The Committee

The Festival of Busselton Committee is a dedicated team of local volunteers entrusted with planning and delivering the annual Festival of Busselton – a month-long celebration held every January in Busselton, Western Australia.

The festival began in 1964, founded by the Rotary Club of Busselton with strong local backing. Over time, the responsibility for organising the festival transitioned fully to resident volunteers who continue to oversee its evolution.

This volunteer committee handles the festival’s strategic planning, sponsorship and grant applications, logistics, and liaison with the City of Busselton and other stakeholders. To support their efforts, they engage a professional coordinator, overseen by the committee, to manage relationships with sponsors, grants, and event partners. Committee meetings are typically held monthly and last about two hours, making participation manageable and community-focused.

Serving on the committee is a fulfilling way to contribute to a beloved community event: positions often include roles such as President, Secretary, Treasurer, Vice‑President, and Community Engagement Officer. Meetings generally require one evening per month, plus involvement during the festival in January.

In late 2024, the festival was at risk of cancellation due to a shortage of volunteers. A last-minute surge in community support allowed the committee to reassemble and secure the festival’s future into 2025. As of April 2024, the entire committee chose not to seek reappointment, prompting a call for new volunteers to take the helm at the AGM and keep the festival alive. In early 2025, volunteers successfully revitalised the organisational team, ensuring the festival’s continuity and securing its 61st year with renewed energy.

Thanks to the committee’s leadership—and unwavering volunteer effort—the Festival of Busselton continues to be one of the South West’s premier free, family-friendly summer events, featuring fireworks, outdoor cinema, the pet parade, sandcastle competitions, Petticoat Lane markets, and much more.

The committee plays a vital role in shaping the festival’s vision, securing funding, coordinating logistics, and ensuring it remains inclusive, accessible, and reflective of the Busselton community. Whether you’re interested in joining, volunteering your skills, or simply learning more, connecting with the committee is a great way to support a cherished local tradition.