the sydney 2000 olympic and paralympic games - Australian Sports ...

PART FOUR : NSW GOVERNMENT AGENCIES GAMES SUPPORT SERVICES
A number of programs were initiated during Olympic planning, which will provide a legacy benefit to the
community. These include:
• Widening of the Seawall Path.
• Installation of lighting along the Seawall from the Opera House to Mrs Macquaries Point.
• New fencing around Mrs Macquaries Point.
• Repairs to Mrs Macquaries Road.
• Installation of a sub-station at the Yurong toilets.
• Installation of power kiosk in the Yurong, Tarpeian and Philip precincts.
• Permanent sewerage connections in the Gardens and in the Yurong and Philip precincts.
Games-time Results
The Gardens were maintained at a high level during the Games and successfully catered for the increased
number of visitations. 25,000 spectators viewed sporting events from the site each day and it is estimated
that visitations increased by over 300,000. On the first day of competition, the Gardens were seen by an
estimated worldwide television audience of over 3.5 billion.
The Domain was one of 6 Olympics Live sites throughout the city. The Domain Live Site hosted daily
sports coverage on large screens and 7 major concerts of up to 80,000 people.
The Gardens hosted the “State of the Waratah” exhibition, as part of the Olympics Arts Festival. This
focussed on all aspects of the Waratah, including its use in design, art, fashion, architecture
and commerce.
The Olympic Closing Ceremony celebration and associated city celebrations, including the fireworks
spectacular, resulted in the largest single gathering in the Gardens. An estimated 55,000 people attended
Mrs Macquaries Point and up to 80,000 people attended the Domain Olympics Live site concert.
Legacy
The following legacies have arisen from the Royal Botanic Gardens involvement in the Olympic and
Paralympic Games:
• Valuable project management and event planning experience.
• Legacy improvements, such as widening of the Seawall Path and installation of lighting will provide
public amenity for many years to come.
5. State Emergency Services
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) supported NSW Police with the provision of security services
for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The cost of SES Games support was $0.4 million.
Security Support
SES volunteers were trained to the appropriate standard to assist NSW Police with the provision of
Games security.
All volunteers were provided with a new set of SES uniforms and overalls. Accommodation was provided
to transport volunteers to ensure equity between city and rural volunteers. Over 100 volunteers from rural
communities were utilised by the SES in delivering assistance to the Police.
An Olympic Liaison Officer and Planning Officer were appointed to oversee Games programs and other
staff worked overtime to meet Games commitments.
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