23 March 2006
The Premier of Victoria, Steve Bracks, and Lord Mayor, John So, announced today that Commonwealth Games athletes and volunteers would be honoured with a thank-you parade through the streets of Melbourne on Monday.
Mr Bracks said thousands of people would line the streets to congratulate the athletes for their Games achievements and thank the volunteers for their tireless work.
“This is the time to salute our sporting champions for their courage, determination and effort in the Commonwealth Games,” Mr Bracks said.
“It’s also a fitting tribute to the unsung volunteers who have all done us proud throughout the Games.”
“Our volunteers have been the face of Melbourne and Victoria and they have been magnificent.”
Lord Mayor John So said the City of Melbourne was proud to present another event for the whole community to join in the excitement of the Commonwealth Games.
“There has been overwhelming public support for the Commonwealth Games over the past two weeks,” Mr So said.
“The Commonwealth Games Thank You Parade will give everyone in Melbourne the opportunity to congratulate our athletes for their tremendous success in the Games.
“With Australians winning an impressive number of medals, and providing a number of extraordinary sporting moments, I’m sure everyone will be keen to join in this event.
“It is also important we thank the 15,000 Commonwealth Gamers volunteers, without whom, the Games would not have run as seamlessly as they did.”
The parade will depart from the Victorian Arts Centre at midday and proceed along St Kilda Rd and Swanston Street before turning right into Collins Street. It will conclude at the City Museum at Old Treasury, where the Premier and Lord Mayor will lead a delegation to meet participants.
Australian Chef de Mission John Devitt said having a home Games had been very important to the Australian team.
“We have enjoyed tremendous support from all Australians”, Mr Devitt said.
“This is also our chance for the athletes to show the public how much we appreciate them.”
Volunteers, their families and spectators will then be invited to enjoy the entertainment provided by the Australian Army Band Melbourne in Treasury Gardens.
For further information please contact:
Games Communications Centre
+61 3 8855 3333
GCC@melbourne2006.com.au