Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres said the event has been secured for the Snowy Mountains by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

“Tourism is the lifeblood of the Snowy Mountains region, and L’Etape Australia by Le Tour de France will attract thousands of visitors to the area in a traditionally quiet period,” Mr Ayres said.

“The event will also help promote the region to cyclists and adventure travelers from around the world. There is so much on offer over the Summer months in the Snowy Mountains, with breathtaking hiking tracks, cycling routes and wilderness that will suit all ages and tastes.”

Member for Monaro John Barilaro announced the dates for the event alongside cycling champion and two time wearer of the Tour de France yellow jersey Jens Voigt and legendary SBS commentator Phil Liggett.

“L’Etape Australia by Le Tour de France is a massive event for our region and allows cycling enthusiasts to take on the peaks and valleys of the Snowy Mountains. The course has been developed and approved by the Race Director of Le Tour de France, Christian Prudhomme, and cyclists will ride under the banner of the world’s most prestigious cycle event,” Mr Barilaro said.

“With 7,000 cyclists expected in 2016, the event will provide a major boost to our local visitor economy, with more than $4 million expected over the next three years. Now the dates have been announced cyclists can plan their trip to the Snowy Mountains, and I encourage them to put aside some time to explore this spectacular region during the Summer.”

More information on L’Etape Australia by Le Tour de France, including information on how to register to compete can be found at: http://letapeaustralia.com/