Qld Olympic heroes touch down in Brisbane after months away

Queensland’s Olympic heroes have received a huge reception at Brisbane airport on Wednesday with family, friends and fans turning out to welcome them home.

Queensland’s Olympic heroes have received a rock star welcome as they touched down in Brisbane on Wednesday.

Clad in their unmistakable green and gold tracksuits, Kaylee McKeown, Elijah Winnington, Meg Harris, Cameron McEvoy, Abby Andrews and Matt Denny were met with cheers and applause.

Queensland Olympians arriving home to Brisbane, Airport. Picture: Liam Kidston

The wet weather, which delayed their flight from Sydney, did nothing to deter the throngs of friends, family and fans eager to give the athletes a hero’s welcome. The crowd, armed with homemade signs, flowers, balloons and plenty of green and gold, turned out in force to celebrate their return.

“It’s great day to be Australian, and these athletes deserve a warm homecoming, it’s been a big journey for them,” said Jeff Winnington, father of swimmer Elijah.

“They’ve been away for over two months, so to have them back again to celebrate his family and friends, weather couldn’t hold anyone away.”

The athletes, many proudly displaying their medals, embraced loved ones and chatted with fans.

Queensland Olympians arriving home to Brisbane, Airport. Picture: Liam Kidston

Some, like swimmer Kaylee McKeown, were keen to make a quick escape, with McKeown whispering to her mother, Sharon Birmingham, “I’m not doing it, Mum,” as she dodged journalists and made a sprint for the exit.

Exhausted but elated, the Olympians expressed their joy at being back on home soil after the gruelling time away.

For many, the thought of home-cooked meals and familiar comforts was at the forefront of their minds.

Olympians including Meg Harris and Kaylee McKeown back on home soil after an epic Olympics campaign. Picture: Liam Kidston

“It’s been a huge travel day, but it was awesome, we got to be in business class,” silver medal water polo player Abby Andrews said.

“I can’t wait for some home food, to have a big steak”.

For some the celebrations were just beginning. Whittington’s parents had a surprise party planned at their house, with family members travelling from Hervey Bay to join the festivities. “We have a surprise party for him, with family coming down from Hervey Bay,” Elijah’s mum Debbie said. “It’s a big celebration at home that’s for sure.”

Others were simply looking forward to some downtime.

Champion swimmer Cam McEvoy with girlfriend Madeline Bone. Picture: Liam Kidston

“I can’t wait to get into comfy clothes and not leave the house for a couple of days, get the best Uber eats coming in and really just be a lazy slob, I’m super excited for it,” gold medallist Cameron McEvoy said.

“I’m running on little sleep, but I’m so excited to be home,” gold and silver medallist Meg Harris said., adding that she was looking forward to some Tim Tams. “I definitely missed those!”