The Hodgman Liberal Government is a proud supporter of tourism, jobs, major events and sport, and the announcement that Launceston will host a Big Bash League Cricket game this summer satisfies all of those goals.
We know that the Premier, who is also the Tourism, Hospitality and Events Minister, was delighted that the Tasmanian Government could play its role in securing the extra BBL game at the University of Tasmania Stadium.
Treasurer, Peter Gutwein: ``Just like Hawthorn games in Launceston, this city will be on the national stage, we can expect a significant boost for accommodation, retail, restaurants and local jobs as visitors use this event for an extended stay in Northern Tasmania.
``Tasmania is well on track to achieve the Government’s target of 1.5 million visitors by 2020 and staging national events of this calibre is great for locals, but also attracts more tourists.
``This was a great opportunity and having a balanced Budget allows us to invest in events like this that make Northern Tasmania a great place in which to live.
``Congratulations also to the Launceston City Council for its support and particularly to Cricket Tasmania and Cricket Australia for showing faith in Launceston’s ability to deliver a world-class product at one of Australia’s best boutique stadiums.’’
Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier, Sarah Courtney: ``The double-header with the Hurricanes’ women’s team will not only showcase elite sport at its best, it will attract valuable TV coverage which will focus millions of eyeballs on beautiful Northern Tasmania and highlight Launceston’s ability to successfully stage national events.
``Hurricanes’ games regularly attract up to 1 million viewers, so this will be invaluable advertising and promotion for Northern Tasmania.
``It is particularly pleasing to see a double-header involving the Hurricanes’ women's team because they have already played games at UTAS Stadium and have received tremendous support from the Northern community.
``Ricky Ponting paved the way for cricket at UTAS Stadium with his charity matches and hopefully this will be the start of more national matches for the sports capital of the State.’’