Queensland’s Sports Minister Tim Mander has firmly stated that there is “no reason” to consider alternative venues for rowing at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, confirming that the event will be held at Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River. He has rejected calls for a backup plan, despite ongoing evaluations of the river’s suitability and speculation regarding other potential locations.
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Jess Fox expressed her confidence that the rowing competition will proceed smoothly, regardless of the venue. During an event in Brisbane to announce Commonwealth Bank as the official founding partner for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Mander appeared frustrated when the topic of the Fitzroy River resurfaced. He emphasized, “Everything doesn’t have to be in Brisbane,” arguing that if events were only held where large populations exist, regional Queensland would miss out on hosting opportunities.
Last month, both World Rowing (WR) and the International Canoe Federation (ICF) publicly supported the choice of Rockhampton after extensive discussions about its viability. However, reports indicate that significant modifications will be necessary to prepare the Fitzroy River for Olympic standards, including widening and dredging sections to ensure a consistent water flow.
Olympic rowing typically requires a straight 2,000-meter course with six lanes, maintaining a water depth of at least three meters, although some adjustments can be made. The upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Games will feature flat-water rowing at the Long Beach Marine Stadium, albeit with a shortened 1,500-meter course due to infrastructure changes.
WR President Jean-Christophe Rolland and ICF President Thomas Konietzko have had constructive discussions regarding Rockhampton, with the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority already evaluating two preferred options for the rowing venue on the Fitzroy River. An independent technical review will follow this assessment.
Mander reaffirmed the commitment to hosting rowing in Rockhampton, stating, “We are following all necessary processes.” He noted that the evaluations at Rockhampton align with those of other venues planning Olympic events. He emphasized that both WR and the ICF are closely involved in the assessment process and that their feedback has not raised any red flags about proceeding with Rockhampton.
Addressing concerns about the lack of a contingency plan, Mander dismissed the idea, particularly in light of the confidence in Rockhampton. He mentioned a recent poll that reflected local support for hosting rowing, highlighting the significance of regional representation in the state’s Olympic plans.
Mander stated, “We recognize that we are the most decentralised state, and we believe that all areas should have a chance to be part of the Games.” He expressed optimism about the preparations, indicating that no major obstacles have emerged so far.
In March, Curtis McGrath, a four-time Paralympic champion, raised doubts about the Fitzroy River’s ability to provide fair racing conditions and create a lasting legacy post-Games. He commented, “It’s not just about two weeks in July and September; not many countries will return to Rocky after the Games.”
Jess Fox also conveyed her belief that athletes would be provided with optimal conditions for competition, regardless of the venue. “Athletes want to compete in the best environments,” she stated. Fox expressed trust in the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee and its collaboration with stakeholders and international federations to ensure thorough assessments of the venue.
She added, “Ultimately, athletes understand these decisions are made by the organizing committee, the government, and the sporting bodies. We can put on a great show, and I am confident it will be the best conditions, wherever we end up.”
