Victoria's premier has defended the use of taxpayer money to pay part of Tiger Woods' $3 million appearance fee to play in the Australian Masters.
John Brumby says luring Woods back to Melbourne to defend his title is still a massive coup for the state, claiming his recent form slump and the loss of his top world ranking would make the event more exciting.
It was soon after Woods' win in Melbourne this time last year that rumours first started to circulate about the extra marital affairs which ultimately led to his divorce.
The Australian Masters starts tomorrow at the Victoria Club and fans have been warned that anyone who heckles Woods about his personal life will be ejected from the course after one warning.
