7/2/06
Perth is to host a sporting bonanza as the world's leading golfers arrive for the 15th Johnnie Walker Classic, while some of Australia's best rugby players get ready for the inaugural Emirates Western Force game.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale said the State Government had invested $3million in the golfing classic to be played at the Vines Resort and Country Club from February 9 to 12.
Ms McHale said about 40,000 spectators were expected to attend the tournament, with images of Western Australia to be beamed to millions of viewers worldwide.
"The Johnnie Walker Classic is one of the world's richest golfing tournaments and will be a great tourism draw-card, with visitors and local golfers able to play the same course as their golfing heroes," she said.
"Perth will be buzzing with activity this weekend with visitors from around the world supporting their favourite golfer or rugby team.
"Tourism Western Australia will be maximising the opportunity to showcase Perth to the world by hosting journalists from South Africa, New Zealand and the Eastern States during the sporting fest."
Ms McHale said this year's field included Colin Montgomerie (Scotland), Michael Campbell (New Zealand), Robert Allenby (Australia), Adam Scott (Australia), Mark Hensby (Australia), Nick O'Hern (Australia), Peter Lonard (Australia), Retief Goosen (South Africa), Ian Poulter (England), Paul Casey (England), Ian Woosnam (Wales) and Fred Couples (USA).
"We are also promoting WA and all its natural and cultural offerings to all golfers who make the final cut to play on Saturday and Sunday," she said.
"They will be eligible to win a WA Dream Holiday if they hit a hole-in-one from the 13th tee.
"The economic benefits to WA will also be significant, with a direct injection of about $6million into the local economy. Television coverage into our major tourism markets highlighting WA will be worth more than $2.5million.
"Perth will also host the Johnnie Walker Classic in 2009, with a further option to host it in 2012.
"In its 15-year history, the Johnnie Walker Classic has only been played in Australia on three occasions, and until 2002 and 2003 here in Perth, it had never been played in the same host city two years in a row.
"After WA staged the event in 2002, the event organisers were so impressed they brought it back to Perth in 2003.
"With our great climate, fresh food, world class wine, friendly people and rich culture, golf professionals, enthusiasts and sponsors love coming to Perth.
"I wish all involved in the Jonnie Walker Classic and the Emirates Western Force team the very best of luck this weekend."
Minister's office: 9213 6900
