MGM Grand Casino bets on BJR.

Darwin's leading tourist attraction, MGM Grand hotel and casino will use this weekend's round 4 of the 2004 V8 Supercar Championship at Hidden Valley to springboard some smart marketing, using the factory Ford team of Brad Jones Racing at the catalyst.

In a unique partnership, MGM Grand Darwin and BJR will combine their commercial resources to establish a number of initiatives. Patrons of MGM Grand Darwin have had the chance to win in recent weeks an opportunity to join Brad Jones on a scintillating hot lap of the Hidden Valley circuit this coming Friday. Additionally, motorsport fans will have the chance to meet the entire OzEmail Racing Team during specially organised times throughout the weekend in the Sweethearts Lounge.

MGM Grand General Manger, Andrew Wilson will also host drivers Brad Jones and John Bowe for an exclusive General Mangers Dinner, with invitations reserved for Darwin's social elite.

"MGM Grand Darwin is very enthusiastic about its sponsorship of the OzEmail Racing Team in 2004," say Wilson.

"The V8 Supercars presence in Darwin is very important for showcasing the city of Darwin and the regional areas of Northern Territory on a national and international scale. We believe it is important to support sporting events such as the V8 Supercars which generate additional visitation to the Northern Territory," he added.

MGM Grand Darwin provides the total entertainment experience, including first class boutique style accommodation, world class gaming facilities, premier dining and luxury amenities. A reason why it's become the first choice to most "Top End" travellers, including those who make the pilgrimage to watch the V8 Supercars.

"The MGM Grand Darwin has become synonymous with sporting events in the Northern Territory and is pleased to include motor sport to its sponsorship portfolio. I also invite everyone to join the team in the Sweethearts Lounge this Saturday at 9.00pm for a chance to get an autograph or have a chat," Wilson concluded.

Not only will both OzEmail Falcons carry significant MGM Grand Darwin signage on their rear bumpers but according to Team Principal, Brad Jones the arrangement with the resort stems a lot further.

"We've worked hard with the marketing team at MGM Grand to provide them with a host of opportunities that they can use for sales and promotions and so far the results have been fantastic," said Brad Jones.

"We will also be running promotions with a range of our existing sponsors using MGM Grand as a prize destination which make the whole arrangement a win-win situation," Jones concluded.

Brad Jones and John Bowe take to the Hidden Valley circuit for practice on Friday, qualifying and a single 20 minute sprint race on Saturday and then two 100km races including compulsory pit stops on Sunday. With Darwin being a happy hunting ground for BJR in the past, both drivers are confident of a good result.