Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River received approval on September 17 to host rowing and canoe sprint at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, ABC reported. World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide endorsed the course after an independent technical review, the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) confirmed.
The central Queensland venue, about 600 kilometres north of Brisbane, has faced criticism over competition conditions and accommodation. AFP reported that strong currents and flooding raised concerns about fairness. The river is also a saltwater crocodile habitat, drawing attention to the choice of location.
GIICA said WaterProof Marine Consultancy and Services examined the riverbed, course, flows, water levels and barrage operations. The review also assessed weather during the proposed Games period and used on-water testing and modelling to examine wind, waves and currents under different scenarios.
According to GIICA, the federations reviewed the findings and visited the site before endorsing its ability to provide safe, fair and consistent competition. World Rowing president Jean-Christophe Rolland said the analysis demonstrated suitable conditions for Olympic and Paralympic rowing, AFP reported. That assessment concerns the course’s sporting suitability.
Broader project work remains underway. ABC reported that Rowing Australia and Paddle Australia acknowledged the technical assessment, with Rowing Australia awaiting the full project validation report. GIICA said further assessments would address venue requirements, design, risk reduction and the facility’s long-term use.
ABC reported that Queensland would now advance detailed planning, design and construction. GIICA said the river already hosts school championships, local regattas and national training camps, and that proposed upgrades would support community sport. AFP reported that the technical assessment did not address crocodile threats; officials had previously said sighting-reporting procedures would be in place.
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