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Queensland Premier Anna Bligh will travel to Kuala Lumpur in May with Gold Coast Lord Mayor Ron Clarke and representatives from the Federal Government to officially lodge the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Bid.

Premier Bligh explained "after the summer of natural disasters it is important that we continue to seek out new opportunities for our State.

"That is why I remain absolutely committed to our Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Bid.

"I will travel to Kuala Lumpur in May with the Australian Commonwealth Games Association to officially submit the Bid Book for Games Bid.

"The timing of the bid means I will miss at least one question time at Parliament and this is a measure of just how important I see this event for the Gold Coast and Queensland.

"I will be joined by Gold Coast Lord Mayor Ron Clarke and representatives from the Federal Government and Games executives and we will formally present the Bid Book at an official ceremony attended by guests from the Commonwealth Games Federation."

The Premier said the 51,000 word, 240-page 'Book' is almost finished and the bid team are currently putting the final touches to the Queensland entry, adding "the bid has been delivered over the last 12 months and covers 15 themes from transport, health and security through to accommodation, sports and venues and the Games Village.

"I have been impressed with the enthusiasm and contribution of so many stakeholders involved in the bids publication.

"This is one very detailed and technical document outlining exactly how we would deliver the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and the end product will be very impressive.

"Planning and coordinating the appropriate contributions from so many stakeholders for an event of this size and prestige in 2018 was thorough and professional and their collective support has been outstanding - it is indicative of the support in the community for the Bid.

"I am excited and proud for Queensland and Australia - we see the potential to host the Commonwealth Games as a major catalyst for development, growth and international recognition and a positive move forward for our state."

The Bid Book lodgement on 11th May 2011 will be closely followed by a visit to the Gold Coast by the Commonwealth Games Federation Evaluation Commission in June.

The 71 Commonwealth Games Association representatives from Oceania, Europe, Caribbean, Americas, Asia and Africa will commence their visits to assess the City's capabilities from July through to the end of October.

Premier Bligh concluded "if we do win the games, and I am confident that we can, it will be the only major international sporting event in Australia for the next decade.

"Like the rest of the State the Gold Coast has been through difficult times and these games would be a major boost in morale and an indicator of the better times that lie ahead."

For more information go to www.goldcoast2018bid.com

Image shows the Runaway Bay Sports Super Centre, a potential training venue for a Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. 

28th August 2008 - PETERS FAREWELLS SPORTS COMMISSION

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