YOUR CHANCE TO GET SET
“I enjoy talking to people and opening their eyes to how good this (Games) opportunity is,” he says of his community engagement role.
“Some people are a little upset it’s in their back yard. The word they use is ‘inconvenienced’ ... and I know a lot of them are wanting answers now about how it’s going to impact them.
“But I don’t think they realise how much the Commonwealth Games is going to do for the city. Even if they don’t enjoy sport, the legacy the Games is going to leave behind through things like upgraded infrastructure is amazing.” Ken Wallace, Olympic kayaker and Get Set Gold Coast community engagement officer.
Then there is the legacy most appreciated by an Olympic gold medallist who also happens to be a dad.
“The biggest thing will be seeing athletes inspire my kids to be fit, active and healthy,” Wallace says.
“This event is literally in our back yard. The road cyclists will almost be riding past my house ... and when they held the Masters (test) event a few weeks ago, the neighbourhood kids were racing their own bikes up and down the street.
“No matter what sport they watch, it’s inspiring the next generation of kids to get off their devices and get outside.” GET Set Gold Coast is working with residents and businesses to make sure they are aware of temporary changes that will occur for the Commonwealth Games and what they need to do to prepare. Temporary changes to roads and traffic movements, parking and access, public transport services, waste collection and use of public spaces and facilities will be required. Find out more about the changes and what you need to do to Get Set at getsetforthegames.com.