International Rugby Sevens Tournament Brings Boost for Townsville
Townsville rugby fans and business owners alike are reaping the benefits of this weekend’s PacificAus Rugby Sevens tournament.
Federal Herbert MP Phillip Thompson attended Saturday evening’s matches and represented Foreign Minister Marise Payne at a reception event with diplomats from the Pacific and representatives of Oceania Rugby and Rugby Australia.
He said Townsville’s hosting of the event, which was supported by the Australian Government and designed to help teams prepare for next month’s Olympics, was a huge boost for the city.
“These are the kinds of events we were so keen to attract when we designed and built the stadium – not only is it three days of world-class rugby for local fans, it’s extra business for local businesses who’ve been doing it so tough, on the first weekend of eased restrictions,” he said.
“Our city also has a strong connection and history with the Pacific so I was very keen for us to provide as much support as possible to get this event here.”
The event was part of the Australian Government’s $52 million investment to strengthen Australia’s relationships in the Pacific through high-level sport, badged PacificAus Sports.
Mr Thompson said Townsville was well-deserving of the honour of playing a part in the program.
“We’re the biggest city in Northern Australia and one of the closest to the Pacific,” he said.
“We know how to put on great events and I’m sure the community won’t have been disappointed.”
Men’s and women’s teams from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and an Oceania side are battling it out in 24 matches over the three-day tournament. Full details and results are available at https://oceania.rugby/competitions/oceania-rugby/pacifcaus-sports-oceania-sevens.
ENDS