New lighting unveiled at Aurora Stadium

A $1 million lighting upgrade at Launceston's Aurora Stadium has been completed, and will light up a Ricky Ponting tribute cricket match tomorrow (30th January).

Australia's greatest run-scorer will grace the Aurora Stadium tomorrow (30th January) for a one-off appearance on the opening night of the Aussie 15s competition later this month.

Completed by Launceston-based firm Darcon, completion of the $1 million project was welcomed by Tasmanian Minister for Sport and Recreation Michelle O'Byrne who stated "an upgraded Aurora Stadium will be able to host more major sporting events, which will have important benefits for our economy."

Minister O'Byrne said the Launceston City Council initiative to install a drop-in cricket pitch means the new-look stadium will be able to be used year-round by a greater range of sporting groups and other community organisations.

Over 12,500 tickets have already been sold for the Ricky Ponting tribute match this week, which will utilise both the new wicket and the new lights.

A number of major AFL fixtures will also utilise the new lights in the coming months including the NAB Challenge night game between Hawthorn and North Melbourne on 21st February; and the AFL Round 1 twilight fixture between Hawthorn and Brisbane on 22nd March.

Minister O'Byrne concluded "these extra events will generate greater economic activity and increased visitation to the city.

"This project is a great example of how providing high-class sport and recreation facilities gives Tasmanians a better, healthier lifestyle and our state a strong future."

For more information go to www.aurorastadiumlaunceston.com.au/aurora/

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