The 1956 Summer Olympics was an international multi-sport event which was held in Melbourne, Victoria. It took place from the 22nd of November to the 8th of December. 3314 athletes from 72 nations participated, and 314 competitors were Australian. Australia won a total of 35 medals (13 gold, 8 silver, 14 bronze), and was ranked 3rd overall. The flag bearer for Australia was Mervyn Wood (rower).
At the Games, 13 swimming events were held, seven for men and six for women. Australia won eight swimming events. A total of 33 countries participated. Dawn Fraser was one of 235 athletes to compete in the swimming events. Australia won a total of 14 medals (8 gold, 4 silver, 2 bronze). Dawn Fraser