Qld: Qld to bid for 2018 Com Games=4

AAP General News (Australia)
08-22-2008
Qld: Qld to bid for 2018 Com Games=4

Ms Bligh told a business lunch on the Gold Coast today the region was a "world-class
tourism icon".

"I can think of no better place to host the best the Commonwealth has to offer," Ms Bligh said.

"We have formally contacted the Australian Commonwealth Games Association to express
our interest.

"They have indicated that in the next few months they will decide whether Australia
will bid for the 2018 Commonwealth Games or future Commonwealth Games so I was keen to
put our hand up early."

Ms Bligh said a local committee would be set up and the economic spin-offs were expected
to be "enormous".

Infrastructure already in place included the Skilled Park Stadium and the Gold Coast
Convention and Exhibition Centre.

"However, while these projects are significant there is no doubt more work will need
to be done if we are to be successful in our bid," Ms Bligh said.

Ms Bligh said a successful Commonwealth Games bid would put Queensland on track for
a future Olympics bid.

AAP pjo/jt/mn

KEYWORD: COM18 4 BRISBANE

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