The five days of celebrations for the 50th Anniversary of the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games commenced in Melbourne today.

In an open letter written for the Sun Herald AOC President John Coates wished everyone involved all the best for the celebrations. 

"Good morning,

There is no doubt the 1956 Olympic Games were a launching pad for great things in our country.

Melbourne hosted the "friendly" games and visitors were touched by our warmth and generosity.

In 1956 we watched in awe great Australian champions including, Dawn Fraser , Murray Rose and John Devitt in the swimming pool and Betty Cuthbert, Shirley Strickland, Marlene Matthews and John Landy on the track.

They inspired a young Herb Elliott who won gold in Rome four years later and remains one of the Olympic immortals.

The Games inspired thousands of Australian kids to play and enjoy sport. They taught our kids about fair play and striving to do your best.

The Olympians of 56 were truly great role models and created what is commonly called "The Golden Era” of Australia.

Their feats propelled the country to greatness both on and off the sporting arena.

They inspired Australians to make better motor cars, to grow better crops, to build better roads and bridges, and to lead the world in medical and scientific development.

We showed the world what multiculturalism was all about.

The 1956 Games provided Melbourne with one of the world’s great arenas, the MCG.

Over the years millions have enjoyed watching sport, whether it is football or cricket, played by the world’s best, at the MCG.

To all those involved, particularly Melburnians, thank you and enjoy the celebration.

John Coates
President Australian Olympic Committee