The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix returned to Phillip Island in October 2022, bringing with it a much-needed boost to the Bass Coast region’s economy.
After a three-year hiatus, the MotoGP™ saw crowd numbers surge, with an estimated 91,000 international and domestic spectators flocking to the island to witness the racing spectacle.
With the crowds came a spike in accommodation and hospitality bookings, as well as local retail spend, culminating in a direct input of approximately $50 million to the area.
‘’Our surrounding suburbs across Gippsland all saw an increase in bookings for visitors and fans of MotoGP,” said Destination Phillip Island’s General Manager Kim Storey.
A short ride from the circuit, local pub Hotel Phillip Island had a record weekend across the event, breaking targets and securing the financial stability of the business across non-peak periods.
“It is part of our DNA, hosting these events and welcoming visitors from around the world,” said Hotel General Manager, Dale Larkin.
“Financially wise, the GP event is equivalent to nearly four months in winter.
“Without the GP event being down here, we would struggle as a business year on year, so it’s great that it continues to come back.”
Local businesses such as coffee store G’Day Tiger welcomed the closure of Cowes’ main throughfare, Thompson Avenue, to facilitate the Blessing of the Bikes and an extended outdoor licensed area with live bands and a superscreen showing race highlights.
Pre-event and post-event tourism also brought an influx of economic benefits, with attendees opting to stay for longer periods to enjoy Phillip Island's attractions. The benefits of the event extend over the San Remo bridge and into neighbouring regions, with surrounding suburbs seeing a dramatic increase in bookings.
Economic impact aside, Phillip Island remains one of the MotoGP™ riders’ favourite circuits to race. Whether it be the relaxed island ‘vibe’, or the hospitable nature of the locals (you’ll likely spot a rider at the pub), the impacts of the event to the region are immeasurable.
The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will return to Phillip Island on October 20-22, 2023.
For more information visit www.motogp.com.au