Western Australia Minister for Tourism Kim Hames

Western Australia Minister for Regional Development Brendon Grylls

Geraldton To Welcome Clipper Fleet

Victor P Taffa

• Round the world yacht fleet arrives in Geraldton this weekend
• ‘Geraldton Western Australia’ yacht sponsored through Eventscorp’s Regional Events Program, funded by Royalties for Regions

The City of Greater Geraldton will become the focus of international sailing this weekend as the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race fleet arrives for a much anticipated stopover.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the fleet of 10 yachts and 450 crew members, including the ‘Geraldton Western Australia’ entry, had sailed more than 7,600km from Cape Town.

“The arrival of the fleet will herald a week of celebrations and provide great exposure for Geraldton and the State, with the race reaching an audience of millions through world-wide press, radio, television and online coverage.” Dr. Hames said.

“There will be plenty for visitors and locals to do in Geraldton to participate in the stopover, including a welcome parade, public viewing of the yachts, Home Grown Music Festival and live entertainment at the Geraldton foreshore.”

In conjunction with the City of Greater Geraldton, the State Government is a proud sponsor of the ‘Geraldton Western Australia’ yacht through Eventscorp’s Regional Events Program, with funding from Royalties for Regions.

WA Minister for Regional Development Brendon Grylls

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said this sponsorship was made possible thanks to a $40 Million boost to the program from Royalties for Regions.

“The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is a high profile international event and it is fantastic that with the support of the Regional Events Program, events like this can be brought to regional communities.” Mr. Grylls said.

“Through Royalties for Regions, regional events are enhancing the quality of life and expanding opportunities for people living in the country.”
The fleet will stay in Geraldton until Sunday, November 6 before heading off on the next leg of the race to New Zealand.
 

Fact File

• To follow the Clipper fleet online, visit http://www.clipperroundtheworld.com
• The 64,000km Clipper race started in Southampton, England on July 31, 2011
• Geraldton successfully hosted the Clipper fleet in the 2009-10 round the world race