The Avon Descent is an annual white water event, held in August of every year, that involves both paddle craft (kayaks, & surf skis) and small motor boats along the Avon and Swan Rivers in Western Australia. It is the only event in the world where both power craft and paddle craft compete and attracts amateur and professional competitors worldwide.
But the Avon Descent isn’t just for serious athletes – it’s also a great opportunity for families to enjoy a fun weekend in the great outdoors. There are plenty of vantage points along the river where you can watch the action, and many of them offer food, drinks, and other entertainment to keep you and your family occupied between races.
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just looking for a fun family outing, the Avon Descent is an event you won’t want to miss. So pack up your sunscreen, grab your picnic blanket, and head down to the river for a weekend of excitement and adventure.
Where Does the Avon Descent Start?
The Avon Descent covers a total distance of 124 km, starting in Northam and finishing in Bayswater. The race is divided into two sections: the upper section, which covers 55 km from Northam to Toodyay, and the lower section, which covers 69 km from Toodyay to Bayswater. The upper section is known for its challenging rapids, while the lower section is faster and more open. The event has been held annually since 1987, apart from 2021 when it was cancelled due to COVID-19.
When is the 2024 Avon Descent?
This year’s Avon Descent is held on Saturday 10th and 11th of August 2024
Where to Watch the Avon Descent?
There are several places along the route where spectators can watch the race. The best places to watch the race are usually the most accessible and have the best views of the river. They are as follows:
Northam – Katrine Bridge
Dumbarton – Extracts Weir
Toodyay – Duidgee Park
Morangup – Cobbler Pool
Brigadoon – Bells Rapids
Swan Valley – Middle Swan Bridge
Caversham – Lilac Hill Park
Ascot – Gavey Park
Bayswater – Riverside Gardens
What Family Friendly Events for the Avon Descent are Being Held this Year?
A variety of family-friendly events are being held this year to coincide with the race, including an International Food Festival, Artisan Markets, roving entertainment, carnival rides and discounted helicopter flights!
Here’s our round up to all the best events happening to celebrate the 2023 Avon Descent
Friday 9th August
Northam Bilya Festival – Avon Descent Start Line at Bilya Koort Boodja Centre Garden
Date: Friday 9 August 2024 Time: 5:00pm – 9:00pm Location: Bilya Koort Boodja Centre Garden, Avon Mall, Minson Avenue, Northam Supported by Lotterywest Come to Northam’s Bilya Festival! Enjoy our spectacular community street parade and experience the wonders of urban farming, celebrating the 2024 Avon Descent. Offering the most exciting amusements, food stalls, and live entertainment that you’ll find in the Avon Valley this year! Come and celebrate the evening in style with the Shire of Northam. For more information: www.northam.wa.gov.au www.visitnorthamwa.com
Toodyay International Food Fest at Duidgee Park
Date: Saturday, 10 August 2024 Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm Location: Stirling and Duidgee Parks, Toodyay Supported by Lotterywest The Shire of Toodyay’s International Food Fest will warm you up with international cuisine from all corners of the globe. Just an hour’s drive from the CBD, come and soak up the international music, entertainment acts and activities for the kids to enjoy. Combine the thrill of the Avon Descent with delicious international cuisine. For more information: www.toodyay.wa.gov.au www.toodyay.com
Sunday 11th August
City of Swan Avon Descent Festival at Lilac Hill Park
Date: Sunday, 11 August 2024 Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm Location: Lilac Hill Park, Caversham Supported by Lotterywest This year’s City of Swan Avon Descent Festival is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and experience the excitement of the race, which passes through the Swan Valley vineyard region, Upper Swan Bridge and Bells Rapids. At the Festival, spectator’s can sample delicious gourmet food and wine from local growers as you wander through pop-up artisan markets. The Avon Descent Festival is proudly presented by the City of Swan and Perth Airport, supported by Plastic Free Riverpark program and supported by Lotterywest and VCMPerth Events. For more information: www.swan.wa.gov.au www.swanvalley.com.au
City of Bayswater Avon Descent Finish Line Festival 2024 at Bayswater Riverside Gardens
Nothing beats an exciting finish! Date: Sunday, 11 August 2024 Time: 11:00am – 5:00pm Location: Riverside Gardens, Milne Street, Bayswater Supported by Lotterywest Join support crews and spectators in welcoming competitors over the finish line of the Avon Descent. Enjoy a sensational day of free entertainment, children’s activities, food and markets, while celebrating the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) and its cultural and spiritual significance to the Noongar people. Nothing beats an exciting finish! For more information: www.bayswater.wa.gov.au
The Avon Descent 2024 promises to be an exciting event that the whole family can enjoy. With a variety of activities available for all ages, it’s an excellent opportunity to get out and experience the beauty of Western Australia.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or looking for a fun day out with the family, The Avon Descent 2024 has something for everyone. From the thrilling river race to the live entertainment and delicious food stalls, there’s never a dull moment.
For more information about the Avon Descent, visit www.avondescent.com.au
Find more family-friendly events happening around Perth
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After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 16 & 14 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
