Olympians parade through city

15.09.2008

Welcome home ... Beijing Olympics gold medallist Libby Trickett signs autographs for fans at the parade in Sydney. Picture: Charlie Brewer

THOUSANDS of proud Sydneysiders have turned out to cheer Australia`s Olympians at a homecoming parade through the city centre.

About 150 athletes who competed in Beijing were showered with green and gold streamers by screaming locals waving Australian flags as they walked down George Street.

The athletes also brought a taste of China home with them, with the colourful parade including Chinese dancers and performers in traditional dress.

Athletes including six-time Olympian James Tomkins, pole-vaulting gold medallist Steve Hooker and diving silver medallist Melissa Wu waved to crowds amid boisterous cheers.

NSW Governor Marie Bashir said the athletes` performances had raised heart rates among the Australian public.

"We watched with an overwhelming sense of pride," she told the Olympians.

"Each of you will always be known as an Australian Olympian."

The crowd cheered "Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi" as the parade made its way to Town Hall for the official reception, with dignitaries including Sports Minister Kate Ellis and NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione.

Addressing the crowd, cycling silver medallist Anna Meares said the parade was a perfect homecoming.

"It is such a good feeling to be out in this atmosphere today," she said.

"To see so many school children out meeting their heroes today is just fantastic."

Tomkins was presented with the key to the City of Sydney by Lord Mayor Clover Moore, while swimming superstar Libby Trickett accepted a plaque from NSW Premier Nathan Rees on behalf of the 435 athletes who competed in Beijing.

Mr Rees said he was proud to be making his first public speech as premier at the homecoming ceremony.

"You`ve joined our Australian Olympic legend," he told the athletes.

"You, our athletes, showed the world the best of Australia."

The lord mayor told athletes they had lived up to Olympic ideals.

"For all of you, faster, higher, stronger is a reality," Cr Moore said.

"For those who stood on the medal platform ... it was a moment of triumph for all of us."

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Welcome home ... Beijing Olympics gold medallist Libby Trickett signs autographs for fans at the parade in Sydney. Picture: Charlie Brewer

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