The announcement that Melbourne has secured the Formula One Grand Prix for another five years will provide confidence and certainty for the events industry going forward, says the Victoria Events Industry Council.
“Victoria’s business events industry is worth more than $1.2 billion to the State and the Australian Grand Prix is one of the four key sporting events that underpin our events calendar”, says VEIC Chair Peter Jones.
“Today’s announcement will also will cement Melbourne’s status as Australia’s major events capital and boost tourism and allied industries.
“The worldwide TV coverage alone gives Melbourne enormous exposure and will be boosted by a 5.00pm start.
“The announcement has also resolved a lot of uncertainty surrounding this event and sees off the threat from `predator’ cities within Australia and emerging locations in the broader region.
“The Grand Prix has underpinned the growth of Victoria’s events industry, which is globally recognised and is the envy of competitor states.
“Its continued presence will ensure that Victoria’s events industry will continue to go from strength to strength”, says Mr Jones. |