Mackay And Whitsundays Mayors Join Brisbane 2032 Olympic Advisory Group

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins have been appointed to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee’s Host Mayors Advisory Group, ensuring the Mackay and Whitsunday regions have a voice in shaping the legacy of the Games across Queensland.

The announcement comes as one of Australia’s greatest Olympians, swimmer Ian Thorpe AM OLY, joins the Athletes and Sports Advisory Group, while seven Queensland mayors, including Mayor Williamson, officially take their seats on the Host Mayors Advisory Group.

Both Groups, together with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Commercial Advisory Groups, have been developed to actively support the Brisbane 2032 Board in decisions and implementation in the lead up to the Games in just under seven years’ time.

Brisbane 2032 President, Andrew Liveris congratulated new members and looked forward to their engagement and involvement in delivering a Games that benefits Brisbane, Queensland and Australia long-term.

“There is an incredible amount of support and goodwill across Queensland and beyond to ensure that our home Games are successful and importantly, drive meaningful and lasting legacies for local communities,” Mr Liveris said.

“Those across the Advisory Groups are leaders within their communities and on behalf of those they represent and I have no doubt their contributions will ensure we achieve our collective ambitions.”

Chair of the Athletes and Sports Advisory Group, Susie O’Neill confirmed her delight in Ian’s inclusion as part of the Sports and Advisory Group.

“Ian is not only one of Australia’s greatest Olympians, but an incredible advocate for the success and support of athletes across Australia,” Ms O’Neill said.

“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games edging closer, Ian’s contribution, along with all members of our Advisory Group, will ensure that athletes and the sports associated with the Games continue to be the key focus in our successful delivery.”

“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are about showcasing Brisbane and the best of Queensland and Australia to the world,” Brisbane Lord Mayor and Host Mayors Advisory Group Chair Adrian Schrinner said.

“Expanding the Host Mayors Advisory Group means more local voices helping shape a Games that benefits communities across our state.
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“Delivering the world’s biggest sporting event takes teamwork, and this expanded group ensures more councils are part of that effort.

“Together, we’ll create a Games that leaves lasting benefits including better infrastructure, connected communities and a stronger Queensland economy.”

Brisbane 2032 confirmed that as the Games’ sports programme and venue master plan are refined, the composition of the Host Mayors Advisory Group would evolve accordingly.

Additional Advisory Group Members
• Athletes and Sports Advisory Group (Chair, Susie O’Neill AM OLY) – Ian Thorpe AM OLY
• Host Mayors Advisory Group (Chair, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner)
• Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor, George Seymore
• Ipswich City Council Mayor, Teresa Harding
• Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson
• Redland City Council Mayor, Jos Mitchell
• Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams
• Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor, Geoff McDonald
• Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins

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Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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