- Published:
- Sunday 17 January 2016
Wodonga has been chosen as one of the host cities for the 18th Australian Deaf Games in 2018.
The announcement was made today at the closing ceremony of the 2016 Australian Deaf Games in Adelaide – the pinnacle meeting of Australia’s deaf, hard of hearing, hearing impaired and cochlear implantee athletes.
Minister for Sport John Eren said Wodonga was selected because it boasts the elite sporting facilities required for a big national meet, and something for everyone and the best of everything for the thousands of visitors that will converge on the Games.
Wodonga will join Albury as co-host of the Australian Deaf Games, the twin cities hosting just the second Games set outside an Australian capital city since 1965. The event is a chance for athletes to book their spot at the 2019 Asia Pacific Deaf Games.
The Australian Deaf Games will attract thousands of visitors to Wodonga, and that means a big boost to the local economy. They’ll be keeping bars and restaurants busy, and hotels full – and that means jobs for locals.
Victoria is the events capital of Australia, and the Andrews Labor Government wants it to stay that way. The Government’s 2015-16 Victorian Budget includes an $80 million boost to Victoria’s events war chest, so that Victoria can continue to secure the events that deliver maximum benefits to the State.
The Labor Government will also invest $3 million to embark on the most ambitious regional marketing campaign in the State’s history, highlighting regional Victoria’s treasures and showcasing our regions.
The 2018 Australian Deaf Games will begin January 20.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, John Eren
"This is a great coup for Wodonga. It will mean locals will get a rare chance to see some of the best elite athletes in action, and businesses will enjoy new opportunities created by a flurry of visitors."
"These are the events we want in Victoria, because they mean stronger regional economies and jobs for locals."
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes
"It’s no surprise Wodonga has been chosen to host the Australian Deaf Games. Wodonga boasts great sporting facilities, and has something for everyone and the best of everything for visitors."
"We can’t wait to show visitors from all over Australia what a great place regional Victoria is to live, work and do business."