Queen's Baton welcomed to Palm Island

The Queen’s Baton will make a stop on Palm Island today for the first time in Commonwealth Games history.  

The stopover has been organised under the GC2018 Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), developed to demonstrate longstanding commitment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their communities.

Acting Premier Jackie Trad said the occasion is a significant moment in Palm Island’s history.

“The Reconciliation Plan is the first of its kind delivered by a major event in Australia and in Commonwealth Games history.

“I’m delighted the Queen’s Baton, a symbol as important as the Commonwealth Games itself, is passing through Palm Island for residents to see and touch.”

Twelve-year-old student Ikanau Conway has been given the honour of being the community Baton bearer and will carry the Baton from the Parish Centre to the front of Council Chambers in the Town Centre Mall.

Palm Island’s Mayor Alf Lacey said the occasion would be a poignant and hopeful moment in the Island’s history.

“This year marks 100 years since our people were forced onto Palm Island, or Bwgcolman as we know it, serving as a reminder of how Aboriginals used to be treated in Queensland,” Mayor Lacey said.

“But as a community, we look forward to a bright future and the Baton’s visit presents an opportunity for our people to continue to advocate for recognition and reconciliation.

“We are proud to be a part of the Baton’s journey and glad that the Commonwealth Games has actively worked to engage Indigenous communities in Australia more than ever in its history.”

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart reiterated the historic significance of today’s event.

“The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games is a celebration beyond sport and an opportunity for all Australians to be a part of this world class event,” Mr Stewart said.

“Today’s event gives those people, who may not have the opportunity to attend the Games, a chance to be part of the excitement and spirit in their own way.”

Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Corporation Chairman Peter Beattie AC said that during the school holidays the Queen’s Baton will engage with thousands of Australians at popular summertime events, iconic locations and children’s hospitals around the country.

“The next stop for the Queen’s Baton is Springbrook National Park and Q1 SkyPoint Climb on the Gold Coast on Friday 12 January, before travelling to Uluru,” Mr Beattie said.

“On 25 January 2018, the Queen’s Baton Relay will shift gears to a traditional relay starting in Canberra before travelling through every state and territory.”

ENDS

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