Media Release from Shadow Minister for Racing Marie-Clare Boothby MLA:
Today’s announcement the Darwin Cup Carnival will have no centerfield activations and limited corporate hospitality due to struggling ticket sales is another blow to the Territory’s economy.
Shadow Minister for Racing, Marie-Clare Boothby, said the news will have a devastating impact on local businesses.
“Today’s announcement the Carnival is struggling with ticket sales, particularly from interstate, further demonstrates how Labor’s crime crisis continues to destroy the Territory’s reputation as a safe place for tourists to visit,” she said.
“Crime driving tourists away and an economy going backwards under Labor is threatening to shut down an iconic event that according to the Darwin Turf Club attracts 40,000 people and contributes $32 million to the local economy each year.
“Our local businesses rely on the Darwin Cup Carnival for increased trade especially from interstate visitors.
“Interstate visitors to the Carnival spend up big, whether it’s in hotels and restaurants, with hairdressers, dress shops and other retailers and often stay on and enjoy our regional tourism experiences.
“Today’s announcement is another devastating blow to our local businesses who are already struggling to keep the doors open.
“According to figures released by the ABS this week, total retail trade sales are stagnant with a 0.03% change from the month of April, despite it being our peak tourism season.
“With ticket sales significantly down on last year and no funding help from the Labor government, Carnival organisers have been left with no choice but to scale back hospitality options at this year’s program.”
Ms Boothby says the NT racing industry contributes $130m each year to the NT economy.
“The CLP is a strong supporter of our racing industry and understand the strong social and economic contribution it makes to our community unlike Labor who don’t even have a Racing Minister,” she said.
“Under Eva Lawler and Labor our economy and our major sporting events are going backwards.
“Only the CLP has a plan to rebuild our economy, reduce crime and restore our lifestyle.”
