Gina Rinehart pushes to shift 2032 Olympic rowing to crocodile-infested Fitzroy River

Queensland records show mining billionaire Gina Rinehart appealed to Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie to stage the 2032 Olympic rowing races on the Fitzroy River at Rockhampton, a location famed for its saltwater crocodiles. The suggestion came after a venues review completed in early 2025, which had advised moving the competition to an established course near Penrith, Sydney. Rinehart argued the river’s existing use by Australian crews and its proximity to infrastructure would cut taxpayer costs and highlight the state’s pastoral and mining heritage.

Opponents, including international rowing officials, warn that the river’s crocodiles, variable currents, weeds and water quality could breach strict racing standards and leave a “white elephant” behind. The Queensland government has signaled a hard line, stating rowing will either be held in Rockhampton or scrapped. The controversy has sparked backlash across the Olympic and rowing communities, raising questions about venue selection and fiscal prudence.