The Australian Masters has confirmed that the world’s #1 and 4 ranked golfers, Tiger Woods and Geoff Ogilvy, will play the 2009 Australian Masters from 12-15 November.

Marking the first occasion it has been played away from Huntingdale Golf Club since the Masters’ inception in 1979, Kingston Heath Golf Club has also been confirmed as the host venue this year.

On his forthcoming trip to Australia, Tiger Woods commented: “I have always enjoyed coming to Australia and I am a big fan of the courses on the Melbourne sandbelt. I have heard many good things about Kingston Heath and look forward to playing there in November.”

The Honourable John Brumby, Premier of Victoria, has indicated that the Australian Masters would generate $19 million in economic benefits to the state adding that the event will boost tourism, create jobs and expose Melbourne on television worldwide.

“The Victorian Government is delighted that Tiger Woods has chosen to come to Melbourne.

The 2009 Australian Masters will further cement Melbourne’s position as the major events capital of the world,” Mr Brumby said.

Vice President, Director of Golf - IMG Australia, David Rollo said: “After celebrating 30 years at Huntingdale, we are excited to have the opportunity to stage the Masters at Kingston Heath Golf Club in their Centenary year. We are also delighted to announce that we have reached agreement with The Victoria Golf Club to host the 2010 tournament.

“Last October we shared our vision to rotate the Australian Masters across the famed Melbourne sandbelt and to procure the best possible field. In addition to Tiger Woods, we are also thrilled to announce Australia’s leading golfer, Geoff Ogilvy, will play at Kingston Heath. This marks a very exciting chapter in the history of the Australian Masters.”

Announcing his commitment to play, Geoff Ogilvy, currently ranked #4 in the World, commented: “Kingston Heath is one of my favourite courses and as a proud Victorian I am thrilled that Tiger will be in Melbourne to play one of our truly great courses. I know the fans will support the event in their thousands and it should make for an exciting week.”

The Australian Masters also announced a number of significant commercial partnerships including a new Associate Sponsor in Crown Limited as the Official Entertainment Venue of the event. Global management consultant and technology services provider, Accenture, has also committed to the event as an Official Sponsor along with one of Australasia’s leading aviation companies, Strategic Airlines. In addition to these new arrangements, Spotless will maintain its partnership with the Masters which has lasted since the inaugural event in 1979.

Additional sponsorship and player announcements will be made over the coming months and tickets will go on sale in mid April.
For more information on the Australian Masters visit: www.australianmasters.com.au