By Gwen O’Toole

Managing director of the Perth Convention Bureau (PCB) has voiced enthusiasm for the 2011 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) the largest event to hit the city in over two decades.

Australia won the rights to host the 2011 event after bidding against Sri Lanka and Mauritius.

Perth Convention Bureau’s managing director Christine McLean calls CHOGM a testiment to Perth’s reputation for world class events

“Western Australia’s profile as a business destination has increased significantly over the last few years and the decision to hold the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting here in 2011 is testament to our reputation for delivering world class events,” PCB managing director Christine McLean told SpiceNews.

“We look forward to the opportunity of hosting this significant meeting and to showcasing Perth and Western Australia to the world,” she added.

The State’s Premier Colin Barnett says the event, which will bring the Queen as well as leaders of 54 Commonwealth nations and approximately 5,000 delegates and visitors to Perth. Barnett stated the event would be the biggest hosted in Perth since the America’s Cup 22 years ago.

Held every two years, the event recently took place this year in Trinidad and Tobago where issues surrounding climate change were debated and discussed.

“CHOGM is, however, more than simply a meeting of Commonwealth nation world leaders. It includes business, youth and community forums surrounding the main meeting.

“I hope the WA community will get right behind this and we can put on a fantastic show and sell all that WA has to offer to the world,” he added.

Although a venue has not been confirmed, Barnett said the state government would start working with the Commonwealth on venues and timing.

“There are a host of logistical issues to be dealt with in a short time frame, but WA can do this and do it superbly,” he said.