Friday 10 August 2007

TOWNSVILLE DECLARES ELTON WAR ON TASMANIA
Tasmanians may be winning the battle but the war with North Queensland is far from over in luring Elton John to the state according to the Minister for Tourism, Paula Wriedt.

“Townsville has declared an Elton War on Tasmania with its local paper, radio and television network ramping up campaigns to get Elton to the North Queensland City," Ms Wriedt said.

“Townsville’s response comes as Tasmanians have responded in a frenzy to get Elton John here and the banana benders are running scared.

“The Townsville Bulletin today had a call for arms of all North Queenslanders to hammer the website to bring Elton to their city.

“There already offering bribes up North to people who vote by offering a VIP seats prize for the concert and are calling on businesses to put up ‘bring Elton here’ posters.

“Well two can play at that game and today I call on every Tasmanian with Crocodile Rock in their hearts and who want to see the Rocket Man fly down here to get online and vote.

“While it doesn’t have to be an ‘either or’ deal for Tasmania and North Queensland – it certainly will help our cause if we have more votes than those from the far North."

Ms Wriedt admitted to being an Elton tragic and believes there are plenty of other Tasmanians who feel the same.

“All Tasmanian fans of the British Rock Star need to stand up and be counted by voting at www.discovertasmania.com.”

A decision on the concert is expected next week.

For further information contact Tourism Tasmania's Communications Unit

(03) 6230 8244
email mediainfo@tourism.tas.gov.au