Students in Townsville have joined Queensland’s growing excitement for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, creating a giant number “6” to mark the official six-year countdown until the event begins.

The special celebration took place during the school’s athletics carnival at the Townsville Sports Precinct, where students gathered on the track to form the large number as part of the statewide countdown campaign. The date was significant because it marked exactly six years until the opening of the Brisbane Olympic Games, which will begin on 23 July 2032.

The giant “6” follows a similar celebration held the previous year when students and communities helped create a large “7” to represent seven years remaining until the Games. The yearly countdown aims to build excitement among young Australians and encourage students to see themselves as part of the Olympic journey.

For many Townsville students, the upcoming Olympics feel especially important because their city will play a role in hosting events. Townsville has been selected as a venue for Olympic sailing and preliminary football matches, giving North Queensland communities the opportunity to welcome athletes, officials and visitors from around the world.

Year 10 student Mia Brunker said interest in athletics and track sports has been growing among students, with many looking forward to watching the world’s best athletes compete in Australia. She said having the Olympics hosted in Queensland would make the event even more exciting for young people.

Year 12 student Morgan Hammond, who participates in track and field and other sporting activities, said enthusiasm for Olympic sports has continued to increase among students. He said many young people enjoy watching major sporting events and are excited about the possibility of seeing Olympic football matches played in Townsville.

One student already dreaming about competing at the Games is 14-year-old Quinn Lawrie, a middle- and long-distance runner who has competed at regional events. Inspired by the Olympics, Quinn hopes he may one day represent Australia in events such as the 800-metre or 1500-metre races.

The Brisbane 2032 Games are expected to create opportunities across Queensland, with organisers highlighting the importance of inspiring young athletes, improving sporting participation and leaving a long-term community legacy.

Townsville leaders have also pointed to the city’s growing reputation as a major sporting destination. With several high-profile sporting events scheduled in the region, including international rugby, football and rugby league matches, local officials believe the Olympics will further strengthen tourism and investment opportunities.

The student-led celebration shows how the Brisbane 2032 Games are already influencing communities years before the opening ceremony. For many young Queenslanders, the Olympics represent more than a sporting event — they represent a chance to dream bigger, participate in sport and potentially become part of Australia’s Olympic future.