Olympic hosts defy ‘naysayers’ on 2032 Games rowing in Rockhampton

Rockhampton, Australia (AP) - Despite concerns from critics, the Olympic rowing regatta will be held in the Fitzroy River at Rockhampton during the 2032 Brisbane Games, according to Australian planners. Queensland state Premier David Crisafulli dismissed "naysayers" who accused the regional venue of elitism, vowing "no ifs, no buts, no maybes" that rowing and canoeing will indeed take place in Rocky.

The city is located about 630 kilometers (390 miles) north of Brisbane, the main Olympic hub for Southeast Queensland. However, there have been complaints about limited accommodation and the river's tidal currents. World Rowing is assessing the venue's suitability for the Olympics, and a petition from Australian rowers called for the event to be moved closer to the capital.

Queensland's Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie dismissed accusations that regional Queensland is beneath them, promising an athletes village for 1,200 competitors and improved accommodation options for spectators by 2032. Rockhampton Mayor Tony Williams assured there are "plenty of options" for accommodation, both along the coast and in nearby areas.