|
September 9, 2004
The National Australia Group today announced it was joining the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games team as a major official Partner. The National Australia Group also announced that Visa International would become a support sponsor as part of the National’s Partnership team.
National Australia Group CEO and Managing Director, Mr John Stewart, said: "We will involve our staff and our customers in the excitement of the Commonwealth Games."
"Partnering with the Games presents a great opportunity for our business – and the timing is perfect for this investment in our brand. The sponsorship demonstrates the National’s commitment to supporting the communities in which we do business."
General Manager Australia and New Zealand for Visa International, Bruce Mansfield, said: "Visa International is delighted to join with the National Australia Group in sponsoring the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games.
We are confident the Games will be a great success and bring tremendous economic and cultural benefits to Melbourne, Victoria and Australia," Mr Mansfield said.
The Premier of Victoria, Steve Bracks, endorsed the National’s announcement.
"I congratulate the National and Visa for their leadership and support in helping to bring the Commonwealth Games to Victoria – and to Australia," Mr Bracks said.
Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Corporation Chairman, Ronald Walker, welcomed the National and Visa to the Commonwealth Games team.
"The National will play a major role in helping to deliver the Games to all Australians through their community-oriented outreach programs," Mr Walker said.
The National’s partnership will benefit all Australians and National staff, with programs including a series of community games which will provide Australian children and National staff with the opportunity to get active, meet elite athletes and be involved in the spirit of the Commonwealth Games prior to Melbourne 2006.
The Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games will be the largest event ever staged in Victoria. More than 4,500 athletes will compete in 16 sports and 24 disciplines. The Games will be held from 15-26 March, 2006.
For further information, please contact:
• John Fergusson, Corporate Affairs Manager, National Australia Bank ph: (03) 8634 3845 or 0407 826 952
• Michelle Coffey, Program Manager, Public Relations and Publicity, Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Corporation ph: (03) 9613 2006 or 0400 914516
|
