Commonwealth Games 2018 opening ceremony – as it happened
The Commonwealth Games got under way on Wednesday evening in Gold Coast, the 21st edition of the event and the fifth time Australia has played host
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The 2018 Commonwealth Games get under way on Wednesday evening in Gold Coast, the 21st edition of the event and the fifth time Australia has played host.
This will be the most expensive Commonwealth Games ever put together, with spending estimated to finish at around AUS$2bn. It will be the first time women have the same number of events as men, and the most para-events incorporated with 38 in total.
England head into the Games looking to defend their crown as the most successful nation in 2014, having claimed 58 golds in Glasgow four years ago.
Follow all the action below...
Please allow a moment for the blog to load...
Here is what you need to know ahead of the opening ceremony:
What time does it start?
The opening ceremony will start at around 7.30pm in Gold Coast, 10.30am in the UK.
Where does it take place?
It will take place in Carrara Stadium, a venue usually used for Aussie rules football which will play host to athletics during the Games.
How can I watch it?
The ceremony will be broadcast live on the BBC.
Who will be Team England’s flag bearer?
Alistair Brownlee will be England’s flag bearer for the Commonwealth Games. Double Olympic triathlon champion Brownlee, is defending Commonwealth champion in the individual and mixed relay races. Team England selected their flag bearer after a vote of all sport team leaders.
Ah, a bit of live music now. This ceremony really has got the lot!
Katie Noonan and the Gold Coast Choir are now performing 'You're Welcome Here'.
The Commonwealth Flag is about to be raised. Kind of like the Olympic flame, I guess (but not as cool).
The Commonwealth Games oath
"We come to this place from many lands…To demonstrate the spirit of true sportsmanship that we all share.
"And to stand up for the values and ideals that live at the heart of these Games:
"Our shared humanity –the respect we give each other, finding lasting friendships and common ground in our diversity.
"Our shared equality –the level playing field on which we compete, providing fairness and opportunity for all.
"And our shared destiny –to do our best here, so we inspire individuals and communities around the world to realise their own aspirations.
"This is our oath."
The Commonwealth Games Federation flag is carried into the stadium by Brendan Williams, Natalie Du Toit, Alison Shanks, Nicole Forrester, Colin Gregor and Rhona Tof
Just a few minutes to go now until the Games are officially opened by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cambridge.
For the time being, though, we've got more graphics and more dancing celebrating the many things to do in the Gold Coast, including sky diving, theme parks, exploring the wildlife and, of course, swimming in the sea.
The Queen's Baton Relay is almost complete!
It's currently being passed around by a number of athletes inside the stadium and it will end with the Prince of Wales, who will remove a message from the baton and read it aloud to the spectators.
Commonwealth Games declared open
Prince of Wales: "My wife and I could not be more delighted to be able to join all of you here on the Gold Coast this evening and the many millions of you who are watching from your homes across the Commonwealth.
"I've been asked by the queen to represent her majesty and to convey the following message to you all:
"On Commonwealth Day last year, I placed this message into the impressive baton. Over the past 388 days, on it's journey from Buckingham Palace to the Gold Coast, the baton relay has passed through every nation and territory of the Commonwealth. I have no doubt that the baton and its carriers have been warmly welcomed by the many thousands of people who have lined the route.
"The ancient stories told by the Indigenous people of Australia remind us that even though we may be half the world away, we are all connected. Over the years these friendly games have shown the potential of the Commonwealth to connect people of different backgrounds and nationalities.
"In this spirit of cooperation and togetherness, common ground has been established and enduring friendships forged. As you come together at the start of these games, I continue to be inspired by the courage, enthusiasm and dedication of all those taking part.
"I send my warm wishes to every competing individual and team, and to all those who have helped to bring about the first Commonwealth Games in this very special part of Australia.
"Your excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, it now gives me the greatest pleasure to declare the 21st Commonwealth Games open!"
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments