Sports Expo expands to be biggest yet

Published: 06 Feb 2020

This Sunday’s 2020 Optus Sports Expo and Sign-on Day is set to kick goals as the biggest in the popular event’s 10-year history.

For the first time, the expo has expanded from the main MECC plenary halls to also include the north foyer and an outdoor area, subject to weather.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the extra area was needed due to the popularity of the free event with stallholders and attendees.

“This event regularly attracts around 7000 people each year and the extra room will help them navigate the various sports and recreation booths more easily,” Cr Williamson said.

“We also have more than 120 stallholders this year, which is up from previous years, so the extra room will help accommodate that added interest,” he said.

Optus is the naming rights sponsor this year and its popular giant kicking dartboard will be back again.

Harrup Park Country Club and its Great Barrier Reef Arena has also come onboard as sponsor of the active zone in the MECC plenary halls.

There will be a second Optus active zone in the north foyer (formerly the MEC).

“Those attending will be encouraged to visit all parts of the expanded expo and check out all of the sports and recreation opportunities on offer in our region,’’ Cr Williamson said.

“The north foyer active zone will be on stage and there will be tea and coffee available in that area,’’ he said.

“Some of the outdoor activities near the north foyer will include a scout’s rope bridge, bowls, mountain biking and fastest-serve tennis.”

The event will be held from 9am to 1pm, with Star 101.9FM broadcasting live.