The Albanese Government congratulates Jessica Fox and Eddie Ockenden after they were named Australia's Flag Bearers for Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Pioneering paddle gold medallist Fox and five-time Olympian Ockenden will be the Flag Bearers for the Australian Olympic Team at the Opening Ceremony of the Paris Games.
The selection of these outstanding athletes as Flag Bearers recognises their years of representing Australia on the national and global sporting stages as well as their commitment, character, sacrifice and drive to succeed.
To carry the flag is the highest recognition of achievement and leadership that can be conferred on any athlete in an Australian sport or multi-sport team.
Jessica Fox will compete in her fourth Olympics and already has bronze, silver and gold medals to her name.
Eddie Ockenden is the first Australian hockey player to feature in five Olympics. The father of three will play his 450th game for his country during the Paris Games.
The Albanese Government is backing our athletes now and into the future with record levels of funding to not only help athletes achieve their dreams in Paris but also support the next generation for Brisbane 2032.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Anika Wells:
"This honour is richly deserved for our newest Flag Bearers. Jess Fox and Eddie Ockenden have been chosen for their sporting prowess, their humility and grace under pressure.
"Beyond Jess's exceptional canoe and kayak feats she is a trailblazer who has fought hard for and delivered greater gender equality in paddle sports, where for decades women were not allowed to compete in the same disciplines as men.
"Eddie is not just an Australian hockey icon but a global sporting champion who has won silver and bronze Olympic medals and played the third most games of any hockey player from any country in history."
