Thursday, 19 March, 2015
MELBOURNE CUP CARNIVAL PAYS TOURISM DIVIDENDS The 2014 Melbourne Cup Carnival generated record benefits for Victoria, a report released today reveals. The 2014 Melbourne Cup Carnival Economic Impact Study shows the four race days helped net the state’s economy nearly $195 million – up almost 10 per cent on 2013. More than 46,000 interstate visitors joined 7700 overseas tourists in converging on Victoria for the worldrenowned racing carnival, including a 133 per cent increase in travellers from Asia. Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren said the report is proof the carnival has grown in stature and reach, and is a crucial component of Victoria’s enviable Major Events calendar. The Melbourne Cup Carnival’s growing global audience is no coincidence. After a carefully-constructed marketing campaign in key offshore areas, it is now more recognised around the world than ever before. It’s good news for racing – the participation of 31 international horses from five countries around the world has helped make the standard on the track better than ever – but so too the number of industries that benefit. Racegoers splashed $31 million on retail and fashion, spent $28.4 million on accommodation and pumped $20.9 million into the food and beverage industry by wining and dining. Major Events are a key driver of Victoria’s tourism, the state’s second largest export behind education. It generated 205,000 jobs and delivers more than $19 billion to the economy annually. Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren “The Melbourne Cup Carnival is a must on the calendar of so many Victorians, Australians from interstate and racegoers all around the globe.” “The Springtime carnival is a flagship date on our Major Events calendar, a calendar that is the envy of the world.” “It keeps our economy strong, too. A rich array of major events means healthy tourism. And that means jobs for Victorians.” “As we look forward to yet another major event – the ICC World Cup Final in nine days’ time, this report is a reminder of just how important major events are to Victoria’s continuing economic prosperity.”
Key Facts: Visitors from 43 countries flocked Victoria to get trackside, up from 35 countries in 2013. More than 6000 guests arrived on one of three cruise ships. Four vessels are pencilled in this year. Racegoers purchased 75,000 hats and fascinators, 61,000 dresses and 17,000 shirts.
Media Contact: Patrick Lane 0451 661 919 |
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