GREAT EVENT ON THE CARDS AFTER GLOWING REVIEW

WHEN the Commonwealth Games Federation Coordination Commission handed down its eighth and final review of planning for GC2018 on Friday, we couldn’t have been more pleased.

Their glowing assessment of our preparations told the world that the commitments made in our 2011 bid and the requirements of the Host City Contract are well and truly on track to be fulfilled in April.

We have always been confident that, together with our Games Delivery partners, we will deliver a great Games in a great city and enable thousands of the world’s best athletes to do what they do best.

The complexity of this world event with its 42 functional areas has seen the launch of a number of key milestones including the launch of the Queen’s Baton Relay, the Transport Operations Plan, the final announcements of GC2018 Ambassadors, the Volunteer Program, our ticketing and licensing programs, venue completion and extensive overlay planning, casting for ceremonies and the workforce uniform reveal, and there is significant work continuing behind the scenes.

To have the Coordination Commission members return to their homes so impressed is a tribute to the work our talented GOLDOC team and the Partners have delivered to this point.

Indeed, with just 112 days to go until the April 4 Opening Ceremony, our readiness is strong and our enthusiasm to deliver a great Games has never been higher.

The enthusiasm and encouragement of the people of the Gold Coast, Queensland and beyond, has been uplifting for GOLDOC staff and I wish to thank everyone for their support.