Aussie Open Goes to Beaches

It's official. The 2009 Australian Open will be held at the Manly-Warringah Rugby Leagues Club from 2 to 11 January, 2009. NSWCA treasurer Norm Greenwood sent an email last night to his state association's members telling of this news.

I advise that the ACF has accepted a bid by Chris Dimock (President Manly-Warringah Rugby League Club Chess Club [MWRLCCC]) and Fred Schuetz (member of MWRLCCC and of norths chess club) for the FIDE-rated Australian Open Chess Championship to be held at Manly-Warringah Rugby League Club, 563 Pittwater Road, Brookvale from Friday 2 January to Sunday 11 January 2009 as per the Playing Schedule below.

In addition to the main event, there will be a separate Under 1600 Tournament (provisionally to be called the Manly Classic Event) and the Australian Lightning Tournament to be held on Tuesday 6 January 2009. Because of time constraints there will no separate Australian Rapid Tournament.

Nick Chernih has accepted the position of Chief Arbiter for this event.

The official site, beginning with a press release, is here, while the Manly-Warringah CC site is here.