World champion 21-year-old Perth cyclist Georgia Baker was named alongside fellow Tasmanians Amy Cure and Richie Porte in the Australian Olympic cycling squad this week, securing the chance to bring a gold medal back to the state for the first time since 2008.

With just four weeks until the opening ceremony, Baker’s hometown is already anticipating the chance to watch a home-grown hero compete on the world’s biggest stage. 

In a statement released on Friday, Northern Midlands deputy mayor Richard Goss took the opportunity to formally wish the former Launceston College student smooth sailing on the journey to Brazil. 

“Tasmania may be small and some people may still think Perth is in Western Australia, but Georgia Baker will put the town well and truly on the world map as she competes in the team pursuit team,” Cr Goss said.

“I know that everyone here will feel so much closer to the Olympic Games with one of their own competing, it’s wonderful.

“It’s so important for us to remember that not all champions are city born and bred - some come from the small places, where small, close-knit community and family support is such a strong motivation.”

After recording a fifth place finish at the track world championships in London earlier this year, the Australian women's team pursuit squad will be eyeing a repeat of the performance that saw it claim the 2015 world championships. 

Baker will be one of two new faces in the Olympic team pursuit squad, joining fellow first-time Olympian Ashlee Ankudinoff and 2012 representatives Cure, Annette Edmondson and Melissa Hoskins.

“Our pride and excitement is tangible,” Cr Goss said.

“Georgia must go to the Olympics knowing she is supported by the people of Northern Midlands so we want to send many positive vibes with her.

“Tasmania has its fair share of sporting stars, but in Rio, our Georgia’s star will burn bright and with her, go all the hopeful hearts in Northern Midlands.”