Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk revealed last Wednesday the list of about 3800 Australians who will carry the Queen’s Baton on its 100-day journey across the nation, including those from Parkes.

Among them will be the rare combination of twin brothers Parkes’ mayor Ken Keith and Tim Keith – who were the only twins to participate in the Sydney Olympic Torch Relay in 2000 – and grandfather-grandson duo Michael and Nicayden Greenwood.

“It’s got that nice family feel to it,” Michael said.

“It will be nice to do it with my grandson, I think it’s pretty unique.

“Parkes has done well to get so many (baton bearers) – some of the areas much bigger than Parkes only had a few [from that town], like Tamworth.”

Fifteen-year-old grandson Nicayden is in Year 9 at Parkes High School and is a former Parkes Public School captain.

He’s been involved in activities within the community and his school as a proud Aboriginal student and Student Representative Council member.

“I think it’s quite special for both my grandfather and myself to be apart of this opportunity,” he said.

“I was surprised [to be selected] but I am not surprised that my grandfather was nominated as he has done and does so much for our community.

“I’m honoured by the fact that my grandfather nominated me for the Queen’s Baton Relay and for us now to share this experience together, words can’t explain it.” 

Nicayden said he was looking forward to experiencing this opportunity with his grandfather.

Michael remembers very well when the Olympic torch came through Parkes in August 2000, describing it as one of the best moments of the relay.

The Olympic torch stayed overnight in Parkes, with a special parade and activities – involving the entire community – held around its arrival and journey through town.

One momentous scene was then mayor Robert Wilson carrying the torch onto the Parkes Radio Telescope – as it orbited – making it the only time, apart from travelling to the Opera House, the flame ventured ‘off the beaten track’ for a special promotion.

“It’s great exposure for Parkes,” Michael said.

“There are a few [baton bearers] doing this one too.”