Queen’s Baton Relay to wind its way to the west

Inner-west residents will have the chance to play a part in the 2018 Commonwealth Games when the Queen’s Baton Relay passes through town early next year.

Travelling across Australia for 100 days from Christmas Day to the opening ceremony of the Gold Coast Games, the baton will pause in Footscray and Williamstown on February 10 as two of only seven stops in Melbourne.

The search is now under way for 3800 ‘local legends’ to carry the baton across Australia.

Maribyrnong mayor Catherine Cumming said the municipality was proud to be part of the baton route.

“The Commonwealth Games celebrates sport, community, diversity and peace,” she said.

“The City of Maribyrnong is a shining example of these values as we have people representing more than 135 countries living in harmony in our great city and we look forward to seeing many nominations for baton bearers.”

Hobsons Bay mayor Sandra Wilson said baton bearers were people of all abilities who inspired others to be great.

“It will be a great honour for those selected by the community to represent Hobsons Bay in the Queen’s Baton Relay,” she said.

“We’re looking forward to being part of this journey and know our community will be excited to come along for the ride.”

The baton relay starts at Buckingham Palace on March 13 (Commonwealth Day) and finishes at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games opening ceremony on April 4, 2018.

Nominations can be made at gc2018.com/qbr until May 15.