Council has thrown its support behind the 2021 Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival being held from 13-15 August.
Mayor Jenny Hill said Council would contribute around $60,000 in direct and in-kind support, making it one of the festival’s major sponsors.
“Townsville really is the events capital of Northern Australia and the Triathlon and Multisport Festival is yet another example of how our city’s natural and built assets make us a prime destination for events,” Cr Hill said.
“Council’s proud sponsorship of the festival further demonstrates our determination to support local events and work with individuals and groups to attract visiting events to the city for the benefit of the entire community.
“The Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival will give locals an opportunity to test their skills and endurance against some of the best from across Australia against the backdrop of our beautiful locations and weather.
“The festival will also deliver an important economic boost for local businesses who have been doing it tough because of the COVID-19 global pandemic.
“The festival is expected to attract more than 3000 competitors, not to mention their support crews and spectators, and that’s great news for our local hotels, tourism and hospitality providers and a wide range of other businesses.
“Initial estimates indicate the festival is expected to contribute around $280 per person per day to the Townsville economy.”
The festival will kick off on Friday 13 August with the National Cross Triathlon and Aquathlon Championships.
The National Duathlon Championships, the World Qualifier Standard Distance and Sprint and Enticer Triathlons will take place on Saturday 14 August.
Festival president Jamie Fitzpatrick said that the event offers races and participation opportunities for people of all abilities and fitness levels.
“The Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival includes a series of national championships and world qualifying events,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-timer or an experience triathlete, the festival provides everyone the chance to have a go and do so right here in beautiful Townsville.”
Council community health, safety and environmental sustainability committee chairperson Maurie Soars said the August festival would also signal the start of the countdown to the 2022 ITU World Multisport Championships, which would also be hosted in Townsville.
“Having the World Championships in Townsville next year is set to be another amazing sporting experience for our sports-loving community,” Cr Soars said.
“Events such as these also provide encouragement for people of all ages in our community to get involved in sports and physical activity as a way to improve their health and wellbeing.”