It was a tough battle between the Australians and the City of Hanbantota, Sri Lanka, as they both launched a fierce but friendly campaign to capture the votes of the representatives from the 70 countries at the conference.

President of the St. Kitts and Nevis Commonwealth Games Association, Alphonso Bridgewater, said he was satisfied with the decision and is of the view that the delegates were more convinced by Australia’s current infrastructural capacity, which was said to be 80 percent already in place, compared to the proposed plans to build a new sport city, with all the required facilities in Hanbantota.

Bridgewater was of the view that though both countries appealed to the emotions of the delegates, it was the belief that it would be easier for Australia to be ready, than Sri Lanka.

Only 27 votes were gained by Sri Lanka, compared to Australia’s 43.

Following the announcement, members of Team Gold Coast broke out in celebrations, heading to the stage to sing their country’s National Anthem.

The announcement brought the curtains down on what delegates have described as a successful General Assembly, praising the local association for its remarkable hospitality and event planning capabilities.