Borobi, the official mascot of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018), has not only found a spot in many Australian hearts, he has also now taken over one of our currency – the $1 coin – revealed today at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra.
Sports Minister Greg Hunt, Tourism Minister Steven Ciobo and Small Business Minister Michael McCormack this morning joined Gold Coast Corporation Chairman Peter Beattie, as well as Royal Australian Mint CEO Ross MacDiarmid, to unveil the new coin.
Sharing the dream by visiting Canberra for the very first time, Borobi made his mark on a new collectible $1 coin, proving to be the perfect souvenir to celebrate the excitement and lead-up to the Games.
Sports Minister Greg Hunt said it was exciting to have Borobi visit Canberra and get the nation excited about the Commonwealth Games and sport participation.
“Borobi is the perfect mascot not only for the Games and this coin but also for encouraging participation in sport which ultimately brings communities together, improves our health and celebrates Australian culture,” Mr Hunt said.
Minister for Tourism, Trade and Investment and Gold Coast-based MP Steven Ciobo said the coin will be a great souvenir for the many tourists who will want to celebrate the sport, art and culture of the Games.
“The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games will be a significant driver for tourism in Australia and a meaningful yet fun souvenir is the perfect way to help showcase the Gold Coast and Australia to the world,” Mr Ciobo said.
Small Business Minister Michael McCormack, who is responsible for the Mint, said featuring Borobi in colour on these coins is a great way to share the excitement of the Games with both the young and young at heart.
“The Royal Australian Mint plays an important role in commemorating significant national events and Borobi on a coin is a fun way to celebrate and remember the Commonwealth Games for years to come,” Mr McCormack said.
Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) Chairman Peter Beattie AC said the commemorative coin was a great anniversary present for Borobi.
“Just over 12 months ago, Borobi announced himself to the world in spectacular fashion, arriving with great fanfare from the back of a helicopter hovering over Burleigh beach,” Mr Beattie said.
“Borobi has won hearts and minds across the Commonwealth over the past year and is proving to be a great ambassador for all things GC2018.”
GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters said it is fantastic to see the Royal Australian Mint supporting GC2018.
“The Games are biggest event in the Gold Coast’s history and the release of this special collectible coin in the lead-up to the Games helps to share the story of the Jimbelung (friendly) Games,” Mr Peters said.
“GC2018 will create history on the Gold Coast and the series of coins being produced is a perfect historical memento to celebrate this major international event.”
The Borobi collectible coin is the third coin to be released in the GC2018 Coin Program, following the release of the Queen’s Baton Relay coins out earlier this month.
Retailing for $15 each, the 2018 $1 Coloured Frosted Uncirculated Coin can be purchased by visiting the Mint's online store or by phoning 1300 652 020. For images of the coin and packaging please visit the Royal Australian Mint's website.
More information on Borobi can be found on the Gold Coast 2018 XXI Commonwealth Games website.