Visitors at The Games
Residents at opening ceremony
THE Commonwealth Games are officially under way after an incredible opening ceremony on the Gold Coast.
On Wednesday night more than 30,000 people packed into Carrara Stadium to watch as the 2018 Commonwealth Games began.
It’s estimated more than one billion people watched on from home.
People travelled nationally and internationally to attend the opening ceremony, with many Toowoomba residents also making the trip.
Lynette Bryant, along with Mary and David Quade, had prime seats, sitting in row P with a perfect view.
They travelled from Toowoomba to Brisbane and then caught the train to the Gold Coast, not wanting to get stuck in traffic.
Mrs Bryant said the opening ceremony was an experience like no other.
“It was so exciting to attend the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games,” she said.
“It’s something I always watch on television so to be there in person and soak up the atmosphere and to watch the show was fantastic.
“It was so well choreographed and organised. To hear the roar from the crowd and the standing ovation as they welcomed the Australian team into the stadium was amazing.”
Mrs Bryant is heading back next week with her daughter and son to see athletic events.
There will be 18 sporting and seven para-sporting events held across 11 days, with the closing ceremony on Sunday, April 15.