We need to send off Olympians in style

It will be a long time before this many Olympic athletes will be in Darwin at one time, so the Top End must give them a send-off they’ll remember.

THE Top End has a unique opportunity and we must hurry to determine a way to seize it.

More than 200 Olympic athletes and staff are in quarantine at Howard Springs after competing in the Tokyo Games.

They’re taking the opportunity to relax, soak up the sun and enjoy each other’s company from a distance but there’s no doubt all of them are eager to get home.

So we must give them a send-off they’ll remember.

In July, Chief Minister Michael Gunner confirmed plans were under way for a ticker-tape parade through the Darwin CBD.

While this plan has run into logistical issues, it is the NT’s responsibility to say goodbye to these Olympians in style. It will be a long time before this many Olympic athletes will be in Darwin at one time.

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It’s understood some athletes plan to stay a day or two to enjoy the NT but most will be itching to get home.

If a ticker-tape parade isn’t possible, then as many people as possible need to get out to Howard Springs next week.

We need to be waving green and gold streamers, giant kangaroos and signs with the names of their favourite athletes. We need to be screaming so loud people in Darwin and Litchfield can hear.

We cannot afford to let this opportunity slip away, so let’s get creative and celebrate our Olympians Territory-style.