Tickets to Australia’s prestigious world ranking tournament, the Australian Goldfields Open, are now on sale, announced Victorian Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Louise Asher.

Ms Asher said the international event, to be staged at Bendigo Stadium from July 9 to 15, is a highlight on Victoria’s world-class major events calendar.

“The Australian Goldfields Open highlights the Victorian Coalition Government’s commitment to bringing major events to regional Victoria, delivering tourism and economic benefits to the local area,” Ms Asher said.

“Congratulations to Victoria’s own Neil Robertson on his recent win in the Masters in London.  I’m sure snooker fans from all over Australia will relish the opportunity to see Mr Robertson take on the world’s best again at the Australian Goldfields Open.”

Former world number one snooker player and local boy, Neil Robertson, pushed for sport enthusiasts and snooker fans alike to come and watch the action.

“The atmosphere for last year’s Australian Goldfields Open final was one of the best I have ever witnessed and I am really looking forward to the 2012 event. I would urge everyone to get their tickets booked straight away because you can’t beat watching snooker live,” Robertson said.

Reigning Australian Goldfields Open Champion, Stuart Bingham, congratulated Bendigo on a fantastic tournament in 2011.

“I am thrilled we are going back to the same venue in July. It is the perfect chance for fans to see our sport played at its best,” Bingham said.

The world’s top 16 players will be seeded through to the final stages, to be joined by 16 qualifiers and two Australian Wild Card entrants.

Following the outstanding success of the 2011 event, City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Alec Sandner was pleased to see the Australian Goldfields Open return to Bendigo again this year.

“The City of Greater Bendigo is excited to host this international tournament in Bendigo again this year because it provides a unique opportunity to see the world’s best snooker champions play in regional Victoria and allows us to showcase our beautiful city to countries throughout the world,” said Cr Sandner.

Martin Jolly, Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand IMG added: “The Australian Goldfields Open will air in Australia on FOX SPORTS and be broadcast globally reaching over 66 countries including key tourism markets such as China and the United Kingdom.” 

Tickets can be purchased online at www.bendigostadium.com.au/tickets.shtml or by calling Bendigo Stadium on 03 5440 6214.