A river harboring roughly 500 saltwater crocodiles just earned the green light for Olympic rowing and canoeing in 2032.
The Fitzroy River course in Rockhampton, Queensland, cleared an independent technical review confirming its suitability.
The study ignored the reptiles, focusing instead on performance across weather, water levels and flood risk during the Games and the lead‑up years.
The report, commissioned by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority, noted that the Fitzroy River Flatwater Facility already hosts school championships, local regattas and national team camps.
As a recognized rowing venue, contingency plans kick in whenever a crocodile is sighted, and officials have repeatedly been assured of athlete safety.
World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide both backed the venue – in my view, this endorsement underscores Australia’s confidence in its sporting infrastructure.
World Rowing President Jean‑Christophe Rolland said the analysis shows the Fitzroy can deliver fair competition conditions consistent with Olympic and Paralympic rowing standards.
Paddle Worldwide President Thomas Konietzko added that the technical work deepened understanding of the field and gives athletes confidence the course will produce equitable canoe sprint races.
Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris downplayed crocodile concerns last year.
He likened it to surfing with sharks, calling it a ‘can‑do, not a can’t‑do’ mindset.
On Thursday, Liveris said the approval adds certainty as venue planning moves forward, keeping design and operations focused on Rockhampton.
Saltwater crocodiles, locally called ‘Salties’, thrive in fresh and salt water and can exceed six metres – will they become an unexpected highlight for spectators?