Rockhampton confirmed as host of rowing events for 2032 Brisbane Olympics

Rockhampton has been confirmed as the host of rowing events for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, despite initial concerns over the suitability of the Fitzroy River. The International Olympic Committee has given the green light for the river to host rowing and canoe sprint events, following an independent technical assessment.

Crocodile concerns dismissed

The decision to host rowing events on the Fitzroy River has sparked debate due to its status as a crocodile habitat. However, according to Koorana Crocodile Farm owner John Lever, the concerns are "a media beat-up."

"I would be more concerned about having a vehicle accident on the way to put your boat in than I would about the crocodiles," Mr Lever said. "The crocodile side of [the rowing] has been blown out of all proportion."

"There's very few crocodiles in the freshwater section of the river — I think we've had four removed in 40 years — so there's no great threat there," he said. "School kids are out there rowing every day of the week and if it was considered to be a danger, they wouldn't allow those school kids out there."

River safety and infrastructure

A DETSI spokesperson said there has never been a documented negative interaction between humans and crocodiles in the Rockhampton region. However, University of Queensland crocodile expert, Emeritus Professor Craig Franklin, said it was a "foolish and misguided decision" to host the rowing event in croc country.

"Simply, it is not OK to canoe or row where estuarine crocodiles live and breed," Emeritus Professor Franklin said. "It is dangerous, and the consequences can be lethal."

Premier David Crisafulli said the river's endorsement from World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide had proven doubters wrong. The independent technical assessment tested river flows, water levels, wind and wave conditions, and showed the river could provide "fair competition conditions."

Upgrades and accommodation

The Queensland government said upgrades to the existing Fitzroy River course will be delivered ahead of 2032, including "enhanced permanent infrastructure and amenities." Queensland Row Union president Gary Merritt said some areas will likely need to be cleared for spectator grandstands and the boating park, but flooding may cause problems.

The region's peak tourism body, Capricorn Enterprise, has flagged the need for an extra 1,200 short-term accommodation rooms by 2032. The body's chief executive, Mary Carroll, said she is now "confident" that the target will be met in the next six years.