The Central Coast is set to showcase its unique culture and landscape on a world stage as Gosford plays host to the 2018 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay on Saturday 3 February.

A Commonwealth Games tradition celebrating diversity and community spirit, this year’s Relay started on 13 March at Buckingham Palace in United Kingdom and will travel for 288 days and 230,000 kilometres before making its way to the opening ceremony of the Games on 4 April 2018 at the Gold Coast.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said 17 outstanding locals have been selected to proudly carry the baton when it comes to the Central Coast in February.

“Council is honoured to host this event that gives our outstanding Coasties a chance to represent their community and get into the spirit of the Commonwealth Games,” Ms Vaughan said.

“This is a huge international event and gives the Central Coast a chance to shine on the world stage.”

The relay will start at 11.30am from Laycock Street Theatre, with baton bearers travelling down Mann Street through to the free ‘Family Fun Day’ event at Central Coast Stadium before completing the final leg along Gosford waterfront to the historic pool.

Mayor Jane Smith said the event is a remarkable opportunity to showcase the wonderful natural assets the Central Coast has to offer along with our world-class sporting facility at Central Coast Stadium.

“This is the first time the Central Coast has been a part of this international event and it is a real honour to be chosen,” Mayor Smith said.

“I encourage our community to get behind this event and come along with friends and family to show their support.”

Coinciding with the Baton entering Central Coast Stadium, a formal ceremony will take place to welcome the baton as part of the Family Fun day that includes free live music and interactive activities for all ages.

Find out more about the Queen’s Baton Relay, including local batonbearers and the free Family Fun day event, by visiting centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/QBR2018