The signing of popular UK sporting club, Liverpool FC to play two exhibition matches against A-League teams in Australia is touted as a winning bid for Queensland and South Australia.
The national industry body, Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) chief executive Margy Osmond welcomed the news yesterday as an important event for the Australian domestic tourism industry.
“Major events like these are enormously important to our domestic tourism industry. The benefits go far beyond the stadium, extending to all corners of the tourism sector,” Osmond said.
The games will be played in Adelaide and Brisbane as part of the club’s 2015 pre-season tour.
“Liverpool FC last visited Australia in 2013. The match held in Victoria triggered an influx of interstate and overseas visitors, generating headlines internationally. The event quickly sold out and generated an estimated $35 million in economic benefit for Victoria. Queensland and South Australia should look forward to reaping similar benefits,” Osmond said.
According to the TTF, the recently wrapped up AFC Asian Cup drew crowds of more than 650,000 over the three-week tournament.
“Football continues to prove its worth as a global gateway for Australia, delivering us exposure to key markets and attracting international visitors by the thousands,” Osmond said.
“TTF’s report Backing Major Events showed that support for these types of ventures is overwhelming. 89% of Australians think it is important for their state or territory to host major events and 85% believe it is important for the government to play a part in attracting and securing these types of events.”
“It is important to remember the benefit of these events extends far beyond those who attend the match. Liverpool FC has an enormous international following and the TV audience will be significant. This is a great opportunity for Queensland and South Australia to show off to the world.”
