MANDURAH will no longer host the SunSmart Ironman 70.3 Mandurah.
The City of Mandurah has been notified that organisers intend to remove Mandurah from their circuit event.
The inaugural Ironman 70.3 Mandurah event was in 2012, showcasing Mandurah’s waterways and natural environment to the world.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWEach year up to 15,000 spectators converge on Mandurah to cheer on around 1200 competitors, spectators and officials from around 30 countries.
The economic benefits were far-reaching, with an estimated $2million injected into Mandurah’s local economy during the event each year.
Mayor Marina Vergone said it was disappointing for the community and the local economy.
“Events of this calibre take a lot of work to deliver but the economic benefits and great opportunities for local businesses and community groups are vital for the sustainability of our city,’’ she said.
The City is still negotiations with event organisers in the hope of reversing the decision. Council will continue to work towards attracting other large sporting events and activities to Mandurah.
This is the second major sporting event to move away from Mandurah after The Action Sports Games incorporating the International Waterski and Wakeboard Federation World Cup, finished up this year.
The games were held during the Crab Fest weekend and 2015 was the final year of a four year event contract and the City of Mandurah’s sponsorship commitment.
In October 2014, at a council meeting, the decision was made not to extend the Action Sports Games contract.
The outcome has allowed the City to provide increased activation in the Mandurah Ocean Marina, Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah Central Business District along Mandurah Terrace and in Mandjar Bay during the Crab Fest weekend.
The City has retained the exciting on-land elements of Action Sports including the BMX, FMX and skate demonstration which will now take place in the Reading Cinema car park connecting the Mandjar Square and the Mandurah Ocean Marina.
The waterway will be open for the majority of the weekend for everyone to enjoy with water displays from Ski Show WA and Jet X-treme, and the occasional wake boarder doing tricks on the estuary.