GAMES CEO: FOR FAMILY
THE CEO of the biggest event seen on the Gold Coast says being a Member of the Order of Australia in Queen’s Birthday Honours “represents a lot of hard work for a lot of people”.
Commonwealth Games Australia CEO Craig Phillips said it was a “wonderful honour” and he was grateful.
Mr Phillips was honoured for significant service to highprofile sporting organisations: “I was with the Australian Olympic Committee for 24.5 years and nine years I was CEO.
“I had the opportunity of being a member of 12 Olympic teams. I have been fortunate to be around some of Australia’s most iconic athletes. It was special to be able to work and support them,” Mr Phillips said.
He took on the Games CEO job in 2015 knowing the next one was on the Gold Coast.
“The 2018 games were a lot of firsts,” Mr Philips said.
“It was the first time we had an equal number of events for men and women.
“There was an increased size of the para-sport program and we introduced the reconciliation action program.
“They were the main exciting and pleasing aspects of what those games brought.
“I was very fortunate to be given the opportunity in the 90s to be a part of the Olympics team,” he said. “Did I plan to be doing what I am doing? No. But I am very grateful I got the opportunity to do it.”
Mr Phillips said the honour was a recognition for his family standing by him: “There were times I was absent working overseas. This is something special for my family.”