14 March 2008

Spirit of Tasmania congratulates the Hobart Aquatic Centre on its 10th Birthday and invites all aquatic enthusiasts to join in the birthday celebrations by signing up for an ‘all night swimming challenge’ to race the Spirit of Tasmania across Bass Strait.

The Lord Mayor, Rob Valentine, Hobart City Council said the ‘all night swimming challenge’ festivities will be held at the Hobart Aquatic Centre on Friday 4 April 2008 and will start at 8pm - the same time the ship departs Melbourne.

“The Centre, which normally shuts at 10pm, will remain open for lap swimmers to complete the challenge. Swimmers will be welcome to start at any time and continue swimming for as long as they choose,” he said.

“Swimmers will keep track of the number of laps they have swum and the total will be combined with the other swimmers then plotted against the progress of the Spirit as it sails across Bass Strait.

Director Passenger Sales, Marketing and Communications, Ms Melindy Green said Spirit of Tasmania is pleased to award the swimmer who wins the challenge with a relaxing return sailing journey between Devonport and Melbourne.

“And a holiday is not complete without your friends and loved ones around you. So Spirit of Tasmania has extended the invitation to include a partner/friend and two children (if applicable),” she said.

The Hobart Aquatic Centre is running a series of events during March and April. Each event is designed to celebrate with the centre’s local users who have supported us over the last 10 years.

Mr Valentine said, “It’s through Spirit of Tasmania’s kind assistance that this event has been made possible and we are extremely grateful for the support”.

“Now it’s up to our local swimming members to come along and make this event not only a memorable and fun birthday celebration but it could also be the start to your next holiday in Victoria,” he said.

-ends-

Released by:
Carolyn Neill
Corporate Communications Coordinator
Tel: 03 9206 6220 / 0438 393 898
cjn@spiritoftasmania.com.au