With the world buzzing on the back of news that British rock band Oasis is reforming after 15 years, the question has already been asked: “If their tour extends beyond UK and Ireland and into Asia, could Liam and Noel Gallagher be enticed to Perth?”
Coldplay’s Chris Martin would surely give Perth, and Optus Stadium, a great character reference after being lured to Perth by the Cook Government for a reported $8 million pay cheque.
And the Government is flush with money — setting aside $77.5 million for major events in WA this financial year.
When The Sunday Times asked the Premier’s office on Saturday whether there was any move to entice Oasis to Perth, staffers didn’t say yes.
But neither did the Government say no to trying to lure Oasis west.
“Oasis is an iconic act and their reunion has created a huge amount of buzz around the world,” a State Government spokesperson said on Saturday.
“The Cook Government is always on the lookout for exclusive blockbuster events that attract visitors to Western Australia, generate millions for our local economy and showcase our State as a must-see destination to the world. “
Last financial year, the State Government used $59 million to lure big entertainment and sporting events to WA.
And the financial returns were massive.
Coldplay, WWE and FIFA World Cup games pumped $105 million into the State.
“This strategy is clearly working, which is why we’ve got $77.5 million allocated for this financial year to keep securing these unique and exclusive events,” the State Government spokesperson said.
Oasis will play four shows each at London’s Wembley Stadium and Heaton Park in Manchester.
They will also play two shows each in Cardiff, Edinburgh and Dublin between July and August 25.
Tourism Council WA boss Evan Hall said if Oasis did an Asian tour, trying to lure them to Perth would be a “smart move”
“We’d love to see Oasis in town and we’d love to see an Australian exclusive here in Perth,” he said.
“The smart move is to lure them over as part of an Asian tour – if they do one.”
Not sure who Oasis is?
Think Wonderwall.