Lake Wendouree took centre stage today as Ballarat made its official pitch to host the 2014 FISA World Masters rowing event.

International Rowing Federation (FISA) representative Ronald K Chen, made a first-hand inspection of the lake before being taken on a guided tour of Ballarat’s accommodation and hospitality facilities.

Mr Chen, who was also accompanied by former Oarsome Foursome member Nick Green, received a presentation from bid partners the City of Ballarat and Rowing Australia.

Ballarat is the nominated Australian host city bidding the event, which is only held outside the European Union every four years.

Mayor of Ballarat Councillor Craig Fletcher said the bid is a major milestone in the City of Ballarat’s project to re-fill and rejuvenate Lake Wendouree and its surrounds over recent years.

“When we began the bid process two years ago, we had little more than puddles in Lake Wendouree.”

“Today we’re bidding for a major international rowing event, all because of the hard work done by Council to return the lake to capacity.”

“We’ve been able to ensure certainty of water supply for the lake through the various environmental initiatives implemented, including stormwater harvesting and use of recycled water.”

He said that while Ballarat residents have enjoyed the return of a full lake, this has also opened up the possibility of hosting big events that offer a major economic boost to our city.

“The World Masters would bring up to 10,000 contestants to Ballarat, delivering a great benefit to our economy.”

Cr Fletcher said the project to bring the rowing course to international standard would also leave a lasting legacy of an elite standard sporting venue in the heart of the city.

While dredging works are continuing, the lake will be ready for the return of competition rowing by the summer rowing season.

“After several years’ absence, this summer will also see the return of the lake’s marquee rowing event, the Head of the Lake.”

Ballarat has a rich history of hosting events of this calibre, with the 2002 World Masters and the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games rowing events held here.

FISA will make its decision on the host city for the 2014 World Masters will be made later this year.