Allora Olympian Matt Denny to receive parade in celebration of bronze-medal Paris 2024 effort

A southwest Olympic legend will be honoured and celebrated in his hometown, after showcasing incredible athleticism on the biggest international stage.

An Olympic legend and icon of regional Queensland sport will have an epic homecoming after his historic performance in Paris.

Olympic discus thrower Matt Denny will be welcomed by his beloved hometown of Allora in the state’s Southern Downs on Friday.

Following an inspiring bronze medal win at the 2024 games, Denny will return to the town he first began to throw the discus in.

Bronze medallist Australia's Matthew Denny celebrates on the podium during the victory ceremony for the men's discus throw final athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 8, 2024. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

From 2pm on Friday, Southern Downs Regional Council will invite the Allora community to honour the men’s discus medallist with a street parade and an afternoon of celebrations.

Councillor and Allora local Carla Pidgeon said the community was incredibly proud of Denny’s achievements on the world stage and his tireless journey in getting there.

“Matt’s outstanding performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics has brought immense pride to our community,” Ms Pidgeon said.

“We are delighted to celebrate his achievements with this street parade and it is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate Matt’s success.”

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

Sporting portfolio councillor Russell Wantling acknowledged the effort and perseverance that earnt Denny an Olympic bronze medal.

“Matt’s journey is inspirational and it’s important that we acknowledge the effort and perseverance that led to him winning an Olympic bronze medal,” Mr Wantling said.

“His achievements remind us of the power of determination and the support of a close-knit community.”

Allora boy and Olympic discus champion Matt Denny now appears two stories high outside the local Railway Hotel. Photo: ABC Southern Queensland/Robyn Miles, Allora Railway Hotel

Denny’s inspiring sporting achievements were immortalised before he departed for the French capital with an impressive mural on the town’s pub earlier this year. 

Painted alongside the national champion is a heartfelt message from the community ‘you’ve already made us proud, Matt’.

Allora Sports Museum president Perry Cronin said the long, proud history of Allora sporting stretches back to the simple ethos of country kids having a crack.

“You can’t go past salt of the earth country kids, they all have a go and they excel. Once they realise they have a talent they chase their dream,” Mr Cronin said.

“The thing is, you don’t need to have access to gyms or fancy equipment, gyms don’t make a champion.

“Take Shane Webcke, he grew into a big boy because he got into the paddock with his father ripping out tree trunks with his hands.

“There’s a lot of talent here that’s for sure.”