Redland City Council negotiated early for opportunities to be involved with the Commonwealth Games staged just down the road at the Gold Coast, and the move has paid off with a swathe of short and long term benefits already flowing to the region.
Redland City Mayor, Karen Williams said, the Games was much more than just a sporting event, it brought the potential for benefits that span tourism and economic growth, trade and business, arts and culture, and sports and healthy lifestyle.
“Being part of the 2018 Commonwealth Games is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and Council has been working with the community and local businesses in the years leading up to the event, to ensure long-lasting cultural and eco-tourism tourism benefits.
While the success of local athletes netted medals in a variety of sports the benefits of the games are surprisingly widespread.
Redlands hosted over 60 cyclists and shooters from Team England during Games competition.
Team Scotland also came to town running a swimming session with Sheldon College and swimmers
Councillor Tracey Huges said hosting Team England at the Alexandra Hills Hotel was a privilege for the city and the competitors.
The ‘Redlands experience’ was made possible through Council, community and business partnerships.
Mayor Williams said the city enjoyed national and international media exposure from the two Queen’s Baton Relays events they negotiated.
“They enabled us to profile our mainland and North Stradbroke Island communities, highlighting the regions spectacular tourism assets and showcasing our Quandamooka heritage.
Migalu Yalingbilla – White Humpback, the fantastic artwork work that stole the show at the opening ceremony was made by Quandamooka woman and Commonwealth Games medal designer Delvene Cockatoo-Collins.
The Redlands Games Carnivale brought the twelve days of the Games to Raby Bay Harbour Park, where locals could enjoy the outdoors and good food while watching the Games on the big screen.
The Games brought trade opportunities for local and international engagement for participants in the Redlands’ Trade 2018 Program.
“Council and business decision-makers were able to build ties through forums such as Canada Connect, the Queensland and Commonwealth Collaboration and Showcase, and an International Education and Training Agent Engagement Reception.
“Further opportunity was offered at the Queensland Opportunities in E-Health and Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct Showcase, attended by Birmingham Lord Mayor, Anne Underwood, host of the next Games.
Cr Williams said that Regional Development Australia, Logan and Redlands networking had also ensured Council is now directly in contact with a delegation from the City of Birmingham, who are the next host City for the Commonwealth Games.
