Announced by the Queensland Premier and Minister for the Olympics, Annastacia Palaszczuk today, Johnson and Cook will bring their extensive experience to the organisation of the Brisbane 2032 Games as two of the Premier’s nominees to the board.

AOC President John Coates said Johnson and Cook were stellar choices for these important roles.

“Patrick and Nat are fantastic additions to the board for the Brisbane 2032 Games,” Mr Coates said.

“I have seen first-hand their incredible commitment and passion for the power of Olympic sport. They are not only world-class athletes on the track and sand, they have brought that same drive to spreading the positive impacts of sport throughout communities around Australia.

“Competing in Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004, Patrick has long been an advocate for the ability of sport to change lives and bring people together. As inaugural Chair of the AOC’s Indigenous Advisory Committee, Patrick has provided invaluable advice to the AOC on ways to integrate the acknowledgment, recognition and celebration of First Nations people in the Olympic movement.

“Nat was the first Australian woman to compete at five Games, including that iconic gold on Sydney’s Bondi Beach and served on the AOC Athletes’ Commission promoting the athletes’ voice across multiple Olympic Teams.

“Patrick and Nat know the power of a home Games to inspire a generation of young Australians.

“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games offer a once in a generation opportunity for Brisbane, Queensland and Australia. Patrick and Natalie are fantastic nominees by Premier Palasczuk to maximise this opportunity and I look forward to seeing their important contributions in the years to come.”