Olympians and Paralympians welcomed home
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Canberran paralympic power lifter Deahnne McIntyre is welcomed home. (ABC News: Damien Larkins)
About 300 Canberrans gathered outside the Legislative Assembly this afternoon to officially welcome home Australia's Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
The athletes were given a rousing reception by the crowd and when they arrived many spectators jumped onto the Civic Square fountain to gain a better view.
The most enthusiastic participants were schoolchildren, many of whom waved Australian flags and homemade banners.
Chief Minister Jon Stanhope formally welcomed the athletes saying that their achievements were a source of immense pride for the whole city.
The Olympians then roamed about in the crowd, signing autographs and showing off their medals to fans.
Olympic rowing silver medallist Francis Hegerty said he was delighted by the response.
"I think it's fantastic, it's great to be able to thank the public for all their help and support during the games," he said.
"I've got family and friends here so it was really to be able to kind of see my grandma and aunt and friends and just thank them for all the support I've got in the past couple of months."
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