Organisers Approve Crocodile-Infested River for 2032 Olympic Canoeing Events

Photo Credit: PunchNG / AFP
Organisers Approve Crocodile-Infested River for 2032 Olympic Canoeing Events
Organisers of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games have approved a section of the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, as the venue for canoeing events, despite the river being home to an estimated 500 saltwater crocodiles.

The decision followed an independent technical assessment which confirmed that the course is suitable to host Olympic and Paralympic rowing and canoe sprint competitions.

According to the assessment, the review focused on weather conditions, water levels and flood risks during the Games period, rather than the presence of crocodiles. The venue is already in use for training and local competitions.

Both World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide have endorsed the site, stating it can provide fair and safe conditions for athletes.

Brisbane 2032 President, Andrew Liveris, said the approval provides more certainty for planning and confirms that Rockhampton remains the sole focus for the flatwater events.

He had previously dismissed concerns about crocodiles, likening it to surfing in shark-infested waters.

“There are sharks in the ocean and we’re still surfing… it’s a can do, not a can’t do – please change the mindset here,” Liveris said last year.

Speaking on Thursday after the venue got the final go-ahead, he added: “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 to focus solely on Rockhampton.”

World Rowing President, Jean-Christophe Rolland, said: “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.”

Paddle Worldwide President, Thomas Konietzko, also said: “The quality and depth of the technical work undertaken has significantly improved our understanding of the field of play and provides confidence to us and our athletes that the course can deliver fair competition for Canoe Sprint athletes.”

Saltwater crocodiles, known locally as ‘Salties’, inhabit both freshwater and saltwater and can grow to over six metres in length.
Source: Punch Newspapers