WHEN Karl Michaelis competed in the judo competition at the first North Queensland Games in 1984, he had no idea he would light the cauldron at the same competition 26 years later.

But that was the reality at Barlow Park last night when the 46-year-old Cairns resident officially opened the 2010 North Queensland Games.

Pictures: North Queensland Games

Mr Michaelis has competed and officiated at every North Queensland Games since 1984 but last night said the honour of lighting the cauldron came as a surprise.

He said he was excited to be given the honour and excited to again be competing at the Games.

"I like the way it is run and the way people support it," he said.

"It is good for judo and all the other sports."

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While lighting the cauldron ranks as Mr Michaelis’ highlight, he is no stranger to success at the Games.

"I have had wins, seconds, thirds and close losses," he said.

"But I have always been lucky and got a place and other times I have been luckier and won."

The cauldron lighting was witnessed by thousands of people at Barlow Park last night, with Premier Anna Bligh also making a surprise visit.

The opening ceremony also included an athletes’ march, skydivers and fireworks. Competition also began yesterday with men’s lawn bowls and the tenpin bowling competition, followed by the 1500m running events.

The inline hockey competition was held last weekend.

The closing ceremony of the Games will be held on the Cairns Esplanade tomorrow from 4pm.

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