Australian River Approved for 2032 Olympics Rowing, Amid Crocodile Concerns

Queensland's Fitzroy River has been officially approved as a venue for the rowing and canoe sprint events at the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. The decision follows a technical assessment that deemed the river safe and fair for athletes, according to World Rowing and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The Fitzroy River, located in Rockhampton, is known to be home to approximately 500 saltwater crocodiles, some growing up to four meters in length. While sightings are common, state government records dating back over 40 years indicate no attacks on humans. Despite this, the presence of the reptiles was a topic of discussion, although not the primary concern for international rowing officials.

The main points of contention raised by some international rowing bodies, including Germany and New Zealand, focused on the "fairness and integrity" of the river course. Concerns were voiced about the tidal nature of the river, its natural bends, and currents, which some argued could disadvantage competitors. Concerns about potential flooding and the sustainability of holding events approximately 600 kilometers from Brisbane were also cited.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli dismissed these objections, characterizing them as attempts by "interstate and overseas elites" to avoid competing in regional Queensland. He asserted that the Fitzroy River is suitable for the Games.

World Rowing President Jean-Christophe Rolland stated that based on extensive analysis, the Fitzroy River is capable of providing fair competition conditions. Thomas Konietzko, president of the canoe sprint governing body Paddle Worldwide, also expressed confidence in the river's suitability for canoe sprint athletes.

An independent assessment by an engineering firm and the Games' infrastructure authority reviewed the riverbed, competition course, river flows, water levels, and anticipated weather conditions during the Games. This assessment did not explicitly consider the crocodiles.

Despite the official approval, a report commissioned by the Queensland government itself in 2025 had previously suggested that using a course built in Sydney for the 2000 Olympics would be the best option, finding the Fitzroy River location unsuitable. The Fitzroy River now faces a final assessment regarding its design, value for money, and long-term community legacy, with the decision resting with the state government.

Local authorities and sports organizations have emphasized the river's long history of use for school competitions and training without crocodile-related incidents. Hancock Prospecting, a company supporting Rockhampton's bid, has called concerns about flooding and crocodiles "fake media." Procedures for this weekend's school regatta include suspending racing if a crocodile is spotted, with a specific call of "crocodile, crocodile, crocodile" to alert officials.

Organizers are reportedly making contingency plans for any venue, and a backup venue in Sydney remains available, though its use would be seen as a setback for Queensland.