A Golden Summer in Paris: Aussies Celebrate Their Olympic and Paralympic Champions at Home

Although the Olympics and Paralympics have concluded, Australia is just getting started with its official celebrations for the athletes.

The closing ceremony of the Paralympics on Monday signalled the end of an immensely successful six-week period for the iconic green and gold, featuring Australia’s most decorated Olympic campaign to date.

NSW Premier Chris Minns hosted Olympic and Paralympic athletes from his state at a celebratory ceremony held at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour on Friday.

A large crowd gathered for the event, which saw the band Sneaky Sound System take to the stage.

“After six weeks, it’s all said and done, but what a golden summer you experienced in Paris,” remarked Minns from the stage.

“Australia secured 53 Olympic medals, 63 Paralympic medals, and 18 gold in both events – the highest in our nation’s history.

“You know you’re making your mark when you can say that if Penrith were a country, it would rank as the 20th best sporting nation globally.

“Every athlete present has reached the pinnacle of their sport, and you will carry the title of Olympian and Paralympian for life.

“Gold is incredible, but it isn’t everything. The true achievement lies in having the bravery to compete, to give your all in the arena, that’s what truly matters in the end.

“Thanks to our Olympians and Paralympians, a new generation will be motivated to step outside, dive into the pool, hop on their bikes, and engage in sports they’ve never considered.

“At the end of the day, more kids will put their phones down and venture outside to play with their friends… and who knows, perhaps some will even go on to represent their country.”

The celebration continues throughout the weekend across the nation.

Similar gatherings will take place in Brisbane and Perth on Saturday, followed by an event in Adelaide on Sunday.