The NSW Government, through its Tourism and Major Events Agency Destination NSW, secured the first of a two-test series against Malawi, for Wollongong, which Mr Annesley said is a fantastic addition to the NSW major sporting events calendar.

“NSW is the natural home of sport in Australia and this match in Wollongong is an example of the NSW Government’s commitment to bringing the biggest and best sporting events to NSW,” Mr Annesley said.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris, said: “This will be a fantastic match for netball fans with the Australian Diamonds ranked number two in the world behind New Zealand, while the Malawi Queens are currently ranked fifth in the world.”

“Having already secured the rights to host the 2015 Netball World Cup for Sydney, the Malawi test match is an example of the NSW Government’s commitment to winning major sporting events for NSW.

“Securing this event in Wollongong is a key part of our strategy to attract and increase sporting events for regional NSW,” Mr Souris said.

“This is another great example of how the NSW Government is working toward achieving our target of doubling overnight visitor expenditure in the State by 2020.”

The Australian Diamonds will contest seven test matches in 2013, starting with a five-test Constellation Cup series against New Zealand before concluding with a two-test series against Malawi, the first in Wollongong, for the first time ever in Australia.

Destination NSW CEO Sandra Chipchase said: “The South Coast is a spectacular region of New South Wales, and this provides a great opportunity for fans attending the test match in Wollongong to explore the great, food, wine and recreational activities that the region has to offer.”

Netball Australia CEO Kate Palmer said: “Netball Australia is thrilled to be brining international netball to the South Coast for the first time in the Australian Diamonds’ 75 year history,”

“Malawi’s unique style and flair make them one of international netball’s most exciting teams for spectators. They are pushing the top four and will pose a challenge for our Australian Diamonds as they prepare for next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.”

Tickets will be available from Netball Australia in July, following the 2013 ANZ Championship Grand Final.

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