South Africa and Australia will continue their high level of co-operation in matters of sport will continue after the recent signing of an agreement of co-operation that will benefit both countries.
The agreement, which contains detailed descriptions of co-operation, was signed by the Australian High Commissioner in South Africa, Her Excellency Ann Harrap and Director-General of Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) Mr VP Peterson.
Speaking at the signing ceremony that was held at SRSAs offices in Pretoria, Ms Harrap spoke highly of the positive role sport plays in society. Australia assists with several successful sport development programs, particularly in the Eastern Cape and the agreement will see the aligning of those programs with the policies and programs of SRSA.
Mr Peterson, in reply, said that he held Australia's reputation in sport in high regard and looked toward the country for inspiration. “This agreement will revitalise and build on our sport relationship with Australia,” he said.
The agreement focuses on the exchange of information particularly in the fields of coaching and sport technical matters. The Director-General also undertook to examine the role Australia's expertise in stadium and sport facility management could play in helping South Africa's facility building and maintenance programs, particularly with regards to the infrastructure presently being put up for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Issued by: Department of Sport and Recreation
22 May 2009
Source: Department of Sport and Recreation (http://www.srsa.gov.za/)
