Festival Begins with Funky Music and Fireworks on Foreshore

Residents are encouraged to bring a rug and pack a picnic for the popular free concert, which is the opening event of the 2008 Festival of Melville.

Returning by popular demand will be former Australian Idol finalist Courtney Murphy and his band Murphy’s Lore who will take the audience on a musical journey, playing songs from the past 40 years to celebrate the City of Melville's 40th Anniversary.

Also on the line-up are the Chameleon Brass Band – Perth's premier street brass band; the Perth Swing Dance Society's Hullabaloo Hoppers; and Sabroson – a nine-piece band who play a dynamic and highly rhythmical mix of latin, funk, jazz and hip hop. To finish off the night, the Sambanistas will lead the crowd with the traditional rhythms of Brazil to the best vantage point to watch the fireworks finale.

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the concert would be a colourful and energetic start to the 2008 Festival of Melville. “The Festival of Melville is held to celebrate our diverse, vibrant and artistic community,” he said. “Not only are many festivities held throughout the month of March, there will also be a range of events throughout the year. The major drawcards in March are the sunset concert and fireworks, Piney Lakes Sculpture Walk, YAC It Up youth concert and the Living Library program. Other events will include art exhibitions, a seniors forum, concerts and literary events.”

Residents can find out exactly what’s happening by picking up a copy of the Autumn Calendar of Festivals and Events booklet, which includes details of all the 2008 Festival of Melville events. Copies of the booklet will be available from late February at the Melville Civic Centre, City of Melville libraries and recreation and community centres. Alternatively, people can request a copy be mailed to them by phoning Melville Information on 9364 0159 or downloading a copy from www.melvillecity.com.au.

The 2008 Pt Walter Family Sunset Concert and Fireworks is proudly supported by Lotterywest and the City of Melville.

For more information, contact Cultural Development Officer – Festivals and Events, Dee Skuza on 9364 0286 or email dskuza@melville.wa.gov.au.