Western Australia Minister for Tourism Elizabeth Constable

World’s best suit up for finals of biggest ever Margaret River Drug Aware Pro

Victor P Taffa

The world’s surfing elite will compete in the finals of the biggest ever Drug Aware Pro in Margaret River this weekend.

Tourism Minister Liz Constable said no other World Qualifying Series (WQS) surfing event anywhere in the world could boast such an impressive line-up of competitors.

“The State Government’s support has considerably elevated the Drug Aware Pro to attract the sport’s big names and it’s now considered the most significant WQS surfing event in the Australasian region.” Dr Constable said.

“The Pro is a six-star prime-rated men’s and women’s event, sanctioned by the Association of Surfing Professionals and part of the new look World Surfing Tour.  Seven of the world’s top 10 men’s surfers and six of the world’s top 10 women’s surfers will compete for title honours.”

“World champion Mick Fanning, current world No. 1 and local hero Taj Burrow, and women’s world No. 3 Sophia Mulanovich will all be vying for the titles.”

The Minister said the event also provided worldwide exposure for Western Australia’s extraordinary South-West, which was recently named as one of the top 10 regions of the world by Lonely Planet.

“The South-West’s ability to attract events such as this provides the region with exposure that will enhance its reputation as an extraordinary surf and holiday destination.” the Minister said.

“In an Australian first, all of the final stages will be broadcast live nationally on cable television and all of the action will be streamed live online in real time through the website.”

“A 52-minute program will also be distributed nationally on free-to-air TV and globally, promoting the region to millions of prospective visitors.”

Entry for spectators to the Drug Aware Margaret River Pro is free. 

For more information, visit http://www.drugawarepro.com

Western Australia Minister for Regional Development Brendon Grylls

World famous CowParade moo-ves to Margaret River

Victor P Taffa

A herd of cows held the limelight in Margaret River today as Western Australia Minister for Regional Development Brendon Grylls launched the internationally-acclaimed CowParade.

Mr Grylls said the event would become a landmark on the local arts and tourism calendar and create great interest during the coming months.

“The CowParade has been held in more than 50 cities around the world including destinations such as Paris, Tokyo, London and New York. This is the first time it has been held in a regional centre of Australia.” Mr. Grylls said.

The cow sculptures do not change from event to event, but local artists are challenged by the works of previous CowParade artists and inspired by their own cultural contexts and personal vision of what a cow should look like.

“The dedication of the 77 local artists to the project, as well as the organisational skills of the Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association and the South West Development Commission, was truly outstanding.” the Minister said.

“I congratulate the foresight of the association and the commission which, with many other supporters, have brought this fantastic event to the region.”

“It is anticipated that CowParade Margaret River will be viewed by about 650,000 visitors between February and June this year.”

Mr Grylls said $50,000 had been provided through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions Regional Grants Scheme for the event, which also received funding from other stakeholders.

“The CowParade is expected to inject about $25 Million into the local economy and raise funds for charities, including Telethon and the Starlight Foundation, when the cows are auctioned at the end of the season.” Mr. Grylls said.

“People will get to see a lot of the Margaret River region as they drive around to look at the various locations where the cows will be on display. A map will be provided showing people where to find them.”

“They are certainly distinctive and sure to draw a big crowd to the region during the event.” the Minister said.

WA Minister for Regional Development Brendon Grylls