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Karl Hampton
MINISTER FOR SPORT AND RECREATION

14 October 2009

Brumbies Look Up Top To Promote Game Played In Heaven

Sports Minister Karl Hampton today welcomed a proposal from Super 14 Rugby Union team the CA Brumbies to play future trial matches in Darwin and promote the sport in Top End and Central Australian communities.

 

“Today’s meeting with Brumbies Chief Executive Andrew Fagan is an endorsement of rugby’s potential in the Territory and a vote of confidence in our first class facilities,” Mr Hampton said.

 

“Rugby is one of the Territory’s most loved sports and that’s why this Government has worked hard to promote the game they play in heaven across our cities, towns and communities.

 

“This includes the Territory Government elevating the Heineken Hottest 7’s in the World competition to Major Event status for the first time this year - committing $300,000 over three years to ensure the event’s ongoing growth - and $465,000 to upgrade lights at Austar Rugby Park.

 

“Thousands of rugby fans flocked to Austar Rugby Park earlier this year to watch teams from Fiji, Samoa, United Kingdom and New Zealand compete at the Heineken Hottest 7’s in the World competition, which is one of rugby’s most popular tournaments.

 

“This Government is keen to support the continued growth of rugby in the Territory and Mr Fagan’s plan looks promising.

 

“The CA Brumbies proposal aims to not only support rugby’s continued growth in the Territory but to also provide important economic benefits to the Territory.

 

“Key features of the proposal include annual pre-season games in Darwin with the CA Brumbies Travel Company to promote the event through travel packages to the Territory.

 

“The Brumbies have a huge profile and is the only Australian team to have won a Super Rugby Championship, firstly in 2001 and again in 2004, and will next year boast a line-up comprising 13 Wallabies.

 

“Their line-up includes Wallabies captain Rocky Elsom and former national captains Stirling Mortlock and George Smith, as well as world renowned players Matt Giteau and Julian Huxley.”

 

“We look forward to continuing our discussions with the Brumbies to further strengthen the game they play in heaven here in the Territory.”

 

 

Contact: Edwin Edlund 0401 119 563
Related files:
Hampton.141009.Brumbies.pdf ( 278.67 kb )