Gerard at the heart of the Commonwealth Games action
A TEACHER from Dubbo School of Distance Education is one of thousands of Australians who have volunteered for the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.
Gerard Hart is expanding his own learning through his participation – and all at his own expense!
“I was lucky enough to be selected as a Volunteer Sports Trainer 2018 Games through a process that started about six months ago,” Gerard explained.
He undertook reaccreditation as a Sports Trainer in September and was on the road to Queensland last week.
“My role is to assist athletes and teams with emergency first aid and treatment of sporting injuries if required.
“I am based at four venues over ten days. These include Griffith University which is a practice venue for swimming and athletics, Bond University High Performance Training facility at Robina Stadium, Robina Raptors sports fields, and Musgrave Hills Bowling Club.”
His main role is at Robina Raptors and the Cbus stadium where he is assisting teams training and competing in the Men’s and Women’s Rugby Sevens.
He might well rub shoulders with John Porch from Orange whose family have had a lifelong involvement with the Yeoval Eagles, or Grace Hamilton (Blayney) – both are running out in their golden guernseys.
Gerard’s pride is obvious as he is “living the dream”.
“I’ve met officials and athletes from South Africa, Mozambique, Trinidad, Tobago, St Helena, Jersey, Guernsey Jamaica, Canada, India, Wales and Australia.
“I was also fortunate enough to attend a practice opening Ceremony at Carrara Stadium on Easter Saturday evening, and through my Volunteer role was given a free pass to any of the Theme Parks on the Gold Coast, so I spent a day at Seaworld!”
In what is a very small world, Gerard told me that he is working alongside local physiotherapist Paula O’leary who has years of experience manipulating the muscles and overseeing rehabilitation programs for all sports in Dubbo and surrounds.
Above left:
Gerard Hart was able to get up close with all the action including this on-the-spot shot of Aussie Gold Medallist Matthew Hauser being interviewed by ABC after his brilliant win in the triathlon
The joys of volunteering – the chance to see the Mountain Bikers in action!
Above: