The Isle of Man has been the first country officially welcomed to the Commonwealth Games Village in Melbourne. The Major of the Village exchanged gifts with Association Chairman Robin Oake, before inviting the team to compete at the event. Naturally, the invitation was accepted and the Manx flag was raised over the complex. The host country has been rocked by the news it's biggest star, swimmer Ian Thorpe, has been forced to withdraw from the Games because of illness. PICTURE - Ian Thorpe