9/9/04
Western Australia’s 54 Athens Olympians were given a rousing welcome home today in the centre of Perth.
Premier Geoff Gallop said our athletes had proved themselves role models for all Western Australians with their dedication, competitiveness and inspirational performances.
“Ryan Bayley’s landmark achievement of two individual gold medals capped off an outstanding performance by Western Australians at the Athens Games,” Dr Gallop said.
“This was our biggest national team to leave Australian shores and more Western Australians were part of the Athens Games team than at any other Olympics.”
The Premier said the community supported sport and recreation every time they bought a Lotterywest ticket. About $9million was raised each year in this way.
“Every Western Australian can rightly say they made their contribution and supported our athletes in an Olympic journey that reaped 13 medal-winning performances,” Dr Gallop said.
Sport and Recreation Minister Bob Kucera said the State had invested $36million in community sport and recreation facilities since Sydney 2000.
“But sporting stars like our WA Athens Olympians would not have achieved so much, had it not been for the grassroots support that mums and dads give our children every week for training and at weekend events,” Mr Kucera said.
“Our strong sporting ethos relies on the dedication of volunteers who coach, train and support thousands of young sportsmen and women each week. They give children the chance to aspire to the achievements of our Olympic heroes whom we welcome home today.”
Premier’s office - 9222 9475
Minister’s office - 9213 7000
