Surfboard for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games closing ceremony
Datec 2000
Object number00036076
NameCostume accessory
MediumFoam, fiberglass, paint
DimensionsOverall: 2560 x 540 x 40 mm, 4.72 kg
ClassificationsCommemorative artefacts
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from the Olympic Co-ordination Authority, NSW Ministry for the Arts
DescriptionThis foam and fiberglass single fin surfboard was used in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games closing ceremony. The top surface of the board features a white ribbon on a bright blue background, while the underside surface features a yellow lightening bolt on a red background.HistoryThe closing ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games was held on Sunday, 1 October, at Stadium Australia, Homebush Bay. It included ceremonial formalities, a parade of athletes and a party complete with a parade of floats that both celebrated and mocked aspects of Australian popular culture. Icons included Hills Hoists, blowflies, lifesavers and thongs.
The artistic director of the closing ceremony David Atkins explained: 'The athletes have finished competition, and are ready to party, and we have set about creating a party to end all parties. We have decided to invite everyone into our giant Australian backyard - fully equipped with Hills Hoists, barbecues, an eclectic mix of music, performers and all manner of Australiana. Australians have a tradition of throwing great parties, and this one will be imbued with a sense of fun, larrikinism and goodwill.'SignificanceThe board is an important document of the Australian Olympic Commitee's response to Australian beach culture. It represents a contemporary interpretation of the place surfing has in constructions of Australian identity. 
