Millions worldwide watch Perth on Amazing Race

28/04/06
Perth has been promoted to an international audience of millions after being featured on the Emmy Award winning reality television program 'The Amazing Race'.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale today announced Perth was one of 11 destinations to star in the latest series of the program, which is broadcast to 21 million viewers and into more than 172 million homes around the globe.
"We are thrilled that Perth was selected for this program which will bring the kind of publicity that money can not buy," Ms McHale said.
"Having Perth feature on this incredibly popular program will show the world what Perth has to offer as a holiday destination."
The Minister said the State Government negotiated with the producers of 'The Amazing Race' to secure it for Perth.
'The Amazing Race' is a reality television program where couples race around the world with a budget and face a series of challenges in the hope of winning US$1 million.
Ms McHale said one of the program's biggest audiences was the United States where the publicity value to Western Australia was estimated to be $US2.4 million.
'The Amazing Race' is also broadcast throughout Asia and the Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and Africa.
Australian audiences will be able to see the show on the Seven Network on May 18.
The Minister said Amazing Race competitors visited Perth in November 2005 and spent two days filming the race at some of the city's most popular destinations including; Kings Park, Swan Bells, Fremantle and Rottnest Island.
"Competitors dived into crystal clear waters off Rottnest Island, explored the tunnels beneath Fremantle Prison, climbed the Bell Tower and collected a clue from near the War Memorial at Kings Park," she said.
"The crew also spent time shooting additional footage in and around Perth for use in the broadcast."
Minister's office: 9213 6900