Who needs the Commonwealth Games when you’ve got the Tri-State Games.
These were the words of the chair of the Moira Shire Council panel of administrators John Tanner as he addressed a crowd of athletes, organisers and onlookers at the opening ceremony of the Tri-State Games in Cobram on Monday.
The games were officially opened with a parade, and Mr Tanner was joined by fellow shire administrators Suzanna Sheed and Graeme Emonson, and Berrigan Shire deputy mayor Carly Marriott.
The games are returning to Cobram and Barooga for a second time after being held here in 2022.
Running until this Friday, the event will see competitors with physical and mental disabilities come together from all over Australia for a week of competitive sports and fun-filled social events.
The opening ceremony comprised a parade of athletes and support staff that started at Federation Park in Cobram and ended in Mivo Park.
Lining the street to watch the parade and the opening ceremony were residents, staff of local businesses, and students from surrounding schools.
At the ceremony itself, Pals Panthers participant Shakaya Griffin-Roberts read out the players’ oath.
Mr Tanner said the event was an excellent opportunity for the region to shine, with about 1000 participants flooding the area.
“It’s a great turnout, and it’s all about participation. And it’s all about having a really good time,” Mr Tanner said.
“So the ones I’ve spoken to thus far are really excited about this, and I think it’d be a fantastic week.”