Perth to host five matches in 2003 Rugby World Cup

20/5/02 Premier Geoff Gallop confirmed today that Perth would host five matches, including a clash between two of the world's greatest rugby sides - South Africa and England - during the Rugby World Cup in 2003.

20/5/02
Premier Geoff Gallop confirmed today that Perth would host five matches, including a clash between two of the world's greatest rugby sides - South Africa and England - during the Rugby World Cup in 2003.
"The Rugby World Cup is one of the largest events in the world, and I'm pleased to confirm that Western Australia has secured one of the leading host roles in this international spectacle," Dr Gallop said.
The WA Government has an agreement in principle with Australian Rugby Union to host five matches.
All matches will be played at Subiaco Oval.
"The South Africa and England match in particular will be one of the highlights of the complete Rugby World Cup draw and is expected to attract thousands of interstate and international visitors to Perth and create a sell-out event," Dr Gallop said.
"South Africa and England are not only both ranked in the top 10 of international rugby, but are also target tourism markets for WA.
"The WA Government will contribute $1.4million to secure these matches, which we anticipate will generate $14.2million in economic impact for WA, with international television coverage valued in excess of $1.375million."
South Africa has proven to have a fantastic rugby following in WA, selling out the last two matches played in Perth in 2001 and 1998, with the latest test contributing $9.57million to the WA economy.
Dr Gallop said the Rugby World Cup would have an even greater impact for the State for a number of reasons.
"The English and South African teams both have huge followings," he said.
"With a week between the first and last matches, visiting rugby fans will have the opportunity to travel to the regions which will increase the quality of their tourism experience as well as generating economic benefits around the State."
The Rugby World Cup matches confirmed to date are:

  • Saturday, October 11 - South Africa V America 2 (possibly Canada or USA, depending on play-offs);
  • Sunday, October 12 - England V Europe 3 (depends on play-offs but possibly Romania);
  • Wednesday, October 15 - Oceania 2 (possibly Fiji or Samoa) V America 2;
  • Saturday, October 18 - South Africa V England; and
  • Sunday, October 19 - Europe 3 V Oceania 2.
Western Australia will have a taste of what is to come with the upcoming rugby test match between the Australian Wallabies and New Zealand Maori at Subiaco Oval on June 15.
The full schedule of Rugby World Cup matches was released today by the International Rugby Board.
Further details:
Premier's office: 9222 9475
Paula Wallace, EventsCorp, 9270 3316