Western Australia ready to roll for Rugby World Cup 2003

6/10/03
The world's leading rugby teams, media, officials and rugby spectators have started to arrive in Perth in the lead up to Rugby World Cup 2003.
Premier Geoff Gallop said Perth's tourism industry was ready for a bumper period as a result of the event.
"The eyes of the world will be on Perth this week when the first game at Subiaco Oval between South Africa and Uruguay kicks off on Saturday," Dr Gallop said.
"The Rugby World Cup is the biggest sporting event in the world this year, and Western Australia has a key role in being the initial base for five teams.
"We have estimated that more than 5,000 interstate and overseas visitors are travelling to WA to be part of Rugby World Cup 2003 in Perth, generating $9.4million in direct spending for the State.
"However, the indications are that we may well exceed this.
"In addition, footage from WA will be shown around the world to an audience of millions in more than 120 countries.
"Many Perth hotels are reporting that they are fully booked or expecting high occupancies during the period, while other tourism operators are enjoying increased bookings as spectators sample the Western Australian lifestyle between games."
Australia's largest official welcoming ceremony for teams participating in the event will be held in Perth next Thursday, when players from England, Georgia, Samoa, South Africa and Uruguay are presented with their Rugby World Cup caps.
"The tournament is an international spectacle that all Western Australians can be part of - by supporting a team, attending a match or taking part in the many other activities planned during the tournament period," Dr Gallop said.
Information on Rugby World Cup activities is available online at http://www.rugby.westernaustralia.net and tickets for the five matches at Subiaco Oval are still available through http://www.rugby2003.com.au
Premier's office: 9222 9475