Perth hosts Australia's biggest team welcome for Rugby World Cup 2003

9/10/03
Five of the world's top rugby nations will receive an official State Government welcome to Western Australia this evening in the lead-up to the first Perth game of Rugby World Cup 2003.
Deputy Premier Eric Ripper will officially welcome the 150 players from England, Georgia, Samoa, South Africa and Uruguay on behalf of the people of WA.
"Perth is extremely proud to host the largest official team welcome in the country for Rugby World Cup 2003," Mr Ripper said.
At the official welcome, the Deputy Premier will invite players and officials from the International Rugby Board and the Australian Rugby Union to enjoy WA hospitality during the tournament.
"This ceremony is an extremely special occasion for the players who will receive their Rugby World Cup 2003 cap, and I trust they will remember WA fondly," Mr Ripper said.
He said Perth people could continue the State welcome for the rugby teams, officials and media over the coming weeks by supporting a team, attending a match or attending one of the many activities planned around the city from Joondalup to Fremantle.
"There are still good tickets available to many of the games and I encourage people who have never experienced international level rugby to attend one and be part of the biggest sporting event in the world this year," Mr Ripper said.

The Rugby World Cup 2003 is expected to generate $9.4million in direct spending for WA.
Perth will host five Pool games at Subiaco Oval between October 11 and 19.
Information on activities in Perth during the Rugby World Cup is available online at http://www.rugby.westernaustralia.net
Minister's office: 9213 7000