Australian Idol star Amy Reeves and celebrity MasterChef Julie Goodwin to headline Shinju Matsuri 2025

Australian Idol star Amy Reeves and celebrity chef Julie Goodwin will headline Broome’s beloved Shinju Matsuri this August, as the long-running Festival of the Pearl secures funding to continue for at least another three years.

Reeves, fresh from her top three finish on Australian Idol, will take to the stage at the festival’s signature Sunset Long Table Dinner on Cable Beach as well as the Festival Finale.

She’ll be joined by MasterChef’s inaugural winner Julie Goodwin, who will serve up a feast under the stars at one of Western Australia’s most iconic dining experiences.

The 16-day celebration of Broome’s rich multicultural heritage, pearling history and community spirit will run from August 23 to September 7, 2025.

Tourism Minister Reece Whitby said the WA Government was proud to continue its support of Shinju Matsuri through Tourism WA’s Regional Events Program, with fresh funding now secured until 2027.

“Extending support of the Shinju Matsuri Festival through the Regional Events Program is a testament to the WA Government’s commitment to growing tourism, celebrating culture, and to growing the economy of the North West region,” Mr Whitby said.

“For 55 years, this iconic festival has infused the town with energy and excitement, drawing more and more visitors to the region, boosting local tourism and stimulating the economy.”

This year’s program will also feature crowd favourites including the Shinju Float Parade, Carnival of Nations, Chinatown Feast, Floating Lanterns Matsuri, and Sand ‘n Sounds.

Attracting around 2000 visitors annually and injecting approximately $6.5 million into the local economy, Shinju Matsuri remains one of WA’s longest-running and most beloved regional festivals.

With roots tracing back to Broome’s pearling boom — when Japanese, Malaysian and Chinese fortune-seekers brought their cultural traditions to the North West — the festival continues to celebrate the rich diversity that shaped the town’s identity.

For more information, visit www.shinjumatsuri.com.au