Tiger Woods' Return to Melbourne Was a Win for Tourism

This November, Melbourne's accommodation hotels felt like they'd scored a hole in one, following strong occupancy and performance in their hotels largely due to visitation to the 2010 JB Were Australian Masters.

The participation of arguably the world's best golfer, Tiger Woods, at the 2010 JB Were Australian Masters continued to attract robust visitation from interstate and overseas guests, which, in turn helped Melbourne hotels achieve exceptional occupancies.

Chairman of the Australian Hotels Association (AHA), Victoria Accommodation division, Peter Crinis, stated,
"whilst there was not quite the same hype as last year, Tiger Woods' appearance at this year's 2010 JB Were Australian Masters did help attract visitors from both overseas and interstate, many of whom chose to stay at Melbourne hotels. This extra boost the Victorian economy has been significant."

Not only did Tiger Woods' visit make an impact on hotel performances, but also benefited hotel suppliers such as linen companies, butchers, bakers, florists as well as restaurants, airlines, taxis, retailers and more.

"The AHA congratulates the Victorian Government, in particular, Minister for Tourism, Tim Holding and the Victorian Major Events Corporation for having the foresight and vision to secure Tiger Woods' return to Victoria. Furthermore, events such as the 2010 JB Were Australian Masters also contribute to generate employment opportunities for many Victorians," continued Crinis.

The AHA also cites that the extensive local, interstate and worldwide media coverage will encourage visitation to Victoria.

"The flow-on effect from events such as the 2010 JB Were Australian Masters also helps hotel owners and operators make strategic business decisions such as investment into new and existing hotels and deciding to undergo hotel refurbishments and renovations to ensure that Melbourne is viewed by visitors as a world class destination," concluded Crinis.

Whilst Tiger Woods did not win the 2010 JB Were Australian Masters this year, Tiger Woods' visit reaped rewards for Melbourne.