The announcement will have long-term benefits for ratepayers in the Hastings.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council general manager Andrew Roach said the commitment by council to the event would benefit residents year-round.

Mr Roach said council would focus on a better infrastructure, based on roads, parks, footpaths and cycleways thanks to the new deal.

The agreement to host the event in the Hastings is expected to inject about $10 million a year into the region’s economy for the next three years.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council representatives secured the event with a two-year performance-based extension.

The World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), who owns Ironman Australia, intend to make the Port Macquarie festival the “best in the world”.

WTC brand manager Australia Trent Taylor said the company wanted to provide the best location for Ironman Australia.

Council’s willingness to secure the event and the infrastructure available to competitors meant Port Macquarie was the best option.

Mr Taylor said council director of corporate and business services Tony Leahy and his team were key to securing the event for the town.

He also praised the army of volunteers associated with running previous races in Port Macquarie, saying they played a major role in the success of the negotiations.

Port Macquarie’s volunteers were unmatched anywhere in the world, he said.

And it will be the volunteers’ continued involvement in the event, strong competitor numbers and the ongoing involvement of the community that could secure the possible two- year extension.

In an Australian first, next year’s Ironman Australia also will have a new look.

The half-Ironman will be held on the same day and on the same course.

A completely redesigned finish line will be on the Town Green in 2011.

Other changes in the pipeline, include the race expo, registration and merchandising areas to be moved to the Glasshouse.

The date for the 2011 race double-header will be announced after the 25th running of Ironman Australia, which will be held in Port Macquarie on March 28.