Devonport secures National Touch Football event

Touch Football Australia (TFA) in conjunction with Events Tasmania and Devonport City Council are pleased to announce that an exciting new sports tourism event, The Cold Climate Classic (CCC) will be held in Devonport for the following three years. (2021-2023).

Held in conjunction with Council’s Devonport Food and Wine Festival, the Cold Climate Classic is a unique blend of Tasmanian food and wine and a social Touch Football tournament.

Targeted towards an audience who appreciate good food and wine, the event will be a gastronomical experience showcasing quality Tasmanian produce and the natural beauty of Tasmania to visitors from throughout Australia.

TFA CEO, Jamie O’Connor is excited about the event. “The Cold Climate Classic is a great example of thinking outside of the box and aligning people’s passions and providing the opportunity for those who have had Tasmania on their bucket list to finally commit and explore the natural beauty and fine Tasmanian produce” he said.

“I’m sure the event will resonate with our community and I am grateful for the support and vision of Events Tasmania and Devonport City Council. I look forward to delivering strong economic returns to the region as well as an enhanced experience for our community.”

Minister for Hospitality and Events, Sarah Courtney said, “We are proud to be partnering with Touch Football Australia for the first ever Cold Climate Classic. Touch Football is the largest social participation sport in the country, and we look forward to welcoming participants and spectators to the beautiful North West coast for an event which also promises to showcase the best food and wine the region has to offer.”

Devonport Mayor, Annette Rockliff said Council was proud to host the Cold Climate Classic at its new Meercroft Park facility, which now has the capacity to host national competitions.

“Events like the Cold Climate Classic play an important role in our community, with the event expected to attract around 1,800 visitors to the region This is estimated to inject over $1.4 million into our local economy over the three years and showcase our region’s natural beauty and produce to a national audience,” Cr Rockliff said.

The Touch Football event is open for anyone to participate in and includes a range of additional activities, including two events at Providore Place on the Friday and Saturday called Meet-Great-Eat (Friday), and Hang Out at the Hub (Saturday). There will also be a free community event, Finale Fiesta at the Mersey Bluff. These events will feature live music, food stalls and vans, games and children’s entertainment.

In addition to the food and wine activities there are numerous travel packages available for visitors to extend their stay for a more immersive Tasmanian experience.

The 2021 Cold Climate Classic is being held at Meercroft Park, Devonport, Tasmania from Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th October 2021.