From Dailymail · · 1m 20s
Brisbane River Hosts 500 Crocodiles for 2032 Olympics
Olympic rowing course in Australia faces crocodile threat but officials say it's safe.
In brief
Olympic rowing course in Australia faces crocodile threat but officials say it's safe. Brisbane's Fitzroy River, home to over 500 crocodiles, will host 2032 Olympic rowing events after safety measures are confirmed. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Brisbane River Crocodile Threat
Athletes risk crocodile attacks at 2032 Olympic rowing events.
“Athletes at the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games risk being torn apart by hungry crocodiles in front of a global audience”
Fitzroy River Approved
Fitzroy River in Queensland gets green light for 2032 Olympic rowing events.
“The Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland has been given the go-ahead by organisers for the Olympic and Paralympic rowing and canoeing events after passing its test with flying colours”
Crocodile Incidents
Crocodiles killed a dog and a 4.5-metre saltie in 2023.
“In 2023, local authorities captured a monster 4.5-metre long Saltie after its presence had led to the cancellation of a local regatta”
Athlete Concerns
Olympic rower Drew Ginn says athletes would row faster with crocodile threat.
“I'm sure I'd row faster! Three-time Olympic rowing gold medallist Drew Ginn told BBC Sport”
542 Athletes Request Change
542 rowers signed letter asking for venue change due to crocodile risks.
“Five-hundred-and-foorty-two rowers signed a letter to the state government asking for a specific facility to be built in south-east Queensland due to concerns over the site”
River Safety Measures
Officials confirm crocodile contingency plans for rowing events.
“The report did stress that contingency plans are in place at events for when crocodiles are spotted and Olympic officials have previously been assured of rower safety”
Local Crocodile Farmer
Crocodile farmer says few crocs near rowing course.
“There's very few crocodiles in the freshwater, downstream side of the river (near the course) - I think we've had four removed in 40 years”
World Rowing President
World Rowing confirms river meets competition standards.
“Based on the extensive analysis undertaken, we now know that the Fitzroy River is capable of providing fair competition conditions during the period of the Games, consistent with the requirements of Olympic and Paralympic Rowing”
Paddle Worldwide
Canoeing body confirms river safe for events.
“The quality and depth of the technical work undertaken has significantly improved our understanding of the field of play and provides confidence to us and our athletes that the course can deliver fair competition for Canoe Sprint athletes”
Mayor's Warning
Rockhampton mayor urges athletes to be 'croc-wise'.
“We're not shying away from it, there are crocodiles in the system”
Government Approval
Queensland premier confirms river passes safety tests.
“The Fitzroy has passed with flying colours. It’s official, signed, sealed and delivered”
Olympic Mindset
Officials say crocodile threat is manageable with positive attitude.
“There are sharks in the ocean and we're still surfing. It's a can do, not a can't do - please change the mindset here”
The key point
Brisbane's Fitzroy River, home to over 500 crocodiles, will host 2032 Olympic rowing events after safety measures are confirmed.
