MP uses parliament to urge State Government: Fund Heads golf titles

By Michelle Herbison
MEMBER for Lara John Eren urged State Govern-ment in parliament this week to fund a Victorian open golf championship at Barwon Heads next year.
Mr Eren said Golf Victoria’s decision for 13th Beach Golf Links to host the Men’s and Women’s Victorian Open should attract Government funding.
City of Greater Geelong has committed to spend more than $90,000 annually on the event for the next three years.
Major events councillor Bruce Harwood said securing the “prestigious” event was a “great coup” for the region.
Mr Eren urged State Government to chip in $150,000, about 50 per cent more than council.
The government gave $75,000 to last year’s event at Melbourne’s Spring Valley Golf Club.
Golf Victoria chief executive officer Simon Brookhouse said the event was possibly the world’s only golf tournament combining men’s and women’s events.
Mr Eren said 144 men and 120 women would compete, attracting up to 20,000 spectators.
“The golf championship event is also a huge opportunity to promote the full range of tourist attractions on the Bellarine Peninsula,” he said.
Liberal Member for South Barwon Andrew Katos said he had already raised the matter with Sport and Recreation Minister Hugh Delahunty and Tourism and Major Events Minister Louse Asher before Mr Eren mentioned it in parliament.
“We’re working to secure some funding for the event,” Mr Katos said.
“It’s a good opportunity to showcase the area while the weather’s still good but not many holiday-makers are around in February.”
Mr Delahunty said funding was “still being assessed”.