PAST Olympians from around the world gathered at Lake Wendouree yesterday to mark the anniversary of the 1956 Olympic Games.
Reminiscences on the day included the story of a Russian rower who dropped his gold medal into Lake Wendouree then dived in after it and movie star Grace Kelly's brother John Kelly competing in the sculling events.
American rower Bob Morey said the day was a chance to share "war stories" from the 1956 Olympics when the rowing, canoeing and kayaking events were all held in Ballarat at Lake Wendouree.
He was shocked yesterday to see the state of the lake, but said it had been a "wonderful reunion".
"The people here are so positive and welcoming and it was like that when we were here before."
Italian rower Antonio Casuar said it was great to be back in Ballarat for the anniversary. He now lives in Melbourne, having decided to move to Australia just one year after competing in the 1956 games.
Former cox of the Australian pairs in rowing, John Cockbill was only 16-years-old in 1956. He said there was a real sense of closeness between the competitors in Ballarat compared to the Olympic village in Heidelberg which was much bigger.
Mr Cockbill said the competitors all shared their meals in the one dining room and lived in nissan huts.
"It's a great get-together with old friends from the Australian team and also meeting international visitors from other rowing nations."
City of Ballarat heritage councillor and former photographer with The Courier Herman Ruyg remembered taking pictures of Grace Kelly's brother, sculler John Kelly who was considered a "real star".
"We had a lot of fun ... we didn't have any of the issues you have now about security."
A time capsule containing memorabilia donated by Ballarat Olympians from 1956 to 2004 was also sealed to be opened in 50 years time.