Labor commits $450,000 to Backroads Gravel Fields of Gold event for next three years if re-elected on March 8

WA Labor has committed funding to keep the Backroads Gravel Fields of Gold gravel ride and running festival going if re-elected on Saturday.

Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti was in Geraldton on Tuesday to announce a $450,000 commitment — $150,000 a year for the next three years — to give the event the funding certainty it needs to grow and become a major cycling event in the region.

Since its debut in 2022, more than 1750 people have participated in the event, with benefits being felt in the host town of Nabawa, Geraldton and the greater Mid West region.

Ms Saffioti said she was excited to keep the event running and hoped to boost tourism and participation in the regions.

“WA Labor is proud to secure the future of the Backroads festival for the next three years,” she said.

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

Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton was thrilled for the region and the economic benefits the event would bring for locals.

“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,” she said.

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