26 September 2023

Exmouth wakes for its day of darkness

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Tourism WA has announced that upgrades to the Exmouth Town Beach have been completed in time for the tens of thousands of visitors expected to visit the region to witness the 2023 Solar Eclipse on 20 April.

The upgrades include shade structures, boardwalk decking, fencing, irrigation, lawns, a drinking fountain and waste facilities.

A drone show will celebrate the ancient dreaming story of the eclipse told by Traditional Owners.

Representatives from 14 State Government Agencies have been working in partnership with the Local Government and Department of Defence to ensure communities in the region, including businesses, are supported for the event.

In a statement, Tourism WA said the aim was to provide a safe and enjoyable event for all with upgrades and improvements to roads, marine infrastructure, telecommunication networks and local facilities.

“The contribution will also provide a lasting legacy for the region, which is one of our fastest growing and most popular tourist destinations and features in our successful global tourism campaign, Walking on a Dream,” the Tourism WA said.

Forty businesses had successfully applied for the grants totalling more than $837,000, it said.

The popularity of the area is because Exmouth is located in the path of a 100 per cent solar eclipse and is regarded as the best land-based location in the world to view the event.

There will also be near total eclipses across the region — Onslow and Coral Bay will experience 99 per cent darkness while Carnarvon will enjoy about a 95 per cent eclipse.

The solar eclipse will occur over a three-hour period, with totality in Exmouth occurring at approximately 11:29am when the sun, moon and Earth align.

More information on the 2023 Solar Eclipse and the accompanying Dark Sky Festival can be accessed at this PS News link.

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