SA:Ashes to boost SA coffers

AAP General News (Australia)
12-01-2010
SA:Ashes to boost SA coffers

ADELAIDE, Dec 1 AAP - South Australia will get a more than $50 million boost to its
economy from the second Ashes cricket Test starting on Friday.

Acting Premier Paul Holloway said interest in the series between Australia and England
was as high as ever with fans from interstate and overseas arriving over the next few
days.

"Apart from providing great sporting memories, hosting the Ashes Test at the Adelaide
Oval also has a significant economic impact on the state," Mr Holloway said.

In 2006 more than 136,000 spectators watched the game including 7000 interstate and
4500 international visitors.

The game pumped $52.5 million into the state's economy.

Mr Holloway said this year's game would also be the first opportunity for fans to use
the new western grandstand at Adelaide Oval that offered seating for 14,000.

"We know the Ashes Test is a great event for our state, bringing thousands of visitors
who not only enjoy the world-famous Adelaide Oval but also the city of Adelaide and our
fantastic regions," Mr Holloway said.

"Research has also shown that international visitors for previous Ashes series stayed
in South Australia for more than 10 days on average, with many of our guests visiting
the local wineries, tourist attractions and beach destinations."

Mr Holloway said national and international television coverage of the event also bolstered
the state's tourism industry, securing invaluable exposure for Adelaide around the world.

AAP tjd/apm

KEYWORD: CRICKET AUST SA

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