AFL fans land holiday deals on Coast
Flight attendant Bree Cook passes the ball to AFL fans to take up holiday packages to the Gold Coast Suns' home games. Photo: Scott Fletcher
AUSSIE Rules fans are being targeted in the latest drive to boost Gold Coast tourism and locals will also benefit from the deal.
Virgin Blue yesterday launched footy-orientated holiday packages to the Gold Coast Suns' eight home games and similar deals will soon be offered to Suns fans attending matches interstate.
The package, which is being promoted in 14 locations in Australia and New Zealand, includes return flights, two nights accommodation at Mantra Legends, game tickets, exclusive club functions and transfers starting from $715.
The games include the Suns' first home game at Carrara Stadium against Geelong in May.
With more than 550,000 AFL club members around Australia, Gold Coast Tourism is heralding the deal as a major tourism win.
CEO Martin Winter estimated fans would inject $34 million into the local economy and generate an additional 121,000 visitor nights.
Mantra Group marketing director Ken Minnikin said the extra fans would be a major boost for tourism.
"There's no doubt AFL clubs have very passionate and loyal supporters and do travel to watch their teams to play," he said. "It will be great ... for the fans, it will generate an amazing atmosphere.
"Tourism is the lifeblood of the Gold Coast and we need every bit of help we can. These are difficult times and every event and activity we can attract to the Gold Coast is what we require."
AFL general manager strategy and marketing, Andrew Catterall, said the Gold Coast would become a prime destination to watch Aussie rules games. "AFL fans have shown their willingness to travel and support their teams," he said.
"The Gold Coast's popularity as a holiday and short break destination, coupled with the view that the newly built Gold Coast Stadium will be one of the best places in Australia to watch AFL footy, will make the Gold Coast a very attractive option for all AFL supporters."
A Virgin Blue spokeswoman said deals would be offered to Gold Coasters in coming weeks.
"Virgin Blue will also support Gold Coast Suns fans travelling from the Gold Coast to away games in cities around Australia," she said.
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