**River Home to 500 Crocodiles Selected as Olympic Rowing Venue for Brisbane 2032**
The Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, has been officially designated as the venue for Olympic and Paralympic rowing and canoeing events at the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Games. This decision comes despite the river being home to approximately 500 saltwater crocodiles, a species known for its size and predatory nature.
An independent technical assessment was conducted to evaluate the suitability of the Fitzroy River as a competition course. This assessment focused on various factors, including the river's performance under different weather conditions, water levels, and flood risks, both during the Games and in the lead-up to the event. Notably, the evaluation did not take the presence of crocodiles into account.
The report was commissioned by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA), which highlighted that the Fitzroy River Flatwater Facility is already established as a training and competition venue for flatwater sports. It has hosted state championships, local regattas, and national team training camps, indicating its readiness for larger-scale events.
Both World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide, formerly known as the International Canoe Federation, have endorsed the Fitzroy River as a suitable venue. Jean-Christophe Rolland, President of World Rowing, stated, "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."
Similarly, Thomas Konietzko, President of Paddle Worldwide, expressed confidence in the venue, noting that the technical work conducted has enhanced their understanding of the field of play and assured athletes that the course can deliver fair competition for Canoe Sprint events.
Andrew Liveris, President of Brisbane 2032, previously downplayed concerns regarding the crocodiles. He likened the situation to surfing in the ocean, where sharks are present, emphasizing a proactive mindset towards the Games. "It's a can do, not a can't do - please change the mindset here," he remarked last year.
Following the recent endorsement of the Fitzroy River as the rowing venue, Liveris commented on the significance of this development for future planning and operations. He stated, "The endorsement provides additional certainty as we move into the next phase of venue planning and Games delivery, ensuring all future design and operational work continues solely on Rockhampton."
Saltwater crocodiles, often referred to as "Salties," are known to inhabit both freshwater and saltwater environments and can grow to lengths exceeding six meters. Their presence in the Fitzroy River raises questions about safety and management during the Games, although officials have not indicated any immediate concerns regarding the crocodile population.
As preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Games continue, the selection of the Fitzroy River as a venue marks a significant milestone in the planning process, with stakeholders optimistic about the river's capacity to host world-class rowing and canoeing events.