WA Labor to keep major Mid West cycling event pedalling

• Re-elected WA Labor Government to provide $450,000 for the Backroads Fields of Gold gravel ride and running festival
• Funding will secure the event for the next three years
• Reflects WA Labor’s commitment to supporting local events and creating vibrancy in our regions

The popular Backroads Fields of Gold gravel ride and running festival will continue pedalling in the Mid West for another three years under a re-elected WA Labor Government.

WA Labor has committed $450,000, or $150,000 per year for the next three years, which will provide the event funding certainty it needs to grow to become a major cycling event in the region.

The Backroads Fields of Gold starts and ends in Nabawa, around 30 minutes from Geraldton, and runs through canola fields, wheat crops and wildflowers against the backdrop of rolling hills.

Riders can choose from 5 different courses ranging from 10 to 160 kilometres and runners can choose between a 5 kilometre or 14-kilometre track.

Since its debut in 2022, over 1,750 people have participated in the event with flow on effects of the event being felt in the town of Nabawa, as well as Geraldton and the broader Mid West region.

The funding announcement reflects WA Labor’s commitment to supporting vibrancy and attracting visitors to our regions while activating and boosting local communities.

Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:

“WA Labor is proud to secure the future of the Backroads Fields of Gold festival for the next three years, as we continue to deliver a year-round calendar of diverse tourism events across our State."

“Hosting vibrant and dynamic events in our regions is essential for tourism in attracting visitors, while also supporting the local economy."

“Only WA Labor will do what’s right for our regional communities, helping to create vibrancy, support local businesses and drive visitation.”

Comments attributed to Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton:

“We're very excited to welcome competitors and spectators to this fantastic event for the next three years, helping to create a great atmosphere in and around the region."

“Importantly, these events also provide great benefits for our broader community, bringing in valuable visitor spend and supporting our local operators.”