House debates

Tuesday, 17 October 2017

Statements by Members

Australian Masters Games

1:42 pm

Photo of Justine KeayJustine Keay (Braddon, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

This weekend, the 16th Australian Masters Games will commence across the north, north-west and west coast of Tasmania. The games will commence with an opening ceremony in my home town of Devonport and close off with a celebration party at Burnie's West Park with renowned Australian music icons the Hoodoo Gurus performing. The Australian Masters Games will be the biggest sporting event held in my region in recent times. It involves over 40 sports ranging from dragon boat racing, to gymnastics, football and trail racing in the west coast wilderness. There will be over 6,000 participants in this year's Masters Games—1,100 from the north-west coast of Tasmania, 1,000 from the rest of Tasmania, 3,000 interstate competitors and 138 international competitors. It is supported by over 1,000 local volunteers, which shows how much our local community has gotten behind the games. Personally I'm looking forward to my volunteer shift this Saturday week at the cycling road race, although I won't be competing in that race! I congratulate all involved in bringing this event to our region and for making the Australian Masters Games a reality. I wish all competitors every success with their participation, within the spirit of the games. Finally, I welcome interstate and overseas visitors to Tasmania and to my region. Welcome.