Queensland has unveiled the first segment of the emblem for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, introducing a design inspired by the environment of the Great Barrier Reef. The gold and pink piece was revealed Tuesday in Cairns by Olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe and Paralympic swimmer Grant “Scooter” Patterson, marking the beginning of a staged unveiling across several coastal cities.

The emblem, created under the supervision of the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee and developed by creative agencies, comprises six segments that will be revealed in different locations along Queensland’s coast throughout the week. The full design is slated for public unveiling in Brisbane on October 5. The committee has not disclosed the cost involved in designing the emblem and is financing the effort independently.

Thorpe, a five-time Olympian, described the emblem segment as evocative of the region’s diverse wildlife and natural heritage. He suggested that it could resemble “one of the fins of a turtle” or “the tail of a crocodile,” referencing the distinctive fauna found surrounding the Great Barrier Reef and Far North Queensland. Patterson also shared his view that the shape might represent a crocodile, although Thorpe considered that less likely. Both athletes agreed the emblem’s design connects strongly with Queensland’s unique ecosystem.

Olympics Minister Tim Mander emphasized the significance of unveiling the emblem in parts as a way to promote Queensland’s scenic beauty on the international stage ahead of the Games, which are less than six years away. He described the approach as fitting for the planned decentralised nature of the Brisbane 2032 event, highlighting that the emblem will be a ubiquitous symbol at venues, in promotions, and on merchandise.

“This emblem is going to become synonymous with Brisbane 2032,” Mander said. “It’s an emblem that you’re going to see everywhere — stadiums, advertising, merchandise. It’s incredibly important.”

The staged release aims to generate excitement across the state and the nation as Queensland prepares to welcome the world in 2032. The next emblem segment is scheduled for unveiling later this week in Townsville, continuing the rollout that celebrates the natural and cultural heritage of the host region.