Five-time Olympian and Australian basketball legend Patty Mills has been announced as a member of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Advisory Council.
Mills will sit on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, one of four key advisory groups set up to guide the Games organizing committee.
The proud Naghiralgal, Meriam and Kokotha athlete shared the news on Instagram and reflected on his Olympic journey and hopes for the future.
“From a kid watching Sydney 2000 to now shaping Brisbane 2032, my Olympic journey has come full circle,” Mills wrote.
“As a founding member of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Advisory Board with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, my commitment is clear. Brisbane 2032 must be more than competition. It must be a legacy.”
“One of unity, unforgettable moments and intentional experiences that blur boundaries, unlock opportunity and ignite connection in lives that rarely intersect.”
Mills has represented Australia at five Olympic Games, won a bronze medal at Tokyo 2020 and has long been recognized for his leadership both on and off the field.
Australian Olympic Committee president Ian Chesterman said Mills’ appointment was a powerful step towards promoting reconciliation through sport.
“Patty is a true champion, both on and off the field, and a proud Indigenous leader,” he said.
“The Australian Olympic Committee is committed to promoting reconciliation through sport and the opportunities presented by the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games should be maximised.”
He said Mills’ participation would ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives are embedded in the Games from the start.
“I am sure all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes will be pleased to know that Patty is adding his voice to make Brisbane 2032 another important step in that journey towards reconciliation and a milestone for Indigenous peoples.”
The newly formed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group will advise on how the Games can reflect and celebrate the cultures, voices and histories of First Nations peoples.
Mills’ appointment marks a new chapter in his career-long advocacy for representation and inclusion, building on his efforts to create pathways for young Indigenous athletes.
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