Swimming fans first to see key Games venue in full swim

Published Monday, 26 February, 2018 at 09:35 AM

Minister for Innovation and Tourism Industry Development and Minister for the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

From the 12,000-seat grandstands, to the official signage and the talent in the pool - spectators at this week’s swimming trials will be the first to experience the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre as it will be during the Games.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said from the start of the Hancock Prospecting Australian Swimming Trials on Wednesday, the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre would look almost the same way it would during the Games in less than 40 days.

“Crowds at the Australian Swimming Titles will see some of the best athletes in the country battle it out for a spot at the Commonwealth Games,” she said.

“The Aquatic Centre in Southport is the finished product and spectators at the titles this week will be the first to get a true feel for what it will be like to be at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.”

Ms Jones said there were a number of changes made to the Aquatic Centre to prepare it to host the Commonwealth Games including the installation of a new 50-metre, 10-lane competition swimming pool and a new gym.

“The jointly funded $41 million redevelopment of the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre by the Palaszczuk Government and City of Gold Coast has made the Coast one of the best places on the planet to watch swimming,” she said.

“All the stars of Australian swimming will assemble on the Gold Coast this week, making for a great spectacle for locals.

“For the athletes, this is just as much about qualifying for the Games as it is getting a better feel for the venue.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the Australian Swimming Trials at Southport this week were great preparation for athletes ahead of the Games.

“Our city is blessed with top flight national swimmers who love competing in their home environment,” he said.

“This is the perfect hit out as selectors choose our GC2018 squad. 

“The event will further reinforce our drive to become a leading events city in Australia.”

Ms Jones said she was proud to be part of a Cabinet in a Labor government that chose to bid for the Commonwealth Games.

“The Games will deliver $4 billion for our economy and create about 16,000 jobs,” she said.

“With the infrastructure we’ve put in place this event will serve Gold Coasters well for generations.”

Media contact: Jack Harbour 0419 620 447