Crocodile river gets Olympic approval

The Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, home to about 500 saltwater crocodiles, has passed technical assessment to host 2032 Olympic and Paralympic rowing and canoeing events.

Technical assessment focused on water conditions

The independent assessment examined how the course would perform under different weather, water levels, and flood risk, but did not evaluate the crocodile presence.

Venue already hosts major rowing events

The Fitzroy River Flatwater Facility is an established training and competition venue supporting school championships, local regattas, and national team training camps.

World rowing bodies endorse the course

World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide both endorsed the venue, with leaders saying the technical analysis provides confidence the course can deliver fair competition.

“The quality and depth of the technical work undertaken has significantly improved our understanding of the field of play”

Olympic champion questions fairness concerns

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Drew Ginn told BBC Radio he worries about flooding, fairness between lanes, and the remote location six to seven hours from Brisbane affecting athletes and spectators.

“I'm sure all the athletes would row faster”

Brisbane president dismisses crocodile concerns

Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris previously said there are sharks in the ocean and people still surf, calling it a can-do situation rather than a can't-do one.

“There are sharks in the ocean and we're still surfing... it's a can do, not a can't do”