Rinehart Lobbies to Move 2032 Olympic Rowing to Croc-Home Fitzroy River

Queensland’s March 2023 announcement to relocate the 2032 Olympic rowing from Brisbane to the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton was heavily influenced by lobbying from Gina Rinehart, the country’s wealthiest individual. The plan would place athletes 600 kilometres north of the host city, in a river that is a natural habitat for saltwater crocodiles.

The proposal has triggered a strong backlash from both the national rowing federation and broader Olympic stakeholders, who cite safety risks and logistical challenges as key concerns. The rowing community has expressed that the location is unsuitable for an Olympic standard event, while officials have warned of potential crocodile encounters. cricket-ipl.co.za