Event Background

Earlier this year, the Gold Coast successfully hosted the XXI Commonwealth Games. Held between the 4^th-15^th April, the games featured 19 Commonwealth sports; as diverse as bowls through to boxing and badminton.

Spread out over 14 venues in the host city, but also extending to additional venues in Brisbane, Cairns, and Townsville, more than 6,600 athletes, including 300 para-athletes, from 71 Commonwealth countries took part in the event.

Staged every 4 years, and representing up to 30% of the world's population, the 'Friendly Games' have now visited Australia's shores 6 times over the course of its history; more than any other country.

Assignment Brief

• Provide a brief overview of the Commonwealth Games and the significance of the games to sport.
• Briefly explain how various cities bid for the chance to host the games.
• Assess the main operational considerations in organising, running, and managing such a large international event.
• Critically analyse the costs and benefits of hosting the Commonwealth Games to the Gold Coast/Queensland/Australia from an economical perspective (consider the financial, social, and environmental impact).