Sammy the Dragon wakes from his slumber for the 54th Shinju Masturi opening festival

[Pelican Press 0]

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Sammy the Dragon wakes from his slumber for the 54th Shinju Masturi opening festival

Broomes’ largest festival has returned for its 54th year, with hundreds gathering at Town Beach to kick off the 16-day celebrations of Shinju Matsuri over the weekend.

Yawuru elder Di Appleby welcomed audiences with a traditional smoking ceremony before various guest speakers took centre stage to commemorate the return of the festival that celebrates Broome’s rich heritage and cultural diversity.

Speakers included Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna, Shire of Broome president Chris Mitchell, Shinju Matsuri president Lynne Bunney and Nyamba Buru Yawuru chief executive Nini Mills, with Matt Francis on MC Duties.

Local performers and dancers, such as Pearl Coast Gymnastics Club Broome Performing Arts Co-Op and Sandfly Circus, stunned crowds with their energetic performances and talent.

Eventually, it was time for the highly anticipated wakening of the 38-metre-long mascot, Sammy the Dragon, by local legend Doug Fong, who removed the blindfold of the dragon before giving him blessings.

As Sammy came to life, the dragon weaved through crowds with his vibrant colours and infectious energy, followed by a drumming band and miniature dragons.

A heartwarming performance by AJ Moore and his daughter Scarlett concluded the programme before Sammy made his way out of Town Beach back to his resting place before his next appearance at the Float Parade on August 18.

The festival will continue to run through to September 1, with tickets available at shinjumatsuri.com.au.

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