Minister launches program of Rugby World Cup 2003 festivities

26/8/03
A festival of food, wine and music forms the centrepiece of Western Australia's Rugby World Cup 2003 celebrations.
Tourism Minister Bob Kucera, who launched the City Festivities program at the Town Hall this morning, said the World Cup was the year's biggest international sporting event.
WA will host five pool matches featuring teams from South Africa, England, Samoa, Georgia and Uruguay between October 11 and 19.
Mr Kucera said Fremantle, Joondalup, Perth and Subiaco would spearhead WA's festivities.
"Hosting major sporting events showcases WA to the world," he said.
"These matches will give visiting rugby fans the chance to explore WA, which increases the quality of their tourism experience and generates economic benefits across the State.
"We expect about 5,000 interstate and overseas visitors to travel to WA for the World Cup - generating more than $9million in direct spending."
A wide variety of entertainment options are on offer during Rugby World Cup 2003.
City highlights include:

• a one-stop shop for rugby enthusiasts at the Rugby World Cup Information Hub in Murray Street Mall (October 8 to 19);

• a lunchtime function to officially welcome rugby teams to the State on October 10; and

• a Northbridge pub-fest - bringing a real rugby atmosphere to the heart of the city for the duration of the tournament.

Subiaco highlights include:

• the Coca Cola Subiaco Music Festival; and

• free Sunday concerts, regular shows at the Subiaco Theatre Centre and entertainment at the Regal Theatre.

Joondalup highlights include:

• a big screen and 'live site' at Arena Joondalup. Local residents will be able to watch the opening ceremony telecast live from Sydney and games such as the big England v South Africa match played out live on the big-screen; and

• a virtual concert.

Fremantle highlights include:

• the Fremantle Taste of the Nation Festival on October 19. The festival combines WA culture with a vibrant outdoor market setting. Fifty local restaurants and wineries are participating.

A complete list of events can be found at http://www.westernaustralia.net
Minister's Office - 9213 7000