Catch All Newsletter Issue # 5

19 Jan 2010

welcome…

Hope you had an excellent Christmas and New Year, and are raring to go in 2010!

We’re enjoying an extremely busy summer. It’s fantastic to see the usage of our facilities grow as the population of the Southern Lakes swells with holiday visitors.

We’ve also been hosting many visiting sports teams. It’s worth remembering the economic value that this market sector brings to our region in terms of spend on local accommodation, activities and dining.

Queenstown’s ability to host international competitions like the ICC Under19 Cricket World Cup and Super 14 rugby highlights the region’s pull as a great place to play and watch sport. This point was reinforced just before Christmas when the town was confirmed as a training host for next year’s Rugby World Cup.

For more on this plus a round up of what else is happening at Lakes Leisure for sports groups read on.

Until next time
Fiona
CEO

winter bookings deadline

A reminder that the closing date for winter sport season bookings is Sunday 22 February.

We always do our best to allocate your preferred times, dates and locations but slots are limited. It would therefore help us if you could return your booking form ASAP and remain as flexible as possible.

We’d also ask for patience from groups looking to book pre-season winter training while the summer season is still in full swing. Your co-operation is much appreciated!

Booking forms, which also detail new hire and payment terms, can be downloaded here. Alternatively contact Michelle Calwell on 03 450 9005 or email bookings@lakesleisure.co.nz.

rwc2011 spins it wide

Rugby World Cup organisers have confirmed that Queenstown will host Ireland, England and one other qualifier for several days apiece during next year’s tournament.

The decision comes after a successful two-year campaign by the Southern Regional Coordination Group (Otago, Queenstown and Southland) based on the catch-cry ‘Spin It Wide’.

This is an opportunity for everyone in our region to get involved in the biggest celebration ever seen in New Zealand. The pride and passion for rugby in the South is legendary so let’s show it to the world!

Take a look at the short films showcasing what we have to offer and get involved at www.spinitwide2011.co.nz.

super 14 tickets on sale

There’s plenty of rugby to be played before 2011. Bring your team down to watch the Highlanders take on Western Force at the Events Centre on 10 April – the only Super 14 game in Queenstown this season.

We have two great options for hospitality including private marquees in the GoodGroup Hospitality Village and a post-match event in our new feature ‘The Lineout Bar’. For more information contact Tina Mathieson on 021 771 103 or email events@lakesleisure.co.nz.

calling all netball fans

Tickets are now on sale for the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel pre-season netball tournament at the Events Centre from 19-21 February.

It’s great to see the Steel continue to support our region so please return that effort by bringing your team down to watch them take on the Firebirds, Tactix, Mystics and Pulse plus the Australian Institute of Sport’s emerging talent side.

Last year's inaugural tournament attracted sell-out crowds so get in quick. Visit www.ticketdirect.co.nz or call 0800 4 TICKET.

wickets in top shape

Pete Domigan’s crew has done a fantastic job keeping the Events Centre grounds in top shape over the cricket season.

We’ve received many positive comments in the local media and from visiting squads which is a testament to the turf team’s dedication and hard work.

It’s been an honour to host South Africa, Australia, Ireland and the USA for their group games in the ICC Under19 Cricket World Cup.

Top class fixtures continue with Australia v New Zealand Women’s ODI on 3 March and a domestic 4-day game between Otago Volts and Canterbury Wizards from 12-15 March.

soccer coaching

Following the All Whites’ successful qualification for the World Cup in South Africa, a series of local initiatives are building on the new wave of interest in the ‘beautiful game’.

We’ve just hosted Andy Boyen’s (pictured right with Paddles) coaching clinic at the Events Centre. More than 60 kids learnt new skills from the national team star during the 3-day session.

Also this month, All Whites coach Ricki Herbert is basing his 82 Football Academy Courses for 9-15 year olds at the community sports fields at Jack’s Point. For more details visit www.82football.com.

Finally, our Alpine Health & Fitness centre is hosting a pre-season boot camp for Queenstown Rovers men and women’s teams. For more details on how Alpine Health & Fitness can assist your club please contact Richie Heap on 03 450 9126 or richie@lakesleisure.co.nz.