Queensland state Olympic minister Tim Mander said organisers are not seeking alternatives for the rowing venue, which is located about 600km north of Brisbane. "We are committed to it, we're not looking at alternatives. The rowing will be at Rockhampton," Mander told a press conference.
The Fitzroy River has strong tides and a natural crocodile habitat, and the proposal drew a mixed reception a year ago due to challenging currents. Former Olympic rowing champion Drew Ginn warned some athletes could face disadvantage from lane placement. A northern Brisbane council suggested an alternative venue in Moreton Bay, and 500 rowers signed an open letter demanding a rethink.
The river passed initial testing by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority last October. An expert from World Rowing is expected to assess the venue in coming weeks, with a decision on endorsement by mid-year. World Rowing noted potential issues last year but pledged to ensure athlete safety and competitive integrity.
Australia is set to host the summer Olympics in 2032 for the first time since Sydney 2000, and also hosted the 1956 Melbourne Games. The 2028 Olympics will be in Los Angeles, and the host for 2036 is yet to be confirmed, though India has bid for Ahmedabad.