Western Australia has vowed to copy Victoria’s world class major events strategy in a bid to poach sports, music and cultural blockbusters from Melbourne, Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti has told the Herald Sun.

The news, expectedly, has added fuel to the always-simmering east-west debate over sporting and entertainment events.

3AW sports journalist Shane McInnes told Millsy and Karl on 6PR Breakfast if they think current fortunes means WA will poach Victoria’s place as the events capital of Australia, we’re dreaming.

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The tourism minister has been forced to defend comments about trying to poach major events from Melbourne.

Rita Saffioti has told a Newscorp publication of her plans to the loosen Victoria’s grip on major events – and bring more showpieces to Perth.

Ms Saffioti denies the state government is trying steal events from Melbourne – but rather bolster Western Australia’s portfolio to bring in more visitors.