Sunshine Coast Ironman expected to inject $5 million into economy

An impressive $5 million will be injected into the Queensland economy by this year’s IRONMAN 70.3 Sunshine Coast, according to the government.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the event had become a highlight on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar and reinforced Queensland’s position as the Australian capital for endurance events.

“The event is expected to draw more than 1800 competitors plus their supporters to the region, with more than seven per cent of those people coming from overseas,” she said.

“Some of our homegrown athletes including GC2018 Bronze Medallist and para-athlete Bill Chaffey and Gold Coasters Courtney Gilfillan and David Mainwaring form part of the line-up of Aussie competitors registered to take part.

“The 2017 event delivered more than 17,000 visitor nights for Queensland and we’re confident this year’s will be bigger and better than ever.

“This event gives us a great opportunity to showcase the Sunshine Coast via a world-class course which takes in some of the most picturesque scenery in the state.

“The success of this event is a testament to the government’s strategy to grow Queensland’s major events sector.

“That’s why we’re investing another $36 million in major events in this term of government to help support events like the IRONMAN 70.3 to grow and support tourism jobs in places like the Sunny Coast.”

IRONMAN 70.3 Sunshine Coast Race Director Toby Keegan said IRONMAN 70.3 Sunshine Coast was an event that had something for everyone.

“The event location, right near the Mooloolaba Esplanade, offers great shopping, cafes, juice bars, restaurants and boutiques that overlook the glorious Mooloolaba Beach, allowing spectators to be right in the thick of the racing action,” Mr Keegan said.

“Supported by a passionate local community and with a reputation among athletes across the globe as one of the best IRONMAN 70.3 courses, Sunshine Coast has cemented its place as a must-do event.”

The IRONMAN 70.3 Sunshine Coast is one of seven endurance events across the state secured by TEQ until 2023 which collectively attracted 30,839 participants, generated 214,371 visitor nights and injected more than $54 million into Queensland’s economy in 2017.