Major events to deliver for the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is set for a $94 million economic boost following with Queensland Premier Anna Bligh having announced deals to secure the 2016 national surf lifesaving titles and the Noosa and Mooloolaba triathlons for a further three years.

Announcing that the events had been secured, Premier Bligh stated that "we have confirmation that the Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships (Aussies), the largest sporting event of its type in the world, are coming to the Sunshine Coast for the first time since.

"Hosting the Aussies in 2016 is a huge coup for the region that will coincide perfectly with the 100 year anniversary of surf life saving on the Sunshine Coast.

"The Sunshine Coast really deserves this opportunity with a great record and reputation for hosting major events.

"We can also announce a further three-year agreement to continue the nation's two biggest triathlons- Noosa and Mooloolaba.

"This is great news for the entire region - the tourism industry, local businesses and local jobs.

"The Aussies will draw 7,000 competitors and generate $12 million and the two triathlons combined attract 18,000 participants and pump more than $27 million a year into the local economy.

"It's estimated the Aussies will deliver about 64,000 visitor nights and each year the triathlons combine for more than 120,000 visitor nights.

"That means people booking hotel rooms, filling restaurants, and spending in shops and small businesses.

"We've seen how well the Sunshine Coast puts on major events and how the local community gets behind them.

"A $94 million shot in the arm for the local economy is why the Queensland Government supports these events through Events Queensland."

Premier Bligh thanked Sunshine Coast City Council, Surf Life Saving Australia and USM events for their role in delivering successful events.

The Noosa Triathlon Multi Sport Festival, held in October, celebrates its 30-year anniversary next year and Mooloolaba Triathlon Festival, celebrates its 20-year anniversary.

Events Queensland Chief Executive John O'Sullivan stated "the Aussies and the Noosa and Mooloolaba triathlons are marquee events on the dynamic and growing Queensland calendar - which also includes the Coolum PGA in November.

"Participatory events like these are growing in popularity and the appeal of the Sunshine Coast as a destination is second to none.

"These key ingredients, combined with the track record of USM in delivering successful events, will ensure the region reaps the benefits of this increased investment over the coming years."

Surf Life Saving Australia Chief Executive Brett Williamson added his support, stating "Surf Life Saving Australia is delighted to take the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships to the Sunshine Coast - a region where surf life saving is entrenched into the community spirit.

"Having the Sunshine Coast host the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships in 2016 is made even more special with the area celebrating 100 years of involvement in surf life saving."

USM Events Chief Executive Geoff Meyer said the events would be marketed both interstate and internationally to help further boost competitor and spectator numbers, adding "these two highly successful events have had a huge impact on their local economies during a tourism 'mid season' period.

"The aim is for these events to continue to grow and attract a new wave of visitors to the region as they approach major anniversaries."

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