A new event on the local sporting calendar is expected to boost the Port Stephens economy later in the year.
The SBR Weekend, a festival of swimming, bike riding and running, will make its debut in the region from 9 to 11 December.
And, a $177,521 grant, courtesy of the NSW Government’s Regional Events Acceleration Fund (REAF), should guarantee its success.
“The funding will allow the event to increase visitation to town, provide great value for visitors, help boost tourism and support local business,” SBR Weekend organiser Mark “Emo” Emerton said.
“Swim, bike and run (SBR) over three days isn’t original in today’s world.
“But, doing it over a variety of distances, with accurate timing, friends and fellow competitors, and in a pristine part of NSW, is something new.
“Come along and just swim, or cycle or run, then sit back and relax at one of the many beaches, bars, or cafes in Port Stephens.
“Or, choose your destiny with ‘The Lot’.
“Many triathletes want to take the big step and do that distance – 3.8km (swim)/180km (bike)/42km (run) – in one day.
“So, we can play a part in that journey.
“Try it over three days before you leap into it, or if you are tapering for that big day, then choose your distance 3.8km, 180km, 42km or any combination you fancy.
“I’m delighted to be able to put on such an iconic event for locals and visitors thanks to the Regional Events Acceleration Fund.”
Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin wished the organisers well, stating the SBR Weekend would provide a major stimulus boost for Port Stephens.
“A lot of visitors will spend big in local shops, cafes and businesses,” he said.
“The event’s appeal is also its uniqueness.
“It features a series of ironman distance races plus a range of shorter distance events that caters for elite competitors, beginners, fitness enthusiasts and kids.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the Regional Events Acceleration Fund was supporting the growth of existing regional events and attracting new major domestic and international events to the state.
“Money is rolling out right across regional NSW helping local events go from strength-to-strength and putting regional NSW on the map,” he explained.
“We know that hosting events in regional areas attracts visitors to towns, and those guests will spend money in local shops, grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant or café, and boost regional businesses and economies.
“Since its inception, the REAF has supported the delivery and development of 85 events, with more than one million visitors travelling to the regional areas where these events are held.”
Applications for round two are now open and close 5pm on Tuesday 4 October.
