Fitzroy River in Queensland Approved as 2032 Olympic Rowing Venue
The International Olympic Committee has formally approved the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, as a venue for rowing, para‑rowing, canoe sprint and para‑canoe events at the 2032 Brisbane Games.
In Brief
- •The International Olympic Committee has formally approved the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, as a venue for rowing, para‑rowing, canoe sprint and para‑canoe events at the 2032 Brisbane Games.
- •The decision follows a comprehensive technical assessment that found the 2.7‑km stretch meets World Rowing standards and requires no widening or dredging.
- •Queensland Premier David Crisafulli announced the approval in parliament, noting the venue had passed the IOC assessment with “flying colours.”
Why It Matters
The selection of the Fitzroy River marks a significant shift in the Brisbane 2032 Games planning, moving the rowing venue from the more expensive and logistically challenging Moreton Bay proposal to a regional site that offers a full Olympic‑standard course without major infrastructure changes. The decision also underscores the IOC’s willingness to support venues in less‑urban areas, potentially reducing costs and fostering regional development. However, the choice has sparked debate over safety concerns related to crocodile habitat and river currents, highlighting the complex balance between sporting ambition and environmental considerations.
Key Details
- Venue
- Fitzroy River, Rockhampton, Queensland
- Event Types
- Rowing, Para‑rowing, Canoe Sprint, Para‑Canoe
- Course Length
- 2.7 km
- IOC Assessment Result
- Passed with flying colours
- Approval Date
- 2026-09-17
Context & Background
The Fitzroy River had been under scrutiny since March 2025, when Queensland first proposed it as a rowing venue. Concerns about crocodile habitat, strong currents, flooding, and silt loads led to a prolonged debate involving international federations and a petition signed by 542 rowers. The IOC’s endorsement after an independent technical assessment resolved these issues, allowing the Games authority to proceed with detailed planning.
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