Gold Coast Commonwealth Games

With the build-up so stymied by sporting scandals in completely unrelated codes, the event — featuring 71 nations and territories, and more than 4,000 athletes — has practically come in unannounced, much like the floating whale that signalled the conclusion of Wednesday night's ceremony.

But much like how that whale captivated Carrara Stadium, and how rains nearly killed the audience's enthusiasm before clearing up in the nick of time, organisers will be hoping the Commonwealth Games can do the same with Australian viewers.

Papua New Guinea won gold in the inaugural Championship in 2014, which was run as an exhibition event alongside the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Hunters player Stanton Albert was named player of the tournament as PNG went through unbeaten, defeating Australia 22-8 in the final.

The age restriction for the 2018 Championship has been increased from Under 19s to Under 23s.

Hosts Australia, defending champions PNG England and South Africa are confirmed entrants, with 8-12 expected to participate when the Championship in held in Brisbane in February.

Bolt’s retirement event is the world championships later this year in London, but there had been hopes he might have made the Games next April his swan song.

The Jamaican eight-time Olympic champion has ruled out that idea.

“To come out here next season, to really train as hard as I need to get to the level I need to win, it’s not going to happen,” he said.

Bolt was in Melbourne as the No.1 athlete competing at the inaugural Nitro athletics series from Saturday.