Racers make a splash in Argyle race

• Adventure race to showcase Lake Argyle's beauty
• Race includes 2.5km swim, 29km paddle, 40km mountain bike and 10km run

An extraordinary race in and around Lake Argyle this weekend is expected to attract competitors from throughout Western Australia and interstate.

The State Government has provided funding for the Lake Argyle Adventure Race through Eventscorp's Regional Events Scheme, which this year received a funding boost from Royalties for Regions.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the Lake Argyle Adventure Race would showcase the beauty of this magnificent area to locals and people visiting to take part in the event.

"Competitors will swim in the vast expanse of Lake Argyle, paddle downstream through magnificent gorges, mountain bike between towering termite mounds and run cross-country through breathtaking vistas," Dr Hames said.

"Regional events are important as they provide significant economic, social and cultural benefits to the community, as well as increase the region's profile through media exposure."

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the additional funding for the Regional Events Scheme was part of a significant four-year commitment of $40million to regional events from the Royalties for Regions Fund.

"Supporting the adventure race is a fantastic opportunity to illustrate how unique the Kimberley region is, how vibrant and appealing it is to visit and what a great place it is to live," Mr Grylls said.

"Royalties for Regions funding ensures regional events such as the Lake Argyle Adventure Race continue to engage and excite both visitors and communities in regional WA."

       Fact File

• Lake Argyle is Australia's largest body of freshwater
• Created as part of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme and officially opened in June 1972
• The Lake Argyle Adventure Race will be held on Sunday, October 2
• For more information visit http://www.karunjie.net.au/Lake_Argyle
  

Tourism Minister's office - 9222 8788