The rain couldn’t dampen the festival atmosphere when the Australian Olympic Winter Team were greeted by a DJ spinning Midnight Oil, compare Sandra Oh of Grey’s Anatomy, and traditional Inuit performers at the flag raising ceremony.

Along with Ethiopia, Norway, Iceland and Portugal, Australia had the honour of being the second last grouping of nations being officially welcomed at the Olympic Games, which begin tomorrow with the Opening Ceremony.

At the international zone inside the Olympic Village, the party spirit was balanced by the formal flag raising ceremony, playing of national anthems, exchange of gifts and words of inspiration supplied by co-village Mayors, Rick Hanson and Patricia Wells.

Both Olympic and Paralympic medallists, they informed the gathered athletes, coaches and VIP’s that the dress rehearsal and training was over. “Don’t hold back”, urged Mr Hanson ‘This is your time”. He also advised them to use their Olympic time as an opportunity to form cross cultural ties and be ambassadors for peace.  

The Australians, looking smart in their Sportscraft formal dress, celebrated post ceremony with the Vancouver life sized Mascots, before heading for the team reception.  

Flip Byrnes
AOC - Vancouver