The famed Ashes urn - perhaps the world's most famous and celebrated sporting artefact - will be exhibited in Perth in December when hordes of English fans are expected to arrive for the test series.
Culture and Arts and Tourism minister Sheila McHale today confirmed the Ashes urn would be hosted by the Western Australian Museum next summer during the 2006/07 Ashes series.
"This is only the second time in the history of the Ashes that the urn has visited Australia - the first time was during the 1988 bicentennial celebrations," Ms McHale said.
"Legions of WA cricket fans will have what is possibly a once in a life-time chance to see cricket's holy grail.
"The urn will go on display from 10 - 20 December when Australia and England play the third Ashes Test at the WACA between 14 -18 December.
"Cricket Australia and the MCC have organized to exhibit the urn in major Australian museums during the Ashes Test series as part of a small travelling exhibition which includes other MCC memorabilia."
Ms McHale said the WA Museum was working on a bigger exhibition to complement the urn's visit, showcasing WA's proud history of cricketing achievements and profiling greats such as Dennis Lillee, Rod Marsh, Justin Langer and Adam Gilchrist.
"The exhibition will also reflect the willingness of West Australians to play cricket anywhere at anytime - in our back yards, at the beach, in the bush, at picnics and at schools," Ms McHale said.
"The exhibition is planned to remain on display through the summer school holidays until February 2007. "
