NTRU ANNOUNCE BIG SPONSORSHIP

The Northern Territory Rugby Union (NTRU) today welcomed the decision by Optus to renew its sponsorship deal for a further two years from 1 May 2003.

The agreement establishes a powerful union between the telecommunication company and one of the major sporting codes in the Northern Territory.

The features of the agreement include:

• The deal is for the 2003 and 2004 seasons with an option to extend for another year;
• Optus will continue to have naming rights to the two ovals at Optus Park;
• Optus will be the principal sponsor of the Northern Territory representative side the 'Optus Darwin Mosquitoes'; and
• Optus will have the naming rights to all NTRU senior representative sides - men's and women's rugby.

Tim Heath, NTRU General Manager said the agreement provides the NTRU with funding to develop more programs for Territorians.

"Moving the competition to the 'Dry Season', the Rugby Union World Cup being played inAustralia, and the ongoing support of Optus shows that rugby is making itself felt in the Territory and throughout Australia."

"It is with Optus' backing that Rugby Union in the Northern Territory is able to move furthe forward," said Mr Heath.

Matti Urvet, Northern Territory State Manager said Optus is delighted to be the principal sponsor of the NTRU.

"The sponsorship shows our continued commitment to the Northern Territory and for the Territory's sports programs," said Mr Urvet.

The deal will be celebrated this afternoon at Chatz Function Centre with Clare Martin, Chief Minister of the Northern Territory as the guest of honour.

Media Contacts:
Simone Bergholcs
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 9342 7846

Tim Heath
NTRU General Manager
Tel: (08) 8945 1444