Western Australian rowing has received a big boost with the development of the international standard Champion Lakes Regatta Centre which will host the Australian Masters Rowing Regatta and other events in 2010.
Sport and Recreation Minister Terry Waldron said the world-class venue would host a number of exciting events in coming years, providing competitors with excellent facilities and spectators with a 'ringside seat' to the action.
"With its close proximity to the city and major transport corridors and its excellent facilities, I'm confident that Champion Lakes will soon be recognised as one of Australia's best water sports facilities," Mr Waldron said.
"The Masters Rowing Regatta is a shining example of the high calibre events that can be expected to be hosted at Champion Lakes."
Rowing action heats up on Saturday, March 28 when the annual Head of the River is held at the Champion Lakes course for the first time. This historic event dates back to 1899.
In 2010, the venue will host the rowing events of WA's Intervarsity Games - the first time rowing has been included in these games in 40 years.
"The quality of the Champion Lakes facility has made it the likely venue for the 2013 Australian Rowing Championships Regatta," Mr Waldron said.
The Australian Masters Rowing Regatta will be held in May-June, 2010, the first national championship held in WA since 1995.
Masters rowing involves most of Australia's active rowers. The regatta is conducted in nine categories for competitors aged from 27 upwards.
Planning Minister John Day congratulated the Armadale Redevelopment Authority on developing a world-class facility where associated residential and commercial development was expected to ensure the project was self-funding.
"The Champion Lakes facility not only allows this state to host elite sporting events but also provides an aquatic experience for the local community," Mr Day said.
"The 2010 events will give the organisers a wealth of experience in delivering world-class events while whetting spectators' appetites for even more exciting rowing."
Rowing Australia president, Patrick McNamara, has welcomed the choice of Champion Lakes as the venue for the Australian Masters.
"The development of this international standard rowing facility is greatly appreciated by Australian rowers," Mr McNamara said.
"Rowing Australia is grateful for the foresight and commitment of the WA Government and, in particular, the work of the Armadale Redevelopment Authority."
Rowing WA president Craig James said the new facilities were a big step forward.
"For too long, Rowing WA has been denied the opportunity to present world standard competition because of substandard facilities," Mr James said.
"Champion Lakes is destined to become one of Australia's foremost international standard water sports venues. I'm confident that first time visitors will be impressed and I know the local rowing fraternity will stage a well-run event."
Office of the Minister for Sport and Recreation- 9213 7200
Office of the Minister for Planning - 9213 6600
