Rally Australia highlights substantial benefits that WRC event brings to the Coffs Coast

Rally Australia has expressed its “great concern” at the decision by Coffs Harbour City Council not to support the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) event in 2016 and 2017.

Should the decision stand after a fresh vote on the issue is taken at the next Council meeting on 28th April, Rally Australia says that the move “would deny the city and regional community the substantial benefits of hosting one of the most prestigious motorsport events in the world.”

In a statement, Rally Australia commented “we believe any responsible decision on the Council’s involvement should not fail to take into account factors such as an overall annual economic benefit calculated at $13.8 million, a direct boost to tourism plus inestimable worldwide tourism promotion and the many local employment opportunities generated by the rally.

“Rally Australia is hopeful that with all nine councillors in attendance and all having a full picture of the very high level of general public and business support that has been expressed since last week’s decision, the meeting on 28 April will vote to continue the involvement that has already been in place over four successful events since 2011.”

The statement goes on to explain that “Rally Australia has attracted thousands of international and Australian visitors, directly benefiting accommodation houses, restaurants, supermarkets, petrol stations, transport providers and many other businesses. Daily dedicated television coverage showcases the region’s attractions, in 2015 reaching a measured 68 million viewers around the world.”

The statement concludes “the Coffs Coast can be proud of its standing on the world stage. It has distinguished itself by the warmth of its welcome to visitors, especially from overseas. Rally Australia, which is based in Coffs Harbour and employs local staff and suppliers, has won a reputation as one of the best organised and presented events among the 14 countries visited by the WRC.

“These achievements and the evidence of stable support have ensured Rally Australia and the Coffs Coast a place in the World Rally Championship for 2016 and 2017.”

Rally Australia which had begun negotiations to extend its participation to the Coffs Coast until at least 2020, has suggested that an alternative would be to find a new home for the event at another venue in NSW.

Rally Australia is due to be held from 17th to 20th November 2016.

It will be the 25th Rally Australia and the country’s 24th WRC event (the first event in 1988 was a round of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship).

Image courtesy of Rally Australia.

17th April 2016 - COFFS HARBOUR COUNCIL TURNS ITS BACK ON WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSORSHIP

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6th August 2015 - EVENTS TO ATTRACT VISITORS TO THE COFFS COAST

28th October 2013 - RALLY AUSTRALIA ACHIEVES FIA ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE