LISMORE STEPS UP TO THE PLATE TO SECURE BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

The NSW Government has assisted Lismore to secure the Little League National Baseball Championships in 2015 through the Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

Member for Lismore Thomas George made the announcement earlier this week. “It is estimated that in 2015 these Championships will bring more than 770 visitors from outside the region to Lismore, generating in excess of $600,000 in visitor expenditure,” Mr George said.

The Little League National Baseball Championships is Baseball Australia’s primary competition for the under-13 age group and takes place annually in June over six days of competition. Teams from all over Australia will compete for the title of best Little League Baseball team in Australia.

The growth in popularity of baseball in Australia was demonstrated by the enormous success of the Major League Baseball Series played in Sydney earlier this year, with the matches between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers delivering over $27 million in visitor spend to the NSW economy.

“With the majority of participants coming from outside the region, hosting the Championships is an opportunity to showcase this wonderful facility, as well as the great accommodation, experiences and attractions on offer here in Lismore and the wider NSW North Coast region,” Mr George said.

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said families taking part in the Little League National Baseball Championships will find plenty to do on the North Coast.

“With charming hinterland villages, colourful markets, and stunning national parks and nearby beaches, the Lismore area is a cultural and recreational playground that the whole family will enjoy,” Ms Chipchase said.