Preparations on track for GC2018 with 500 days to go
The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) has reached a major milestone recently at the Gold Coast, marking 500 days to go until Queensland, Australia Shares the Dream with the 70 nations and territories of the Commonwealth. It is a point in time that sees the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) and its Games partners delivering on key strategies and making rapid progress towards the 4-15 April 2018 Games. GOLDOC Chairman, Peter Beattie AC declared GC2018 on time and on budget. “This has been a huge year for GC2018 and it’s exciting to think that there are just 500 days until we shine on the world stage and welcome friends from across the Commonwealth to experience an unforgettable Games,” Mr Beattie said. “The progress is highlighted by the reality that all GC2018 venues for Australia’s biggest multi-sport event this decade will be delivered at least 12 months ahead of schedule,” he said. CGF President, Louise Martin CBE said: “The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games are now only 500 days away and the levels of excitement and anticipation that we feel are being shared across the Commonwealth. “It is fantastic to see the powerful symbol that connects and engages the Commonwealth – the Queen’s Baton – being launched later today, ensuring every single Commonwealth nation and territory can join the countdown celebrations”. Mr Beattie added that the brand new and many upgraded sporting venues will enable local communities to get active and try new sports and enjoy state, national and international competitions in their back yards. “GC2018 is 11 days of sporting competition, but the long term legacy plans promise benefits and opportunities to a whole generation of Gold Coast and Queensland citizens,” he said. Since the GOLDOC bid team won the right to host the Games on 11 November 2011, the organisation has grown from a staff of 10 to a current workforce of over 400 – all dedicated to delivering a bold, ambitious, sustainable and world class Commonwealth Games. GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters said the succession of key milestones and achievements recorded this year was indicative of the progress being made on the path to GC2018. “GC2018 represents a defining moment for the Gold Coast, Queensland and for the Commonwealth Games. Together we are taking the Games to the next level by ensuring this event is a true celebration of sport and humanity that transforms the Gold Coast. “These Games are shaping up to deliver an enduring economic impact and they will unite a proud and engaged community and inspire Australians, the Commonwealth and the Commonwealth Games,” Mr Peters said. Queen’s Baton Relay 500 days to go celebration is highlighted by the spectacular reveal of the GC2018 Queen’s Baton and international route at a major event at Jupiters Gold Coast. The Relay will begin at Buckingham Palace on Commonwealth Day, Monday 13 March 2017. From London, the Baton will travel through all 70 nations and territories and every state and territory of Australia over 388 days. Source: Commonwealth Games
