Griffith will be on show to the world next year, after being included on the Queen’s Baton Relay route to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games this week
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The Queen’s Baton Relay (QBR), much like the Olympic Torch Relay, sees the baton travel throughout the wider former British Empire and Commonwealth nations from London to the Gold Coast over hte course of around 12 months.
It’s the first time Griffith has hosted such an event on a world-wide stage was in 2000, when the city was included on the route on Olympic Torch Relay from Athens to Sydney.
It’s also the first time Griffith has been included in the lead up to a Commonwealth Games event.
Local ‘legends’ are being called on to carry the Queen’s Baton for their communities as 3800 batonbearers are needed to share the dream of the ‘friendly Games’ as part of the QBR.
A community nomination program, which opens today, will offer Griffith and the surrounding region with an opportunity to carry the Baton.
Griffith Mayor, Councillor John Dal Broi said Batonbearers should be people of all abilities inspiring others to be great, representing the community with pride.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of an event that will take Griffith to the world and I encourage you to nominate a local legend you think deserves to be a Batonbearer,” Councillor Dal Broi said.
“Whether they’re an aspiring young person or someone who is already accomplished.
“The Queen’s Baton Relay is a tradition that celebrates community pride and that shows us how important a role sport plays to build our great community, which is why we’ve chosen to embrace the Baton’s visit wholeheartedly.”
The QBR begins on Commonwealth Day, next Monday March 13, and journies around the world on its way to Griffith on January 28, 2018, before the opening ceremony at the Gold Coast on April 4, 2018.
While the city and wider community has an opportunity to showcase what it’s about to the world, Cr Dal Broi believes the chance to make champions of Griffith’s most deserving is what the QBR is more about.
“I would really encourage you to nominate someone within our community to be part of this monumental event. Griffith has an incredible community and many residents who are more than worthy of a nomination,” Councillor Dal Broi said.
“What better way to recognise their accomplishments than to nominate them to be Batonbearer?”
The Queen’s Baton carries a message from Her Majesty The Queen through the entire Commonwealth.
The Games are declared officially open when the message is read aloud.
Nominations can be made at gc2018.com/qbr.
GC2018 is looking for people who:
Have achieved something extraordinary or inspired others to achieve something extraordinary.
Have made a significant contribution to either sport, education, the arts, culture, charity or within their community.
Have excelled, or aspire to excel athletically or personally.
Contribute to a fun, friendly, vibrant and inclusive community.
Are at least 10 years old as at 25 December 2017.
Are an Australian citizen or lawfully entitled to reside in Australia during the Relay period (25 December 2017 – 4 April 2018).
For more information about the Commonwealth Games or the Queen’s Baton Relay, visit the website at gc2018.com
