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Tasmania will host a round of the world-class Mountain Bikes Enduro World Series in 2017. It is the first time the event will be held in Australia. The news was announced in Europe overnight. Derby, on Tasmania’s north east, will welcome 500 cyclists in April, as part of the international competition. Premier Will Hodgman said securing the event would promote Tasmania to a global audience. “By getting the state budget back on track, the Tasmanian Government is able to move quickly to invest $100,000 to secure world-class events which will help to grow our surging tourism numbers and create jobs in regional Tasmania,” he said. “It is common for visitation to double in regions that host a round of the EWS and we expect many of next year’s visitors will take the opportunity to spend an extended stay in Tasmania.” The three-day event is expected to attract up to 1500 spectators as well as 60 journalists and photographers. Tourism Northern Tasmania chief executive officer Chris Griffin said Tasmania had “come of age” as a globally recognised cycling destination. “It provides all of Tasmania the opportunity to showcase our cycling trails, food and wine, and stunning scenery to the world,” he said. The Blue Derby mountain bike trails, where the event will be held, have already attracted 21,000 visitors to the north east. Dorset mayor Greg Howard said the EWS championships would only boost the region further. Bass MHA and cyclist Sarah Courtney said the event would highlight the state’s North East. “This is such a beautiful part of Tasmania and now the world’s elite mountain bikers and the world’s cycling media will see it first hand and that is invaluable promotion for Tasmania,” she said. The Enduro World Series includes riders from more than 30 countries, with events held in Europe, North America and South America.

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