CANBERRA’S paralympians were officially welcomed home from the London Paralympic Games at a Legislative Assembly reception today. 

Paralympians at the private reception included gold medallists Evan O’Hanlon (sprinting), Susan Powell (cycling) and silver medallist Louise Ellery (shot put).

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher praised the “amazing achievements” of the paralympic team, who finished fifth on the medal tally with 32 gold medals, 23 silver and 30 bronze.

“It’s really hard to single out people. I know many of us watched and saw incredible individual goals they reached, personal bests being reached…the broad range of representation in each sport was incredible,” she says.

“I think for some of you it could have been your first or last effort but we can’t wait until four years time.”

Michael Hartung of the Australian Paralympic Committee spoke on behalf of the team, saying “it’s great to be home.”

“We’ve had a fantastic games in London,” he says.

“I’ve got some wonderful memories and it’s been an absolute honour to be part of the paralympics team. These are memories that Australians as a whole should be proud of.

“Every games the paralympians ask more of themselves…achieving even greater performances. And we’ll be doing the same in Rio.”