$ 4.5m footy boost for city

AN estimated $ 4.5 million will flow into the Townsville economy when it hosts a national sports competition next year.

From September 29- October 5, Townsville will host the 2019 National AFL Masters Carnival.

It’s expected more than 2500 people will come to the city for the tournament from throughout Australia.

Townsville last hosted the competition in 2012.

Masters football started in 1980 and is a competition for people aged 30 and over.

Townsville Enterprise helped provide funding assistance to bring the carnival north.

CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said it was anticipated the seven- day event would inject an estimated $ 4.5 million into the Townsville and North Queensland economy.

“The carnival provides Townsville the opportunity to showcase its outstanding sporting facilities, as well as our extensive dining, shopping and tourism experiences on offer to competitors and their family and friends,’’ she said. Townsville AFL president and city councillor Maurie Soars said the last time Townsville hosted the competition it was regarded as one of the best ever.

“The economic activation will be well into the millions,” he said.

“This also helps us as we are looking to get more people in- volved in sport.” AFL Masters president Steve Eurell said his organisation was excited to bring the carnival to Townsville next year.

“Townsville has world- class sporting facilities and great capacity to successfully host large sporting events like the AFL Masters,” he said.

Acting Mayor Les Walker said securing the competition would provide a major economic boost to Townsville.

“There will be more than 2500 people flocking to Townsville to take part in the event and that means more spending in our hotels, restaurants and shops,” Cr Walker said.

“There will be athletes from across the country coming to Townsville.’’