Surf Lifesavers begin their journey to perform at Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games

Hundreds of surf lifesavers will be put through their paces on the Gold Coast today (Sunday) at acting, singing and dancing workshops ahead of their roles at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Minister for Innovation Science and the Digital Economy and Minister for Small Business, Leeanne Enoch, representing Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones, commended the lifesavers for swapping the surf for the centre stage at the Games’ Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

“It’s going to be one of Queensland’s greatest success stories and I’m thrilled that Games organisers have chosen to highlight our lifesaving volunteers and their iconic red and yellow colours,” Ms Enoch said.

“Their images will be beamed to a global television audience of hundreds of thousands. Exposure on that scale is gold for the Games and for Queensland.”

Ms Enoch said the Games is a great opportunity to showcase Queensland’s sporting prowess, world-class facilities and small business sector.

“With more than 1.2 million spectators expected to visit the Games in April next year, small businesses will be the big winners,” she said.

“The Games will achieve a lasting legacy for small businesses, not just on the Gold Coast, but in the Event Cities of Brisbane, Cairns and Townsville.

“It’s an exciting time for industry on the Gold Coast and Queensland, and I’m delighted to be here to share the day with Surf Life Saving Queensland and their members,” she said.

GOLDOC Chairman, Peter Beattie AC said today signified a milestone in preparing for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, and that he was proud to see the community at the heart of a global event.

“The Opening and Closing Ceremonies represent an extraordinary opportunity for thousands of local people to participate in the Games,” Mr Beattie said.

“We’re delighted that Surf Life Saving Queensland are participating in the very first cast workshops taking place at Tallebudgera today.

“Hundreds of surf lifesavers have already been cast to perform a specific role in the Opening Ceremony - welcoming the athletes of the Commonwealth to the Gold Coast.”

SLSQ President Mark Fife OAM said being involved in the Ceremonies is a fantastic opportunity for the organisation and its members.

“It’s a really exciting, and truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for SLSQ and our members, and we’re thrilled to be involved in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies,” Mr Fife said.

“It will highlight the lifesaving work of our volunteers, and help show international tourists coming into the Gold Coast about how to stay safe on the beach.

“We’re expecting a significant influx in beachgoers throughout the Games and, hopefully after this, they’ll recognise our surf lifesavers in their iconic red and yellow colours and know to stay safe by swimming between the flags,” he said.

Applications to be part of the volunteer performance cast – for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds – for the Opening and Closing ceremonies, open at 10am tomorrow (Monday).

OPENING AND CLOSING CEREOMONIES BACKGROUND

Opening and Closing Ceremony On 4 April 2018, the Gold Coast will welcome thousands of fans, athletes and officials for the XXI Commonwealth Games.

Carrara Stadium will be the centre stage for glamour, theatre and entertainment as the venue for the Opening Ceremony.

The curtain will draw on the XXI Commonwealth Games on 15 April but not before one final celebration in true Gold Coast style at Carrara Stadium.

ENDS

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