Gold Coast anticipates 600,000 for Commonwealth Games

As the Commonwealth Games kicks off in Gold Coast today, the state tourism board braces for over 600,000 visitors to stream in over the next 11 days.

Adding to the figure are 6,600 athletes and team officials from 70 Commonwealth nations and territories who have arrived in the Sunshine State.

Destination Gold Coast has been prepping for the event since 2011, and are collaborating with Tourism Australia to maximise the international tourism-related benefits.

Destination Gold Coast is expecting visitors to capitalise on the state's position as a surfing and beach haven.

“The direct tourism impact of the Games is evident as thousands of media and athletes are complemented by hundreds of thousands of spectators over the next two weeks,” said Destination Gold Coast CEO Martin Winter.

“Many of [them] have been enjoying a personal holiday before their work duties start or are planning to stay on after the games to have a vacation, all of which add to the visitor statistics associated with the Games.”

The Games is expected to attract a worldwide TV audience of more than 1.5 billion.