2018 Commonwealth Games

[ozbob]

Com Games transport plan release in June @katejonesqld @9NewsQueensland

— Shane Doherty (@ShaneDoherty9) May 11, 2017

[ozbob]

23rd May 2017

Media Release
Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

GC2018 ticket requests pass one million

Large crowds are expected for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, with more than one million ticket requests lodged for competition events.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said all sports had received strong interest during the ticket request phase, which closed at midnight last night.

"Sports such as Netball, Swimming, Rugby 7s, Track Cycling, Athletics and Diving – as well as the Opening Ceremony – are among the most popular events so far," Ms Jones said.

"This is great news and strong momentum for what we know will be the best Games ever.

"People can expect to be notified of their ticket allocations in June.

"Computer-generated ticket allocations to oversubscribed events will now take place before remaining tickets go on sale in July."

Ms Jones said this strong and early enthusiasm for tickets demonstrated the Games was set to be a great success.

"With ten months still to go, this early excitement sends a message to the world the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games will be the best ever," she said.

"I urge all Queenslanders who didn't request tickets in this first phase to get on board when ticket sales open in July.

"We don't want anyone to miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see many of the world's greatest athletes competing live on the Gold Coast and in event cities – Brisbane, Cairns and Townsville.

"It's also a great opportunity for Queenslanders to get behind our local sporting heroes."

[ozbob]

25th May 2017

   
Media Release
JOINT STATEMENT
Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

800 Games jobs on offer ahead of GC2018

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a new jobs push, ahead of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, with 800 positions to be advertised over the coming months.

Ms Palaszczuk said with just 314 days until the Games, the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) were looking to fill a wide range of positions.

"In April next year, 6600 athletes from more than 70 nations will converge on our state for the biggest sporting event Australia has seen this decade," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"To deliver an event of this scale we need a large and diverse skilled workforce.

"That's why I'm pleased to announce, from this Sunday, GOLDOC will launch a new recruitment drive to fill 800 positions ahead of the Games.

"We are committed to delivering the best Commonwealth Games ever, just as we are committed to delivering jobs for Queenslanders.

"This will be the final intake of staff ahead of the Games, taking the total GOLDOC workforce to around 1500."

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said GOLDOC was seeking passionate people with a range of skills and expertise.

"GOLDOC is looking to fill positions in key areas including Transport, Logistics, Accommodation, Security, Spectator Services, Games Venues and many more," Ms Jones said.

"The first phase of applications opens this Sunday, with a second phase of recruitment to commence in August.

"For successful applicants, this could be a career game-changer to work alongside major events experts from around the world.

"I'd encourage anyone interested to put up their hand up for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the GOLDOC team."

GOLDOC Chairman, Peter Beattie AC said experiences gained and networks created by working at the Games could lead to future work in a wide range of sectors including major events, commercial, sports and venues.

"We have a highly skilled team currently in place and this will be the final phase of recruitment for GOLDOC in the lead up to the Games," Mr Beattie said.

"Joining the GOLDOC team is a career game changer, allowing staff to fast track their career skills and experience, whilst working alongside global event experts.

"Plenty of staff have worked on multiple Games with opportunities around the Globe following 2018."

GOLDOC Chief Executive Officer, Mark Peters said all positions would be advertised on the Seek Commonwealth Games Jobs Portal.

"GC2018 is a dynamic, fast paced and rewarding environment," Mr Peters said.

"While all the positions are short term contracts until the end of the Games, successful applicants have the opportunity to supercharge their careers by being involved in delivering the largest sporting event in Australia this decade."

The Commonwealth Games will be held from 4 to 15 April 2018, bringing 6,600 athletes and team officials from 70 nations and territories to the Gold Coast.

[ozbob]

Federal costs leave $9m Games shortfall > https://t.co/bkYJuPtBJT #qldpol #auspol

— Robert Dow (@Robert_Dow) May 26, 2017

[ozbob]

Gold Coast Bulletin --> How Gold Coast roads will change for Commonwealth Games

ROADS from Hope Island to Coolangatta will have dedicated Games-only lanes, new signs and signal changes under plans to ensure athletes and officials don't get caught in traffic jams for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

Business owners have been asked to keep workers and customers off key roads during busy periods as an extra six million journeys are taken through the city over the 11-day event in April.

More than 350 business owners attended the launch of the GC2018 Travel Advice for Business Program which aims to encourage flexible work arrangements, walking, cycling and public transport for locals going about their usual business in Games time.

Businesses will also have to look at how their freight, servicing and delivery operations could be impacted by the event, which will involve 6600 athletes and officials, 50,000 workers and volunteers, 3000 media personnel and up to 1.2 million spectators.

Roads included in proposed Games Route Network


Draft map of the Games Route Network for Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games. Photo: Supplied

Designated lanes will be closed to general traffic on key city arterials under a proposed "Games Route Network", which includes 27km of roads between venues, hotels and city entry points like the airport.

Motorists will also have to negotiate changes to traffic light timings, restricted turns and road closures, intersection changes and suspension or relocation of bus stops.

Ticketholders will receive free public transport to and from events, with buses a key part of the plan to move people around the city.
Traffic measures proposed for GC2018:

Ray White Surfers Paradise boss Andrew Bell said he would work on a plan with his 270 staff.

"The biggest challenge is trying to manage all the staff and their ambitions for the Games," he said.

"We will need to help them manage their program over those two weeks so their livelihood is not affected."

[ozbob]

Gold Coast Bulletin --> What the Games won in budget

[ozbob]

22nd June 2017
   
Media Release
Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

Tickets awarded across all GC2018 competition sessions

Hundreds of thousands of spectators will today find out the tickets they've secured for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said tickets had been awarded across every GC2018 session after more than 1.2 million ticket requests were received.

"Today is an exciting day for hundreds of thousands of spectators who will find out the events they'll enjoy live in April 2018," Ms Jones said.

"No matter what the event, we know we are in for big crowds and a great atmosphere at Games time.

"The most popular events through the ticket requests were the Opening Ceremony, Rugby Sevens final and Netball final which alone was oversubscribed by five times.

"Other popular sports included Cycling – Track, Cycling – Mountain Bike, Diving, Triathlon and Swimming."

GOLDOC have processed more than 1.2 million ticket requests for each of the 274 ticketed sessions since the ticket request phase closed on 22 May.

A computer-generated fair and equal draw determined ticket allocations for any sessions that were oversubscribed.

Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) Chairman Peter Beattie AC said spectators would today receive email notifications from GOLDOC advising of the outcome of their ticket requests and allowing them to further plan their GC2018 experience.

"We are thrilled with the response from the general public and the efficiency of the fair and equal draw in being able to process more than one million ticket requests," Mr Beattie said.

"The strong demand for tickets again justifies our family friendly ticket prices and reaffirms what a great atmosphere fans will experience during GC2018 from April 4-15 2018.

"Naturally, with this process, there will be some disappointment as there were more than 1.2 million ticket requests and oversubscriptions to many of the 274 ticketed competition sessions.

"But it's important to remember a ticket request phase was chosen for the GC2018 ticketing program to ensure people had a fair chance of accessing tickets to what will be the biggest sporting event in Australia this decade.

"Following their ticket confirmations many people will be looking for accommodation and I am delighted that Gold Coast Tourism have developed a quick tip online guide to enhance people's opportunity to secure accommodation at one of 30,000 options available to the city's visitors."

GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters said people still have an opportunity to be part of the Games action.

"Any remaining tickets to GC2018 competition sessions will go on sale to the general public from 9 am on 5 July so there is still great opportunity for everyone to experience the Games and witness this wonderful world class sporting event," Mr Peters said.

"As a further incentive for those that took part in the ticket request phase, we are offering an exclusive pre-sale window which commences from 3 July.

"There are still tickets available to around half of the 97 medal sessions on offer and remember all the great athletes have to qualify through the preliminaries so those sessions are also worth considering."

Payments for successful ticket requests will be processed from Monday 26 June, with spectators urged to ensure they have sufficient funds on their nominated payment card and its expiry date is still valid.

GC2018 tickets include free public transport on event day within the South East Queensland TransLink public transport network, the Cairns TransLink bus network and on the Townsville qconnect bus network when a valid event ticket is presented.

From 4-15 April 2018, the Gold Coast will welcome 6,600 athletes and team officials from 70 nations and territories across the Commonwealth - representing more than one third of the world's population.

For more information, visit:

www.gc2018.com/tickets

[ozbob]

Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

Transport blueprint for GC2018

Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games partners today released the blueprint to deliver safe, secure, reliable and accessible transport services for the Games.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said the Transport Operations Plan (TOP) outlined the best way for spectators and thousands more workforce, volunteers, athletes, officials and media to get to venues.

"We want the Commonwealth Games to be a great experience for everyone and that's why we've been working so hard to plan reliable transport options at Games time," Ms Jones said.

"We also want to minimise the impact on local residents on the Gold Coast and event cities Brisbane, Cairns and Townsville.

"The TOP provides residents and businesses with information they need with changes to transport services and road networks during GC2018."

Ms Jones said GOLDOC, the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the City of Gold Coast developed the TOP in consultation with the transport industry, business and the local community.

"The TOP details some key improvements to the transport and road networks to support the Games, including a network of park 'n' ride sites, Games shuttle buses and additional rail services," she said.

"During the three-month consultation period, we heard from more than 700 transport operators, local businesses and residents.

"Their feedback has been incorporated into our Transport Operations Plan and people can have confidence we will help get spectators to and from the Games on time."

City of Gold Coast Acting Mayor Donna Gates said the TOP included a strong focus on local road network solutions.

"The City and partners are already providing local businesses and residents with specific details about local changes to traffic networks with our travel demand management initiative, Get Set for the Games," Ms Gates said.

"With the TOP launched, we are outlining our forward plan for engagement with residents and businesses around each venue.

"By making small changes to the way they travel, residents and visitors will keep the city moving and help deliver a great Games."

GOLDOC Chairman Peter Beattie AC said Games transport planning would continue up until April 2018.

"We all know that well planned and efficient transport operations will be critical to the success of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games," Mr Beattie said.

"Planning has been underway for some time to make sure the transport system can effectively balance the needs of the athletes, officials, spectators, workforce, volunteers and regular commuters during the Games.

"Right across the transport network we are acting on many of the practical suggestions made during the consultation period, such as locating bike racks as close to venues as possible and promoting walking and other forms of active travel."

GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters said the increased demand on traffic networks and transport system had to be managed well to support a successful GC2018.

"Today's release of the GC2018 Transport Operations Plan details what will be required and allows people to plan early," Mr Peters said.

"Industry groups have requested ongoing involvement in the transport planning in the lead-up to GC2018 and we are committed to that.

"And we ask everyone – residents, businesses and industry – to get on board to make sure we meet the transport challenges and keep the Games moving.

"All travellers will be given the right tools to navigate their journey during the Games."

TOP is available at GC2018 Transport Operations Plan and Transport Operations FAQs

http://public.intelligencebank.com/03e845b388c040f7c5ddb4db8707e73d/pubwewWdC.html

Transport Operations FAQs

http://public.intelligencebank.com/03e845b388c040f7c5ddb4db8707e73d/pubL7G3m2.html

[ozbob]

5th June 2017

Media Release
Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Remaining GC2018 tickets now on sale

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk today urged Queenslanders to snap up more than 250,000 tickets still available for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

The Premier said tickets to more than 12 sports were on sale from today.

"Already the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games is shaping up to be a huge success with hundreds of thousands of tickets already sold during the ticket request phase," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"We have been absolutely thrilled with the response so far but the good news is there are still around 250,000 tickets available.

"This means there is still great opportunity for everyone to experience the Games and witness this wonderful world class sporting event.

"There are still tickets available to around half of the medal sessions and preliminary rounds featuring world class athletes."

"Tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure you don't miss out and only tickets purchased through official channels will be honoured at the event."

GOLDOC Chairman Peter Beattie AC said spectators could choose from a variety of sporting experiences.

"There are still plenty of tickets available across a range of different sports including Athletics, Rugby Sevens, Squash, Netball preliminaries and Basketball preliminaries in Townsville and Cairns," Mr Beattie said.

"Witness the fireworks and ferocity of the hockey at the Gold Coast Hockey Centre, marvel at the speed and skill on show at Oxenford Studios for the Boxing, Squash and Table Tennis or enjoy a smorgasbord of five different sports at the Carrara Sports Precinct including Athletics, Wrestling, Weightlifting, Para Powerlifting and Badminton. 

GC2018 tickets include free public transport on event day within the South East Queensland TransLink public transport network, the Cairns TransLink bus network and on the Townsville qconnect bus network when a valid event ticket is presented.

From 4 – 15 April 2018, the Gold Coast will welcome 6,600 athletes and team officials from 70 nations and territories across the Commonwealth – representing more than one third of the world's population. For more information: gc2018.com/tickets

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/JoshBavas/status/884252216814583810

[BrizCommuter]

GC2018 Transport Management Plan - Brushing #RailFail under the carpet?
https://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2017/07/cg2018-transport-management-plan.html

[ozbob]

 ^ thanks ... 

Sent to all outlets and ..

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/884324231739199489

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/884455530172891136

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/884458291669090304

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times 11th July 2017 page 19

Rollingstock going off the rails

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> 2018 Commonwealth Games spectators to get the 5G treatment

Spectators at next year's Commonwealth Games will be able to access 5G mobile technology for the first time, which would allow them to watch events from every Games venue through an app, share videos of their favourite events and track their friends from their mobile phones.

Information technology giant CISCO, which has provided technology hardware to the last three Olympics and four Commonwealth Games, on Friday announced it would be the information technology hardware sponsor for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

That meant the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast would be the first to experiment with 5G technology, allowing much faster and more sophisticated data storage and data streaming not predicted to be commercially available until the end of the decade.

Optus has already signed on to trial 5G technology at the Games, allowing much larger data storage, downloading and streaming.

Games head of technology Mathew Peterson said the new technology would shape the "customer experience" at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
Ad
Recommendations

"We know that Optus will be trialling 5G data and voice during the Games as well as well," Mr Peterson said.

"So, from a spectator, we have quite an evolved plan coming together for the customer experience.

"This could involve everything from the video board experience, the public announcement type experience, but were also going to expand that in to areas of social media interaction with the spectators as well."

Mr Peterson said he had begun talks with other telcos to expand data storage capability.

Games organising committee chairman Peter Beattie said preliminary talks showed the network, provided by CISCO, would allow people going to the Games to much more than simply watch from the stands.

"People these days want a total experience," he said.

"They don't just want to just go and sit in the venue and just watch it, so the technology and the sharing devices is going to be really important.

"The quality of that experience will be one of the legacy items of these Games."

Information about every athlete and their results in every games event will be downloaded in real time.

"We will have a whole host of information about the athletes, their past history, their performances and even the live results as they come in in real time on an app," Mr Peterson said.

Mr Peterson said that data – provided by the internationally recognised Longines Timing – will be added to a total mix of Games information for fans.

"It gives us a whole host of information that will go to our mobile website and to our mobile app and transmitted on the CISCO network," he said.

"We will have other relevant information on the app as well; transport information, spectator experience, what's happening in other venues; what's happening at the cultural festivals and things like that."

Mr Beattie said CISCO brought quality, experience and assurance to the Games.

"When you are trying to brand an event globally and leave a legacy, you got to have quality partners," he said.

Mr Beattie said he was aware of public concern about rail but remained confident the Queensland government would provide the new trains and carriages promised for the Gold Coast line before the Games began in April 2018.

"The director-general of Transport Minister Jackie Trad's department comes to our board meetings," he said.

"We are confident that what we have said about increasing the number of trains between Brisbane and the Gold Coast to deliver those large number of clients because the ticket includes the public transport, so I have a degree of confidence between our transport team and theirs."

CISCO Australia vice-president Ken Boal said the company provided security and assurance to Games organisers, the 6600 athletes and officials, 3500 journalists, 15,000 volunteers, 1.2 million spectators and 1.5 billion watching on pay television around the world.

"Let's face it; it's a sporting event, it's a physical event, but it all relies on digital technology," he said.

"A lof of this technology is hidden in the backrooms, but it plays such a critical role.

"If it doesn't work, or if there are security issues, or quality  issues, then essentially everything stops."

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

14th July 2017

GC2018 - rail fail for SEQ looms large

Good Morning,

This morning in an article at Brisbanetimes 2018 Commonwealth Games spectators to get the 5G treatment [ http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/technology/mobiles/2018-commonwealth-games-spectators-to-get-the-5g-treatment-20170713-gxar3o.html ] Gold Coast Commonwealth Games organising committee chairman Peter Beattie is quoted as commenting:

" Mr Beattie said he was aware of public concern about rail but remained confident the Queensland government would provide the new trains and carriages promised for the Gold Coast line before the Games began in April 2018.

"The director-general of Transport Minister Jackie Trad's department comes to our board meetings," he said.

"We are confident that what we have said about increasing the number of trains between Brisbane and the Gold Coast to deliver those large number of clients because the ticket includes the public transport, so I have a degree of confidence between our transport team and theirs."

Mr Beattie, that is no guarantee.  The DGTMR on his watch has presided over rail fail, Redcliffe Peninsula Line fail, and now New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) fail.

We do agree that there will be an increased frequency of trains on the Gold Coast line but at a reduced service cost on the other lines of the SEQ rail network.  Such will be the impact of rail fail and NGR fail. This will result in a non-connected dysfunctional public transport for most of SEQ for the Commonwealth Games.  Queensland Rail and the transport authorities cannot be trusted to deliver the goods in our opinion.

Rail fail must be fixed by January 2018  or the end result will be massive road congestion with transport paralysis.

Good luck Mr Beattie, you and Queensland are going to need it.

Best wishes

Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track https://backontrack.org

[ Attached: https://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=3706.msg195147#msg195147 ]

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/885546653670809600

[ozbob]

25th July 2017

Media Statements
Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones
Tuesday, July 25, 2017

No Games freebies for Queensland Government

Queensland politicians and public servants must adhere to a strict ticketing code for government attendance at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones today released a ticketing policy to ensure strong public accountability for any tickets purchased by the Queensland Government.

Ms Jones said the Queensland Government's Games ticketing policy would allow tickets to be purchased to host dignitaries such as members of the Royal Family and Heads of State, advance economic and trade relationships and support community programs.

"Queenslanders expect the highest level of accountability when it comes to government officials' attending the Games," Ms Jones said.

"That's why we have always said there will be no free, complimentary or discounted tickets for the Games.

"GOLDDOC will hold onto tickets that are purchased so that any that are not used will go back into the pool for public sale."

"Ahead of the ticket request phase which closed on 22 May, I wrote to all State Government Ministers and MPs to encourage them to enter the ballot to secure tickets for their personal use.

"We know the Games will create a great opportunity to grow trade and investment and deliver long lasting economic and community benefits for Queensland.

"All tickets purchased by the Queensland Government must fulfil this objective."

Ms Jones said any tickets purchased would be for the purpose of official business – not for personal use by MPs, ministers or their families.

"Under the ticketing policy key Ministers and MPs will be allocated dignitary hosting responsibilities at Games time – these elected members will be working to get positive outcomes for Queensland – pure and simple," she said.

"An assessment panel made up of representatives from the Department of Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games and the Department of Premier and Cabinet will review and make recommendations to the Commonwealth Games Minister and Premier.

"Final ticket allocations will also be published on a publicly available ticket register."

"We want to ensure the highest levels of accountability and transparency when it comes to purchasing tickets for government use.

"These are the peoples' Games and we want everyone to have the best chance to see international athletes and our local sports heroes in action at Games time."

[ozbob]

26th July 2017

Media Release
Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Patty Mills jumps on board as official Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Ambassador

NBA star Patrick 'Patty' Mills has today been named as the seventh official Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) Ambassador.

Making the announcement at Keebra Park State High School this morning, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said as one of Australia's best basketball exports, Patty Mills would join the six previously named ambassadors in spreading the Games message to the world.

"As a three time Olympian, Patty Mills is an inspiration for many young Australians and a leader within Indigenous communities right across the country," the Premier said.

"Today he joins a very impressive list of athletes who are all doing an amazing job spreading the Games message throughout Australia and the world.

"Patty is proud to tell the Australian story. He wears the green and gold with pride and understands what it will mean for Australian athletes aspiring to compete on home soil in under 260 days' time at GC2018.

"As part of his ambassador role, Patty will embark on a Far North Queensland tour in early August, including stops in GC2018 event cities Cairns and Townsville.

"Patty has close ties to Far North Queensland so it is exciting that these Cities will play an integral part in hosting the preliminary rounds of the GC2018 Basketball competition."

Canberra-born Mills plays for the San Antonia Spurs and was a member of their NBA championship winning team in 2014. He has competed for the Australian Boomers at the past three Olympic Games.

The popular basketballer joins Cathy Freeman OAM, Sally Pearson OAM, Cameron McEvoy, Anna Meares OAM, Laura Geitz and Kurt Fearnley OAM as a welcome member of the GC2018 Ambassador family.

Patrick 'Patty' Mills:

"It's an honour to join an inspiring and talented group of Australian athletes as an official ambassador for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

"Cathy Freeman has been an inspiration for me, so it's a real privilege to be in the same company as her as an ambassador for a home Commonwealth Games.

"Whilst NBA commitments will keep me from competing at GC2018 this ambassador role allows me to play a part and share the passion and excitement of these Games on a global stage.

"I'm a proud indigenous Australian and I'm excited to spread the word about the Commonwealth Games being in my home country and the return of basketball for the first time since Melbourne 2006.

"Australia's interest in basketball has grown, especially with a number of Boomers plying their trade in the NBA and our Opals in the WNBA.

"It's exciting that Cairns and Townsville will get to share in this major moment for Australian sport by hosting the preliminary rounds of the men's and women's basketball competitions."

GOLDOC Chairman Peter Beattie AC:

"Patty is a world class basketballer, a champion on and off the court and is proud to tell the story of his family and Australia to the world. He is the perfect person to share the values of the Commonwealth Games movement and reinforce our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) objectives.

"He has a massive following and is a great addition to the ambassador family already spreading the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games message to Australia and the world.

"He has become an inspiration for young Australians and is a leader in indigenous communities around the country."

Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games Kate Jones MP:

"Patty is a great fit for an already impressive list of GC2018 Ambassadors.

"As a three-time Olympian Patty knows what it means to compete at the highest level and the honour of wearing the green and gold at major competitions. "Today's announcement also a timely reminder that general ticket sales are underway and we encourage everyone to jump on gc2018.com to purchase tickets."

City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate:

"Patty is one of Australia's favourite sporting champions and someone who will represent GC2018 with pride. He is a welcome addition to the ambassador family and it's pretty exciting to have a NBA champion on board this equally exciting journey."

GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters:

"There are not much bigger names in Australian sport right now so it is a real coup to have Patty join the GC2018 family.

"It's exciting to have him help tell the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games story with under 300 days until the Games start.

"It's only fitting with the return of basketball to the Commonwealth Games sports program that Patty joins us as an ambassador."

Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) CEO Craig Phillips:

"Patty has been a leader in the Australian Boomers team over the past few years and will no doubt play a mentor role for the next generation of Australian basketball stars who will lead the charge for Australia at GC2018.

"It's exciting to have a trailblazer like Patty as a GC2018 Ambassador. He has provided a pathway for not only indigenous athletes, but all young inspiring sports prospects looking to crack the big time."

ENDS

[ozbob]

3rd August 2017

Media Release
Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games preparations on time and on budget

Queensland is on time and on budget to deliver the 2018 Commonwealth Games- the largest sporting event Australia has seen in a decade.

Following a tour of Commonwealth Games venues with the Tourism and Commonwealth Games Cabinet Committee today, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said key planning milestones were being met with just 244 days until the opening ceremony.

"We know the Commonwealth Games will be a game changer for the Gold Coast," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"The Games will inject billions into our State's economy, support thousands of jobs and deliver benefits now and into the future.

"Thousands of hours of planning and hard work have already gone into ensuring we deliver an affordable, accessible and world-class Games, and we are on track to deliver just that.

"In June, the Commonwealth Games Federation confirmed our preparations were on time and on budget and we're full steam ahead towards delivery.

"The Games themselves will deliver a big boost to the State's economy, and in showcasing the very best the Gold Coast and Queensland has to offer, we can achieve a lasting legacy of trade, investment and business opportunities for Queensland."

Key milestones achieved include:

    The completion of all competition venues, with the $550 million Commonwealth Games Village on track for completion later this year;
    Queensland Police Service is working with other state and federal authorities for a security force of more than 10,000 people including security officers, Queensland Police, Australian Federal Police and the Australian Army; and
    Transport Operations Plan finalised with timetables to be released months ahead of the Games

Commonwealth Games and Tourism Minister Kate Jones said the Games would provide a significant opportunity to strengthen Queensland as Australia's premier tourism destination.

"With around 1.5 million spectators expected to attend the Games, we want to make sure all athletes, coaching staff, spectators and tourists have a great time and promote the Queensland as a great holiday destination," Ms Jones said.

Ms Jones said communities outside the Gold Coast could also experience the Games.

"There will also be opportunities across the state for Queenslanders to become involved with Festival 2018 events in the event cities of Brisbane, Townsville and Cairns," she said.

[Cazza]

Key milestones achieved include:

    The completion of all competition venues, with the $550 million Commonwealth Games Village on track for completion later this year;
    Queensland Police Service is working with other state and federal authorities for a security force of more than 10,000 people including security officers, Queensland Police, Australian Federal Police and the Australian Army; and
    Transport Operations Plan finalised with timetables to be released months ahead of the Games

Key milestones yet to be achieved include:
-Minimum number trains and crew
-Telling the public about which lines will have severe frequency cuts
-Drafting up timetables for the public if the NGR trains are not available for the Games (even just an outline of the frequencies that will operate on each line will be handy)
-Implementing the bus reform so tourists travelling around Brisbane can use an efficient, simple and high-frequency network that feeds into the Gold Coast Line

I'd continue the list but I would be sitting here for hours. That's just a brief start.

[ozbob]

... I'd continue the list but I would be sitting here for hours. That's just a brief start. ...

[Cazza]

Updated the proposed network during the Commonwealth Games.
Can be viewed here: https://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=12830.msg194231#msg194231

[ozbob]

Gold Coast Bulletin --> Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games park and ride locations unveiled

ELEVEN of the 13 temporary park and ride locations for next year's Commonwealth Games have been unveiled.

A majority of locations are strewn across the Gold Coast with just one in Brisbane and one in Beenleigh.

The park and rides will allow the 1.2 million spectators, volunteers and dignitaries to leave their car and catch public transport and specially organised buses for the Games.

Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Jackie Trad said the 13 temporary locations would have more than 10,000 parking spaces during the Games.

"Dedicated pathways, loading zones and parking, including motorcycle parking, will be provided at the park 'n' ride facilities, making them comfortable and safe for anyone to use," she said.

"The locations of park 'n' ride facilities have been chosen to distribute demand across the transport network and maximise the use of existing transport infrastructure, including Stage 2 of the Gold Coast Light Rail which will be operational by the Games."

The state government will spend $450,000 upgrading Boowaggan Road Park, Merrimac including footpaths, a bus zone, passenger drop-off area and road improvements.

Ms Trad said the shuttle buses would be the most efficient way of transporting people to Games venues across the Coast.

"Planning of park 'n' ride sites will continue between now and Games time and we will keep the community updated on the progress," she said.

THE CONFIRMED SITES INCLUDE:

*Damien Leeding Memorial Park, Oxenford

*Firth Park, Mudgeeraba

*Beenleigh State High School, Beenleigh

*Betty Diamond Sports Complex, Bilinga

*Merrimac State School, Merrimac

*Boowaggan Road, Merrimac

*Millaroo Drive, Helensvale West

*Millaroo Drive, Helensvale South

*Burnside Road, Yatala

*Varsity Lakes, near Varsity Lakes station

*The future light rail station car park at Parkwood.

The state government is currently negotiating for two further sites at Chandler and Helensvale.

[ozbob]

12th August 2017
   
Media Release
Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Jackie Trad

Games park 'n' ride facilities across Gold Coast announced

The Palaszczuk Government has today announced the 13 locations for temporary park 'n' ride facilities for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018).

Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Jackie Trad said the announcement was essential to supporting the 1.2 million spectators, volunteers and dignitaries travelling to and from venues during the Games.

"The Palaszczuk Government is well on track to delivering reliable, convenient transport for the Commonwealth Games and this is a great milestone on the road to GC2018," Ms Trad said.

"Temporary park 'n' ride facilities will be established across the Gold Coast and Brisbane to ensure spectators and Games officials alike can reach their destinations quickly and safely.

"I know the community has been interested in where the facilities will be and today we can confirm most of these locations, which together will deliver more than 10,000 parking spaces.

"Dedicated pathways, loading zones and parking, including motorcycle parking, will be provided at the park 'n' ride facilities, making them comfortable and safe for anyone to use.

"The locations of park 'n' ride facilities have been chosen to distribute demand across the transport network and maximise the use of existing transport infrastructure, including Stage 2 of the Gold Coast Light Rail which will be operational by the Games.

"Games shuttle buses will be accessible at the 13 park 'n' ride facilities for people travelling to and from Games venues on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane.

"This approach is aimed at ensuring the most efficient means of delivering safe, secure and reliable transport to Games venues.

"Planning of park 'n' ride sites will continue between now and Games time and we will keep the community updated on the progress."

Of the 13 temporary Games park 'n' ride facilities, 11 sites have been confirmed at the following locations:

    Damien Leeding Memorial Park, Oxenford
    Firth Park, Mudgeeraba
    Beenleigh State High School, Beenleigh
    Betty Diamond Sports Complex, Bilinga
    Merrimac State School, Merrimac
    Boowaggan Road, Merrimac
    Millaroo Drive, Helensvale West
    Millaroo Drive, Helensvale South
    Burnside Road, Yatala
    Varsity Lakes, near Varsity Lakes station
    The future light rail station car park at Parkwood.

In addition, negotiations are still underway for another two park 'n' ride sites at Chandler and Helensvale.

A $450,000 upgrade at the Boowaggan Road Park 'n' Ride in Merrimac is due for completion by 11 August; and includes road and footpath improvements, including a bus zone, passenger drop-off area near the entrance and an additional westbound entry lane leading into the site.

For more information on transport to and from venues for the Games, the Transport Operations Plan can be found at www.gc2018.com/transport.

ENDS

[ozbob]

Gold Coast Bulletin --> New report finds Gold Coast traffic will increase by 22 per cent during Commonwealth Games

COMMONWEALTH Games organisers are being warned to focus on public transport solutions after a new report calculates that there will be almost a quarter more traffic on the road during the event.

The Gold Coast Bulletin has obtained a copy of an economic modelling report by Griffith University which forecasts that "road passenger transport increases significantly" by 22 per cent during 2018 on the Coast.

"This reflects the level of passenger movements during the Games as well as the productivity gain of transportation that Gold Coast light rail stage 2 delivers to the region," the report said.

The findings should ensure organisers "maximise the use of public transport to avoid road congestion" and accidents during the event in April next year.

Motorway at peak hour — it will be much worse during the Games.

The report, by five academics at the university's tourism and business schools, found the Games would provide 18,240 jobs in Australia with 10,860 on the Coast and 2681 in Brisbane.

During the post-Games period, the event would provide 459 full-time equivalent jobs in Queensland.

The Games will require government funding of $2 billion between 2011-20 and public-private investment of $551 million on the Parklands Village and $327 million on new and upgraded venues like the Village Roadshow soundstage.

The Government had accelerated investment on the $420 million light rail stage two, the $163 million Coomera to Helensvale rail duplication and $160 million on major roads.

But analysis shows that every dollar spent on the Games will add 99 cents to the economy in terms of future growth.

Brisbane and other regions of Queensland will lose hundreds of jobs in the lead-up to the event as employment focuses on the Glitter Strip.

Of the $3 billion spent on staging the Games across a nine-year time line, $1.8 billion is being provided by the government sector with most of that from the State Government.

About $64 million is expected to be delivered from ticket sales but the amount of direct revenue from broadcast rights and sponsorship is removed from the newly released public document.

The broadcast and sponsorship revenue in total spending will be about eight per cent, slightly higher than the 6.5 per cent for the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

Of the 672,000 visitors, 356,000 will be day trippers and 265,000 domestic overnight visitors.

About 6000 athletes and officials will stay on the Coast along with 50,000 overseas visitors spending up to $1750.

Advertising of the Games is expected to generate about $37 million of extra visitors with tourism from Commonwealth countries increasing by four per cent after the event.

The big winner post Games would be the film industry after both Thor and Aquaman movies were shot on the Coast, the report said.

Film production will increase by 8.5 per cent, accommodation and restaurants enjoy a 1.2 per cent growth while retail and air transport also receive a boost.

"The implication here is that the 2018 Commonwealth Games will not actually finish until 2021-22," the report said.

"To some extent, the post Games period from 2017-18 to 2021-22 is more important that the preparation period, as it determines whether or not all the potential benefits will be realised.

"The tasks to organise more events and activities beyond the Commonwealth Games are important for all the benefits to materialise and reach the full potential level."

[ozbob]

3rd September 2017

Media Release
Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

600 Games jobs up for grabs

There is still time to apply for one of 600 jobs with GOLDOC and be part of one of Queensland's greatest success stories - the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said many jobs were up for grabs and urged people to get their applications in before midnight tonight.

"It's a great opportunity for people to be part of a major global event.

"We're looking for arrival and departure officers, catering staff, cleaners, car parking attendants, protocol officers for the Games venues and friendly faces to offer assistance to spectators."

Minister Jones said the GOLDOC workforce would reach 1500 when the 600 jobs are filled.

"Not only will successful applicants be delivering an event that reaches a broadcast audience of 1.5 billion, they will gain a lot of experience, develop new skills and make contacts to bolster their resume and future job opportunities," Ms Jones said.

All positions are advertised on the Seek Commonwealth Games Jobs Portal.

"It's an exciting time. We're on the final straight with the whole team working together to deliver the best Games ever."

The Commonwealth Games will be held from 4 to 15 April 2018.

Visit www.gc2018.com/jobs to apply.

[ozbob]

16th September 2017
   
Media Release
Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

200 days until we Share the Dream

In just 200 days the eyes of the world will be on the Gold Coast as the 2018 Commonwealth Games begin.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said delivery of the Games was on track but there was much to do before April 2018.

"The event organisers at GOLDOC are doing an awesome job to prepare for the Games," Ms Jones said.

"GOLDOC remains on time and on budget to deliver a great event in 2018.

"We know this is the largest event in Queensland's history and so much has already been achieved.

"All new sporting venues have been constructed.

"We received 47,000 volunteer applications, 1.2 million ticket requests, 16,000 people have put their hand up to work on the Games and the Queen's Baton Relay has already visited 45 nations.

"GOLDOC have secured a sponsorship portfolio of 52 brands and work has recently commenced on the venue overlay program.

"We have announced all seven Games ambassadors and we were the first major event of this kind to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

"We can certainly feel the excitement building with just 200 days to go until the Games."

GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters said the next 200 days would be focussed on delivering a great event for all.

"Our focus and the core of all our decision making is really about delivering a great experience across all sports and venues for both competitors and spectators," Mr Peters said.

"On the sport front, the Netball and Basketball draws were recently announced and we'll soon unveil the marathon and triathlon courses with draws for Hockey and Rugby 7s to follow.

"This will be complemented by many countries announcing their GC2018 teams with some of the world's best to take to the pool, field and track next year.

"The selection of volunteers continues with the much anticipated uniform to be unveiled later in the year. Volunteer training will commence in November and run through until the Games.

"On the venues front, the Carrara precinct is currently being transformed, GOLDOC will take possession of the Commonwealth Games Village in October with overlay works to commence soon after. Our team will also start the build on the Beach Volleyball facility at Coolangatta, the only fully temporary venue across the Games.

"Another key milestone will be the unveiling of the GC2018 medals at our Charity Gala on 4 November."

Mr Peters said there were still close to 200,000 tickets available for those that missed out in the initial ticket request phase.

"People can still snap up tickets to the men's and women's 100m final to be held on the evening of 9 April," he said.

"Although there has been an overwhelming response from the public since ticket sales opened in April, there are still tickets available to more than 12 different sporting disciplines plus the Closing Ceremony."

[#Metro]

Can Deloitte pull a rabbit out of a hat? Let's hope they can. 

Beyoncé - Sweet Dreams

[BrizCommuter]

Commonwealth Games - which train lines will see services axed?
https://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2017/09/commonwealth-games-rail-fail-which.html

[ozbob]

Commonwealth Games - which train lines will see services axed?
https://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2017/09/commonwealth-games-rail-fail-which.html

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/910739468310609920

[BrizCommuter]

^ Thanks!

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/912362958818119680

[ozbob]

Gold Coast Bulletin --> Roads Minister Mark Bailey reveals plan to avoid Gold Coast Commonwealth Games M1 chaos

A CENTRAL plank of State Government plans to avoid Commonwealth Games M1 transport snarl-ups is to urge motorists not to use it.

Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey yesterday revealed a publicity blitz in the lead-up to next April's sporting extravaganza will urge motorway users to give themselves plenty of time so they are not rushing, and to drive safer and slower.

Games goers will also be told to try and avoid having to make the commute from Brisbane in the first place by staying on the Gold Coast if possible when attending events, he said.

"Fundamentally it is about acknowledging the problem is part of the solution — having the discussion about the M1 and making sure people give themselves plenty of time, that people are careful when driving during those Games times.

"We will be saying if you are going to Games, if you can stay on the Gold Coast and be near the venue that's preferable, make a day of it and enjoy it. Don't just go to the venue, have a day on the Coast.

"But if you do have to travel from Brisbane on the M1, don't be in a rush, take it easy, be part of the solution — that is going to contribute also to a good outcome," Mr Bailey said.

The public appeal will be part of a multi-pronged approach to avoiding potential gridlock — and a global PR disaster — during the Games.

LNP's Shadow Main Roads Andrew Powell is panning it.

"This desperately incompetent Labor Government is pleading with people to stay off the roads during the Commonwealth Games to avoid a total transport disaster.

"What's next, Gold Coasters under house arrest as part of Labor's Games crowd control strategy? It's Annastacia Palaszczuk's job to make sure our roads are ready for the Games, not the general public.

"If the people needed any more evidence there will be total transport chaos during the Games they got it today."

Other initiatives to avoid Games highway chaos are reducing speed limits by 10km per hour down to 100 and 90 in certain sections.

Vehicles with athletes under escort will be able to use the M1 shoulder from Southport's Smith Street to Hope Island if congestion stops them being on time.

It was given what Mr Bailey called a "dry run" when Prince Andrew visited last week. His motorcade used shoulder lanes to get to Bond University after a pedestrian was killed.

New separate truck lane restrictions are already in place from Springwood to Robina.

Long-term, Labor hopes two big M1 upgrades — six laning from Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes and planning of the Varsity Lakes to Tugun stretch — will ease congestion.

Mr Bailey said LNP had ignored the M1 during its previous term in power.

[James]

Have they considered raising speed limits instead of just continually lowering them? The drive down the M1 is slow & painful enough as it is, yet alone lowering speed limits even further. If this was Europe, the speed limit would be 130km/h between Beenleigh and Smith St, and 120km/h south of there.

Also, driving skills - horrific. There needs to be a blitz of people sitting in the right lane in particular. This wouldn't be an issue if speed limits weren't so stringently enforced. Low-level speeding to get past a slow vehicle can have a positive effect on traffic flow, instead QPS rewards you for your efforts with a $160 fine.

There's still plenty of capacity in the M1 outside of the peak of peak, it just isn't being utilised effectively.

[red dragin]

Have they considered raising speed limits instead of just continually lowering them? The drive down the M1 is slow & painful enough as it is, yet alone lowering speed limits even further. If this was Europe, the speed limit would be 130km/h between Beenleigh and Smith St, and 120km/h south of there.

Having driven on the Autobahn in Germany (65% advised 130kph max - faster at your risk), Autostrada in Italy (max 130kph) and the Gold Coast M1 (110kph), I wouldn't let Qld drivers go any faster. German's tended to move in groups doing about the same speed (except diesel BMW & Mercs which all seemed to do 200kph). Italy kept you on your toes, especially with slower trucks.

I couldn't imagine Qld "this is my bit of road and I'm not sharing" drivers let loose at any faster than 110kph. Oh, and I'm born, bred and learnt to drive in Brisbane 

[BrizCommuter]

Have they considered raising speed limits instead of just continually lowering them? The drive down the M1 is slow & painful enough as it is, yet alone lowering speed limits even further. If this was Europe, the speed limit would be 130km/h between Beenleigh and Smith St, and 120km/h south of there.

Having driven on the Autobahn in Germany (65% advised 130kph max - faster at your risk), Autostrada in Italy (max 130kph) and the Gold Coast M1 (110kph), I wouldn't let Qld drivers go any faster. German's tended to move in groups doing about the same speed (except diesel BMW & Mercs which all seemed to do 200kph). Italy kept you on your toes, especially with slower trucks.

I couldn't imagine Qld "this is my bit of road and I'm not sharing" drivers let loose at any faster than 110kph. Oh, and I'm born, bred and learnt to drive in Brisbane 

Agree, too many rev head bogans in QLD to increase the speed limit.

[tazzer9]

Have they considered raising speed limits instead of just continually lowering them? The drive down the M1 is slow & painful enough as it is, yet alone lowering speed limits even further. If this was Europe, the speed limit would be 130km/h between Beenleigh and Smith St, and 120km/h south of there.

Also, driving skills - horrific. There needs to be a blitz of people sitting in the right lane in particular. This wouldn't be an issue if speed limits weren't so stringently enforced. Low-level speeding to get past a slow vehicle can have a positive effect on traffic flow, instead QPS rewards you for your efforts with a $160 fine.

There's still plenty of capacity in the M1 outside of the peak of peak, it just isn't being utilised effectively.

The govt is right in that lowering speed limits does increase the number of people who can get on the motorway but I do not know of any Australian government interested in raising speed limits.
When the bracken ridge portion of the M1 upgrade was completed early last year, they government raised the speed limit back to 100. (should have been been 110), but around 2 weeks later, the usual spot where a speed camera van lived started to notice less tickets were getting issued, so they lowered it down to 80, put up road work signs (despite for almost 6 months there was no road works near it).  beachmere road is another great example of lower speed limits for speeding ticket purposes.   In the NT, the suart highway, when they took away the 130 limit, crashes went down, despite drivers only averaging 40. But they still reintroduced  the 130 limit.   

I believe that pretty much all roads in qld need to have the limit upped by 10km/h.  QPS need to start pushing for people to concentrate on driving, not on there speed.  I am proof that you can regularly drive above the limit and stay safe, but as soon as you start driving fast while not concentrating, you crash. 

[ozbob]

2nd October 2017

Media Release
Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Games Village brand reveal with official handover from Government to GOLDOC

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has today officially handed the Parklands Development to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) for its transformation into the Commonwealth Games Village.

Ms Palaszczuk said the fact that GOLDOC would now take possession of the site was another significant milestone in the exciting journey towards 4 April 2018.

"I am proud that during the construction phase of this development we have seen 6,000 jobs created and supply opportunities for local business, these are real economic benefits and I know this will continue to be a driver for the local economy well after the closing ceremony on 15 April 2018," the Premier said.

"Over the coming months Parklands will be transformed through the fitout of 1,170 apartments and 82 townhouses.

"This precinct will become the heartbeat of the Games, where athletes and team officials will bask in an environment conducive to achieving their very best."

The Premier also unveiled the street sign for one of the Village's main thoroughfares - Commonwealth Boulevarde.

The occasion was also marked by the unveiling of the Games Village emblem fittingly designed by graphic design student, Janet Turner from the neighbouring Gold Coast Griffith University.

"The Village 2018 emblem represents the coming together of 6,600 athletes and team officials from all over the Commonwealth and the Games Village as the meeting place," the Premier said.

"The emblem design was inspired by the Gold Coast's natural beauty, promoting a fun and relaxed environment for athletes. The emblem is also inspired by the Village itself with the central water feature drawing together the six residential zones, represented as a meeting place".

GOLDOC Chairman Peter Beattie AC, said the handing over of the reins to overlay Parklands to become the Games Village was indeed a barometer of the Games progress.

"We have reinforced at all times that the Games are on time and on budget and the reality is, that is absolutely spot on...and this amazing development is a great demonstration of our progress," Mr Beattie said.

"GC2018 sponsor, Lendlease will be heavily involved in the planning, programming, logistics and supervision to transform the existing facilities to Games-ready status including the fitout of the fully-equipped gymnasium and dining facilities for the Games Village."

Mr Beattie suggested the current 'look' of the Parklands would be significantly different once the overlay works conclude and teams and officials from across the Commonwealth are welcomed to the Village.

"To give you some indication of the mammoth task ahead, the main dining room will be fitted out to seat up to 2,300 people at any one time with over 20,000 meals served each day and more than 300,000 kg of fresh produce used during the Games," he said.

"And at any one time close to 2,000 staff will be onsite during Games time to ensure athletes and team officials are fully catered for so they can perform at their very best on the field, track or in the pool.

"I am particularly delighted with the Village emblem that not only showcases the exceptional design talent we have at Griffith University and so aptly depicts the vibrancy and welcoming environment this venue will exude during Games time.

GOLDOC CEO, Mark Peters reiterated the fact that there was a significant amount of work to do before Parklands will truly resemble a Games Village.

"There are more than 300 temporary structures yet to be built on site to house key facilities including the fully equipped gymnasium and the polyclinic which is essentially a small hospital within the Village to service the medical needs of the residents.

"There are also a number of retail outlets opening up during Games time with a general store, Tourism Information Centre, hair salon, Optus phone store and several other exciting stores to bump in.

"By the time we see 160,000 pieces of furniture and equipment, with 13,000 chairs and 11,900 tables and 4,000 bean bags moved in, we will start to look like a welcoming home away from home for our friends from around the Commonwealth."

Mr Peters said the Games Village will open its doors to the best athletes from the 70 nations and territories of the Commonwealth and their team officials from 25 March 2018.

The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) will be staged from 4-15 April 2018.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/914724457993797632

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/915256799833473024