All eyes of the Commonwealth will be on the two centres when the QBR passes through our area ahead of the 2018 Commonwealth Games. 

The relay will also visit Orange, Wellington and Dubbo on its way to the Gold Coast.

All of these towns and cities are key sporting centres and being named among only 137 local government areas to host the relay is testament to that.

Local legends are now being called on to carry the baton through the streets. 

Residents of Parkes it’s time to put your best foot forward.

Our communities are defined by such diversity.

We have a myriad of cultures in our own backyard, enviable sporting greats, volunteers, unsung heroes and civic leaders who work towards a better community. 

Now is the time for them to be recognised and help create history by being named a baton-bearer. 

Carrying the baton would create a memory for those lucky enough to be chosen, that they will carry with them for the remainder of their lives.

It would be an honour and a privilege to be chosen, so put your hand up or nominate a worthy baton bearer.

Residents are being urged to nominate someone who has achieved something extraordinary, has made a significant contribution to sport, education, culture, or someone who contributed positively to the community. 

There are only 3800 baton-bearers selected across the country. 

If you are 10 years old as at December 25, 2017; and an Australian citizen or lawfully entitled to reside in Australia during the Relay period you may be eligible to carry the baton.

To be a part of that means contributing to the spirit of the Games.

The GC2018 Relay aims to be inclusive and accessible, giving as many people as possible an opportunity to share in the excitement of the Games. 

It is important that we showcase our communities and our centres in all their glory. 

Not only will hosting the relay show the centres to people across the entire Commonwealth, it is a win for the whole region.

The baton has been passed to us. We should ensure we do our best with it.