QUEENSLAND WELCOMES HOME 2008 AUSTRALIAN OLYMPIC TEAM

The 2008 Australian Olympic Team was welcomed to Brisbane today as part of the national Happy Homecoming Celebrations tour.

Acting Premier Paul Lucas said Australia’s athletes were tremendous in Beijing and set a super sporting standard.

“Our team’s efforts made us all proud to be Australian and even prouder to be Queenslanders,” said Mr Lucas.

“On behalf of all Queenslanders I welcomed our home-grown Olympians and athletes from across the nation and congratulated them on outstanding efforts in the 2008 games.

“After all the long hours at training and the personal sacrifices along the way, today we showed our support and gave the team a big pat on the back.”

Queenslanders made up a quarter of the total Australian team of 435 athletes. Australia finished sixth in the medal tally.

A 100-strong contingent of athletes and team supporters paraded down the Queen Street Mall today. Among the 61 medallists were 36 Queenslanders including Stephanie Rice, Anna Meares, Melissa Wu, Jessicah Schipper and Emma Snowsill.

Australia’s Beijing medallists and all Queensland Olympians were invited to the parade.

Minister for Sport, Judy Spence said: “Queenslanders brought home a staggering 44 per cent of the total medal haul from Beijing this year.”

“These excellent results demonstrate a wealth of talent among Queensland athletes and highlight the quality training and support available in Queensland.”

“The Queensland Government is proud to support these athletes – their sporting success sets a great example to all Queenslanders to get active and enjoy the benefits of physical activity.

“Congratulations to the entire Beijing team – you have done your nation proud.”

Media:
Acting Premier’s office - Matt Klar 0437 435 223
Minister Spence’s office - 3239 6218