The State Government is set to raise the international standard for world-class sailing events, following an injection of $8.6million in Federal funding for the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) Sailing World Championships in Fremantle in December 2011.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale said the State Government had secured the funding in yesterday’s Federal Budget to host the championships, which would be Australia’s most significant sailing event since the 1987 America’s Cup.
The event is expected to deliver $40million to the State and attract more than 5,000 visitors, including 1,500 competitors from 75 countries.
“This funding commitment shows the Rudd Government recognises the importance of this event and the legacy it can deliver to sailing in Australia,” she said.
“The multi-million dollar allocation reflects the strong relationship that exists between our Governments and will help ensure Western Australia delivers a world-class event.”
The Minister said the championships were the key qualifying event for the 2012 London Olympic Games.
“It will attract hundreds of national and international media and deliver significant media exposure of Perth and Fremantle to a worldwide audience, enticing people to WA,” Ms McHale said.
“Athletes, coaches and officials will be in WA for extended periods for pre-event training, as well as the fortnight of world championships.
“Many will stay on to experience more of the unique destinations WA has to offer, creating valuable tourism expenditure across the State.”
Bid Committee co-chairman Peter Gilmour said the championships were the pinnacle event in international sailing, with Fremantle being the ideal venue for the world’s largest sailing event.
“We are very excited to work in partnership with both the State and Federal Governments to ensure opportunities are maximised and a significant positive legacy is left for sailing throughout the country,” Mr Gilmour said.
More information about the 2011 International Sailing Federation Sailing World Championships is available at http://www.westernaustralia2011.com
Minister's office - 9213 6900 
