Ord Valley Muster Celebrates 25 Years as WA's Iconic Regional Festival
What started as a modest concept to attract visitors to Kununurra during the month of May has blossomed into one of Western Australia's most celebrated regional festivals. In 2026, the Ord Valley Muster will mark its impressive 25-year milestone with a spectacular evening under the stars at the renowned Kimberley Moon Experience, featuring stellar performances from artists like Tina Arena, Boy & Bear, and Budjerah.
From Humble Beginnings to Regional Icon
Back in the year 2000, the festival's founders envisioned creating a northern counterpart to Western Australia's cherished food and wine festivals. The goal was to extend the East Kimberley tourism season beyond the traditional winter peak period, injecting vitality into the shoulder month of May.
Former Ord Valley Muster Chair Narelle Brooke, who has been involved since the festival's inception, recalls the original vision as both simple and ambitious. "We wanted to create a 'Leeuwin of the North' that would showcase the East Kimberley and extend the region's tourism season into the shoulder month of May," Ms Brooke explained.
The early years were characterized by genuine grassroots effort and community spirit. The inaugural program spanned just five days and featured only ten community-driven events, organized from spare rooms and kitchen tables across the region.
"We certainly didn't imagine back then that this small, home-grown initiative would still be thriving 25 years later," Ms Brooke reflected. "The fact that it has become one of Western Australia's most iconic regional festivals is a testament to the community that built it."
Community Spirit and Memorable Moments
Those formative years were powered by determination, generosity, and a can-do attitude that defined the Kimberley spirit. Volunteers dedicated countless hours hammering fence posts, hanging sponsor banners, and packing away chairs after each event. One particular memory continues to resonate with those who were there.
"People still talk about that first dinner auction on the cane field at the Hoochery Distillery — one of the coldest nights anyone could remember," Ms Brooke recalled. "Locals were driving back into town to grab jackets and jumpers for strangers. It was a 'ball dress and Blundstone' kind of night — glamorous in intention, practical in execution, and absolutely unforgettable."
Evolution and Expansion
As the festival gained momentum, its audience expanded significantly. A pivotal moment arrived with the introduction of the Kimberley Moon Experience in 2003, which captured state-wide attention and eventually attracted sell-out crowds.
"By the time the Moon sold out with Jimmy Barnes in 2008, it was clear the festival had become a major drawcard," Ms Brooke noted.
Government support followed this success, along with multiple tourism awards and national recognition that solidified the Muster's reputation as a premier Australian event.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Today, the Ord Valley Muster has secured a place on the bucket lists of travelers seeking authentic and extraordinary experiences. According to current Chair of Ord Valley Events Sophie Cooke, the festival's influence extends far beyond entertainment.
"It's given us a platform to share our stories, creativity and culture in a way that comes from the heart of the community," she emphasized.
"Economically, it shifted May from a quiet shoulder month into a time of energy and opportunity, filling accommodation, supporting local businesses and creating jobs."
For Ms Cooke, reaching the 25-year milestone evokes both humility and motivation. "More than anything, it reminds us that we are not the owners of this festival, we are its current custodians," she stated. "It's about honouring the legacy, holding the present with care, and passing it on in strong shape for the next generation."
The 25th Anniversary Celebration
The upcoming anniversary celebration promises to be particularly memorable. In 2026, festival attendees can anticipate world-class musical performances, immersive cultural experiences, exceptional food and wine events, wellness activities, a standout comedy lineup featuring Eddie Ifft, Danielle Walker, and Troy Kinne, rodeo competitions, and adventure opportunities including guided Purnululu 4WD safaris and traditional corroborees with the Miriwoong Gajerrong people.
The centerpiece event, the Kimberley Moon Experience, will showcase Tina Arena, Boy & Bear, and Budjerah performing on stage beneath the Kimberley sky.
"If you've never experienced the magic of the Muster, there is no better time than our 25th anniversary," Ms Cooke encouraged. "It's shaping up to be one people will look back on and say, that was something special."
The complete 2026 program is now available, inviting visitors to begin planning their Kimberley adventure before accommodation becomes scarce. This milestone anniversary represents not just a celebration of entertainment, but a testament to community resilience and regional pride that has transformed a simple idea into an enduring Western Australian institution.
