Published Friday, 22 August, 2008 at 12:03 PM
Premier
The Honourable Anna Bligh
GOLD COAST TO BID FOR COMMONWEALTH GAMES
Premier Anna Bligh announced today the State Government would put forward a bid for the Gold Coast to host the Commonwealth games in 2018.
“The Gold Coast region is one of Australia’s favourite destinations and a world class tourism icon,” Ms Bligh said.
“I can think of no better place to host the best the Commonwealth has to offer.
“We have formally contacted the Australian Commonwealth Games Association to express our interest. They have indicated that in the next few months they will decide whether Australia will bid for the 2018 Commonwealth Games or future Commonwealth Games so I was keen to put our hand up early.
“We will now set up a local Committee to work on our bid and to champion the cause.
“It will be a big challenge to secure the Games but the potential pay-off is enormous.
“It is estimated the recent 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne generated hundreds of millions for the Victorian economy.
“More than 125,000 visitors came to the Games and more than 13,000 jobs were created.
“If they thought Melbourne was good – they ain’t seen nothing yet!
“Fantastic weather, people and attractions plus an enviable track record when it comes to big events.
“Indy, Magic Millions, ANZ Ladies Masters Golf, Pan-Pac Masters and Asia-Pacific Screen Awards to name just a few.
“We already have some of the infrastructure foundations in place for a bid – the $160 million Skilled Park Stadium, the $141 million Convention and Exhibition Centre and this year alone we are spending another $127 million to extend the Gold Coast railway from Robina to Varsity Lakes.
“However while these projects are significant there is no doubt more work will need to be done if we are to be successful in our bid.
“Any money spent will be an investment for the future of this region and for our State.
“This month AOC chief John Coates indicated Queensland would be the next cab off the rank when it comes to Australia bidding for the Olympics.
“It will probably be 20 or 30 years down the track but if we are successful with the Commonwealth Games it will certainly put in place the foundations for a successful Olympics.”
22 August, 2008
Contact: Premier’s office 3224 4500
“The Gold Coast region is one of Australia’s favourite destinations and a world class tourism icon,” Ms Bligh said.
“I can think of no better place to host the best the Commonwealth has to offer.
“We have formally contacted the Australian Commonwealth Games Association to express our interest. They have indicated that in the next few months they will decide whether Australia will bid for the 2018 Commonwealth Games or future Commonwealth Games so I was keen to put our hand up early.
“We will now set up a local Committee to work on our bid and to champion the cause.
“It will be a big challenge to secure the Games but the potential pay-off is enormous.
“It is estimated the recent 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne generated hundreds of millions for the Victorian economy.
“More than 125,000 visitors came to the Games and more than 13,000 jobs were created.
“If they thought Melbourne was good – they ain’t seen nothing yet!
“Fantastic weather, people and attractions plus an enviable track record when it comes to big events.
“Indy, Magic Millions, ANZ Ladies Masters Golf, Pan-Pac Masters and Asia-Pacific Screen Awards to name just a few.
“We already have some of the infrastructure foundations in place for a bid – the $160 million Skilled Park Stadium, the $141 million Convention and Exhibition Centre and this year alone we are spending another $127 million to extend the Gold Coast railway from Robina to Varsity Lakes.
“However while these projects are significant there is no doubt more work will need to be done if we are to be successful in our bid.
“Any money spent will be an investment for the future of this region and for our State.
“This month AOC chief John Coates indicated Queensland would be the next cab off the rank when it comes to Australia bidding for the Olympics.
“It will probably be 20 or 30 years down the track but if we are successful with the Commonwealth Games it will certainly put in place the foundations for a successful Olympics.”
22 August, 2008
Contact: Premier’s office 3224 4500