Victorian Open Golf Championships score huge funding boost
The Victorian Open Golf Championships at Thirteenth Beach today received a $200,000 funding boost from the Victorian Coalition Government's Significant Sporting Events Program (SSEP).
Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said the Coalition Government was committed to maintaining, developing and attracting new sporting events for Victoria.
"The event will receive $200,000 for the 2013 and 2014 events," Mr Delahunty said.
"Sport plays a vital role in our communities, which is why the Coalition Government continues to invest to attract the best events.
"Events like the Victorian Open help attract millions of visitors to our State, provide a stimulus for the economy and boost sports participation at a local level," Mr Delahunty said.
The Victorian Open Golf Championships will be held at Thirteenth Beach from 21-24 February 2013. It is expected to attract up to 264 players from across the world, including 144 men and 120 women.
The 2012 Victorian Open Golf Championships, supported by the Coalition Government, marked the first time the men's and women's championships were held at the same time, with the first two days played on separate courses and the final two days on the same course. The event was so successful, the same model will continue in 2013 and beyond, but this time with all rounds at the Thirteenth Beach Golf Club.
Mr Delahunty thanked the City of Greater Geelong for their continued support of major events in the region and Golf Victoria for securing the funding.
Mr Delahunty also said initiatives like the SSEP provided an important opportunity to work with sporting bodies and event organisers to develop up-and-coming events.
"Through the SSEP, we can work together to develop and support a wide range of events like the Victorian Golf Open that help keep our sporting State in the national and international spotlight," Mr Delahunty said.
For more information about the Significant Sporting Events Program go to www.sport.vic.gov.au
