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Sport and Recreation Minister Kon Vatskalis has congratulated Alice Springs for hosting another successful Masters Games.

 

Mr Vatskalis said the Games had showcased Central Australia to thousands of visitors and were a multimillion dollar boost to the local economy.

 

“Alice Springs has been abuzz this past week and local businesses and tourism have been the big winners,” Mr Vatskalis said.

 

“It’s estimated around $9 million has been injected into Alice Springs as a result of the Masters, with 4,457 registered competitors.”

 

Mr Vatskalis said with about 2,600 visitors from interstate, the Central Australian tourism industry had benefited from the Games.

 

“Reports from tourism operators are very positive, with many saying that Games visitors are taking more tours than in previous years.

 

“It’s been a pleasant surprise for the tourism industry and they are expecting continued positive spinoffs.”

 

Mr Vatskalis said there’d been some great achievements in these Games, with records tumbling and more than 7,000 medals awarded to competitors.

 

“The Friendly Games has again lived up to its reputation and many competitors are already looking forward to returning for the next Masters, and have marked October 11 to 18, 2008, in their calendars.

 

“The success of the Masters Games is due in no small part to a team of volunteers and local sports organisers and I’d like to thank all of them for their efforts.”

 

Contact: Nikola Lekias 0438 323 660