500 Crocodiles In The Water! Olympic Venue Gets Green Light For Brisbane 2032

Olympic organisers have approved the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, as a venue for canoeing events at the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, despite reports that the river is home to about 500 saltwater crocodiles.

According to Bush Radio Academy, an independent technical assessment determined that the Fitzroy River was suitable for Olympic and Paralympic competition after examining factors including weather conditions, water levels and flood risks. However, the assessment did not consider the presence of crocodiles as part of its review.

The Fitzroy River already hosts training sessions and competitions, while World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide have endorsed the venue. Both organisations said the course could provide fair competition conditions for athletes during the Games.

World Rowing President Jean-Christophe Rolland said the technical assessment had provided greater certainty about the river’s suitability for the planned events.

According to Rolland, the analysis showed that the Fitzroy River could provide fair competition conditions during the Games in line with the requirements for Olympic and Paralympic rowing.

Paddle Worldwide President Thomas Konietzko also said the technical work had improved understanding of the proposed competition course and increased confidence among athletes and officials.

Konietzko stated that the assessment provided greater assurance that the venue could deliver fair conditions for Canoe Sprint competitors during the Games.

Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris said the approval would give organisers greater certainty as preparations move into the next phase. He confirmed that Rockhampton remains the focus for the flatwater events.

Liveris said the endorsement would allow future venue planning and Games delivery work to remain focused on Rockhampton.

Concerns over the presence of crocodiles have previously been raised, but Liveris reportedly compared the situation with people surfing in waters where sharks are present.

The approval keeps the Fitzroy River at the centre of plans for the flatwater canoeing events as preparations continue for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.