Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck
Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services
Minister for Sport
Hobart’s successful bid to host the Fifth Ashes Test is a win for cricket fans and the Tasmanian economy.
Minister for Sport and Senator for Tasmania, Richard Colbeck welcomed the decision by Cricket Australia to schedule the fifth test at Hobart’s Bellerive Oval.
“Tasmanians love their cricket and to now play a part as hosts is an enormous point of pride for all of us,” Minister Colbeck said.
“Hobart is the perfect setting. I grew up there and played cricket in the backyard as a kid.
“We didn’t appeal against the light until 9:30pm – so long summer evenings make it the perfect location for a match like this and I think we will put on a great show.”
Minister Colbeck said securing the test marked an important opportunity as the economy continues to recover from the impact of the pandemic.
“It is another remarkable selling point for sports fans as the State opens up to visitors and our economy gets a well-deserved and long-awaited boost to the bottom line.
“Cricket is a strong part of Tasmania’s vibrant sporting community and I am thrilled that Cricket Australia has recognised this in making its decision.
“I congratulate all involved in making this happen, particularly Premier Gutwein and his Government, as well as Cricket Tasmania and Tasmania’s broader cricket community which demonstrated its strong desire to secure the match.
“I look forward to Aussie cricket fans travelling to Hobart and Tasmania, enjoying a day at the cricket at stunning Bellerive Oval and then spending up big helping to drive the local economy.”
