The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Queen's Baton arrived in Manjimup on Thursday last week as part of the WA leg of the Relay.
Locals and visitors lined the streets and crowded the Timber Park to watch our baton bearers carry the Baton.
The Baton has passed through 69 Commonwealth nations and territories and 25 tropical nations on a 288 day tour across the commonwealth and arrived in Australia on 25 December 2017.
It has travelled 59 days around Australia to be here with us for this momentous occasion while 3800 baton bearers will carry the Baton across the 180 Australian celebration communities.
The Baton, which is made from macadamia wood, reclaimed plastic from the beaches, oceans and waterways of the Gold Coast, with a laser engraved stainless steel stringer listing the names of all Countries of the Commonwealth.
It carries a message from Her Majesty the Queen to be opened and read at the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast on 4 April 2018.
Shire President Paul Omodei was honoured to welcome the Baton to the Shire.
"I am delighted to welcome the Gold Coast 2018 Queen's Baton Relay to Manjimup, and thank the organisers for choosing us as a host community,” he said.
“The Baton has come to us today from Denmark in the State's Lower West and has been carried through the streets of Manjimup by some worthy baton bearers and community patrons and I congratulate and commend each of them on this achievement.
“I am immensely proud of our baton bearers and the role they have taken today. Many have dedicated their lives to improving the lives of others, some have accomplished great feats and others are working towards realising their dreams.
“Being a batonbearer recognises all of this, and more. I encourage you to support these great people in our community."
Member for Warren Blackwood Terry Redman MLA advised people and particularly children present to mark this day in their calendars.
"It is a rare occasion when something as significant as the Queen's Baton passes through your community,” he said.
Following the official ceremony which included an address from Hon. Mick Murray Minister for seniors and ageing; volunteering; sports and recreation, and Mr Rick Wilson MP, a representative from the Queen's Baton Relay Staff presented Shire President Paul Omodei with a mini baton.
"This is a pleasant surprise will be displayed with pride in the Council Chambers" Cr Omodei said.
Lucy Tartaglia sang the National Anthem prior to the Baton leaving at 6pm.
A community afternoon and evening in the park commentated by Jordan Piggott ran in concurrence with the event and continued until 9pm with local talent including Renae Knowles, Steve Vidovich, Table 4 two trio and popular country music artist Tom Curtin accompanied by Bob Emery.
To follow the remainder of the Baton's journey to the Games visit the Queen’s Baton Relay website.
