World Rally Championships To Boost Economy And Create Jobs In Northern Rivers Region

“Statement by Ian Macdonald, New South Wales Minister for State Development”

NSW is set to receive a $100 million boost to its economy by hosting the FIA World Rally Championships on the Northern Rivers, Minister for State Development Ian Macdonald said today.

The Australian round of the FIA World Rally Championships, will be staged in the Northern Rivers region every second year from September 2009 to 2017.

“This is a great coup for NSW – the FIA World Rally Championships is the highest profile motorsports event, after Formula One,” Mr Macdonald said. “This major event will drive tourism, create jobs and deliver significant economic benefits to the Northern Rivers region.

“Event organisers estimate that the event will create the equivalent of around 40 new permanent positions, or between 1500-2000 part time and casual jobs during the event week.

“It is expected to generate up to 69,000 visitor nights in the Tweed-Kyogle region.

“Around 35 competition stages will take place in the Kyogle and Murwillumbah areas and the first event starts from 3-6 September.

“The Government is developing appropriate special legislation, to ensure the event can happen in September.

“The legislation will permit the Government to impose environmental protection measures to manage any temporary impacts on affected local areas.”

Mr Macdonald said that the event will also provide a unique opportunity to showcase the spectacular Northern Rivers area and generate increase international interest in the region.

“Organizers have been engaged in major consultation with local councils, businesses, environmental groups, community representatives and residents in the Northern Rivers region,” Mr Macdonald said.

“Representatives from the Murwillumbah and District Chamber of Commerce and Tweed Tourism are supportive of the event – they realise the potential it has to deliver massive economic benefits and showcase the region.

“Last year more than 816 million people in 180 countries watched the World Rally with around 51 million viewers per round.”

The five-event deal was secured by Events NSW with the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport in September 2008.

The 12-round Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile World Rally Championship includes events throughout Europe, South America and Asia with motor manufacturer representation from Ford and Citroen at outright level, and Mitsubishi and Subaru in the support categories.

As well as the competition stages, all the major teams will take part in a major media event in Sydney to kick-off the rally week of activities.