Cathy Freeman joins Brisbane 2032 advisory group
Cathy Freeman has joined Brisbane 2032’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group before the 2032 Games.
What’s happening?
Australian Olympic great Cathy Freeman AC OLY has joined the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group.
She attended her first meeting this week.
The group is one of four Brisbane 2032 advisory groups. It will continue helping the Brisbane 2032 Board shape the direction, focus and success of the Games.
Ms Freeman said she was honoured to take part as Australia prepares to host the Olympic Games for a third time in 2032.
“I have so many wonderful memories of the Sydney 2000 Games, from the honour of lighting the Olympic flame to the jubilation of winning gold in the 400 metres final, and I’m excited to create new memories ahead of Brisbane and Queensland’s turn to host,” Ms Freeman said.
“There is nothing like the sense of unity, pride and belonging that sweeps across a home nation and everyone that visits during a Games and to have an opportunity to be part of this Advisory Group and the counsel they are delivering is very special.”
“Our home Games in 2032 is an incredible opportunity to showcase the very best of who we are to the world, starting with our history dating back more than 65,000 years, and I look forward to playing my part over the coming six years.”
Why it matters?
Freeman’s appointment adds one of Australia’s most respected Olympic figures to a group helping guide Brisbane 2032.
Her role also strengthens the Indigenous voice inside Games planning at a key stage before 2032.
Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris AO said Freeman’s experience and standing would add weight to the group’s advice.
“There are few Australians with the gravitas of Cathy Freeman, and I’m delighted she has accepted the invitation to be part of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, who are providing critical advice to the Brisbane 2032 Board as we progress towards the Games in 2032,” Mr Liveris said.
“Cathy is an inspiration to generations of athletes and communities, and I look forward to seeking her guidance and that of all Advisory Group members as we prepare to host a unique moment in time that will unite, excite and inspire our nation and the world.”
Advisory Group Chair and Australian Olympian Patrick Johnson OLY said the appointment could help shape a lasting legacy.
“Cathy is an extraordinary role model and a friend I admire and deeply respect. Her integrity, strength and purpose set the standard,” Mr Johnson said.
“Brisbane 2032 is bigger than the Games. It’s about legacy and a movement that will inspire generations to dream without limits.”
“Cathy’s vision and determination will strengthen our collective voice and elevate our impact, ensuring what we build resonates far beyond Brisbane, Queensland and Australia.”
“The Games in 2032 will not just be remembered. It will be felt across generations as we believe, belong and become part of the Olympic and Paralympic family and movement.”
Local Impact
The appointment puts more focus on how Brisbane 2032 can reflect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and leadership.
Queensland Minister for Sport, Racing and the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said Freeman’s involvement would help shape a strong legacy across the state.
“Cathy Freeman is one of Australia’s most celebrated Olympians and it’s fantastic to see her bringing her experience to the Brisbane 2032 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group,” Mr Mander said.
“The Crisafulli Government is focused on delivering a successful Olympic and Paralympic Games that will inspire the next generation of athletes and showcase Queensland to the world.”
“Having respected sporting leaders like Cathy Freeman contributing to the planning will help ensure the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games leave a legacy for sport and communities across Queensland that lasts well beyond 2032.”
Federal Minister for Sport Anika Wells said Freeman’s insight would matter in the lead-up to the Games.
“Cathy Freeman gave Australians one of the most iconic Olympic moments ever at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, so having her part of this group and offering her unique insight is incredible,” Minister Wells said.
“Athlete centred experiences are crucial to inform decisions around Brisbane 2032 and Cathy’s achievements on and off the track speak volumes about her tenacity and spirit as an athlete, and an indigenous woman. I’m excited for her to be part of this important group.”
By the numbers
Brisbane 2032 has four advisory groups in place, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Athlete and Sport, Commercial, and Host and Co-Host Mayors.
Australia will host the Olympic Games for the third time in 2032, with Freeman linking the lead-up to her Sydney 2000 memories.
Freeman said Brisbane 2032 is a chance to share a history dating back more than 65,000 years, while helping shape the next six years before the Games.
Zoom In
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group includes:
Patrick Johnson OLY, Chair
Baringa Barambah
Cathy Freeman AC OAM OLY
Sarah Kelly OAM
Julie-ann Lambourne
Patty Mills AM OLY
David Williams
Freeman joins a group already made up of respected Indigenous and sporting leaders.
Zoom Out
Brisbane 2032 has set up four advisory groups to help guide planning across key areas.
That structure shows the organising committee is building input across culture, sport, business and local government as work continues toward 2032.
What To Look For Next?
More detail is expected as Brisbane 2032 moves deeper into preparation for the Games. The advisory group’s role in shaping lasting outcomes will be one area to follow.