The XV Paralympic Games in Rio opened at the Maracana Stadium with a carnival atmosphere this morning (AEST).
The joyous rhythms of samba singers set the atmosphere in front of a packed stadium, followed by a giant projection of Brazil's Paralympic swimmer Daniel Dias, and a carnivalesque reproduction of a Rio beach scene.
Wheelchair basketball star Brad Ness led the 170+ Australian team in the Opening Ceremony.
More than 4300 athletes from 159 nations, plus two refugees in an independent team, are prepared to perform to the peak of their physical capabilities and change perceptions of what is possible.
A total of 36 athletes on VIS scholarship across 10 sports will compete at the Games - good luck to all!
