Champion oarsman says Brisbane 2032 rowing risks becoming country regatta

Australian rowing experts have voiced concerns over selecting Rockhampton's Fitzroy River as the venue for rowing events at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. The course would necessitate significant investment and likely yield a limited long-term legacy. Initially worries centered on the 500 crocodiles inhabiting the river, but there are additional issues regarding the river's current affecting fairness and the city's lack of accommodation for 80,000 spectators.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli announced the independent technical review concluded the course could host fair rowing and canoeing competitions in 2032. However, several former elite rowers remain unconvinced that a venue 600km from Brisbane is the optimal choice. Former world championship medallist Andrew Butler argues the journey from Brisbane to Rockhampton is unjustified when better options exist.

Three-time Olympic champion Drew Ginn expressed concerns about river depth, characteristics, and the potential for flooding impacting competition. Ginn also called for the technical review to be made public. Rowing Australia acknowledged the completion of the technical review but stated neither they nor Rowing Queensland participated in the process.

Critics argue hosting the Olympic rowing at Moreton Bay, north of Brisbane, would be the logical choice and present an excellent legacy opportunity for regional Queensland.