Four Sunshine Coast Council staff members will attend the Paris Games to get insights ahead of Brisbane 2032, when the Sunshine Coast will host multiple events.
The contingent will follow in the footsteps of mayor Rosanna Natoli, who in May announced she will attend the Games to learn and participate in a program.
The delegates are expected to learn about the logistics of hosting such a big event. They will focus on transport, sustainability, accessibility, city and venue operations, community impact, arts and culture, and local business engagement.
The trips will cost $57,000 and will be paid from council’s 2024-25 budget.
The council will fund $7500 for Cr Natoli’s accommodation. The mayor and the Olympic Family Program will pay for her other expenses.
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Acting CEO Debra Robinson said the four council staff members would learn plenty in Paris.
“The delegates will also observe nine events proposed to be held on the Sunshine Coast in 2032, enhancing our understanding of the spectator experience,” she said.
“Each delegate will attend different portions of the program to maximise learning outcomes.
“That firsthand experience is important in ensuring the Sunshine Coast is well-prepared to co-host the Games in 2032.
“Hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games is an unparalleled event, and nothing compares with the scale, impact and benefits.
“Our goal is to deliver a flawless experience and legacy for our community, businesses, and environment, showcasing nine spectacular events on the global stage.
“To achieve this, we’re committed to learning from these Games to ensure we’re fully prepared for 2032.”
Three of the four council representatives will be attendees of the Observer Program at the Paris Olympics. They include the Brisbane 2032 program lead, the manager environment and sustainability policy, and the venues manager Sunshine Coast Stadium.
The other council staff member – the Brisbane 2032 senior program officer – will be an attendee of the Paralympic Games Future OCOG Activities and Learning Program.
The council delegates will join other Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Delivery Partner representatives, including those from City of Gold Coast and Brisbane City councils.
Cr Natoli will travel to Paris to participate in a separate Paris 2024 Olympic Games Family Program, at the invitation of the International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Games Organising Committee.
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