The Gold Coast Marathon continues to go from strength to strength, with fresh figures revealing this year’s event delivered the strong economic results in the event’s 46-year history.
Official data released on Tuesday show the event delivered a record economic impact of $82.1 million, surpassing last year’s figures by 25 per cent.
Attendance was also 12 per cent ahead of last year with 85,772 participants and supporters travelling to the event, the strongest visitation performance in the event’s history.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the figures cement the marathon as the most valuable annual mass-participation sporting event on the Queensland calendar, surpassing all previous benchmarks for participation, economic return and overall impact.
“The Gold Coast Marathon has been a cornerstone of Queensland’s events calendar for decades, and this year’s result highlights not only the strength of this iconic event, but also the enduring appeal of the Gold Coast as one of Australia’s premier holiday destinations,” Minister Powell said.
“The event generated more than $82 million for the economy and attracted more than 67,000 visitors to the region, filling accommodation, supporting local cafes and restaurants, and bringing an unmistakable energy and vibrancy to the Gold Coast across the weekend.
“Major events like the Gold Coast Marathon play a critical role in driving economic growth, supporting local jobs, and showcasing Queensland to the world.
“As we build towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we’re cementing Queensland’s reputation as the events capital of Australia and strengthening our position as a leading international tourism destination for decades to come.”
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said he was delighted with the figures and acknowledged the continued rise in the event’s popularity.
“The benefits from the Marathon weekend goes much further than achieving PB’s, extending to a significant economic injection into the city’s accommodation providers, shopping precincts, cafes and restaurants and our many attractions,” Mayor Tate said.
“And importantly it also highlights the Gold Coast as a destination that delivers world-class events and experiences.”
Events Management Queensland CEO, Ben Mannion said the team and stakeholders behind the scenes deserved a huge round of applause for the work they do with such a commitment to delivering a world-class event for everyone.
“The economic impact figures are truly outstanding with the spend in the Gold Coast region increasing by 22 percent to $70.35m and spending in other parts of Queensland escalating by 39 per cent to $11.75m,”Mr Mannion said.
“The figures also speak volumes with every area including number of attendees, visitors to the Gold Coast and Queensland, day trippers and overnight visitors all enjoying significant increases.
“We are incredibly proud of the results this year but it’s now time to head back to the drawing board, to meticulously review each area of event operations, analyse the participant survey results and look at how we can do it all again…and make it an event greater experience for all involved.”
