Successful Island Games as Bland Group play a major role

As the Island Games came to a close, Bland Group reflected on the successful participation from across companies, along with it’s own achievements from employees.

Managing the Ground Handling operations, Gibair saw an unprecedented rise in activity which was swiftly and efficiently overseen by the Gibair team. Working with Charters and scheduled arrivals the team handled bikes, shooting equipment and hundreds of passengers. Derek Goldwin, Head of Airport Operations said “During an eight day period Gibair handled an additional 13 aircraft charters carrying athletes from the different participating Islands. Additionally, other Islands travelled on the existing scheduled services ensuring these were absolutely full to capacity. However, despite the significant increase in flights and the logistical difficulties which these presented, all aircraft were handled successfully, within the planned and allocated timings and, above all, safely. Gibraltar Airport was ultimately the first and also the last impression that the athletes obtained of Gibraltar. Therefore, it was vitally important that their experience at the airport was a positive one. This I believe was achieved successfully ”

OSG was responsible for overseeing key events including the Shooting, Judo, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Triathlon and Medal Ceremonies. The Cash in Transit department, which handles the movement of valuable items, was responsible for collecting and delivering all firearms and ammunition for all shooting associations from arrival right through to departure. OSG also provided the Security for the Summer Nights week which concluded on Saturday 13th July in conjunction with the Island Games Closing Ceremony. Ten Security Officers, provided each day throughout the course of the week, assisted the Royal Gibraltar Police with the Security of the venue. On Thursday 11th July, OSG provided dedicated security for the popular S Club 7 band who were headlining. John Paul Payas, General Manager at OSG said “OSG always assists the RGP and Event organisers with regards to Security. The feedback received by all has been very positive and we were happy to have taken part in an event which showcased the best Gibraltar has to offer. We are now focusing on National week which will feature the ever popular Gibraltar Calling Music Festival, Classic day, Monkey Rocks and National Day political Rally. "

Overseeing the accommodation and transfer of athletes and guests, Blands Travel worked hard to ensure the smooth running of the logistics including transfers, flights and accommodation. Blands Travel were also on hand to showcase the very best of Gibraltar via it's wide rang of Tours.