A dazzling opening ceremony showcasing the cultural heritage of Australia marked the inauguration of the 18th Commonwealth Games in Melbourne on Wednesday.

Queen Elizabeth II formally declared the Games open amidst thunderous applause by about 80,000 spectators who thronged the Melbourne Cricket Ground to herald the biggest and the costliest Commonwealth Games ever.

A breathtaking display of fireworks lit up the Melbourne skyline immediately after the dignitaries made an appearance on the specially erected dais in the middle of the stadium.

After the formalities of hoisting the flags and introducing the dignitaries, the opening ceremony began with a cultural programme on diverse themes related to the country's heritage.

The march past for the 71 participating countries began with England walking onto the arena first and hosts Australia bringing up the rear.

A vociferous roar greeted the large Australian contingent as it made a grand entry much to the jubilation of the capacity crowd.