Games open in Spectacular style

A dazzling array of fireworks, flashing star lights and sparkling rollerbladers punctuated a spectacular opening ceremony of the XVIII Commonwealth Games held at the MCG tonight.

On a perfect Melbourne evening, just under 80,000 spectators, each with blinking star lights around their necks, packed into one of the world’s great sporting theatres to welcome a ‘galaxy of stars’, led by guest of honour, Her Majesty, the Queen of England.

Her appearance was overshadowed, however, by the entrance into the arena of the 4,500 athletes from the 71 competing nations and in particular, that of the host country, Australia.

Guided by flag bearer, walker Jane Saville, Australia’s arrival created a frenzy among a mad flash of lightbulbs around the stadium; the audience demonstrating their obvious patriotism with a two-minute standing ovation.

Veteran Australian swimmer Adam Pine proceeded to take the oath on behalf of the athletes, before operatic legend Dame Kiri Te Kanawa led the crowd in wishing the Queen a Happy Birthday, followed by the much-publicised eight bars of ‘God Save the Queen’.

After a journey spanning exactly one year and one day, the Queen’s Baton finally made its way onto the MCG, and with the help of former Australian track stars Cathy Freeman, Marjorie Jackson, Ron Clarke and John Landy, Her Majesty’s message of good sportsmanship and friendship among the many competing nations was revealed.

The Queen’s official opening of the Games signaled the introduction of popular musician Delta Goodrem, and amid a fiery swarm of jet-packed inline skaters, she thrilled the joyous competitors and excited spectators with her new song penned specifically for the event.

A fast and furious fireworks display brought an end to the formalities, lighting up the Melbourne skyline one more time and heralding the beginning of 11 days of unique sporting action.

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