At Parramatta Public School’s Olympiad games, held last term, there were equal measures of athleticism and creativity on show.

The day started with a torch relay followed by the “lighting” of the school’s Olympic cauldron. “The cauldron was a kettle barbeque, with a hairdryer that blew the crepe paper flames,” principal Robyn Dixon said.

Former Olympian Bill Henderson was a special guest at the opening ceremony and shared his experiences as goal keeper for the Australian Soccer team at the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games.

Parramatta Public School’s creative interpretation of Olympic events included water-noodle equestrian races, discus throwing with paper plates and shot-put with sock balls. A barbeque and multicultural musical performances were also held.

“It was an outstanding success – it was really to celebrate the Beijing Olympics, especially as so many of our students come from China. And we also raised about $3,500 for the school,” Ms Dixon said.