Olympic Games

The Rio Olympics have opened in a spectacular fashion with a colourful display of light and Samba. The opening ceremony told the story of Brazil's history, but also focused on the themes of climate change and deforestation. Athletes from 205 countries and an international team of refugees paraded into the Maracana stadium to a Samba beat. Two-time gold medallist Anna Meares carried the flag for the Australian team -- dressed in pin-striped blazers. And an Olympic first for Iran -- Archer Zahra Nemati became the first women to lead the Islamic country's team into the opening ceremony. An audience of around 3-billion people from around the world watched the three-hour spectacle that featuured 5000 volunteers, including 500 musicians and 200 dancers. Tennis star Gustavo Kuerten ended the ceremony by lighting the Olympic cauldron -- proclaiming the games officially open.

aap Source: AAP