If re-elected, a majority Gutwein Liberal Government will provide $1.2 million over four years to secure the future of Tasmania’s summer sports carnivals.

This funding will provide $300,000 per year to the Sports Carnivals Association of Tasmania to continue its popular carnival series, including the Latrobe Boxing Day, Burnie New Years Day, Rosebery, Devonport, St Helens, Launceston and Hobart Carnivals.

“Our Government understands the importance of these traditional carnivals to communities around the state, with the world-class cycling, athletics and wood-chopping events thrilling crowds for over 100 years” Liberal Member for Bass Sarah Courtney said.

Tasmanian cyclist Danny Clark’s win in the 1977 Burnie Wheel is regarded as one of the greatest performances in the state’s sporting history. Olympic gold medallist Cathy Freeman competed at the Devonport Carnival seven times winning both the gift and the 200 metres in her first appearance in 1993.

“The new funding will allow the Carnival Series to improve its live-streaming and online coverage capabilities, bringing a modern feel to the traditional events” Liberal Member for Braddon Jeremy Rockliff said.

The investment will also ensure strong levels of participation for juniors, para-athletes and elite competitors from across Australia and help to drive visitation to the state.

Only a re-elected majority Gutwein Liberal Government has the clear plan to secure Tasmania’s future.