Rockhampton to Host 2032 Olympic Games Rowing and Canoe Sprint Events!
Posted on March 25th, 2025
Capricorn Enterprise, the region’s peak tourism and economic development organisation couldn’t be happier with today’s announcement that Rockhampton has been selected as the host city for the rowing and canoe sprint events during the 2032 Olympic Games.
This landmark decision positions Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast region on the global stage, offering an unparalleled opportunity to showcase our vibrant community and stunning natural landscapes and diverse experiences to an international audience.
Mary Carroll, Chief Executive Officer of Capricorn Enterprise and a former 1985 Rockhampton rowing schoolgirl champion could not contain her excitement stating, “We are absolutely ecstatic that Rockhampton will host the 2032 Olympic rowing and canoe sprint events” she said.
“I can personally attest that the Fitzroy River (Tunaba) is one of the best rowing courses in the country and we are very capable and worthy as a city and region to host world-class sporting competitions.”
“Welcoming athletes and spectators from around the globe will not only highlight our beautiful destination but also provide significant tourism, economic and cultural benefits to our community.”
“I have absolutely no doubt that this announcement will expedite our regions 2032 target for already eager investors to deliver 1,200 new short term accommodation rooms across Rockhampton, Yeppoon, Emu Park and Great Keppel Island in the next 7 years to meet current and future demands” she said.
The successful bid to host the rowing events is the culmination of extensive efforts by local leaders and community members, with Capricorn Enterprise providing a formal submission prior to Christmas, along with formal submissions from Senator Matt Canavan, Rockhampton Regional Council, Rockhampton Fitzroy Rowing Club, supported by Rockhampton Grammar School, The Cathedral College, RDA Central West, Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland and Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton.
Ms Carroll said “Senator Matt Canavan has been instrumental in advocating for Rockhampton’s selection and his commitment to leading our region’s collective bid has been unwavering. This is what can be achieved when our elected officials across all three levels of government in partnership with community groups and organisations can achieve when we advocate for the same result.”
“It is important to acknowledge our local crocodile expert John Lever from Koorana Crocodile Farm, who has expertly responded to many media outlets stating ‘you’re more likely to get run over by a bus on the way to the boat ramp than you are a crocodile popping up in the middle of a rowing event’ explaining that it is very easy to further minimise the extremely unlikely risk of any incident.”
“Capricorn Enterprise has long supported John’s expert advice and advocacy efforts to have the state government re-categorize the Fitzroy River as an “active removal zone”, which would ensure that this stretch of the river could be completely void of crocodiles, if required, which would take only a couple of years of surveying, trapping and removing any crocodiles within that area.”
Ms Carroll said “Our region deserves this; we have the access, the facilities, the people and the desire to host one of the best Olympic rowing events in history.”
Additional Information:
The 100 Day Review Report recommended under ‘new venues and major upgrades; Other venues number 27, that “GIICA recommends the allocation of funding to enable upgrades to the Wyaralong and Rockhampton rowing facilities to deliver a positive legacy outcome for the two primary rowing training and competition venues in the state.”
The Delivering2032 and Beyond website states under “Venues for 2032 and Beyond”:
Venue Upgrade – Rowing Facility
Rockhampton- “Upgrades to the existing Fitzroy River course will be delivered to host Rowing and Canoe Sprint events for the 2032 Games. The venue is home to the Rockhampton Fitzroy Rowing Club and is widely used by local schools, including The Cathedral College and Rockhampton Grammar School. The facility currently supports training, local regattas, and state championships, as well as serving as a national team training camp. Planned upgrades will include enhanced permanent infrastructure and amenities, ensuring a lasting legacy for the rowing community.”
Official media release from the Queensland Government – 26 March 2025: Let the Games Begin in Rockhampton
Official media release from the Queensland Government – 25 March 2025: Let the Games begin
Official statement by Rowing Queensland – 25 March 2025: Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Venue
