What’s happening?
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson has been confirmed as one of seven Queensland Mayors appointed to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee’s Host Mayors Advisory Group.
The announcement forms part of the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee’s expansion of its Advisory Groups, which also includes the appointment of Olympian Ian Thorpe AM OLY to the Athletes and Sports Advisory Group.
Both groups, along with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Commercial Advisory Groups, will support the Brisbane 2032 Board in decision-making and implementation in the lead-up to the Games, now less than seven years away.
Why it matters
Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris congratulated the new members and highlighted the importance of regional input.
“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.”
By the numbers
• Just under seven years remain until Brisbane hosts the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
• Seven Queensland Mayors, including Mackay’s Greg Williamson, have joined the Host Mayors Advisory Group.
• Four Advisory Groups are now active — Athletes and Sports, Host Mayors, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and Commercial.
Zoom In
Brisbane Lord Mayor and Host Mayors Advisory Group Chair Adrian Schrinner said expanding the group means more local voices helping shape a Games that benefits communities across Queensland.
“Delivering the world’s biggest sporting event takes teamwork, and this expanded group ensures more councils are part of that effort,” Cr Schrinner said. “Together, we’ll create a Games that leaves lasting benefits including better infrastructure, connected communities and a stronger Queensland economy.”
Zoom Out
The Host Mayors Advisory Group includes Mayors from Fraser Coast, Ipswich, Mackay, Redland, Rockhampton, Toowoomba and Whitsunday. Each will play a role in ensuring Queensland communities are represented as planning progresses. Brisbane 2032 confirmed the composition of the group will evolve as the Games’ sports programme and venue master plan are refined.
Local impact
Mackay’s inclusion highlights the region’s growing importance in Queensland’s future economic and tourism strategies. Through Mayor Williamson’s involvement, the Mackay community will have a voice in shaping how regional Queensland benefits from the Games, from infrastructure to visitor opportunities.
What to look for next
As planning continues, the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee will work with the expanded group of Mayors to ensure communities like Mackay share in the Games’ long-term benefits and legacy.
