MRROS event organisers and Board at the awards
Margaret River Region Open Studios (MRROS) won the Festivals and Events Category of the 50th Perth Airport Western Australian Tourism Awards last night at Crown Perth.
It was the first year MRROS entered the awards and Event Chair Jim Davies said he and the team couldn’t be prouder.
“This is a huge acknowledgement for the arts not only in the Margaret River Region and South West but also in WA,” he said.
“Our 168 artists put their hearts and souls into Open Studios, opening their private studios to the public for 16 days to create an artistic adventure throughout the Margaret River Region.
“Artists share their skills, work, stories and inspiration in what we believe to be the biggest art event of its kind in the southern hemisphere.
“In 2021 we had over 85,000 studio visits, more than half of our visitors were from Perth, 37% were visiting MRROS for the first time and the event generated $10million in economic benefit for the region.
“The Award was for the 2021 MRROS event and we will be announcing the results of the recent 2022 event shortly,” Jim said.
“Thanks also to our dedicated and talented voluntary board who work tirelessly throughout the year to make MRROS possible – Deputy Chair Jacquie Happ, Kay Gibson, Fi Wilkie, Sarah Hewer, Bu Wilson, and Susan Montanari.
“Congratulations to all the Tourism Awards winners and fellow Festivals and Events finalists and event holders for staging quality events to enhance Western Australia’s tourism event calendar - Channel 7 Rockingham Beach Cup presented by Rotary Club of Palm Beach, City of Light 60th Anniversary Celebration by City of Perth, and Busselton Jetty Swim.
Margaret River Region Open Studios extends from Busselton in the north of the region to Hamelin Bay in the south, and is free for visitors to create their own artistic adventure, following a trail of their favourite artists or art styles, or discover new talent. The natural beauty of the Margaret River Region is a significant influence on MRROS artists and inspires event visitors.
Margaret River Region Open Studios returns on 9 to 24 September 2023. Visit www.mrropenstudios.com.au to plan your artistic adventure.
The Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards are the at the industry’s premier awards, recognising businesses for their innovation, perseverance, and commitment to excellence.
Margaret River Region Open Studios is made possible thanks to Tourism Western Australia, City of Busselton, Shire of Augusta Margaret River, Jacksons Drawing Supplies, Private Properties, Rio Tinto, Swings & Roundabouts and more.