A landmark deal will bring more than 12,000 interstate and international university students to Perth for sporting events, generating $17million for Western Australia.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale said an eight-year deal was struck between the State Government, Australian University Sport and the University of WA to host six major competitions at the University of WA and Challenge Stadium from 2009 to 2016.
“The two events, the Australian University Games and Indian Rim Asian University Games, are the pinnacle sports events for universities in our region,” Ms McHale said.
“The games are a perfect opportunity to showcase our State to thousands of potential future visitors to WA, in particular future backpackers.
“They are also expected to generate about $17million in direct visitor expenditure, which goes to show that events mean business for WA.
“The games help provide students with regular international competition, as well as exposure to different cultures and the development of strong ties between universities.”
UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Alan Robson said the events would help build stronger relationships between Australian universities and other universities in the region.
“These relationships will in turn benefit all of our students in terms of personal development, career opportunities, professional networks and personal relationships,” Professor Robson said.
“We’re committed to excellence by providing students with a well balanced all-round education that includes experiences in the areas of sport and culture.”
Australian University Sport chief executive officer Don Knapp said he was looking forward to working with Eventscorp and UWA to help build the competitions into prestigious international events.
“The Australian University Games have grown to be Australia’s largest annual multi-sport event, and Perth is a great place to stage them,” Mr Knapp said.
The Australian University Games involves 30 sports and will be played in Perth in 2010 and 2016, while the Indian Rim Asian University Games involves around 10 sports and will be hosted in 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2015.
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