Gannawarra Shire to Welcome Queen's Baton Relay in 2018!

Published on 05 March 2017

QBR2018

GANNAWARRA SHIRE TO WELCOME QUEEN’S BATON IN LEAD UP TO GOLD COAST 2018 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Media Release

Local legends are being called on to carry the Queen’s Baton in Kerang and Murrabit as it prepares to host the Queen’s Baton Relay.

The eyes of the Commonwealth will be on Gannawarra Shire on 18 February as the Baton journeys towards its final destination, the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) Opening Ceremony on 4 April 2018.

Gannawarra Mayor Brian Gibson is looking forward to the start of the Queens Baton Relay.

“The Queen’s Baton Relay is not only a symbol of the Commonwealth Games, but an event that will connect our Gannawarra residents with communities across Australia and the entire Commonwealth.”

Across Australia approximately 3,800 batonbearers are needed to share the dream of the ‘friendly Games’ as part of the QBR.

A community nomination program, which opened Sunday 5 March, will offer the people of Gannawarra and the surrounding region with an opportunity to carry the Baton.

“We’re delighted to be a part of an event that will take Gannawarra to the world and I encourage you to nominate a local legend you think deserves to be a batonbearer, whether they’re an aspiring young person or someone who is already accomplished,” Mayor Gibson said.

“Batonbearers are people of all abilities who inspire others to be great. Batonbearers will represent our community with pride and showcase our region to the world.”

Setting off in Australia on 25 December 2017, the Baton will travel for 100 days to connect with as many people as possible in every state and territory.

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.

In just eight days the Baton will start its global journey at Buckingham Palace on Commonwealth Day, Monday 13 March. It will travel through every Commonwealth nation and territory on its way to Australia.

From today until 15 May 2017, anyone can nominate a person who inspires them to be great. Nominations can be made at gc2018.com/qbr.

“The Queen’s Baton Relay is a rare opportunity to shine a light on the people and places that help make our community truly great,” Mayor Gibson explains.


 

 

 

 

GC2018 are looking for people who:

  • Have achieved something extraordinary or inspired others to achieve something extraordinary; or

  • Have made a significant contribution to either sport, education, the arts, culture, charity or within their community; or

  • Have excelled, or aspire to excel athletically or personally; or

  • Contribute to a fun, friendly, vibrant and inclusive community;

  • Are at least 10 years old as at 25 December 2017; and

  • Is an Australian citizen or lawfully entitled to reside in Australia during the Relay period (25 December 2017 – 4 April 2018).

Mayor Gibson says the QBR is an extraordinary opportunity for Gannawarra and is a tradition that celebrates community pride and shows us how important a role sport plays to build our community.

“Sport does play a significant role in the lives of Gannawarra residents, which is why we’ve chosen to embrace the Baton’s visit wholeheartedly. And it means the Gannawarra community will play an important part in the largest multi-sport event to be staged in Australia in a decade.”

“I for one can’t wait for the start of the QBR and am excitedly looking forward to welcoming it and celebrating with our community.”

“Let the journey begin!”

For more information please contact Council on 5450 9333 or visit council’s website

www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au

…ENDS…

Date: 5 March 2017

Media contact: Katrina Thorne T. 03 5450 9333 M. 0409 616 627

 

 

 

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