Lollipop lady, SES worker carry Games baton

TOWNSVILLE’S baton bearers for the Queen’s Baton Relay were officially announced yesterday.

The relay is on its way to Australia after travelling throughout the Commonwealth and will arrive on the Gold Coast for the 2018 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony on April 4.

Lollipop lady Jan Evans and SES worker Bob Griffiths are among the almost 100 Townsville residents who will take part in the relay as it moves through the city on March 18- 19.

Ms Evans said she cried tears of happiness when she found out she had been chosen as a feature baton bearer.

“It’s such a privilege, over the moon,” she said.

“Carrying the baton with the Queen’s Message, that’s so I’m special.” Mr Griffiths said he was nominated by his wife, and didn’t even know about the opportunity until he received an email accepting his nomination.

“It’s just out of this world,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Les Walker said it was a proud moment to announce the two important community members as feature baton bearers.

“I’m very proud to be stand- ing next to these people because the community has recognised them as worthy recipients of carrying the baton,” he said.

Cr Walker said the Games would be an exciting time for Townsville.

“We’re going to be hosting some of the best basketball in the series in the Commonwealth Games,” he said.

“It’s a proud moment the city.” for