• Sponsors: Results of the sponsor’s exit survey confirms a high level of satisfaction by those organisations who invested in the event.  Those who completed the surveys were equally spread between long-term supporter and a first-time supporter. Encouragingly, across both groups there was a strong expression of interest to continue to support Polocrosse events.  Thanks to all who participated in this important feedback, as well as those who took the time to write with your congratulations on the success of the event and your thanks for the opportunity to be involved. 
  
• Schools:   Almost 2000 excited schoolchildren spent a day at the World Cup in April.  The Governor-General declared that Warwick West State School were the best cheerleaders of the first day, though local MP Lawrence Springborg favoured the students from Texas State School who shouted their allegiance to team USA.  Visiting schools had the opportunity to participate in a story competition entitled “My Day at the World Cup”.  Special congratulations to Glennie Heights and St Mary’s Primary Schools in Warwick and to St Josephs School, Stanthorpe for their winning entries.   Presentations will be made at assemblies next week.
  
• Media: Polocrosse’s first press day attracted a good attendance, which translated into excellent additional pre-event coverage.  There was strong demand for the classic photo of each of the country captains trying to snatch the world cup from Australian captain Tanya Hollow’s grasp. During competition week a steady stream of journalists were onsite – some TV film and news crews, radio journalists and a strong contingent of print journalists from daily newspapers to glossy magazines.  Daily match results were distributed via Australian Associated Press who broadcast these figures to their national and international media network. This service, together with the media photo gallery provided by Sporting Images, kept sports writers up to date with progress.  Results were also posted online results.htm  and once again, the internal daily newssheet Chukka Chat proved a real collectors item. If your copy didn’t survive the journey home, download from about_chukka_chat.htm
  
• Fast Facts:  2000 campers made Morgan Park their home for the World Cup; boosting gate takings, which were almost double that of the 2003 world cup.  By day two of competition, the canteen had sold as much soft drink to that point as it did in the whole of the 2003 Cup.  Bar sales looked likely to exhaust local supply in the town at one point, but at no time was it declared the pub with no beer.  Back at the canteen, sliced white bread ran out on the final day, and the ATM pumped out $200,000 in cash in the time to 1.30pm on the final day of competition.  Crowd estimates grew to 10,000 on the final day with our target of 40,000 being achieved for the week.

  A total of 870 individuals participated in the visitor survey – the data for which is now being processed by Dr Diana Beal. The results of her economic impact study are due towards the end of June and the highlights will be announced via a media release, which you will receive.

• Web wanderings:  Feedback received verbally as well as via the online polling at www.polocrosse.net confirmed that our website proved a popular source of information for competitors, visitors and the media.  Queensland Events too has used it as an example for other event managers looking to build a web presence.  Pre-event visitors in the lead-up were well up on 2003, with our online traffic up just over 60% for Cup week itself.
  
  
• Memorabilia: A day of intermittent showers on the penultimate day of competition was welcome, but did cause a bit of a dent in merchandise sales. However, the silver lining provides an opportunity for anyone wanting a hot deal on merchandise after the event.  A small amount of merchandise remains at reduced prices – see this online by following the links.  about_merchandise.htm.  Follow that link too to obtain your order form for the DVD or video and click through to the photo gallery to purchase souvenir photos or photo products. 
  
  
• The Future:  The UK has been awarded the rights to host the 2011 Polocrosse World Cup, which marks another milestone for the development of Polocrosse.  On this side of the world, the team that successfully brought you two world cups will continue to pursue the growth of their sport here.  Warwick’s Morgan Park now boasts the finest polocrosse facility in the world, which means it will continue to stage major competitions.  To find out how to be involved,  keep in touch with Les Fraser 0419 714545 or email worldcup@polocrosse.com.au 

Preview Guide: The official preview guide is being published by Queensland Country Life and included free in that edition of the paper on 12 April.  This is an essential visitors guide, so if you don’t normally take the Country Life, and/or you live interstate, please be sure to reserve one at your newsagent.  Watch out too for their post-event feature.

Coverage & Results:   On Friday 19 April the button on our website that currently says “TICKETS” will change to read results.  That button at the top right hand side of your screen is the quickest way into competition results and links to photo gallery and online streaming.  Alternatively you can save the following link to your favourites and find it through this http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/results.htm   While in town, the Warwick Daily News will provide your best daily print source for competition coverage so be sure to pick up a copy.  Tune in also ABC Southern Qld 104.9FM and Win TV Toowoomba for updates of the activities at Morgan Park. 

Umpires: You’ve seen it in other sports, and now you’ll see it at Polocrosse.  Following a sponsorship deal with property developers, Regional House & Land, World Cup umpires will sport their branding on the distinctive checkered jackets. 

Trade exhibitors:  A record number of enquiries were received from commercial operators wanting a trade presence on site during Cup week.  Together with sponsor-exhibitors the final number of sites totals 36. To view http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_trade.htm

Merchandise:  More than a year of planning and production is complete with the complete shipment of merchandise being made at the end of March.  The official merchandise covers popular clothing items and souvenirs and will be available for sale through the official merchandise stand at Morgan Park.  Also for sale through the stand is the official Commemorative Handbook – a glossy keepsake of both the 2007 and 2003 Polocrosse World Cups. Check this area to download your order form for the highlights DVD/video  For more see http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_merchandise.htm

Breakfast with the Stars:  Two rugby greats, Shane Webcke and Chris “Buddha” Handy will be (pardon the pun) propping up this special social event on Wednesday 25 April.  A limited number of tickets are available to the Metalcorp Steel Breakfast with the Stars.  For your chance to hear these former internationals share stories about their own careers, plus meet polocrosse internationals and be in the running to win a Peppers Salt Retreat & Resort prize – visit http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/tickets.htm 

Media: Official press day has been scheduled for Tuesday 17 April with invitations sent out this week to media. Amongst those filming on site in Cup week will be Channel Ten’s youth programme Totally Wild. But before that – pick up the May edition of Australia’s leading sports title, Inside Sport for the double page spread on the Cup.  Available in newsagents from 18 April.

Web wanderings:  We continue to receive excellent feedback on both the amount of information on our website and the ease with which it can be found.  One month out from the event, there were already 35% more visitors to the site than during 2003 Cup week itself.  To help you navigate through the significant enhancements  – click here for this directional aid http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/site_map.htm

Meet the Team: Finally if you only know the organising committee by name, and not by face, we look forward to saying hello in person at Morgan Park.  Of course we’ll all be quite stretched, so please don’t be offended if we cannot spend much one-to-one time with you.  However so that you know who to look out for see the mug shots on this link http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_organisation.htm

• Lift off: If you are travelling on Qantas in the week of 16-20 April be sure to watch the in-flight entertainment system.  As well as being able to read about the Polocrosse world Cup in QF’s in-flight magazine, the Cup will be appear in the events diary section on the internal TV system. Still in the air, but firmly fixed to the ground, will be several World cup billboards aimed at attracting the Brisbane drive market to discover international rugby on horseback.  These are ground breaking initiatives for Polocrosse and demonstrate our commitment to reach for the sky in promoting the event you have supported.
• Competitors: With just weeks to go, final preparations around the globe are in hand.   Amongst the host of interesting stories for the media will be three players from Warwickshire in England are preparing to travel to Warwick, Queensland.  The first team to arrive in Warwick will be the Canadians on April 10th with others arriving by 4pm on Monday 16 April.  Members from Inverell Polocrosse Club join those from Warwick and Tansey Clubs in lending horses to supply players from France, The Netherlands and Zambia. Welcome to these emerging Polocrosse nations who will compete in the concurrent Australian Equine Alliance Club Carnival. For more see about_nations.htm
• Schools:  By early March applications had been received from 17 schools registering a total of almost 1500 students to attend the first two days.  Entry to registered groups is free on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 April but registrations close on Monday 19 March.  Confirmation has been received that Ronald McDonald will visit Morgan Park on Monday 23 April together with his fun-loving prankster colleague, Hamburglar.  For registrations visit  about_schools.htm  
• Partner Promos:  From March Bundaberg Rum will run an in-store promotion through dozens of pubs in the Brisbane/southeast corner, giving customers the chance to win a superb Bundy swag and tickets to the World Cup. Sirromet wines are targeting a similar area for a promotion through a number of their on-premise accounts.  At the Southern Downs Tourist Association stand at the Brisbane Escape Expo at the end of March visitors can participate in a horse shoe throwing competition to be in the running for a world cup ticket giveaway.
• Horses: Beginning Monday 2 April almost a dozen borrowed horses from Western Australia will begin the six week round trip to the World Cup.  In subsequent days horses from South Australia, Victoria and NSW will also take to the highways for the trip north.  The largest contingent of horses will be supplied from Queensland, many of which will also travel great distances. Without the generosity of these horses’ owners a world cup could not be staged….thank you all who have participated so generously. about_horses.htm
• Auction: World cup week represents an opportunity a special opportunity to participate in an auction.  In addition to a customised float is the chance to bid for stallion service fees, and a hand sewn drafter saddle with fenders.  about_horses_float.htm

• Competitors:  New Zealand has announced its team completing the line-up of contenders for the World Cup.  Interest from emerging Polocrosse nations has seen the French confirmed to compete in the concurrent Australian Equine Alliance Club Carnival. Players from Zambia and The Netherlands are also packing their kit to play in the Carnival.  Special thanks go to junior members of the Warwick Polocrosse Club and Tansey Polocrosse Club for lending these internationals horses to compete in the carnival.  For more see about_nations.htm
• Schools:  At the end of January invitations were posted to 60 schools across the region inviting them to participate in our two McSchool Days.  Entry to registered groups is free on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 April but registrations close on Monday 19 March. Each group will be provided with an usher and children will receive a sample bag courtesy of Queensland Sport & Recreation, Ridley AgriProducts, Queensland Department of Health, Dairy Farmers and the Australian Stock Horse Society.   For more see about_schools.htm
• Horse Feed: With the recruitment drive to source 200 world cup pool horses in its final phase, the pre-competition recommended feeding regime becomes important for those selected. This information is now online about_horses_preparation.htm  For those who enjoy trivia, during their two weeks at Morgan Park these 200 horses will consume 26 tons of high performance Ridley AgriProducts stock feed and drink a total of 126,000 litres of water.
• Collectables: 2007 presents a unique opportunity to own a custom-built and designed Ridley Polocrosse World Cup official horse float. This three-horse float is the latest angle-load, bumper-pull model with a regular retail value of A$12,000.  However this is a one-off item, which includes the World Cup branding, which guarantees to add value to the float.  The float has been kindly donated by Otto Tuza’s VIP Horse Floats and will be available for sale at the World Cup.  To preview see about_horses_float.htm  
  
  At their February meeting, the organising committee gave representatives from Ridley AgriProducts a preview of the official horse rug.  Only 200 of these branded and individually numbered rugs are to be produced and each owner who lends a horse to the World Cup pool will receive one as part of their take-home gift bag. 
• Trade sites:  When bookings closed on 31st January we had received a record number of applications which are now being processed.  Exhibitors will appear at about_trade.htm after 1 March.
• Have your say: You can participate in Polocrosse’s first online survey.  The series of 11 questions includes: Who you think will win the Cup? and Where do you think the 2011 World Cup should be held?  The question now online is “How did you hear about the World Cup?” Vote now at  http://www.polocrosse.net/
• Thanks Polo: Interest from the polo community in our event continues to grow with the Brisbane Polo Club supporting the event with an in-house and online promotion. This complements a superb feature in the current Polo Leisure magazine, to view click news_articles.htm 

Competitors:  In December Australia named its four reserves and Ireland named its travelling team. This leaves just New Zealand to announce who will take to the field in black and their team will be announced in the coming weeks. Each competing nation is currently collating player profiles and photographs and these will be published in the official preview guide – this full colour lift-out will first appear in Queensland Country Life in the week of 9 April 2007 about_nations.htm

Carnival nominations:  Visitors to Morgan Park will be spoilt for sporting entertainment when international competition is interspersed with another major polocrosse carnival. The Australian Equine Alliance Club Carnival is expected to attract nominations from 100 (mostly Australian) clubs.  Nominations for this separate but concurrent competition opened on 1st January and will close on Friday 16 March.  Application forms can be found at overview_carnival.htm.

Virtual coverage: When competition gets underway on 23 April, enthusiasts around the world will be able to follow the action on line. At the end of each day’s competition results and photographs will appear through our website, with links to view the full photo gallery and place orders.  Filming of all international matches will appear through internet streaming technology and again this will be linked through our website.  Of course for those who are building a polocrosse library, a copy of the highlights DVD will be a must have and order forms for this will appear on the website prior to the start of the competition. 

Landline:  The film crew from ABC TV’s popular Landline programme have confirmed they’ll be filming on-site for four days during Cup week. In 2003 they attended the World Cup, producing stories that were aired both on ABC’s Stateline and Landline programmes.  Their feature story will go to air on Australian television screens this year. 

Weather watch:  The English have a reputation for talking about the weather, but in drought-ravaged Australia watching the forecast is also a daily pursuit.  Valued media partner ABC Radio Southern Queensland has added their link to world cup information right next to their weather watch link. This should ensure good exposure for us – so long as it doesn’t bring rain that particular week! http://www.abc.net.au/southqld/

Did you read? The international equestrian media is showing interest in the World Cup with preview articles appearing or soon to appear in a range of titles including South African Polo Leisure magazine, New Zealand Horse Trader, NZ Equestrian Bulletin, Singapore Polo and PQ International.  And for those travelling on Qantas in March, look out for a feature on the world cup in the in-flight magazine The Australian Way.news_articles.htm

Competitors:  South Africa, the USA and Zimbabwe have now all named there teams, leaving only Ireland and New Zealand to complete the line-up. Each of these teams includes a lot of fresh talent - to see who will be taking to the field in their second World Cup, follow the links from the Home page.

Programme:  In addition to the weekly calendar of events leading up to the World Cup, a copy of the daily programme is now on-line.  This includes an outline of match play and other activities during Cup week.  While this is subject to change, it will provide a framework for how each day will shape up.  Be sure to check again in April for a final copy, meanwhile click on the programme icon on the Home page.

Polocrosse Globetrotter? A new feature of the World Cup website is a list of major Polocrosse competitions around the world – and across Australia.  If you want to combine the sport you love with an interest in travel, you need check out polocrosse_events.htm

Schools:  McDonalds is the latest big brand to join the ranks of World Cup sponsors and have given their particular support to our school days programme. The first two days of international competition are free to registered school groups and once again we will be posting written invitations to all the schools within a comfortable day drive of Morgan Park. Of course other schools interested in a bit of “McPolocrosse” are welcome too. For more see about_schools.htm

Supporters:   Also joining the sponsorship family recently are DairyFarmers, Bluesky Pastoral, NAB Agribusiness, Spotless Services and Rose City Shopping Centre.  Thank you all for your support.

Research:  An economic impact study will again be undertaken to determine the value of the World Cup to the host region.  This valuable research partnership involves students from Warwick TAFE as the data collectors, while the Warwick Shire Council will provide the resources for the data input.  The critical analysis and report will be in the capable hands of Dr Diana Beal – a horse lover, who until her recent retirement was the head of the Centre for Australian Financial Institutions and the Associate Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Business at the University of Southern Queensland.

Did you read? If you were travelling recently on MacAir and picked up a copy of their Inflight magazine you’ll have read their preview of the World Cup.  If you missed the feature in RM Williams OUTBACK magazine you can find it online at news_articles.htm 

• Competitors:  Australia, Canada and the UK have all selected their players for their official teams including the appointment of Captain and Vice Captains.   Other team names will be posted when announced.  To learn more see  about_nations.htm. Strong interest has been received from players in France, Netherlands, Germany and Norway. While they do not qualify to compete in the Ridley Polocrosse World Cup competition, they may participate in the concurrent Australian Equine Alliance Club Carnival. For developments see about_nations_Other.htm
• Tour Packages:  With Qantas confirmed as our official airline, tour packages have now been launched. Whether you are coming from the northern or southern hemisphere, or travelling from within Australia, we’ve got a one-stop shop solution for you. Packages include flights, transfers, accommodation and tickets and begin from as little as Aus$1099 from the east coast of Australia. For more information follow the links at visitors_travel.htm.
• On-line:  Harnessing the power of the Internet we have just formed an on-line partnership with one of the sport’s pioneers in on-line marketing: www.polocrosse.net.   The site has a large and loyal audience and the partnership includes a number of reciprocal links; some shared content such as news, reference information and links; plus on-line polling. 
• The equestrian fraternity has also embraced the opportunity to spread the word about the World Cup with a growing number of specialist equestrian magazines and associations adding links from their websites to us.  Particular thanks to Polo Australia who is amongst those helping to raise awareness within their ranks.  If you see a site where we should be please email info@cozzi.com.au 
• Volunteers:  The volunteer recruitment drive is well underway with the initial focus for 100 horse handlers.  Other volunteers will be required in catering, ground care, ticketing, administration and in the information and media centre.  All volunteers will take home unforgettable memories of this world-class sporting event. For eligibility, benefits and how to apply see about_volunteers.htm 
• Horses -   The historic national horse recruitment drive is in full swing with official horse selectors Kent Wells and Neville Gilpin having attended the national titles in NSW as well as major carnivals in Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
• Did you see? A number of consumer magazines are hearing about Polocrosse and the World Cup with  feature articles appearing in national magazines such as Friday, 50 Something and RM Williams Outback.  And there are more in the pipeline.  If you missed them on the newsstand, we’ve introduced this new feature online – see news_articles.htm
• Countdown: Want to know just how many days till the action kicks off at Morgan Park, Warwick?  A new feature of the website is a daily countdown timer.  Simply enter www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup 
• Masters:  For absolutely your last chance to see Polocrosse in Queensland during 2006, head to the Gold Coast for the Pan Pacific Masters Games.  Some 300 polocrosse masters aged 40 to 79 will take to the field, all keen to show what a lifetime of polocrosse can produce. The action takes place at the Carrara Equestrian Centre 3-5 November. For more email Michele Cozzi info@cozzi.com.au or Gold Coast Polocrosse Club  christine.franklin1@bigpond.com
• VIP Welcome Packs:   When hundreds of competitors, officials, sponsors and VIPs arrive in Warwick next April, they will receive a special pack with welcome messages from the Mayor and Premier, a comprehensive event programme, plus tourist information and gifts from major sponsors. Small local business operators have now been invited to participate in the pack programme – they can draw business through their doors by including a special deal or gift voucher in the pack.

• Official Airline: We are in final discussions with the spirit of Australia to become the Official airline for the Ridley Polocrosse World Cup 2007. A deal with Qantas provides a great partnership for two Australian brands: the flying kangaroo with Polocrosse (one of only three Australian-invented sports). More importantly for our competitors and customers, is the fact that Qantas's service routes meet our every need, both domestically and internationally. For more information follow the links at http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/visitors_travel.htm
• Competitors:  The official website has been expanded to provide easy access to information about individual participating nations, most of whom have named their world cup squads. When their official teams are selected this information will be updated.  http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_nations.htm. 
• Official Preview Guide:  The official pre-event programme will be published by media partner Queensland Country Life/Rural Press.   This 16-page programme is an essential practical guide to anyone visiting the Cup and 50,000 copies will be inserted free through QCL and The Land two weeks before play commences. It will include the history and rules of Polocrosse, all World Cup player profiles, location map, plus a daily timetable. All sponsors will be recognised appropriate to their level of participation and all official sponsors. From 1st September these supporters will be given first opportunity to further advertise or promote their partnership through this guide. Follow the links at http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_merchandise.htm 
• Commemorative Handbook: Watch this space for further information about a special take home souvenir being planned by our by media partner Warwick Daily News/APN Group.  Also to follow more information about a range of exclusive photo products available through Sporting Images.
• Online:  the official website now also incorporates separate sections for information on the Ridley Polocrosse World Cup and the “supporting act”, the Australian Equine Alliance Club Carnival.  Simply enter the OVERVIEW section and choose http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/overview_welcome.htm
• Date claimers:  During the remainder of 2006 you can see some great polocrosse action at these locations:
  • Australian National Titles, Camden NSW: 2-8 October includes naming of Australian world cup team.
  • West Australian State Titles, Brigadoon WA: 20-22 October
  • 2006 Pan Pacific Masters Games, Gold Coast QLD: 3-5 November (full Games 4-12 Nov)
• Funding: Recent Queensland state government funding will boost two specific areas of infrastructure at Morgan Park in time for the world cup, making both horses and people more comfortable. $75,000 has been allocated to provide cover for up to 85% of the current 350 horse stalls, creating the best recreational horse complex in Australia (thoroughbred racing excluded). The remaining $34,000 will be used for spectator seating, creating a form that is “permanent-portable” within Morgan Park. This means World Cup spectators benefit, but also it creates a lasting legacy for the other six sporting user groups at Morgan Park. This expansion builds on recent extensions to clubhouse and camping facilities.
• Suppliers:  Welcome to new official suppliers Featherlite Trailers plus Peppers Retreats & Resorts and new supporter the Warwick Chamber of Commerce. Olsens Produce is sole on-site licensed retailer of feed and supplements carrying stock from Ridley AgriProducts and International Animal Health Products. For more see www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/sponsors_current.htm
• Donations: For individuals wishing to make a tax deductible donation to the World Cup, follow the links at  www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/sponsors_opportunities.htm  

• Horses: ‘Horse head hunting’ is how some journalists describe the historic task of Kent Wells and Neville Gilpin. The Queen’s Birthday weekend kicked off a national drive to recruit 200 top polocrosse horses, which will conclude in Tasmania in February.  The horse recruiters report that enquiries are good.  Aside from the prestige value of having a horse play in a World Cup and other benefits, undoubtedly the “must have” souvenir of the Cup will be a limited edition branded horse rug supplied by Ridley AgriProducts, manufacturer of Barastoc.  Each horse which is loaned to the World Cup pool will take home one commemorative branded and numbered rug.  To lend a horse see www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_horses.htm
• Club Carnival: Concurrent with the Ridley Polocrosse World Cup 2007, the Warwick Polocrosse Club will host the three-day Australian Equine Alliance Club Carnival. When this Carnival was held in 2003 it attracted more than 60 teams from across Australia.  Following the new sponsorship deal with Australian Equine Alliance, participation in this Carnival is likely to grow to 100 teams including domestic players and visitors from overseas. More information on this competition will be posted on our website very shortly.  Meanwhile learn more about this relatively new membership-based organisation, which is focusing on helping horse riders, just as motoring organisations in Australia have done for drivers: www.equinealliance.com.au
  

  TUNE IN ABC TV’s Stateline programme recently filmed the UK v Qld Under 21s at the Gold Coast to form the backdrop of a story about the World Cup’s horse recruitment drive. The story is scheduled to air in Queensland on Friday 28 July at 7.30pm.  If interested and you live elsewhere, have a Queenslander record it for you.

• International preparations:  As part of all international teams’ preparations for the World Cup, polocrosse players have taken to the skies.  Trans Tasman traffic is busy with both Australian and Kiwi players seeking more international experience.  Visitors have also come from the northern hemisphere: Queensland is currently hosting four test matches UK v Qld Under 21s and this winter New South Wales is hosting USA Under-16s. North of the equator the US administration has now announced their World Cup squad, headed by legendary Australian coach, Joy Poole.
• Trade exhibitors:  While official sponsors and suppliers having been allocated their trade spaces, sales have opened to others wanting to secure a trade exhibition space at Morgan Park. Indoor pavilion style spaces are available, together with a limited number of outdoor areas.  For more see www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_trade.htm
• Donations: Polocrosse people are generous in supporting their sport. Following a number of recent requests our website now includes information about how to make a tax deductible donation to the World Cup.  For more information see www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/sponsors_opportunities.htm
• Suppliers:  Joining our list of official suppliers are Action Graphics, Telstra CountryWide, Warner Village Theme Parks and Warwick Credit Union.  Official supporters now include Brown & Hurley, Cummins Engines, Gloster/Aboud Apparel, Kenworth Trucks, Meritor, National Transport Insurance and Oregon Sales.  For more see www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/sponsors_current.htm

• RIDLEY:  For those who missed the recent hot news item, Ridley is Australia’s largest stock feed company with leading brands such as Barastoc, Rumevite and Cobber.  They are a natural fit for a prestigious equestrian event and the Ridley team welcome the opportunity of a full twelve months’ promotional value for their investment.  The deal marks a milestone for the sport, which has previously attracted major sponsors for national titles, but not for the world championships.  Welcome Ridley. To learn more see www.ridley.com.au or contact us.
• Suppliers:  Our list of official suppliers now includes AMCO Jeans, Australian Stockman Saddlery, Ergon Energy, Golders, International Animal Health Products, Mike Williams Country Clothing and Tuza VIP Horse Floats.  For more see our list of current sponsors.
• Cruising:  Joining our official suppliers is Captain Cook Cruises who has kindly donated a fabulous cruise for two to boost our volunteer programme and horse recruitment drive. Valued at A$3000, every volunteer and owner who lends a horse for the world cup pool goes into the draw for this three night Barrier Reef cruise on the MV Reef Endeavour. Prize includes all accommodation, meals, on-board facilities, guided rainforest and island walks. See Captain Cook Cruises

New Facilities Opened:

• Communications Centre: The new communications centre at Morgan Park was christened on Saturday 29th April.  An informal but productive meeting of all media and promotional partners was held at Morgan Park to coincide with the Shell Interstate Series. While we met in the shell of the partially completed new communications centre, it did not stop the creative and co-operative exchange of ideas.  The meeting provided Ridley with a chance to meet our key promotional partners and most stayed to watch some excellent Polocrosse. Refreshments were kindly provided by official drinks suppliers Castlemaine XXXX, Bundaberg Rum and Sirromet Wines, a reward for all who had given up time over the holiday weekend. 
• Playground: Much as we love Polocrosse, we recognise that some of our younger supporters need to take time out. Every new generation knows there’s nothing like a playground to put a swing back into things for the little people. The Shell Interstate Series saw us cut the ribbon on the new playground at Morgan Park.  The project was made possible with support from One Steel, Condamine Steel, Warwick Shire Council and Aussie Fencing.
• International preparations: With the Polocrosse season underway in other parts of the world several competing nations will be holding their national titles in the coming months. International news just received confirms national teams will be announced by Zimbabwe at Hippo Valley in June, by South Africa in Bloemfontein in July and by the UK in Buckinghamshire in August. The interest and preparations around the Polocrosse world is certainly gathering pace.
• Trans Tasman rivalry: After beating New Zealand in the 2003 World Cup final, amongst those keen to wrestle the title from Australia are old rivals from across the Tasman Sea – the Kiwis. The Australian squad has now undertaken two missions to New Zealand – the second saw some red hot competition proving that the temperature is rising on the competitive front. The NZ squad will visit Australia in July for return matches at Muswellbrook in New South Wales. 

Official suppliers appointed:  Amongst those who are keen to partner with the Cup are those with a vested interest in on-site supply rights.  We’ve clinched deals have iconic Queensland drinks brands XXXX, Bundaberg Rum and Sirromet Wines. Philip Morris has also secured exclusive supply rights in their category.

Negotiations continue with a number of prospective sponsors with further announcements due shortly.  For more see http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/sponsors_opportunities.htm

Horses:  All World Cup horses will be sourced from within Australia, going into graded pools to ensure that all teams have an equal playing field. Horse selectors Kent Wells and Neville Gilpin will soon set off around the country to select and grade some 200 horses for these pools.  Our official breed partner, the Australian Stock Horse Society is offering incentives for owners of registered Stock Horses who wish to nominate horses. http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_horses.htm

Volunteers:  You’d have to love horses to take a month off work, travel halfway around the world and shovel out horse stalls, but that’s what the Irish are doing.  With a small army of volunteers required to help stage the event we are delighted to have received our first international nomination.  Forty-nine year old Irishman, John Maguire, will be one of an ultimate team of 100 volunteers recruited to work with the world cup pool of horses.  Just after John’s application to the volunteer programme was downloaded and testament to the emerald isle’s rich equestrian heritage, a second Irishman signed up. http://www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup/about_volunteers.htm

Media & promotional partners meet sponsors: The first meeting of all media and promotional partners will be held on-site at Morgan Park, Warwick on Saturday 29th April 2006, a date which coincides with a major annual carnival The Shell Interstate Series.  This will provide an opportunity for each party to present their pre-event promotional plan, develop cross-promotional opportunities and to inspect the new media unit.  The group will also have the opportunity to meet sponsors and to watch some Polocrosse.

International preparations: Australia, Zealand, Canada, USA, England, Ireland, South Africa and Zimbabwe have nominated to compete. Aside from these eligible eight, others are declaring their interest to participate outside the main competition, with regular updates on preparations coming in from Zambia and France in particular. 

Aussies on tour: On 3-6 February eight players from Australia’s World Cup squad flew to New Zealand to participate in a mixed competition, giving coach, Ross Shepherd, the chance to see the squad on different horses and positions.  The remaining eight members of the squad will undertake a similar trip to New Zealand’s north island 23-24 April.  The Kiwis for their part will be keen to see if the current crop of Aussies will be able to successfully defend their status as World Champions.

 

For the benefit of many who have little or no experience of Polocrosse, in this issue we’ll highlight some of the benefits of being associated with this World Cup in 2007.

• Perhaps you didn’t know this:

1. There is a global growth in recreational horse riding.
2. Equestrians are brand loyal: 76% of those surveyed by the USEF (http://www.usef.org/) said they would be more likely to buy products and services from companies that sponsor equestrian events.  Australian Polocrosse Association agrees that Polocrosse people share the loyalty attributes of other equestrians when it comes to organisations that support their sports.
3. Intangible assets:
   • One of only three sports invented in Australia, Polocrosse not only has great heritage values, but it has the pace and skill, which great spectator sports require. (That’s why its sometimes called rugby on horseback
   • Polocrosse connects rural AND urban Australians in a way that most other equestrian sports don't or can’t. It’s neither too “bush”, nor too elite.
   • Marketers realise that although women represent some 50% of the population, they make or influence more than 75% of most buying decisions.  The Polocrosse World Cup sees elite competition amongst teams comprising both men and women – a rare opportunity in sports sponsorship.

• Sponsorship Campaign: Three months into the sponsorship campaign, we are well on track in terms of achieving our objectives.  First to commit are naturally those with supply rights opportunities; organisations who were involved in the 2003 World Cup and those with a natural and vested interest in the equestrian market.  For the wider sponsorship market the period September-December 2005 formed part of the awareness or educational phase. Activity will now become more specific as many organisations soon sit down to do their budgets for 2006/07.  Our goal is to secure all sponsorship by May, enabling sponsors to benefit from the full 12-month consumer marketing campaign.  Contact Michele Cozzi 07 4683 4181 or email Sponsorship Enquiries. 

• Internationals sign up:  With more than 12 months until competition, based on early registrations, keen to challenge Australia to the title of world champions are New Zealand, UK, Ireland Canada, South Africa and Zimbabwe. The official application is expected to be received shortly from the USA. These nations all participated in the inaugural event in 2003 and represent the sport’s top eight countries in the world. Aside from these, we’ve had enquiries from a number of other nations who would like to send representatives to the World Cup in 2007.  They include France, Germany, Norway, China and Zambia.  Depending on the availability of horses and volume of interest from the newer countries, there is a possibility of their inclusion in the Australian Clubs Carnival which is run in conjunction with the World Cup. 

• Aussie line-up selected: In December the Polocrosse Association of Australia announced their talent for the 2007 campaign to defend their title as world champions.   Victorious 2003 coach Ross Shepherd is to head a squad of 16 players who begin preparations with a tour of New Zealand shortly and a stint at the Institute of Sport in Canberra during the year.  The final team of eight will be announced at the National Championships at Camden in October.

 

• Official Partners Appointed:  With many international sports events under their belt, Greg Ritchie Travel will provide a one-stop solution for all international and interstate travellers. www.gregritchietravel.com.au. Interestingly, Greg Ritchie began his international cricket career “just down the road” from where the World Cup will be held.  As Australia will have to provide some 200 horses for the competition, securing a deal with Australia’s largest breed organisation, The Australian Stock Horse Society www.ashs.com.au was another major win.

Chairman Les Fraser leads the organising committee: a team which successfully staged the inaugural Polocrosse World Cup in 2003. They won seven awards across a range of disciplines for their work on that event and aim to deliver no less for this next prestigious international event.

The Sponsorship campaign kicked off on 1st September 2005, twenty months ahead of the event itself. The timetable is designed to give committed sponsors full advantage of the 12-month consumer marketing campaign.  Contact Michele Cozzi 07 4683 4181 or email Sponsorship Enquiries. 

Let’s begin this first issue by sharing comments from others with whom we’ve already worked.

Independent event evaluation

Respected sponsorship industry pioneer, The Sponsorship Unit, has completed an independent audit of the World Cup as a partnership opportunity.   Their report concluded:

“Congratulations on bringing this back to Australia again in 2007. Firstly, we must say how organised you are with the information you have provided.  You obviously understand the event and its potential very well.  We really see the opportunities in providing value to sponsors in terms of generous exposure of their message(s) and an opportunity that they couldn’t get anywhere else. We see this event as being full of potential to make it a world-class event for the sponsors and the audience.  For the Polocrosse competitors, it is already world-class”  

 Laurel Sinclair, Managing Director The Sponsorship Unit. 

Media Partners saddle up

ABC Radio, APN (incorporating Warwick Daily News) Rural Press (incorporating Queensland Country Life) and Win Television have all confirmed their support of the 2007 event. 

Here’s some comment on how they viewed their involvement:

• ABC Radio
  

  “As a media partner the organisers’ pro-active role in providing a steady stream of appropriate and interesting material enabled us to concentrate our resources on promoting the event, rather than in researching stories and contacts.”

  Stephen McClelland, Regional Manager ABC Southern Queensland.

• Rural Press
  We had no hesitation in partnering with the 2003 Polocrosse World Cup organising committee based on the people involved in particular Cup president Les Fraser and media/marketing consultant Michele Cozzi. We look forward to doing so again in 2007.
  
  John Warlters, General Manager Queensland Country Life.

• Chris “Buddha” Handy
  Guest speaker and spectator
  Inaugural Polocrosse World Cup, Morgan Park, April 2003.
  
  

  “Feeling the mood and enthusiasm around Morgan Park, and watching the fresh pace, skill and excitement on the field, just reminds me of standing on the sidelines in 1987 for the first Rugby World Cup. None of us at Concorde Oval all those years ago would have dreamt the Rugby World Cup would grow into the multi-million dollar business it is today.  Polocrosse really is like rugby on horseback and this event has enormous potential. I’ll be back in 2007.” 

  Chris Handy, Former Wallaby/Channel Seven Personality