Australian Olympic and Paralympic athletes will gather at South Bank in Brisbane tomorrow for a public celebration of their success at the Paris 2024 Games.
Queenslanders can get selfies and autographs, and hear about life at the Games, from their heroes, in a special homecoming event for Queensland-based athletes, and many members of the Australian swimming team.
“Queensland truly has some of the greatest athletes in the world – they have done our state, and our country, so proud,” said Queensland Premier, Steven miles.
“Now, it’s time to celebrate them. This will be a great day, where the next generation can meet their heroes and hear what it takes to be an Olympian or Paralympian.
“As we chart a course towards hosting this world-stopping event in 2032, there’s no better time to get behind the most successful Team Australia in history.”
Four athletes will participate in a special question-and-answer session before the stars meet the crowds for photographs and autographs.
Australia won a record 18 Olympic gold medals, 19 silver, and 16 bronze medals to finish 4th in the overall medals table.
The swimming team won seven gold medals, nine silver, and three bronze with all but one of these medals won by Queensland-based athletes.
Queensland athletes contributed nine gold, 12 silver, and seven bronze medals to Australia’s medal tally, representing more than 50% of the total.
The Australian team won a total of 63 Paralympic medals, including 18 gold, 17 silver, and 28 bronze for 9th place in the medals table, with Queensland athletes contributing seven gold, five silver, and 16 bronze medals.
The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games represented the most successful Games for Queensland athletes.
Saturday’s homecoming celebration starts at 9 am, including family entertainment and sports activities, followed by an athletes’ parade, athletes Question and Answer session, and autograph opportunities.
“Brisbane is bursting with pride for our Queensland athletes following an incredibly successful Olympic and Paralympic Games and we can’t wait to officially welcome them home,” said Brisbane Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner.
“Our Olympians and Paralympians helped paint a picture of the positive legacy that can be created today, during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.
“This Saturday is all about celebrating their achievements and inspiring a new generation of homegrown heroes who will have an opportunity to compete on home soil in just eight years’ time.”
Event details:
Date: Saturday 14 September 2024
Time: 9 am – 12 noon
Place: Cultural Forecourt, South Bank, Brisbane.
