Western Australia secures Police and Emergency Games in 2018
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New deal to hold games in Mandurah next year
First time competitors from Indonesia, Malaysia and Hong Kong invited to participate
Expected to generate $2.5 million in visitor expenditure
Supported by the State Government through Tourism WA
The State Government, through Tourism Western Australia, has signed a deal to fund the 2018 Australasian Police and Emergency Games, to be held in Mandurah from October 28 to November 3, 2018.The biennial Australasian Police and Emergency Games is a seven-day, multi-discipline sporting event for serving, retired and volunteer members of eligible police and emergency service agencies. Western Australia last hosted the event in 2004.
It is anticipated the 2018 event, which involves more than 50 individual and team sports, will attract about 2,000 visitors from outside the Peel region and generate about $2.5 million in visitor expenditure.
The event is open to competitors from Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands. Due to its close proximity to WA, competitors from Singapore will once again be invited to participate, along with those from Indonesia, Malaysia and Hong Kong who will be invited to compete for the first time.
The Australasian Police and Emergency Games, organised by WA Police, is supported by the State Government through Tourism WA’s Regional Events Program.
Tourism Minister Paul Papalia said events such as this were important for increasing visitation to Western Australia’s regional areas, which had significant economic benefits.
Western Australian Tourism Minister Paul Papalia commented, “The Australasian Police and Emergency Games will help to drive visitors to the Peel region, potentially from countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Indonesia. The majority of services associated with managing this event will be sourced locally, providing opportunities for many small, medium and large businesses within the Mandurah region. Events such as the Australasian Police and Emergency Games strengthen local tourism-related businesses and contribute to the vibrancy of regional communities, making them exciting places to visit.”
Police Minister Michelle Roberts said “This is a fantastic opportunity for the community to recognise the contribution made by our police and other first responders. It also reminds us of the important work they undertake every day. The games promote inter-agency co-operation, team building and comradery, and are a great way to showcase the professionalism and commitment of the men and women of our police force. Competition will no doubt be fierce, but friendly and I encourage the community to get behind these games and show their support for the men and women who put their lives on the line to keep us safe every day.”
