Experience the Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast

If you’re studying at Griffith University this spring, then prepare yourself for two weeks of nonstop fun and entertainment. The university, as well as the city of Gold Coast, is the official partner of the 2018 Commonwealth Games and will host over 6,600 athletes in 18 different sports. The Commonwealth Games have been taking place since 1930 and occur every four years in a different location.

According to the website, “The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) will be the largest sporting event Australia will see this decade and the biggest sporting spectacular the Gold Coast has ever seen. As the first regional Australian city to ever host a Commonwealth Games, the Gold Coast will celebrate great Games in a great city leaving great memories and great benefits for all.”

Students and residents alike will get to witness some of the greatest athletes on the planet compete against each other, including some former Olympic medalists. But even if you’re not a big sports fan, the Games offer a little something for everyone.

Are you a festival fanatic? Or just generally enjoy experiencing aspects of different cultures? Well, you may be happy to know that cultural events and entertainment can be found throughout the city for 12 full days (April 4-15)

If you want to be involved beyond a spectator, Griffith University has a variety of opportunities for involvement on and off campus.

At the very least, you should take advantage of the opportunity to catch Aboriginal folk group Yothu Yindi perform on April 4 and get a taste of the rich aboriginal culture of Australia’s native sons. Singer-songwriter and Gold Coast native Amy Shark will be performing the same day, and after a quick rest, the next morning is jam-packed with new wave Gold Coast-grown electronic music.

The best part? Most all of the festival events are free! For a full list of free events and celebrations check out the Commonwealth website: https://www.getsetforthegames.com/free-events-and-celebrations

USAC students studying in Gold Coast right now have an amazing opportunity to experience 12 days of unity and culture and witness some of the world’s best athletes compete in a city-wide celebration. You’re not going to want to miss this.  

If you’re not studying abroad in Australia but still want to tune into the games you can watch them live online!