As the world witnessed the Opening Ceremony of the 21st Olympic Winter Games, the Aussie athletes were soaking in the moment as they marched around BC Place.

Here are the reactions of some of the Australian athletes before and after the Opening Ceremony last night.

“It’s pretty exciting. I have been really looking forward to it since qualifying for the team.” – Scott James, on the excitement of marching at the Opening Ceremony.

“I had no idea. I actually thought that I was in trouble or something when Ian Chesterman (Chef de Mission) called me into his office. I didn’t know whether to hug him or to scream. It’s a huge honour. It’s such a neat thing.” – Torah Bright, on having the honour to carry the Australian flag.

“I thought it was actually quite spectacular. It was a great mix of all the different cultures from around Canada and it was just amazing the light show and technology that they’ve used. It’s moved opening ceremonies up to the next level. It’s a three dimensional show that offers everything, spectacular light to dancing, action and it was such a colourful collection of all Canadian culture. I was feeling proud to be part of such a spectacular event, and with every Canadian sitting there I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house.” – Bree Munro, on the atmosphere during the Opening Ceremony.

“I just got back from the Opening Ceremony and it was absolutely amazing. It was one of the biggest highlights I’ve ever had. The performances were absolutely unbelievable and marching in with almost the whole team there was awesome and there were a lot of Aussie flags out there in the crowd. It will be something that I never ever forget and Vancouver has certainly set the tone for the start of the Olympic Games. The highlight for me definitely would have been the flame, but I think the coolest thing I saw was the underwater scene they did on the stage.” – Lachlan Hay describing his highlights of the Opening Ceremony.