The Fitzroy River in central Queensland has been confirmed as the venue for the rowing and canoeing events at the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, despite concerns over its status as a crocodile habitat and the river’s strong currents. The decision was announced following an extensive independent technical assessment endorsed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), World Rowing, and Paddle Worldwide.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli formally announced the approval in parliament, stating the river had passed its evaluation “with flying colours” and that the decision was “official, signed, sealed and delivered.” The Fitzroy River will host rowing, para rowing, canoe sprint, and para canoe competitions during the Games.
The choice of the Fitzroy River had sparked controversy since it was first proposed in March 2025 due to safety and logistical concerns. The river is known for being home to approximately 500 saltwater crocodiles and has a reputation for strong currents. In recent years, sightings of large crocodiles have interrupted local events, including the capture of a 15-foot crocodile in 2023 that led to the cancellation of a regatta.
In addition to wildlife concerns, critics highlighted issues such as flooding and heavy silt deposits, which could require frequent maintenance to meet international standards. Some athletes and national rowing federations, including those from Britain, New Zealand, and Germany, reportedly expressed apprehension at a recent World Rowing congress about the site’s fairness, safety, and sustainability.
An open letter signed by 542 rowers, including Australian three-time Olympic gold medallist Drew Ginn, called for the venue to be relocated to a purpose-built facility closer to Brisbane in southeast Queensland. Alternative sites such as Moreton Bay have been promoted as world-class courses and would potentially be more accessible and cost-effective.
Despite these concerns, state officials and local leaders have remained confident in the Fitzroy River’s suitability. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie stated that no widening or dredging would be necessary, as the river’s natural features could accommodate an eight-lane, 2,000-meter Olympic-standard course with sufficient space for start and finish areas. Rockhampton Mayor Tony Williams welcomed the IOC’s nod, emphasizing the region’s readiness to support the Games and urging athletes to be “croc-wise” while reassuring that crocodile management strategies could be implemented.
World Rowing president Jean-Christophe Rolland affirmed that the river was capable of providing fair competition conditions throughout the event duration. Paddle Worldwide president Thomas Konietzko highlighted that the technical review significantly improved understanding of the river’s characteristics and boosted confidence in its viability as a venue.
Brisbane 2032 organizers have moved forward with detailed planning and construction preparations for the course, with Games authority president Andrew Liveris comparing the situation to ocean surfers facing sharks, urging a “can-do” approach. The decision wraps up months of debate over the controversial site, underscoring a tension between regional development ambitions and concerns from parts of the international rowing community.