Minister for Sport Mark Arbib today officially farewelled the Australian Wallabies as they embark on their 2011 Rugby World Cup campaign.

Senator Arbib joined well wishers at the Town Hall in Sydney to send off the Wallabies to New Zealand as they aim to win their third World Cup.

“We have a proud tradition of success at the Rugby World Cup and the team has been building towards this tournament,” Senator Arbib said.

“The Rugby World Cup is a huge event on the international sporting calendar and, like all Australians I am confident of a strong showing in New Zealand by the Wallabies.

“Robbie Deans has assembled a strong 30-man squad and I am looking forward to the Wallabies’ first match against Italy this Saturday.

“The team produced an excellent performance against the All Blacks a couple of weeks ago to claim its first Tri Nations crown in 10 years and the victory will provide significant confidence and momentum ahead of the World Cup.

“I would like to wish new skipper James Horwill and his team the best of luck for the six-week tournament and I am sure they will do our nation proud.”

The Australian Government provides $1.8 million funding to rugby union for high performance and to develop the next generation of players.

“The Government is keen to see more young people get the chance to play rugby, not just because of the health benefits for the players of being active, but so that we might find the next crop of Wallabies,” Senator Arbib said.

“That’s why we’re investing $666,000 a year towards grassroots participation in the sport.”

Minister’s Media Contact: Alison Hill 0407 570 640/02 9364 2600