‘Secret weapon’: Call on Rockhampton Olympic rowing spot
The International Olympic Committee had made its final call on whether rowing would be hosted in Rockhampton for the 2032 Games.
The International Olympic Committee has approved rowing to be hosted in Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River, Premier David Crisafulli has revealed.
But on Thursday, Crisafulli said the IOC assessment had been completed.
“It’s official, signed, sealed and delivered,” Crisafulli told parliament.
The premier said it ensured the site would host Brisbane Games rowing, para rowing, canoe sprint and para canoe events.
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The state government had been facing mounting pressure to reconsider its nominated rowing venue.
The Fitzroy River is a crocodile habitat but the main concerns about the venue had been the venue’s fairness, safety and sustainability.
However, Mr Crisafulli said the Rockhampton flatwater course had been given the green light following a comprehensive and independent technical assessment by “renowned marine engineering experts”.
He said analysis showed the Fitzroy was a “secret weapon” because the course could be full width with room for the start and finish areas.
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“Rockhampton has a secret weapon – the Fitzroy won’t need widening, dredging or construction of a barrage, which was required for the Tokyo Games.”
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the government “made a promise to deliver the 2032 Games across all of Queensland, and that’s exactly what we’re doing”.
Marine surveyor WaterProof undertook the survey of the riverbed and competition course, including river flows, water levels and wind, the statement said.
World Rowing President Jean-Christophe Rolland said the river would deliver fair competition for athletes.
“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,” Rolland said.
Paddle Worldwide President Thomas Konietzko said technical work improved the organisation’s understanding of the field of play and “provides confidence” the course would deliver fair competition for athletes.
-with AAP
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