In this episode of GovComms, we are joined by Strath Gordon, Head of Public Affairs and Communications at the Australian Olympic Committee.
With the 2024 Paris Olympics starting in July, Strath shares insights into the planning involved in preparing for the Olympic games, including the introduction of 460 Australian athletes to the public and the coordination required to manage media coverage for the event. He emphasises the importance of storytelling in sports communication, and discusses the AOC’s plans for effective on-ground media communication in Paris to ensure all athletes receive appropriate coverage and support.
Reflecting on the Tokyo Olympics, Strath highlights the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, from the postponement of the games to maintaining constant communication with athletes to keep their spirits high. He touches on the lessons learned during this period, such as the critical role of effective communication and the necessity of leveraging technology to stay connected with stakeholders.
Strath outlines how the AOC adapts to the rise of streaming services and digital media by providing content that enhances the viewing experience across various platforms. Additionally, the conversation highlights the AOC's community engagement efforts, such as the Olympics Unleashed Program, which aims to inspire young Australians by connecting them with Olympians.
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Discussed in this episode:
- Preparation and communication strategies for the Paris Olympics.
- The impact of COVID-19 on Olympic communication and athlete support.
- Relationship-building and stakeholder management in communications.
- The evolving role of broadcasters and digital media in the Olympics.
Show notes:
Transcript:
A transcript of this episode can be found here.