Chief Minister Jon Stanhope today announced Royal Canberra Golf Club would host the Women’s Australian Open as part of the 2013 Centenary of Canberra celebrations. I am delighted this hallmark tournament will be played at Royal Canberra during Canberra s Centenary and have no doubt it will be one of the highlights of the year, Mr Stanhope said. This four day championship, during Canberra s 100th birthday year, will attract many of the world s best female golfers and bring strong interstate crowds to Canberra. The Women’s Open will also enhance Canberra s reputation as an international sporting destination while promoting the centenary celebrations to millions of television viewers around Australia, across Asia and the northern hemisphere.” The ACT Government looks forward to working with Golf Australia and Royal Canberra to develop a memorable championship in 2013, Mr Stanhope said. Stephen Pitt, CEO of Golf Australia, agreed with the Chief Minister saying to host the Open in Canberra during the centenary of our nation s capital is a significant drawcard for the game, showcasing elite golfers, emerging golfers and inspiring even more Australians to take up golf. The championship attracts some of the world s best female golfers and Golf Australia is delighted Royal Canberra will host the Open as part of a significant year of celebration for Canberra and Australia, Mr Pitt said. Julia Hoffman, President of Royal Canberra Golf Club, also welcomed the announcement saying, Royal Canberra was honored to be asked to host the Women’s Australian Open in Canberra for the first time. It is a terrific championship and come 2013 the challenging course design is sure to test the outstanding women golfers who will be here.” Royal Canberra is well suited to host an event of this calibre and the stunning surrounds of Westbourne Woods on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin will impress players and visitors alike.” This is also a wonderful opportunity for our local professionals Nikki Campbell and Susie Matthews to play on their home course which must give them a real advantage, Ms Hoffman said. In 2009, the Open was won by veteran Britain Laura Davies at Melbourne s Metropolitan Golf Club and Australia s Karrie Webb won the 2008 and 2007 championships at the Royal Sydney Golf Club and Kingston Health Golf Club respectively. The dates for the 2013 Open are still under negotiation.