The opening ceremonies of the 2018 Commonwealth Games might still be a ways off, but as of April 2017 the Commonwealth Community will open for business on Tamborine Mountain, the 'Green behind the gold' and 'Gateway to the Scenic Rim', that is the perfect destination for day-trippers, outdoor enthusiasts or just locals looking for a weekend away. What exactly is the Commonwealth Community? It's a creative local initiative where 70 different businesses on the mountain and surrounds will become ambassadors for the 70 different Commonwealth nations competing in the Games.

In addition to simply flying the flags of the various participants, the ambassador businesses will promoting the countries, supporting the athletes and celebrating their teams achievements as well as the overall spirit of the Games in the year leading up to the big event itself. What's more, visitors can purchase official Commonwealth Community Passports (for only $5) in which unique stamps can be collected and then redeemed for various special offers and discounts at participating local businesses. Aside from the offers, the passport also make for unique souvenirs – even for Gold Coast residents. Just make sure to keep it separate from your regular travel document, as you don't want any problems from the Immigration and Border Protection folks when exiting the country. For lots more information about the project, including the amusing stories of how some of the country's were chosen by their ambassadors, visit the official website at www.commonwealthcommunity.org.