Sunshine Coast pursues sport tourism opportunities

In collaboration with Sunshine Coast Council, Sunshine Coast Sports Federation, local sporting clubs and associations, the Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd (SCDL) has developed an event promoters marketing kit.

The kit includes dedicated sporting precinct materials and other promotional tools enabling clubs and associations to effectively market facilities, attract more sporting and recreational groups to the region and create a more seamless system to support the groups.

SCDL Tourism Development Manager, Michael Donnelly said the new collateral was a result of a coordinated approach to provide local clubs and event organisers with a dedicated resource.

Donnelly explained "we have developed collateral for six precincts including Stockland Park, Central Park, Girraween Sports Precinct, Ballinger Park, Maroochydore Multi Sports and University of the Sunshine Coast.

"This initiative will not only attract more groups but provides tools such as a smartphone enabled electronic coupon booklet with incentives for prospective groups to stay longer on the Sunshine Coast and enjoy the region's many attractions."

The Australian Outrigging Canoe Racing Association (AOCRA) is one of the first sports to incorporate the collateral into a bid document to secure the 2016 World Sprint Titles on the Sunshine Coast.

AOCRA President Mark Forbes explained "the bid presented in Rio was very professional and had a real wow factor.

"We were successful over the other contender Hawaii to win the event. We couldn't have done it without SCDL and Sunshine Coast Council."

The 2016 World Sprint Titles will be held in Mooloolaba and will involve 35 countries and 3000 participants over 10 days of competition.

Sunshine Coast Council Economic Development/Tourism portfolio Councillor, Jason O'Pray, congratulated SCDL on developing marketing collateral to drive more events for the region, adding "this is not only about highlighting the Sunshine Coast as a premier destination for sporting events tourism but supporting local clubs and local business."

Sporting events tourism by definition is when 'the main purpose of the travel is to take part in an organised sporting activity, either as a spectator, participant or official. Organised sporting activities involve some type of formal organisation, where there are teams, classes or bookings required'.

Currently, almost 30% of the Queensland overnight market participates in sports tourism.

For more information and to access the kit visit www.scdl.com.au/marketing/consumer-events/event-promoters-kit

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