Fitzroy River cleared for 2032 rowing events despite ongoing fairness debates
World Rowing and the IOC have endorsed the Rockhampton venue, overriding a 2025 state report that favoured the Sydney course.
The Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, has been officially approved by World Rowing and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the venue for rowing and canoe sprint events at the 2032 Brisbane Games. The endorsement follows a technical assessment by an engineering firm and the Games' infrastructure authority, which concluded that the river is capable of providing fair competition conditions during the event period.
The decision resolves a period of uncertainty following a 2025 commissioned report that found the Fitzroy River unsuitable and recommended using the Sydney Olympic Park course from the 2000 Games instead. Despite this earlier finding, the Queensland state government proceeded with the Rockhampton venue, a move that has drawn scrutiny from international sporting bodies.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli characterised the approval as definitive, stating in parliament that the river had passed with "flying colours" and was "signed, sealed and delivered." He dismissed critics as "interstate and overseas elites" reluctant to travel to regional Queensland, a comment that prompted responses from rowing officials who maintained their concerns were strictly about competitive fairness rather than geographic preference.
The primary objections raised by international rowing bodies, including the German and New Zealand associations, focused on the river's tidal currents and natural bends rather than the presence of approximately 500 saltwater crocodiles. While the reptiles, which can grow up to four metres long, have not attacked humans in over 40 years according to state records, Australian Olympic gold medallist Drew Ginn cited potential flooding and integrity issues as key concerns for athletes.
World Rowing president Jean-Christophe Rolland stated that the extensive analysis undertaken provided confidence in the river's suitability for both rowing and canoe sprint athletes. The assessment specifically examined the riverbed, competition course, river flows, water levels, and likely weather conditions during the Games.
The venue must still undergo a final assessment regarding design, value for money, and long-term community legacy. As this decision rests with the state government, the Fitzroy River is expected to remain the primary site, although the Sydney course remains available as a backup option should further issues arise.
