MEDIA RELEASE

The Bureau of Meteorology is set to play a major role in the Sydney Olympics following the successful trial of its services at a recent Test Regatta.

Senator Ian Macdonald, Parliamentary Secretary for the Bureau of Meteorology, said that the successful trial showed how the Bureau was well on schedule to provide a world-class service during the Olympics.

"The Bureau provided a fully staffed, on-site meteorological office at Rushcutter's Bay during the 1998 Olympic Test Regatta that was held between the 17-27 September.

"The Bureau's office at Rushcutter's Bay was staffed each day between 4am and 6pm and provided forecasts and briefings to SOCOG management, team leaders and SOCOG sailing staff.

"This Regatta allowed the Bureau of Meteorology the opportunity to test their hardware, software, on site accommodation, communications and forecasting ability that will be necessary in 2000.

"There has been positive feedback from people who were pleased with the service that was provided by the Bureau.

"The Bureau's participation in the 1998 Test Regatta was very successful in testing the systems and procedures and providing a useful service to SOCOG and Regatta participants.

"The Bureau's involvement is another element of the cooperation from the Federal Government to the Sydney Olympics," Senator Macdonald said.

Ends

9 October 1998

For further information contact:
Philip Connole (Senator Macdonald's office): 07 4771 3066 or 0417 063 605.