Migaloo the white whale was the star of the show as the 21st Commonwealth Games kicked off with an opening ceremony inspired by the laidback beach lifestyle of the host city.
Australia's indigenous culture - which dates back at least 65,000 years - was also a key component of Wednesday night's extravaganza at Carrara Stadium.
A who's who of Australian sport - Susie O'Neill, Brad McGee, Kurt Fearnley, Liz Ellis and Brent Livermore - all took a turn at carrying the Queen's Baton around the arena - before handing it over to Sally Pearson.
As a proud Gold Coast local and the biggest Australian star in the Games' premier sport, Pearson was the ideal choice to complete the baton relay, just as Cathy Freeman had been the perfect fit to light the cauldron at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
A heavy shower just minutes before the start of the ceremony didn't seem to bother the crowd or the stars of the show.
The Prince of Wales officially declared the Games open, accompanied by the Duchess of Cornwall.
"It is fitting that the Commonwealth Games is known as 'the Friendly Games', as one of the world's friendliest countries has invited us into their homes for this momentous event," said Prince Charles.
