Swim, Ride, Run - Spend! Triathlon Injects $500k into Economy
Published 28 September 2020
Moreton Bay has successfully hosted Round 1 of the Queensland Triathlon Series, welcoming 1,200 competitors and many more supporters to the sell out event in the region.
Mayor Peter Flannery said the Redcliffe Peninsula provided a postcard perfect background for the COVID Safe event, which injected more than $500,000 into the local economy.
“At a time when local businesses need it most, this event has delivered a welcome $500,000 boost to our economy and the enthusiasm from industry to hosting visitors was palpable across the weekend,” he said.
“With participants ranging in age from seven to 70-plus, I’m hoping we’ll see those families make Moreton Bay their new go-to holiday destination.”
Triathlon Queensland CEO Tim Harradine said Clontarf was a great location to kick-off the eight-stage competition series.
“Council has done a fantastic job working with the organisers to make this happen and we are looking forward to the next event here in May 2021 as we return for our usual season ending event,” he said.
“The Moreton Bay Region continues to deliver as a quality location for triathlon, which is why this event attracts everyone from Olympians to local competitors.”
Under the new COVID Safe rules, participants and spectators signed in and setup across the weekend rather than at one time, started the race in smaller waves, and spread out across the event and venue.
Race Director Brendon Downey said the event looked a little different to last year to ensure everyone remained safe.
“There were pre-screen checks, contact info collection, hand sanitizer stations, physical distancing and, while we couldn’t have a formal presentation on the day, I know everyone had a great time regardless,” he said.
“We’ve been excited to include the opening round of the Queensland Triathlon Series here at Moreton Bay this year.
“Clontarf is a great location and we’ve been really thankful for Council’s support and the opportunity to get the sport going again here.”
Councillor Karl Winchester (Div 6) said hosting the series gave residents the unique opportunity to compete at a professional level in their own backyard.
“It was fantastic to see the local Redcliffe Triathlon Club out in force with more than 50 members taking up the challenge in their backyard,” he said.
“I know the hotels, restaurants, and cafe owners along the Peninsula loved the influx of visitors over the weekend, and I’m thrilled to show off how Moreton Bay can host these kinds of events safely as we all adjust to a new normal.”
For more information about the Queensland Triathlon Series, visit https://www.theeventcrew.com.au/event/queensland-tri-series/