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The uniforms of the 2009 Arafura Games workforce were today unveiled at the official Games media launch.

 

Minister for Sport and Recreation Karl Hampton proudly donned his workforce shirt for the launch, which also showed off the medals that the winning athletes will be taking home from the 2009 Games.

 

“I thank all involved particularly the volunteers who give up so much of their time. They are truly the lifeblood of the Games,” Mr Hampton said.

 

“It takes a workforce of over a thousand people to make the Arafura Games a success.

 

“Starting as the Arafura Sports Festival in 1991, the Games has grown to become a well respected event for emerging athletes in the region

“I experienced the importance of the Games from member countries when chairing the recent Heads of Delegation meeting in Macau.

 

“The Games are a boost to the Territory’s tourism sector bringing approximately 2000 international and 1200 Australia visitors to each Games.

 

“This year we will see athletes from 26 sports including eight Paralympic sports take part in the Games.

 

“The Games sports will be held at 30 sporting venues around Darwin and Palmerston including the Convention Centre which will host the Sepak Takraw and Badminton.

 

Minister Hampton also announced the entertainment for the opening ceremony on May 9^th.

 

“It will be fantastic to see iconic Australian performers, Jon Stevens of Noiseworks and Christine Anu celebrate the start of the Games,” he said.

 

The 2009 Opening Ceremony will include the athletes’ march-past, the reading of athletes and officials oaths and the lighting of the flame.

 

 

 

Contact: Natasha Fyles 04488 66 312

Related files:
Hampton.09.04.ArafuraLaunch.pdf ( 281.04 kb )