127th annual Mount Lyell Strahan Picnic
The Mount Lyell Strahan Picnic is a cherished annual community event on Tasmania's West Coast, dating back to 1897. Originally established by the Mount Lyell Mining & Railway Company as a reprieve from harsh mining conditions for its workers and families, it evolved into a community-wide celebration. The Picnic, held on Australia Day, now draws locals and visitors to West Strahan Beach, offering a blend of tradition and festivity. Participants enjoy a variety of traditional games, including sack races, gumboot tossing, and horseshoe throwing, alongside modern attractions like bicycle stunt shows and children’s treasure hunts. Free fruit, sweets, and refreshments for children maintain the inclusive, family-friendly spirit of the event. Each year, the Picnic also features a citizenship ceremony and the West Coast Spirit awards, reinforcing community bonds. Organised entirely by volunteers, the event highlights the resilience and camaraderie of the West Coast community. It serves as a living link to the region’s heritage, reflecting over a century of adaptation and celebration. Despite changes in transportation and local industries, the Picnic remains a unifying tradition, celebrating the spirit of togetherness through fun, games, and shared history.
