Student reporter seizes Games opportunity

Last minute study is a normal part of university life, but journalism student Jess Duffy hadn't expected to be cramming gymnastics.

Ms Duffy will be volunteering as a news services reporter at the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. Based at the Rod Laver Arena, she'll be covering gymnastics, but she admits she's a bit rusty on the subject.

Ms Duffy is in Melbourne training for her reporting duties Photo: Kimberly Douglas

"I did it for a couple of years in primary school, but I only know the names of Russian gymnasts!" she said.

Ms Duffy heard about the volunteering opportunities for journalism students at the games from a friend who is studying in Melbourne and working for the games as part of her commerce studies.

She put her name on the reserve list and heard she was going to the games a few weeks ago. Ms Duffy, who is originally from the Yarra Valley, went to Melbourne for training two weeks ago and returned to the city on Friday to finalise her preparations.

"I love Melbourne - any excuse to get back there," she said.

Ms Duffy said she was excited about the chance to work at the games and added the University had been supportive of her volunteering.

"My lecturers said it was an opportunity I shouldn't miss," she said.

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Last Updated on March 13, 2006