WESTERN Australia’s place in the international events pecking order has been improved with EventsCorp’s recent success in securing two international sailing events for Fremantle.
WESTERN Australia’s place in the international events pecking order has been improved with EventsCorp’s recent success in securing two international sailing events for Fremantle.
WESTERN Australia’s place in the international events pecking order has been improved with EventsCorp’s recent success in securing two international sailing events for Fremantle.
Fremantle has won host port status for the Clipper 2005 Round the World Yacht Race and will be the only Australian port for the 5-Oceans race in 2006-7.
In both cases WA beat rival bids from around the nation and the globe.
Clipper Ventures managing director Richard Cooper said the WA bid had secured host port city status over other international and national bids due to the strong commitment and support from all State stakeholders.
“The bid was the most professional I have ever come across,” he said.
Mr Cooper said a successful host port had to be able to provide all associated facilities for crew, public and media; have the right location and weather; provide a festival atmosphere; and be supported by the community.
He said a successful host port also had to have a hunger to exploit the race as a vehicle to build its international reputation.
The two international yacht races are expected to yield returns of $3.3 million to the State’s economy.
This figure, however, is regarded as conservative. Clipper 2002 host port Liverpool, UK, recorded an economic impact of $20 million.
In recent years WA has had a minor presence in the international sailing events calendar.
According to Tourism Minister Bob Kucera, these two events will put Fremantle “back on the map” of the sailing world.
Mr Kucera said he believed the current global political climate gave WA a three-year window to gain a strong foothold in the international events arena.
“As the world situation settles down there is enormous potential to grow the industry, “ he said.
As well as the direct spend event tourism brings to the State, the industry has strong trade links and there is greater government focus on generating investment tours and trade opportunities off the back of hosting international events.
“Event tourism in WA is coming alive,” Mr Kucera said