Australia's Great Barrier Reef Festival takes place for the 25th time from 31 July to 2 August in Airlie Beach. The anniversary programme consists of an opening night, a themed street parade, a family day and three days of music.
One of the festival's best-known events is the Recyclable Regatta. Participants build watercraft out of recyclable materials, then race them off the beach. The event offers both entertainment and an environmental message.
According to organisers, festival attendance is growing by 10–15% a year. Sponsors include Commonwealth Bank, Airbnb and Cruise Whitsundays.
The festival demonstrates that a community event built around a natural asset can be both entertaining and commercially sustainable.
Summary
The 25th edition of Australia's Great Barrier Reef Festival begins on 31 July. Attendance at the event has been growing by 10–15% a year.
