The Pope has thanked Sydney for opening its doors and hearts to World Youth Day pilgrims as he leaves Australia, bound for the Vatican.
The Pope arrived at the airport in very windy conditions after briefly stopping at the Domain to thanks the thousands of volunteers who have made World Youth Day celebrations such a success.
In the hangar alongside the Qantas 747 that will take him home, the Pope thanked Australia for its hospitality and said it was a visit he will never forget.
"In characteristic Australian style you have extended a warm welcome to me and to countless pilgrims who have flocked here from every corner of the globe," he said.
"To the families of Australia and New Zealand who have made room for the young people in their homes, I am especially grateful.
"You have opened your doors and your hearts to the world's youth and on their behalf I thank you.
"The principal actors on stage these last few days of course have been the young people themselves.
"It is them who have made this a global event, a great celebration of youth and a great celebration of what it is to be the church - the people of God and the world united in faith and love and empowered by the spirit to be witness of the ways of Christ to the ends of the earth.
"I thank them for coming, I thank them for their participation and I pray that they have a safe journey home.
"I know these young people, their families and their sponsors have in many cases made great sacrifices to enable them to travel to Australia.
"For this the entire church is grateful."
In turn, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd farewelled the Pope on behalf of all Australians and then announced former Deputy Prime Minister, Tim Fischer, is to become Australia's first resident ambassador to the Holy See.
The Pope's flight is due to leave Sydney in the next few minutes.