Zali Steggall (Warringah, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games are well underway, and it's an exciting moment for Australia. I want to wish the very best of luck to the whole Australian team and all the athletes competing on the world stage, especially those proudly representing Warringah. Australia has sent some 53 athletes to these games, the second-largest Winter Olympics team in our history, with women making up 62 per cent of the team and many being first-timers. That is a remarkable achievement for a warm-climate country and a reminder of what is possible when we invest in our athletes and in opportunity.

Even more proudly, six of those athletes will come from the Warringah community: from Manly, alpine skier Madison Hoffman brings skills, focus and determination to the slopes; Lara Hamilton has taken an extraordinary journey from trail running to elite ski mountaineering, reflecting adaptability and courage; Ellen Sohol Lie is contributing to Australia's growing strength and depth in cross-country skiing; at just 18, halfpipe snowboarder Amelie Haskell shows what focus and dedication can achieve in a short space of time; from Manly, mogul skier George Murphy embodies the values of sport, commitment, resilience and belief; and, finally, 18-year-old Daisy Thomas, who, despite injury, is still hoping to compete in the freestyle big air, showing the perseverance that defines elite athletes.

I know what a privilege it is to represent Australia on the world stage, so I'm excited to watch their amazing performances. Good luck, Aussies!