Celebrating our Sydney 2000
Olympic Games heroes: Desire

In September 2025, Australia celebrates the 25^th anniversary of the Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games. And while the athletes stole the show, the event International Olympic Committee President Juan Antonio Samaranch declared “the best Olympic Games ever” could not have happened without the efforts of thousands of unsung heroes – including our residents.

Meet Desire

When Desire describes the atmosphere at the Sydney Olympics as ‘electric’, he would know better than most. Desire, who lives at Marsden Park Care Community, was one of the tradespeople whose skill, leadership and dedication created the physical environment for the athletes to shine.

As a Foreman, Desire oversaw the installation of critical electrical infrastructure across several Olympic venues. Needing to meet strict industry regulations and tight project deadlines, it was a role that demanded technical excellence, efficiency and the ability to bring teams together.

“Two of the venues I was responsible for were the SuperDome, now known as Qudos Bank Arena, and the Hockey Centre,” says Desire. “It was complex, large-scale work. It needed careful planning and precise execution to ensure the lighting met international standards for visibility, safety, and broadcast quality. Seeing the finished result — fully-illuminated, world-class venues ready to host Olympic athletes from around the globe, was an amazing feeling.”

For Desire, the Olympics highlighted teams who excelled away from the spotlight.

“There was such strong camaraderie and professionalism amongst us,” he recalls. “We were highly motivated to deliver exceptional results, and that created a positive, energetic atmosphere on site. Being part of a team that successfully delivered vital infrastructure for one of the world’s most celebrated sporting events is an unforgettable highlight of my career.”

Excellence reflected

Working at the Games brought a deep sense of appreciation for Desire. While Desire didn’t work at the Olympic pool, watching the world’s best athletes at the peak of their powers left a lasting impression. He saw perfect parallels with the skill and precision of elite swimmers and water polo players, their characteristics reflected in the tradespeople who built the venues. 

High pressure? No problem!

Desire was on-hand throughout the Games to ensure any problems were identified and fixed quickly. While it’s a situation that could make the coolest character sweat, Desire had great confidence in his team. Their ability to resolve challenges quickly and efficiently is testament to the planning, workmanship and professionalism of Desire and his crew.

Reflecting on the role he played in the event that brought the world to Australia, Desire’s primary emotion is pride.

“I watched the Opening Ceremony at home with my family,” says Desire. “Seeing the spectacle unfold was a deeply emotional experience. The lights, the performances, the energy of the crowd – it was spectacular. It was a true celebration of Australia, and the culmination of years of hard work by thousands of people.” 

Caption: Desire onsite as Sydney Olympic Park comes to life.