Pat Farmer (Macarthur, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Youth and Sport) Share this | Hansard source

Mr Speaker, on indulgence, I would like to echo the comments of the Minister for Sport in relation to the Paralympians and wish them the very best in their journey and their endeavours overseas. They are true representatives of the Australian spirit. Every single day of their lives is a gold-medal performance as far as we are concerned. I think it is important to note that never before were the Paralympians highlighted as well for their efforts and for their continued support of the Australian flag and all that it stands for in this country than in the 2000 Olympics, the Sydney 2000 Games. They showed their tenacity, their strength of spirit, their ability to get on with the job and all that the Olympic theme stands for during those games. I saw on many occasions Paralympians from Australia hugging and supporting athletes from overseas, clapping and cheering them on. I think it is a kindly reminder to all of us, especially those here in this House, of how when we unite towards a common goal of humanity we can achieve great things.

See this speech in context