Speaker's
Media Release

Queen’s Baton on the roof of Parliament House

The Speaker of the Parliament of Victoria, Judy Maddigan MP, has a spectacular plan for the Queen’s Baton Relay’s early arrival at Parliament House tomorrow at 7.49am-7.59am 15 March 2006.

Judy Maddigan said, “We are honoured and delighted that in the year of the 150th Anniversary of Parliament in Victoria we have an opportunity to take part in this international event and be the first stopping point for the Baton on its way to the MCG.”

“The Baton will be at Parliament for 10 minutes and we are planning something very special,” she said.

The red carpet will be rolled down the front steps where the Baton carrier will be greeted by the Presiding Officers. It will then make a dash through the building onto the roof. Standing atop and looking down Bourke St, the Baton Carrier should have a marvellous view down Bourke St and the media and public standing in Bourke St a spectacular opportunity for a unique and historical photograph.

The Speaker said, “We think that the Games’ spirit of competitiveness and fairness, which we too strive for at Parliament, will make this a significant occasion for Parliament and for all Victorians. We encourage everybody to come down to Parliament House at 7.49am on March 15 to take part in this historical event and to commemorate 150 years of Democracy in Victoria as well as to cheer on and support the runner.”

EVENT

Queen’s Baton Relay

WHERE

Parliament House, Spring St, Melbourne

WHEN

Wednesday, 15 March 2006, 7.49 – 7.59am

For further details, please call Beth Klein on 9651 8575