beloved street parade, celebrating local culture.
Sunday, 10 August – Avon Descent Festival (City of Swan)
The City of Swan’s Avon Descent Festival, was the place to be to experience a winter wonderland, with ice and snow on display accompanied with rides, entertainment, and markets.
Sunday, 10 August – Finish Line Festival (City of Bayswater)
The City of Bayswater’s Finish Line Festival, celebrated the Avon Descent conclusion with family-friendly fun and community cheer.
The 2025 Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals supported inclusive opportunities for connection, recreation, and celebration across all ages and backgrounds. Lotterywest provides support to projects or activities that align with the Community Investment Framework, which covers five priority areas, this year supporting the Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals under the Inclusive Thriving Community framework.
The WA Government, through Lotterywest, celebrated record-breaking returns to the Western Australian community in 2023-24, with more than $1 billion provided in grants and lottery prizes. This included more than $373 million supporting the WA community through statutory and direct grants.
