In Western Australia there are plenty of unique, nature-based, sporting and cultural events to be experienced. Many regional centres have their own distinct character and local traditions - sparking a number of unique country style festivities.
The Kulin Bush Races, with its horse, camel, sheep and dog racing, epitomise the spirit and hospitality of rural Western Australia. Look out for homemade tin horses in the paddocks lining the Tin Horse Highway.
Leonora Golden Gift
Head to this small outback town north of Kalgoorlie to watch elite athletes battle it out for $50,000 on the track. Australia's richest foot race also hosts fireworks, market stalls and street entertainment.
Q-fest
Join the bold, brassy and beautiful Queens of the desert in Cue as they treat the crowd to an effervescent show. There's plenty of other entertainment too, including a circus big top, art markets, belly dancing classes and more.
Broome Races
This glitzy and glamourous extravaganza attracts huge crowds of punters from all over the nation. As well as the action on the track, the day is jam-packed with entertainment including live bands that rock on until 11:00pm.
Dog in a Ute
In Corrigin, man's two best mates unite as country folk from far and wide try to break the national record for having the most dogs in utes. Experience some great Aussie camaraderie at this entertaining fundraiser.
Pingrup Races and Root Muster
At the Pingrup Races and Root Muster, enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime chance to dress up as a mallee root. There are prizes galore, including best-dressed root, biggest root and longest root.
A bumper race carnival and non-stop party, The Round, Kalgoorlie, is considered one of the most unique and popular events on the racing calendar.
Mango Festival
An annual celebration of one of Mother Nature's lush, tropical fruits - the mango! The aim of the festival is to eat and drink mangoes in as many ways as possible. Highlights include the Great Chefs of Broome cook-off and mango tasting.
Broome's Shinju Matsuri is a colourful celebration commemorating Japanese pearl divers. The festivities include dragon boat racing, a float parade through China Town and a flamboyant mardi gras.
Party the weekend away at the Boyup Brook Ute and Truck Muster, as locals, buskers, bush poets and bands honour their favourite sets of wheels amidst a country music festival.