Minister welcomes Spirit of Freedom balloon to WA

3/6/02
Preparations for the world record attempt by adventurer Steve Fossett to fly solo around the world in a balloon are now under way in Northam.
Tourism Minister Clive Brown toured the flight departure site today to welcome the crew to Western Australia and wish them well in their mission.
The attempt to fly around the world solo in a balloon is planned for this month, depending on weather conditions.
"This event will generate significant international and national media exposure for WA, and the Heartlands region in particular," Mr Brown said.
Several international media organisations are expected to cover the balloon lift off which will showcase our State to the world.
In addition to this media exposure, millions are expected to follow the progress of Mr Fossett through his website, which contains information on visiting WA.
This site attracted more than 12 million visitors during his last attempt, and similar numbers are expected again to visit this website.
Progress updates on the balloon record attempt will be available on http://www.spiritoffreedom.com.
The State Government has provided $25,000 in funding to the Town of Northam to maximise the tourism potential of the event.
About 4,000 people are expected in Northam to watch the balloon's lift off. The round-the-world solo balloon flight attempt is expected to take 15 days and on completion, Mr Fossett and crew will return to Perth for an international media conference.
"This event is one of many this year that will take WA to the world," Mr Brown said.
Later this month, the rugby test match between Australia and New Zealand Maori will be aired nationally as well as in New Zealand, one of our emerging tourism markets.
Other events, such as Telstra Rally Australia and the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup, will continue to demonstrate the tourism attractions of our State to national and international audiences.
Minister's office: 9222 9699