The 'Aussies' a welcome boost for Gold Coast tourism

The return of the DHL Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships 2011 to the Gold Coast's renowned Kurrawa beach from today (Saturday 2nd April) through until Sunday 10th April is a welcome boost for tourism on the Gold Coast.
Queensland Shadow Minister for Tourism, and State Member for Mermaid Beach, Ray Stevens said that the DHL Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships return to Kurrawa is a much needed boost for event based tourism on the Gold Coast and we welcome them with open arms.
"We welcome over 20,000 surf lifesavers, officials and supporters with tens of thousands of spectators and tourists from all over Australia expected to converge on the beautiful beaches of Kurrawa, Broadbeach.
"The 'Aussies' as they are fondly named is one of the largest sports based tourism event on the Gold Coast and we are very proud to host them again this year.
"This year will be a very special event in memory of Saxon Bird, with the Saxon Bird perpetual trophy for the Under 19 Ironman Championships being presented by his sister and father.
"The 'Aussies' are renowned internationally as the leading surf lifesaving carnival and this reputation will only increase tourists to the region for this week long sporting event.
"I have long been an advocate of sporting and event based tourism to the Gold Coast and Queensland and this is one of the best events we are privileged to have in our region.
"Event based and sporting tourism is one of the most important tourism markets for Queensland and I urge the State Government and Minister for Tourism to focus on developing this growing tourism market."

http://www.sls.com.au/aussies