Comm Games Baton Travels on Iconic Kuranda Train

The Queen’s Baton Relay (QBR) has been welcomed aboard the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway (KSR) today, as part of its two-day trip to the Cairns region – 81 days after the Baton first touched down in Australia, and 20 days before the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games begin. 

Batonbearer and KSR Senior Guest Services Attendant Angela Westaway said she was honoured to have been selected by Queensland Rail to escort the baton on its iconic journey aboard Far North Queensland’s favourite train.

“Last month I celebrated 16 years with Queensland Rail, first working in catering and then soon after on board the KSR, and I can honestly say I love my job today just as much as I did on my first day all those years ago,” said Ms Westaway.

“I spend most of my time on the train, which is great because every day is different. You mightn’t think it, going up and down the range day in day out, but you see something different each time, and you get to meet incredible people from all around the world.

“When my manager asked me to be Queensland Rail and the KSR’s representative during the QBR, I became quite emotional. It’s humbling having your hard work pay off, and as a sports lover, the privilege of being one of the Batonbearers for the Commonwealth Games, and showcasing our beautiful Kuranda on the world stage, is an amazing experience.

“It was a wonderful surprise for all on board who didn’t know they’d be a part of the Queen’s Baton Relay until they arrived today, and it definitely added an extra special element to today’s journey.”

“I would like to thank Queensland Rail for giving me this opportunity, and the Queen’s Baton Relay team for bringing this part of Commonwealth Games history to Kuranda,” Ms Westaway said.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said Ms Westaway was an fantastic choice for Batonbearer.

“Angela is a delightful member of the Kuranda Scenic Railway team, and I’m told her enthusiasm for the job shines clearly from her bright and happy smile each day.

“Queensland Rail staff were thrilled to put her forward for this opportunity, which she has completed gracefully.

“I also want to commend the Queen’s Baton Relay team for bringing this historic part of the Games to the tropical paradise that is Far North Queensland via the Kuranda Scenic Rail.”

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said he was delighted the Far North was being showcased thanks to the Queen’s Baton Relay.

“There are few more amazing rail journeys than the Kuranda Scenic Rail, so it fits that it is part of this exciting event” he said.

“I’m also thrilled that despite the Baton’s final destination being the Gold Coast, people in the Far North have been able to see it firsthand.”

Ms Westaway took carriage of the Baton in Kuranda, where it was handed over from Reg Brim, the previous Batonbearer from Kuranda Skyrail. She walked the Baton through each of the train’s carriages where passengers on board had the chance to see the Baton up close and personal.

The KSR stopped for a photo opportunity at Barron Falls, providing an idyllic backdrop for a photo shoot with Angela and the Baton, before hopping back on board, and making its way into Freshwater station where the Baton was handed back to the Relay team.

The Baton then continued its Cairns tour, with a trip to the Great Barrier Reef this afternoon.

ENDS

Media contact: Dominic Geiger, 0447355565