Thousands of well-wishers lined city streets to welcome Australian Olympians back from Beijing in a spectacular parade.

More than 100 athletes, including pole vault gold medalist Steve Hooker and gold-winning swimmers Libby Trickett and Stephanie Rice, were cheered on by chants of "Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi".

Many athletes displayed their gold, silver or bronze over green and gold Olympic tracksuits, proudly waving to their supporters.

Bringing a taste of Beijing home with them, dancing Chinese dragons weaved their way between the athletes.

There was also plenty of Australian flavor, with green and gold ticker tape filling the air and men dressed in kangaroo costumes bouncing down the road.

Sprint cycling silver medalist Anna Meares, who overcame a broken back to compete in Beijing, said the atmosphere provided a perfect homecoming.

"It is such a good feeling to be out in this atmosphere today," Australian Associated Press quoted Meares as saying.

NSW Governor Marie Bashir said the performances of the 435 Australian athletes who competed in Beijing had raised heart rates among the public.

"(We) watched with an overwhelming sense of pride at your determination ... your courage and the skill which placed Australia in the top six," Bashir said.

"Each of you will always be known as an Australian Olympian and this is a glorious honor that can never be diminished."

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore presented six-time Olympic rower James Tompkins with the keys to the city at Town Hall, while Trickett accepted a plaque from NSW Premier Nathan Rees.

Rees congratulated the athletes' display of Australian spirit in Beijing by saying "You've joined our Australian Olympic legend."

After the official ceremony was over, many athletes greeted fans, signing autographs and posing for photographs.

The parade was the first of a series of homecoming events to beheld in each state and territory capital, wrapping up in Canberra on September 23.

(Xinhua News Agency September 15, 2008)