Port Augusta’s big foreshore bash returns with rides, roving performers and a cracking fireworks finale
There’s something pretty special about a town that can rally a whole community for a day of fun, and Port Augusta’s Wharfest does just that.
Held on the first Saturday of August, Wharfest is a feel-good day where the foreshore fills with food, laughter, music and more than a few happy faces. Best of all it’s free, it’s local, and it’s been powered by passionate Apex Club volunteers since 2003.
Kicking off from 10am, the foreshore comes alive with market stalls, community displays, and the kind of sideshow alley that draws out the kid in everyone. There’ll be rides, showbags, food trucks and a stack of chances to win a stuffed toy or two.
The main stage will be packed all day with belly dancers, cheer squads, pirate shows and acoustic sets, while roving performers keep the crowd entertained. Over in the Children’s Zone, there’s a dedicated kids’ stage with sing-alongs, clowns and magic shows, plus pony rides, Farmer Darcy’s Travelling Farm, face painting and hands-on fun from 10am to 4pm.
As the sun goes down, local band ‘Hooligans’ hit the main stage before the night ends on a high with a spectacular fireworks display over the water.
Wharfest pulls around 8000 people each year, making it one of the biggest days on the Port Augusta calendar. With support from local businesses, the City of Port Augusta and dedicated volunteers behind the scenes, it’s a whole-hearted community effort – run for the community, by the community.
And if you’ve been thinking about a trip to this neck of the woods, it’s the ideal time to lock it in. Port Augusta is known as the gateway to the Flinders Ranges, and Wharfest is the perfect excuse to make the journey.
Wharfest
Where: Port Augusta Foreshore
When: August 2, from 10am
Cost: FREE entry
Fireworks 8:45pm
Click here for more information
