Local Government is increasingly embracing the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games as an opportunity to promote community spirit and pride in the achievements of the Australian Paralympic team, one of the best in the world.
The Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games, to be staged from 18-29 October 2000, will be the second largest sporting event in the year 2000, hosting 4,000 athletes from 125 countries.
Local Government has a unique role to play in the lead up to the Games, raising awareness, providing financial support, and mobilising local communities to attend the Games.
Following Ashfield Council’s decision last year to support the Games with a $30,000 donation to the Paralympic Patrons’ Fund, 25 Councils are now contributing between $3,000 and $30,000 to the Fund. Other Councils are using existing events to raise funds for the Games.
Local Government is not only providing financial support to the 2000 Paralympic Games. These and many other Councils are working closely with the Sydney Paralympic Organising Committee to inform and update their residents about the Games via local media opportunities and through Council newsletters, Mayor’s columns and by inserting flyers with rate notices.
Councils are featuring Paralympic athletes as guest speakers or presenters at special events ranging from annual festivals to Mayoral Dinners and Business Breakfasts.
While tickets to the Games go on sale in October 1999, the Sydney Paralympic Organising Committee has commenced a Group Advance Day Pass Purchase scheme for groups, such as schools, service clubs and Councils supporting the Games.
For a minimum purchase of 100 Day Passes, $15 adult and $8 concession, groups will receive 10 tickets free. North Sydney Council was the first to purchase tickets, Leichhardt Council is providing Day Passes to disadvantaged groups, and Bathurst City Council is mobilising their sporting and community groups.
For further information contact Jennie Churchill, Manager Corporate Projects Sydney Paralympic Organising Committee, on (02) 9297 3713.
