Media Release - June 27 2024

Latrobe City Council wins prestigious 2023 Victorian Sport Award for Local Government Initiative of the Year

Latrobe City Council has been honoured by winning the Bunnings Trade Local Government Initiative of the Year award at the 2023 Victorian Sport Awards, recognising a groundbreaking partnership and commitment to sports development in regional Victoria as the Home of Table Tennis.

In a historic first for regional Victoria, Latrobe City Council signed an eight-year partnership agreement with Table Tennis Victoria and Destination Gippsland to host the Victorian Country Championships and Victorian Open Championships in Traralgon, through until the end of 2030. This long-term investment has not only brought significant sporting events to the region but has also fostered economic growth and community engagement.

The partnership was further strengthened by the construction of a dedicated storage facility to house 60 new tables and associated equipment. This infrastructure investment ensures that local table tennis associations have access to top-tier facilities, promoting the sport's growth and accessibility within the community.

The initiative has already demonstrated a far-reaching impact with over 800 players and families flocking to Traralgon, generating more than $400,000 for the local economy each year. By embracing table tennis, a non-traditional sport, the initiative has set a precedent for inclusive and dynamic community engagement in the Latrobe City.

Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Darren Howe, said being recognised for this award is a wonderful accolade and testament to the hard work of Council staff and partnering organisations.

“Latrobe City Council has worked hard to position the region as a thriving destination for professional sporting events. Through investing in world-class infrastructure and collaborating with organisations such as Table Tennis Victoria, Council can host exciting events like this that attracts tourism and brings the community together.

“I’d like to acknowledge the innovative thinking of the Latrobe City Tourism and Major Events Advisory Committee (TAMEAC) and their ongoing efforts to attract sporting events to our region that have long-term economic benefits.”

“This award highlights the incredible impact the eight-year agreement will have on our community through boosting business and improving health and wellbeing. We are grateful for the opportunity to host the Victorian Country Championships and the Victorian Open Championships and the contribution they’re making to a progressive future of sport and recreation in our region.”

Table Tennis Victoria CEO, Andrew Weiss praised the collaboration, stating, “This award is fantastic recognition for what has become a wonderful partnership between TTV, Latrobe City Council and Destination Gippsland. The initiative has not only elevated the status of table tennis in regional Victoria but has also showcased the potential for similar partnerships to drive community and economic development. We are thrilled to continue this journey together and look forward to the next six years working together.”

Destination Gippsland CEO, Terry Robinson said, “ It’s great to see this unique partnership acknowledged at the Victorian Sports Awards. With 800 attendees per year, across the two events, it not only provides a great economic impact, but introduces attendees and their families to Gippsland. With the 8-year agreement it means we can continually build the relationship with attendees and encourage families to extend their stay. We look forward to working closely with Table Tennis Victoria and Latrobe City Council in the coming years to maximise the benefits of the events.”

As Latrobe City continues to thrive from this pioneering initiative, Latrobe City Council remains committed to fostering an environment where sports and community engagement go hand in hand. This Victorian Sport Award serves as a significant milestone in Latrobe City Council's ongoing efforts to enhance the region's sporting landscape and community spirit.

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